Israel is a sunny country that you want to return to again and again. This place is shrouded in a pleasant and mysterious atmosphere. Tourists who come here for the first time should sign up for interesting excursions, thanks to which they will be able to see the memorable sights of Israel. Don’t know what to see in Israel? Especially for you, we have compiled a list of popular attractions in this country. Read about them and be sure to include these places in your travel program in Israel.
What to see in Israel first of all
Despite the small size of the country, there are more than enough interesting places here, and guides in Israel will help you navigate them. Their help will be invaluable both at the stage of route planning and in solving organizational nuances. Travelers without a guide should find out in advance whether it will be possible to see the sights they like according to the descriptions on the arrival dates.
1. Church of the Holy Sepulchre (Jerusalem)
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre preserves a history that spans several centuries. The church itself was built on the site where, according to legend, the body of Jesus Christ was buried. His resurrection took place here. The temple has been changing its design for a long time. Now it is in a modern version. The church was constantly being destroyed. However, people continued to rebuild it over and over again.
The temple is considered the main shrine in Israel, so every traveler who comes to Jerusalem should see it. This place is shared by six denominations of the church professing Christianity. There are active monasteries on the territory of the temple, supplemented by auxiliary premises. Tourists are also given the opportunity to get acquainted in detail with local galleries and other buildings that depict the history of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Travelers who want to see the best sights of Israel should visit the church at least in order to see the Anointing stone with their own eyes. It was on him that Jesus lay. Next to this place is the tomb of the son of God and chapels erected in honor of Queen Elena, who found the cross for the crucifixion of Christ.
Official website: https://www.holysepulchre.custodia.org
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2. The Wailing Wall (Jerusalem)
The Wailing Wall on the slope of the Temple Mount
Jews consider the Wailing Wall to be the most important shrine in Jerusalem. Therefore, it is among the places that are the answer to the question of what to visit in Israel. According to assumptions, it was built in 37 BC. For a long time, the Wall was a defensive structure. But gradually it turned into a place where the Jewish people came to mourn. By that time, the shrine had been partially destroyed.
Interestingly, the Wailing Wall became a shrine at a time when only ruins remained of it. She became the embodiment of the past, present and future of the people. For many Jews, this memo embodies the hope that one day all troubles and hardships will come to an end.
There are many traditions associated with the Wailing Wall, where guides lead tourists during a tour in Jerusalem. People come to the ruins of the shrine not only for prayer. Many people leave small notes in the crevices, in which the most cherished dream is written. This is how people try to convey their requests to higher powers.
The peculiarity of this Israeli landmark is its accessibility to absolutely anyone, regardless of faith and race. The main thing is that during the visit to the Wailing Wall, his body and head should be covered with clothes.
Official website: https://english .thekotel.org
3. Dome of the Rock (Jerusalem)
The oldest mosque is the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount
The Jewish people attach great importance to the Temple Mount, on which the Dome of the Rock is located. In this place, if you believe the old legends and legends, Abraham had to give his own son Isaac. A sanctuary in the form of a temple with an Ark was also built here. The Temple Mount was the point from which the great way of the Cross began.
After the destruction of the temple, which occurred 40 years after its creation, two mosques were built on this site. One of them turned out to be the Dome of the Rock. Many consider this mosque to be the hallmark of a tourist country. Guides in Jerusalem often invite travelers to visit these parts. And they readily agree, even considering that the mosque has not been functioning for a long time. The attraction impresses the imagination with its grandiose golden domes. Each of them is about 20 meters in diameter. Due to this, they are visible from almost anywhere in the city. There has been an interesting legend among the people since ancient times. It said that the Dome of the Rock is the true center of the universe. No one has been able to confirm this theory, but no refutation has been found to date.
Official website: https://domeoftherock.net
4. Caves of Beit Guvrin (Maresha)
Cave World in Beit Guvrin
If tourists do not know what to visit in Israel, then they should definitely go to see the caves of Beit Guvrin. They are part of the nature reserve. In the past, Beit Guvrin was considered the largest settlement in the country, which controlled the path leading from Jerusalem to the seashore. At the moment, the reserve contains a huge number of caves and tombs.
