Most of northern Israel is generically known as The Galilee (Galil in Hebrew). It stretches virtually from the Mediterranean to the harp-shaped Sea Of Galilee and River Jordan on whose shores vast history has been made. Here is Mount Gilboa where King Saul and his son, Jonathan, died in battle against the Phillistines. Hazor, according to historical biblical texts Deborah killed Sisera. Here, at Mount Meron, is the grave of Rabbi Hillel. Here in Tzippori, Hamat Tveriya and Bet Alpha, gorgeous 1,800-year-old synagogue mosaics have been discovered. Here is Armageddon (Megiddo) where Solomon built giant stables. Here is the lakeshore city of Tiberias, one of the “Four Holy Cities of Judaism” (another is Galilee’s Safed), which reached fame 2,000 years ago as one of the chief locations in which the Talmud was written.

The restoration of the Jewish homeland in the period beginning in the 1880’s was largely centered in the Galilee, and in the ensuing 130 years a much neglected landscape of not much more than olive trees has been transformed into one of the most fertile areas in the world. Here are dozens of kibbutzim and independently owned farms – whose produce feeds not only Israelis but is also flown daily to the grocery stores and flower markets of Europe. Here are some of Israel’s 300+ vineyards producing award winning wines. And here are pretty villages, towns and cities including Nazareth and Carmiel.

In addition to hotels and very comfortable kibbutz guest houses, the Galilee is filled with dozens of country bed-and-breakfast accommodations, known as zimmerim. Many offer luxurious accommodations, including pools, and make a delightful base for relaxing and touring.

Acre

Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, visiting Acre (Akko) promises visitors an emotional journey to a glorious past and a one-of-a-kind experience. An ancient and wondrous city, Akko boasts many remarkable sites including the remnants of the Hellenistic-Roman period as well as structures from the Crusader and Ottoman periods.

Much more than a historical and archeological marvel, Akko also has colorful Oriental markets, museums, beaches and water sports facilities, a fishermen’s port, marina, restaurants, hotels, and annual picturesque festivals – all that and more are just a few of the city’s fantastic tourist attractions.

The city’s fascinating historical heritage, its rare blend of East and West, authentic glimpses from the past and unique remnants from different cultures, have all made Akko into one of the most vital Ancient World cities.

The Knights’ Halls
A magnificent tour of the halls of the Hospitallers Order’s Fortress from the Crusader period. Discover the amazing remains of the ancient Order, the renovated and stunningly reconstructed halls, courtyard and surrounding streets, and step into history as a 4,000-year old story unfolds before you within the halls of the citadel.

Be sure to visit the streets, chapels, stores and the Arts and Crafts Market, featuring artisans from the Crusades era, offering their wares: blacksmiths, glass blowers, potters, weavers, embroiderers, leather craftsmen, basket weavers, perfume and oil craftsmen, and more.

Nazareth

A blend of faiths and cultures – See the “Cradle of Christianity” come alive before you.

World renowned as the childhood home of Jesus, Nazareth is the largest Arab city in Israel, and an important site for pilgrims and tourists, coming to visit the Basilica of the Annunciation. bustling mini-metropolis, Nazareth offers shop-lined thoroughfares, stone-paved alleys lined with Ottoman-era mansions, and in recent years, has been reinventing itself as a sophisticated cultural and culinary destination. Everything in Nazareth is open for business on Shabbat (Friday night and Saturday) and its friendly vibe and stunning location, right in the middle of the Lower Galilee (about 15 miles West of the Sea of Galilee), makes it a beloved stop on many tourists’ routes.

An ancient city blending rich history, fascinating archeology, modern culture and Middle Eastern charm.

Nazareth, or Natsrat as its name is pronounced in Hebrew, is the cradle of Christianity, the city where, according to tradition, the angel Gabriel told Mary that she would conceive by the power of the Holy Spirit, and the place where Jesus spent his childhood and youth. Nazareth, in the lower Galilee, is located in the heart of a valley surrounded by mountains that embrace several of the most important Christian sites in the world. This is a city of religion and faith, of spirituality and holiness, but also a city with a rich history, fascinating archeology, modern culture and Middle Eastern charm.

