Discover Israel
Israel is ancient and brand-new in the same breath — markets, beaches, and a famously creative drinks scene.
Tel Aviv beach culture, Jerusalem history and one of the world's most creative food scenes.
Capital
Jerusalem (status disputed)
Currency
Israeli Shekel (ILS)
Best Time
March to May, September to November
Vibe
Energetic, contrasting, creative
Budget
$$$Why Israel
Israel surprises everyone — a beach city as cool as anywhere in Europe, sacred sites just an hour away, and a young, inventive bar and food scene worth flying for.
Must Try
- Sabich (eggplant pita) on a Tel Aviv street
- Fresh-squeezed pomegranate juice
- Shakshuka for breakfast
Must Visit
- Jerusalem's old city at dawn
- Tel Aviv's Bauhaus White City
- The Dead Sea (and float)
Before You Go
- Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday sunset) shuts much of the country
- Security checks are routine; be patient
- The currency is the shekel
Local Legend
The Dead Sea is the lowest point on land — 430 metres below sea level — and so salty you cannot sink even if you try. Its water level is dropping a metre a year. Visit while it's still there.
Explore by Category
What to Visit in Israel
Cities
- Jerusalem
- Tel Aviv
Landmarks
- The Dead Sea (and float)
- Haifa's Baháʼí gardens
Stories from Israel
View allfirst-day
Local insight
A Tel Aviv beach bar served travellers a frozen arak-lemonade as Friday afternoon turned into Shabbat — and the entire city paused for half an hour, then started up again louder. Israel in two acts.
hidden
A local legend
The Dead Sea is the lowest point on land — 430 metres below sea level — and so salty you cannot sink even if you try. Its water level is dropping a metre a year. Visit while it's still there.
sunset
The one line that stays
Tel Aviv is the Mediterranean with a startup pitch deck.
4 Quizzes about Israel
View allFood Lover Quiz
Which Israel dish matches you?
Destination Quiz
Which Israel neighbourhood should you visit first?
Culture Quiz
Test your Israel ritual know-how.
Adventure Quiz
What's your Israel travel vibe?
On the map
Where is Israel?
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