The caves contain all the most interesting things that the protected area can boast of. The first of the caves were cut right into the chalk rocks. Previously, each cave had its own purpose. Most of them were inhabited at different times by various peoples who considered themselves legitimate inhabitants of this region.
During a walk through the reserve, you can see residential complexes with additional rooms for livestock, consisting entirely of caves. Someone even managed to make reliable superstructures over them to increase the living area.
The tour of the caves of Beit Guvrin leaves no one indifferent. For a long time, tourists remember visiting unique dwellings, skillfully arranged among real stones. If desired, travelers who are interested in the sights of Israel can walk up the stairs leading deep into the earth to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of everyday life of ancient times.
5. The Tomb of the Virgin Mary (Josaphat Valley)
The Christian shrine of the Tomb of the Virgin
Empress Elena (mother of Emperor Constantine the First) back in 326, she built a church, which was able to exist unchanged until the XI century. It was of great importance, as it was erected directly above the tomb of the Virgin. After a while, the temple of Baldwin II’s daughter Melisende began to rise on the site of the ruins left by the church. She was also buried there. The Sixth Ecumenical Council decided to conduct an autopsy of the tomb. As a result of the work done, it was possible to find burial shrouds and a belt.
The temple itself is located underground. There is a wide stone staircase from the entrance, which has 48 steps. The church is built in the shape of a cross. Inside the room there is a small chapel and the tomb of the Virgin.
The chapel of the tomb has two entrances. As a rule, pilgrims enter through one of them and exit through the other. To the south there is a prayer hall, which is intended for people who profess Islam. Those who worship the Virgin Mary come here freely.
Regardless of whether a traveler has decided what to visit in Israel or not, he should definitely come to the Josaphat Valley to visit the burial place of the Virgin. It leaves a strong impression especially on those who are sincerely imbued with the sanctity of the underground church.
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6. The Church of the Ascension on the Mount of Olives (Jerusalem)
Chapel of the Ascension on the Mount of Olives
Imamon, also known as the Temple of the Ascension, was built on the site where the ascension of Jesus took place. Three hundred years later, the Persians destroyed the temple. Some time later, Patriarch Modest rebuilt the shrine, which has been preserved to this day.
The Chapel of the Ascension was built back in the Crusader era, and it has not changed its appearance for hundreds of years. The chapel has the appearance of a small octagonal building, covered with a dome.
There is an unusual stone in the floor of the chapel, framed by a rectangular marble frame. It is embedded in a real rock. This Israeli landmark has a notch in the form of a human left foot print. The scriptures say that there were two more feet here before. However, only one of them was able to be carved out of the rock. It was later moved to the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Russian pilgrims did not miss the chance to see with their own eyes the stone to which they gave the name of the Savior’s Foot. They took great care of the relic and talked about it with special trepidation.
7. The Chamber of the Last Supper (Mount Zion, Jerusalem)
The Chamber of the Last Supper
The Chamber of the Last Supper can be found in a Gothic building located on Mount Zion. Access is open here, so everyone can see this landmark in Israel. The upper room is on the second floor. The tomb of King David is located on the ground floor. The building itself was built in the XII century. According to the idea, it was supposed to perform the functions of the church.
In the XV century, the church, captured by the Turks, was transformed into a mosque. At the same time, the Gothic motifs that were used during the construction of the building were preserved.
The Chamber of the Last Supper is mentioned more than once in the holy scriptures. It follows from them that it was in this room that the supper was held for Jesus by his disciples. This story was loved by many creators, who subsequently used it during the creation of their works.
This attraction will be especially interesting to those travelers who are attracted to biblical stories.
8. Bahai Gardens (Haifa)
Luxurious Bahai Gardens
There are luxurious Baha’i gardens in the city of Haifa. The UNESCO mission paid special attention to this Israeli landmark. It also became the first memorial of religious significance in modern history. Baha’i gardens do not need advertising. To admire their beauty, you need to personally visit these places.
Gardens have been developed for a long time. According to the project, they were supposed to occupy the territory along the slope of Mount Carmel. An Iranian architect was commissioned to implement this creative idea. As a result of the work done, a unique garden was erected, which has 19 separate terraces. Of these, nine terraces go from the top to the tomb, and nine more terraces are located on the way from the tomb to the foot of the majestic mountain. The last terrace, which is the central one, is located next to the mausoleum.