The Cradle of Christianity
Nazareth, which began as a small Jewish village about 2,000 years ago, became a stronghold of Christianity in the Byzantine period, just a few hundred years later. During that period the name of Nazareth spread far and wide, and the yearnings to see the place where the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ had lived turned the city into a popular pilgrimage site. These visits led to the building of the city’s first church – the Church of the Annunciation at the traditional site of Joseph and Mary’s home. Many more churches have been built throughout the city, and were destroyed and rebuilt with the changes in Muslim and Christian rule over the centuries. In the 19th century Nazareth attracted renewed interest and Christians returned to live in this city and rebuilt churches and monasteries. Today Nazareth is the largest Arab city in Israel and has about 30 churches and monasteries, as well as mosques and ancient synagogues.

A taste of the old city
A tour of Nazareth is like reliving its various periods. Every era left behind it a powerful symbol that became a delightful and popular tourism site in the modern era. Most of the sites are concentrated in the Old City, built in the mid-19th century in a charming Middle Eastern architectural style. A walk through the narrow streets, between the picturesque houses, is an amazing experience and it is worth walking slowly to enjoy their beauty.

There are many ancient churches in the Old City, with the Church of the Annunciation heading the list. The rebuilt church retained parts of the previous churches, from the Crusader and Byzantine periods. The church also houses an impressive collection of paintings.

Right next to this church is the Church of Saint Joseph, built on the ruins of agricultural buildings where, according to tradition, Joseph, Mary’s husband, had his carpentry shop. While the Church of the Annunciation was built on the site of Mary’s home, the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation is built over Mary’s Well, from which Jesus mother is said to have drank. This is a structure from the Crusader period and has some interesting frescoes. Right next to Mary’s Well is the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, inside a Crusader hall. According to tradition, this is the location of the synagogue in which Jesus prayed.

Among the many other churches in Nazareth are the Mensa​ Christi Church, the Maronite Church, St. Gabriel’s Church and the Salesian Church. The Old City also has important buildings from the Ottoman period, including the Saraya, or Government House, built by Daher el Omar, the governor of the Galilee in the 18th century, and the White Mosque, which is used today as a house of prayer and an education and culture center. The White Mosque also houses a museum with exhibits that document Nazareth’s history.

No tour of Nazareth’s Old City would be complete without a visit to the local market, which has become a popular and well-known attraction thanks to the colorful stalls and the variety of merchandise. In the market you can enjoy a visual feast of fashionable fabrics, taste the spices and local foods, and by artwork and souvenirs. All the sounds, sights, smells and flavors promise an authentic Middle Eastern experience.

Glimpse to a Middle Eastern charm
Nazareth is full of fascinating and lovely corners that will open your heart to their beauty. Another place that is worth visiting during a walking tour is the Nabi Sain ridge promenade to enjoy the marvelous view of the Galilee. You can visit the ancient Turkish bath house discovered during renovations to one of the city’s stores, take a peek at a fancy manor house with a display of the riches and customs of the Ottoman upper class in the 19th century, including some amazing frescoes. Also worth visiting is the Greek Orthodox bishop’s house, where you can walk through a series of underground passages discovered in the courtyard. Another interesting site is the compound built by the Russians as a hostel for pilgrims.

Nazareth, which has welcomed pilgrims for centuries, has Christian hostels and fancy hotels for the comfort of the tourists who throng to this important site, especially around Christmas. Dozens of restaurants serve delicious foods with wonderful aromas foods that attract visitors all year long. Nazareth is glorious during Christmas, when the city is decorated for the holiday and its colors and excitement join the holy atmosphere and the sounds of prayer emanating from the city’s churches.

Rosh Pina

Turn back the clock in the authentically picturesque Galilee village
Known as the Princess of the Galilee, Rosh Pina is home to the perfect mix of natural, cultural, historic and entertainment hotspots. A beautifully restored, serene northern village where aged olive trees and quaint homes are surrounded by lush golden fields, Rosh Pina is just the place for a leisurely and relaxing vacation, where visitors can relive village life as it was, over a century ago.

Where magical silence is broken only by chirping birds
In search of a serene nature-filled location, reminiscent of Italy’s Tuscany or France’s Provence? Head north to Rosh Pina, where breathtaking rural landscapes are unhindered by the village’s attractions and you will feel as if transported to an era long ago. Choose from the many available guest houses, outfitted to provide maximum hospitality and interspersed throughout the village’s romantic alleyways, unadulterated by the bustle of the big city and breathing new life into the bewitchingly quaint and hospitable community.

