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A package holiday to Israel is a journey to the cradle of civilisation that defines the world today. The lands here have been occupied by Jews, Persians, Babylonians, Romans, Greeks and many others. Perhaps this history is most felt in Jerusalem, one of the oldest cities in the world and whose old quarter, simply called the Old City, is a World Heritage site.
Christians and those interested in history, biblical or otherwise, may want to visit the cities of Nazareth and Bethlehem (Palestine territory accessible from Jerusalem). Both places were significant in Jesus' life, with Bethlehem his birthplace and Nazareth his hometown.
There are many other historical sites in Israel. In the Judaean Desert, visitors can go to Masada, an ancient fortification which was important to the First Jewish-Roman War. There's also Caesarea National Park on the coast, the site of the well-preserved remains of an ancient Roman city where the Pilate Stone was discovered. Visitors can see impressive ruins of a Roman aqueduct, theatre, hippodrome and temple dedicated to Caesar.
As for sites of nature, Israel has the vast and arid Judaean Desert, with its dunes and canyons occupying central and southern Israel and the Sea of Galilee, the country's largest freshwater lake, often mentioned in the Bible.
Of course, most tourists will likely pass through Israel's modern economic capital of Tel Aviv. Located along the Mediterranean coast, Tel Aviv is a vibrant, cosmopolitan urban centre that is home to several markets, malls, amusement parks, museums and an exciting nightlife.
Haifa is Israel's third-largest city and a great place to visit. It is the largest metropolitan area in the north and home to the Bahá'í World Centre, the administrative and spiritual capital of the Bahá'í religion. The beautiful terraces and gardens here are listed by UNESCO World Heritage.
When done visiting religious and historical sites, holidaymakers in Israel can head to the country's far south. The tiny strip of coastline facing the Gulf of Aqaba is the location of the country's premier beach resort, Eilat. Nestled next to the Red Sea, Eilat hosts an array of beaches with calm water and beautiful coral reefs, perfect for snorkelling and diving. It is also situated close to several tourist attractions, from trekking in the Red Canyon and exploring Timna Park to swimming with dolphins and even braving a shark tank at the Underwater Observatory Marine Park.
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Top Destinations In Israel
Tel Aviv
Bronze yourself on the beach, wander around the White City's Bauhaus gems, haggle in the markets - and then party till sunrise. Tel Aviv holidays offer the best of the Med and the Middle East in one brash, self-confident 24-hour city.
On a city break to Tel Aviv, you can while away the day on the beach or wander around the White City World Heritage Site, and eat fresh fish by the sea at sunset, at Manta Ray. For a leisurely discovery of the city, hire a bike and ride up to the port and park, where you can hire pedalos, picnic and watch rowing races on the river.
Herzliya
Herzliya is a Mediterranean beach resort and also a thriving city; the combination of the two creating a unique holiday destination popular with local and foreign tourists alike. Many of the best known hotels in Herzliya are located along its spectacular beachfront, where there are also marinas, restaurants and bars - an area buzzing with life during summer months.
Jerusalem
Few cities can stir a response in all who hear its name; Jerusalem certainly can and holds a unique place in the hearts of many. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jesus Christ's original resting place, the Western Wall, all await discovery. Jerusalem's modern life is set around the Western districts and the avenues built in the German Colonial style; streets abound with atmospheric souks and a range of stylish bars and restaurants.
Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is one of the world's first health resorts dating back to biblical times as the water is said to have great healing benefits due to its hyper-saline content, as well as the highly oxygenated air and the hotel spas in the area make full use of these elements in their spas. Health and beauty products across the globe make use of the salt and minerals from the Dead Sea.For much more than just a relaxing spa holiday, the area is also a destination full of historical interest and is home to the Qumran Caves, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. This is also a great base from which to discover the freshwater springs of the Judean desert and the Waterfalls of of Ein Gedi.
Eilat
Eilat is one of the original Red Sea resorts and makes full use of the stunning beaches at its doorstep and the warm all year-round climate. Nestled on the Red Sea, close to Israel's border with Jordan, Eilat is an ocean lover's dream, whose crystalline waters and beautiful beaches are the ideal place to relax amidst stunning scenery. Submerged beneath their surface are a series of stunning coral reefs that play host to numerous species of tropical fish and a pod of friendly dolphins, making it ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling on your beach holiday.
Hebrew and Arabic are the two main languages of Israel. Hebrew is the native tongue of nearly half the population, with around 18 per cent speaking Arabic. However, English is used on many road signs, product labels and other symbols in Israel. English is also taught within the Israeli education system. Many locals, not only those who work in the tourism industry, can communicate with foreigners in English. Over 90% of Jews and over 60% of Arabs have a good understanding of Hebrew.
The official currency of Israel is the Israeli shekel. In major destinations, tourists may be quoted in US dollars or euros, especially for credit card transactions. Major credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are available throughout major cities. As for travellers' cheques, it is best to carry them in US dollars. Finally, foreign money can easily be exchanged in the many exchange shops, banks and hotels around the country.
Visitor visas to Israel are valid for three months of travel within the country. However, nationals of the UK, most EU countries, the US, Canada and Australia can enter the country visa-free. These nationals only need to present a passport which is valid for six months beyond the entry date and a return ticket.
Israel sits between the subtropical aridity of Egypt and the subtropical humid climate of the eastern Mediterranean. This means Israel receives long, hot summers and short, cool winters. Winter (November to March) can be chilly, especially in the north, and is also when most of the country's annual rainfall occurs. This usually takes place in the north, with less than 100mm falling in the extreme south, on average. Summer (April to October) is warm to hot. In the major city of Tel Aviv, located along the Mediterranean coast in Central Israel, winter temperatures average 9 to 17°C, while summer temperatures average 24 to 30°C. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit.