There are three different ways to get to the Bahai Gardens. At the upper entrance there are the most beautiful viewing terraces. Free tours usually start from here, introducing tourists to the Israeli landmark. The middle entrance was made at the location of the temple, and the lower one will be found right at the foot. Travelers have the right to decide for themselves where to start a tour of the gardens.
Official website: https://www.ganbahai.org.il
9. Mount of Olives (Jerusalem)
The elongated Mount of Olives with three peaks
The Mount of Olives, often called the Mount of Olives, separates the Judean Desert and the Old City. Such an unusual name was given to the mountain, thanks to the many olive trees that once grew on its slopes. Travelers who have not decided what to see in Israel should definitely come here to visit the most famous place in Jerusalem.
The Mount of Olives has become the resting place of many famous people, among whom there are public figures, politicians, and media moguls.
It is not for nothing that Christians treat this landmark with such reverence, because it is often mentioned in the New Testament. It was here that Christ taught people, wept for the future of the city, and also prayed before he was taken into custody.
Not every tourist has the strength to take a full walk on the mountain. This is because the height of its three peaks is within 800 meters. Some travelers prefer to admire the views of nature while on the observation deck.
If you look from the mountainside, you can see the Church of the Tears of the Lord, as well as the domes of the Church of Mary Magdalene. The Jewish cemetery, in front of which the old town is located, complements the picture.
Official website: https://www.gethsemane-en.custodia.org
10. Masada Fortress (Arad)
The ancient fortress of Masada
The mountain fortress of Masada is located in the heart of the Holy Land. This place is famous for its terrible history, which is related to the bloody wars that happened here several centuries ago. This Israeli landmark has failed to preserve its original appearance. Its remains have been searched unsuccessfully for centuries. They were found only in 1842. Official research of this area began to be engaged only after several decades. The restorers did a laborious job that allowed them to restore the fortress as it was during the reign of King Herod.
Now Masada Fortress is an important historical monument, which is the personification of the courage and invincibility of the people. Every year hundreds of tourists from other countries come here to admire its greatness. In recent years, local residents have been able to turn the attraction into a real town with small streets and its own infrastructure. There is a great view from here. Guests of the fortress especially like to admire the magnificent sunrises from above. Entertainment events and international festivals are often held at the foot of Masada.
Official website: https://www.parks.org.il
Sights of Israel: what else to visit while in Israel
According to the fascination of excursions in Israel, they can rightfully be called the best, since tourists are completely immersed in the atmosphere of antiquity. On the other hand, there are unusual attractions in the country that have nothing to do with history. It’s up to you to decide what to choose, and we’ll tell you about the options that you might like.
11. The Jordan River (originates at Mount Hermon)
The Jordan River is the place of Christian baptism
An equally important place for the residents of Israel is the Jordan River. It is associated with a huge number of important events in the history of the people.
Over the past few years, there has been a large-scale transformation of this Israeli landmark. Local organizations have improved the area near which the river flows. Safe descents were also built, allowing residents and visitors of the city to approach the water without much difficulty.
Tourists visit the Jordan River with great pleasure. Very often you can meet pilgrims on its shore. There is a huge excitement here for the feast of Epiphany, which falls on January 19th. Representatives of various churches arrive at the river in order to perform the holy rite of baptism.
This place is truly unique and incredibly beautiful. Different types of fish live freely in the waters of the river. There are especially many catfish in Jordan, which the locals never catch, because this fish is not considered kosher by the Israelis.
Being near the river, travelers often notice nutria, which safely swim up to people to beg them for a treat.
12. Underwater Observatory (Eilat)
Underwater Observatory Park
The first ever underwater world observation complex was created in the city of Eilat. For the sake of this Israeli landmark, hundreds of travelers come here. The underwater observatory is a kind of window through which people can observe the life of the inhabitants of the Red Sea. The complex itself was created in a coral reef, located a few meters from the shore line.