Take advantage of the local natural beauty and traipse through stunning green hiking pathsaround Rosh Pina’s river or about the Baron de Rothschild’s Gardens, reportedly modeled to resemble the grand gardens at Versailles. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the sheer natural beauty as you stroll, becoming one with nature and recharging your batteries.

A vacation colony with a unique, artistic charm
Stroll about the village’s cobblestone streets, reminiscent of old European towns, and you will encounter a delightful cultural and artistic atmosphere surrounded by magnificent Galilee mountains. A place of trendy coffee shops, gourmet restaurants, art galleries, museums, festivals, historical sites and a shopping center, the city is teeming with antiquity, culture, nature and culinary delights, together recounting the history of the first “Galilee Moshava” (town) and the establishment of Jewish communities in Israel.

Tiberias (Tverya)

Located at the shores of the Sea of Galilee, Tiberias, the capital of the Galilee, was established in the early Roman period and has served as a religious, administrative and culture center of the Jewish people for many years.

In addition to its rich history and significance, modern day Tiberias is synonymous with holiday in Israel. Here one can enjoy a variety of activities the city has to offer, and experience a wonderful mix of relaxation, nature and history, along with contemporary attractions, active water sports, pilgrimage sites and unique tourist attractions.

A visit to Tiberias is not complete without a visit to its surrounding area, which features many must-see sights, including The city Bet Shean, one of the oldest cities in the world, and one of the country’s largest archaeological sites; Magdala (Migdal) the ancient town on the Sea of Galilee which was home to many of Jesus’s disciples and is said to have been the home of Mary Magdalene; Megiddo, a beautiful and impressive national park and one of the most important archeological sites in Israel from the time of the Bible. Once an ancient city of critical strategic importance, Megiddo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an inspiring location for lovers of history and archeology.

SAFED – WHERE MYSTICAL MEETS THE WORLDLY

With endless views that extend into distant horizons and pristine mountain air, Safed will instantly captivate you the moment you arrive. Known as the capital of Jewish mysticism past and present, this breathtaking ancient hilltop city is the highest in the Galilee and all of Israel – geologically and spiritually. One of the four sacred cities in Judaism, Safed offers a palpably mystical journey that will leave you in awe of its profound energy.

A short drive from the revered Sea of Galilee, Safed welcomes you with quaint cobblestone alleys and numinous architecture. Listen as the many souls of history share their secrets through an old fortress erected by the Crusaders, the Mamluk, Ottoman and British influences, the War of Independence Monument, as well as a deep sacred history embodied by extraordinary synagogues and ancient tombs.

The Eternal Kabbalah Capital
From Rabbi Shimon Bar-Yohai, the 2nd century author of the foundational work on the Kabbalah known as the Zohar, to Ari HaKadosh, the father of contemporary Kabbalah, Safed has been home to Judaism’s highest mystics and their devout students. It was 16th century when Ari HaKadosh “democratized” Kabbalistic teachings by bringing in a new understanding – one that allowed Kabbalah to reach the laymen.

As you walk from one synagogue to the next, you’ll feel just how Safed became the unchanging home for such a long lineage of spiritual aspirants, regardless of all that history threw their way. The Abuhav Synanogue whose architectural elements embody numerical mysticism, the Ari Ashkenazi Synagogue dedicated to Ari HaKadosh, and the Yosef Caro Synagogue will all transport you through time and into mysticism’s upper worlds.

An Inspirational Old City
Add more unforgettable moments to your trip by walking the winding cobblestone alleys in the Old City, viewing unique stone buildings and continuing on to the Artists’ Colony. Home to quality galleries that will introduce you to the exquisite works of local artists, including a wide variety of Judaica, this part of the Old City is for lovers of all things art. The Doll Museum and the Museum of Printing Art are special must-see for the culture-hungry.

Safed can be as nourishing for your body as it is for your soul – the Old City’s eclectic food offerings promise to please every taste and budget. From Yemenite pancakes and street food to unexpected delicacies at sit-down restaurants, you’ll find all that you’re looking for and more in this gracious city of deep traditions.

DISCOVER THE WINE ROUTES

Discover a different Israel through it’s wineries and vineyards, through the passion of the people who are crafting award winning wines from home grown grapes.