The underwater observatory knows how to surprise its visitors. Guests can admire the giant aquarium, which is an exact replica of the real seabed. The aquarium has become a home for a variety of fish. At noon, tourists watch as an experienced scuba diver descends into the aquarium to feed its inhabitants.
The observatory has a pool with stingrays and turtles. There is a special sand embankment next to the pool, where amphibians can lay eggs. The shark pool is incredibly amazing. A scuba diver descends into it, as well as into an aquarium with fish, to feed predators with prepared food.
The observatory is worth a visit for its aquarium, which is a high-quality imitation of diving on a bathyscaphe. An educational tour of the seabed is held for the whole 20 minutes for the guests of the institution.
Official website: https://www.coralworld.co.il
13. The oasis of Ein Gedi (Judean Desert)
The nature of the Ein Gedi Oasis
An amazing place that should definitely be included in the list of things to see in Israel during your trip. The oasis was formed in the desert, thanks to a natural phenomenon. Water began to seep through the limestone soils, which came down in the form of rains from the Judean Mountains. As a result, a spring appeared, around which green plants began to grow. Those who have ever tasted the local water, note its pleasant taste and crystal purity. The trees that became part of the Ein Gedi oasis were constantly yielding good crops. Local residents are still engaged in growing various fruit and vegetable crops here, which are in high demand among visitors to Israel.
Ein Gedi eventually became an official nature reserve where different species of animals are bred. The flora of the oasis never ceases to amaze, which pleases with its diversity. In some places, tourists can see the remains of ancient settlements and synagogues dating back to the Talmud period.
The Ein Gedi Oasis will be a great place to relax for people who like to spend time among nature.
14. The Tower of David (Jerusalem)
The Tower of David
The Tower of David is now a Museum of the History of Jerusalem. Unique ancient artifacts that were found during archaeological excavations are presented here. Most of them are over 3,000 years old.
For a long time, the fortress served as an important defensive fortification. She was constantly moving from one invader of these lands to another. At the moment, travelers can see the two surviving towers of the fortress. One of them is the Tower of David. The towers are connected by a common wall.
The History Museum, built on the site of the old fortress, is very important and valuable for the history of the Israeli people. Its guests are given the opportunity to personally see unique exhibits telling about the periods of development and formation of the ancient city. Travelers have access to the tower itself. It offers a beautiful view of the surroundings, which are located near the city.
15. The Old city of Jaffa (Tel Aviv)
Jaffa Old Town in Tel Aviv
The list, which includes the sights of Israel, would not be complete without the old city of Jaffa. Many historians are of the opinion that it is the most beautiful architectural monument of the famous Tel Aviv. Hundreds of thousands of tourists come here every year, who have chosen Israel as their vacation destination.
The impressions of visiting Jaffa remain for a lifetime. In the past, the city served as the port of Israel. Now it is considered a popular resort area, as well as the art center of Tel Aviv.
The old town impresses its guests with stone streets, walking along which people completely forget about time. Every part of him holds a long-standing secret. Israelis often choose Jaffa for meetings with friends and family. Many cozy cafes in the city are located right on the waterfront. Here, sitting at a table, you can admire the sunset.
Few people know the meaning of the name of the old town. It is believed that it translates from Hebrew as “beautiful”. This place fully lives up to its name. After all, there is no more beautiful and peaceful city than Jaffa in all of Israel!
16. Via Dolorosa Street (Jerusalem)
Via Dolorosa in the Old City of Jerusalem Vladislav Bezrukov
Via Dolorosa – the way of Jesus Christ to the place of crucifixion in the Old City of Jerusalem Lyn Gateley
An ancient Israeli city at the crossroads of cultures and civilizations, the most important center of three religions — all this is holy Jerusalem. The sights of the Israeli capital, which have preserved a unique history for thousands of years, are attractive to both tourists and pilgrims from all over the world. The “Path of Sorrow” is of particular importance and deep meaning for believers — this is how the Via Dolorosa street is often called due to the fact that the Savior is believed to have walked his last path from the place of judgment to Mount Golgotha, where he was crucified. Despite the fact that the street has a short length, about 500 meters, along this entire path there are 14 so-called “stations”, representing churches and chapels. Jesus stopped at each of these places, overcoming the last, most difficult steps before the execution. Therefore, the passage time of this route, with stops at stations, today takes at least an hour.
17. Azrieli Center (Tel Aviv)
A complex of three skyscrapers and a large shopping center at their base in the center of Tel Aviv
While studying the sights of Israel briefly, it is still worth paying attention to modern facilities — one of the most interesting is located in the city of Tel Aviv. After all, to visit the Israeli metropolis and not see its beauty from the height of a skyscraper means to deprive yourself of an amazing sight and vivid impressions. The most “prominent” building in the city is the Azrieli center, three huge skyscrapers, whose height ranges from 169 to 187 meters — this was the architect’s idea. The tallest is a round tower, the middle “sister” is a triangular one, and the lowest is a square tower. The observation deck is undoubtedly located in the tallest of the structures, at a height of 182 meters. A high—speed elevator takes visitors there, which starts from the third floor – that’s where you can buy a ticket. And at the base of the towers, you can visit one of the largest shopping malls in Israel.
18. Pagoda House (Tel Aviv)
Pagoda House on King Albert Square in Tel Aviv
When planning a travel route, it is worth exploring Israel in absentia, sights, travel reviews, and then this country can open up from a fundamentally new side, surprising with very unusual objects for Israeli architecture. For example, in the very center of Tel Aviv there is an unusual Pagoda house built at the beginning of the last century. Despite its name, referring to the concepts of Buddhism, this building combines an incredible number of architectural styles, from elements of the Middle Ages to the architecture of Greek temples and Spanish motifs. And the whole creation is crowned by a pyramid, like the roof of a Japanese pagoda — it was this part of the structure that provided him with an unusual name. The mansion is also interesting because it became the first residential building in the city where an elevator was installed. Today, the house has been skillfully restored and turned into a villa, inside which there is a cinema room, a swimming pool, a wine cellar, and the premises are managed by a special computerized system.
19. Al-Aqsa Mosque (Jerusalem)
Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem
Summer in Israel is characterized by sweltering heat, and early spring, on the contrary, is devoid of stuffiness and heat. March is an excellent time for active excursions and pilgrimages: the highways in the country are free, there is still time before Easter, so the numerous shrines are still quiet and sparsely populated. In search of what to see in Israel in March, it is not difficult to make a choice — for example, go to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, which is one of the most important symbols of Islam, a revered Muslim shrine. This mosque is huge, it has extensive interior halls capable of accommodating up to 5,000 worshippers at a time. Unlike most Muslim temples, there are no restrictions on religion for visitors here — anyone can enter, the main thing is that the attire should be modest and closed. The exceptions are Fridays and public holidays, when only Muslims are allowed into al-Aqsa.
20. Basilica of the Annunciation (Nazareth)
Snow-white statue of the Virgin Mary in the courtyard of the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth
To the question of why it is necessary to visit Israel, any true Christian will not hesitate to give an answer. Where, if not in Nazareth, will there be an opportunity to touch the sacred story of the life of God’s son? Nazareth is also a city of Good News, where an angel appeared to the Virgin Mary, announcing the future birth of the Savior of all mankind from her flesh. The Church of the Annunciation is dedicated to this event in the city — the largest Catholic cathedral, which was erected on the very place where the evangelical event took place. The basilica building is a modern structure built in 1969, originally an early Byzantine church existed in its place. The basilica consists of 2 levels, the lower of which contains the Grotto of the Annunciation — presumably, the dwelling of the Blessed Virgin was here. All the walls, both outside and inside the temple, are entirely painted with scenes related to the life of the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ.
Official website: https://www.custodia.org
21. Basilica of the Nativity (Bethlehem)
The Gate of Humility is the main (western) entrance to the Basilica of the Nativity in Bethlehem by Neil Ward
View of the Greek Orthodox altar of the Basilica of the Nativity in Bethlehem Bashar Nayfeh
In the city of Bethlehem, on two oblong hills stands one of the most valuable Christian shrines — the Basilica of the Nativity. It was erected almost fifteen hundred years ago over the grotto where, according to legend, Jesus Christ was born. The founder of the church was the Holy Empress Elena, who in the 330s, making a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, laid the first stone here. In 529, the basilica was destroyed by fire, and then, during the reign of Emperor Justinian, it was restored. Today, there are several objects inside the basilica that are of great value from the point of view of faith. For example, in the cave of the Nativity, the place of the Savior’s birth is marked with a 14-terminal silver star, to the right of the descent into the cave there is a miraculous icon of the Mother of God, and next to the marble throne there is a descent to the manger in which Mary laid the infant Savior after his birth.
22. The Israeli National Museum of Science or “MadaTek” (Haifa)
The main entrance to the Israeli National Museum of Science, Technology and Space (MadaTek) ToastieIL
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Aviation exhibition in the MadaTec building in Haifa
Exhibits on the territory of the MadaTek Museum Science Park in Haifa Longmotion
The Israeli National Museum was founded in the 80s of the last century and is located in a historic building from 1912, which previously housed the Technion Institute of Technology. 11 years after the construction of the building, Albert Einstein himself visited the institute, who personally planted one of the palm trees in the adjacent courtyard — this tree grows there to this day. Today, interactive expositions dedicated to the basic principles of physics and natural sciences are demonstrated within these walls. The museum’s exposition is presented in several halls, each of which is based on various physical phenomena — for example, here you can visit the hall of holograms, the mirror room, the hall of illusions and other interesting expositions. Two new buildings are located next to the historical museum building, where temporary exhibitions are displayed.
Official website: https://www.madatech.org.il
23. Caesarea National Park (Khai district)
The old harbor and the beach of ancient Caesarea in the National Park-Reserve of Caesarea
Arched passage of a city street in Caesarea National Park
Speaking of Caesarea today, some mean a seaside town with a developed tourist infrastructure, others — a National Park with an impressive complex of archaeological sites, and it is noteworthy that both sides are right. Next to the modern settlement of Caesarea of Palestine, which has existed since 1977, lie the ruins of a tourist attraction — the Caesarea National Park. This is the old city center, which naturally went under water many centuries ago. Therefore, a fair part of its structures today are located precisely under water, and visitors are offered various options for exploring the surroundings — for example, swimming and diving. From a historical point of view, the most interesting places in the park are the ancient amphitheater, hippodrome and port, which played a major role in Judeo-Christian history.
Official website: https://www.parks.org.il
24. Rosh Hashanah Grottoes (northern Israel)
View from the cable car at the entrance to the Rosh Hashanah grottoes on the Mediterranean Sea in northern Israel
Inside the Rosh Hashanah Sea Cave
One of the most beautiful natural corners of Israel is located in the very north of the country, right on the Mediterranean coast. Rosh Hashanah grottoes were created by nature itself – for many years, the sea element washed away the space in the soft Cretaceous rock of the coastal cliff. At one time, the effect was complemented by tremors, which created cracks in the rock, forming picturesque caves with emerald water. A funicular descends to the entrance to the caves, and bridges with railings are laid along some equipped corridors of the caves, and lighting works. Here you can also take a trip on a special small steam locomotive through the tunnels laid by the British back in the 40s of the last century, watch a historical film about these places in a cinema equipped right in the cave, and when leaving the grottoes, you can see beautiful panoramas of the Mediterranean coastal strip.
25. The Dead Sea (Israel)
Salt deposits on the Dead Sea coast
Guests of the Promised Land do not have to be bored all year round, and in any of the seasons there are no questions about what to see in Israel in November. This period is ideal for those who do not like the sweltering summer heat — the temperature of the air and sea water becomes as comfortable as possible, so many people rush to the coast of the Dead Sea in November. The peculiarity of this reservoir is that it is almost 500 meters below the level of the world ocean, and its waters contain trace elements useful for the body — the secret lies in the sources that flow directly from its bottom. Therefore, there are numerous wellness centers along the coast, where thermomineral water treatment is carried out. Sea holidays can be varied by hiking — for example, to the Nahal Dragot Canyon, ideal for extreme tourism. The path through the canyon runs through steep cliffs, narrow passages, ascents and descents, along the river that flows into the Dead Sea. Read also about the best sights of Abkhazia and be inspired for your further travels!
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