Enjoy vintage wines, gourmet foods, and gorgeous scenery. Spend time experiencing Israel as you never have before, as a Wine Connoisseur! The beauty of these routes in Israel is of course the authentic wine but also the incredible landscapes that surround the wineries. Many of the wineries are situated near ‘Zimmers’ which are little spa complexes that are dotted around northern Israel. They have little cabins with Jacuzzis that face out to the magnificent views of the rolling green hills. You can relax in your personal cabin with a splendid glass of wine from the local winery.

The Middle East & Eastern Mediterranean was the cradle of wine production, and the ancient land of Canaan is in fact one of the earliest countries to cultivate wine over 2,000 years before the vine came to Europe.

There are currently over 25 commercial wineries and over 150 boutique wineries in Israel where wine making has become a personal obsession with wine makers striving to produce world class wines.

Israel like other ‘long’ countries such as Chile or Italy enjoys a variety of microclimates. While the northern region gets much rain and even snow in the winter, just a few hours away Israel’s southern region is very arid with desert conditions. This range in microclimates supports many grape varieties, which can grow on several different types of soil, yielding excellent results.

As always in matters of taste, you must visit Israel’s wineries and vineyards and decide for yourself which is your favourite!

A city of sun and fun!

The southernmost city in Israel, Eilat is renowned for its spectacular combination of the surrounding desert landscape, the beautiful bay and the summer sun that shines all year round.

Whether you come to stay in Eilat as a family, a couple or even by yourself, there is an abundance of activities. Accommodations are abundant, ranging from youth hostels to the luxury resorts, offering visitors an unforgettable 5 star experience, with everything from the finest restaurants to beach side service.

With a whopping 360 Sunny days a year, a visit to Eilat is a fun-filled experience, where you get to relax, recharge and get energized all at the same time. This lively resort city offers a multitude of year-round activities and attractions, excellent restaurants and cafés, shopping centers and trendy bars and clubs.

The Red Sea
An amazing attraction, Eilat’s gorgeous Red Sea and the 10-kilometer-long shoreline surrounding it are the city’s focal point and the main attraction for tourists from far and wide. With their clean, clear and unexpectedly cool water, allowing a welcome escape from the city’s high temperatures and dry air, and the wide variety of facilities and attractions, Eilat’s beaches are the perfect spot for sunbathing, rest and relaxation.

Extreme sports enthusiasts will love the dozens of water sports clubs spread along the Southern and Northern coasts of Eilat, and the range of activities such as jet skiing, banana boats, tubing, kayaking and much more.

Eilat is a port that is Israel’s outlet to India, eastern Asia and Africa. Six decades ago it was a shanty-style frontier town, but Eilat has developed into one of Israel’s major resorts whose Red Sea beaches and dozens of hotels attract Israelis and tourists from 100 countries. Eilat is devoted to vacationing. Resorts line the promenade and lagoon, along with a giant shopping mall, restaurants and a variety of attractions for visitors young and old. Eilat is also an entrée to one of the world’s most magnificent coral reefs: the Eilat Underwater Observatory is a must for every visitor, as is the dolphin reef where tourists swim with the dolphins.

Eilat is a 4/5-hour drive from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem – or a one-hour flight into Eilat Airport which sits in the heart of town. A 15-minute drive south from Eilat brings visitors to the crossing point to Egypt. And 10-minutes to the north, tourists cross to Jordan and the neighboring port city of Aqaba. Many visitors to Eilat take day trips to Petra in Jordan.

Take a deep at the Red Sea
An amazing attraction in itself, Eilat’s gorgeous Red Sea and the 10 kilometer-long shoreline surrounding it are the city’s focal point and the main attraction for tourists from far and wide.
With their clean, clear and unexpectedly cool water allowing a welcome escape from the city’s high temperatures and dry air, and the wide variety of facilities and attractions, Eilat’s beaches are the perfect spot for sunbathing, rest and relaxation.

Extreme sports enthusiasts will love the dozens of water sports clubs spread along the southern and northern coasts of Eilat, and the range of activities such as Jet skiing, banana boats, tubing, kayaking and much more.

Feel the vibe
When evening comes and the hot desert sun sets on Eilat and the pools and beaches close, that is just the time to shower, change and hit the town’s fantastic nightlife scene. Eilat holds a unique record – the city with the most clubs, bars and other entertainment venues per capita in Israel, so there is no shortage of hotspots to make your night as fun-filled as your day.

A desert adventure
North of the city lies the southern Arava, a region of breathtaking desert vistas, and one of the most recommended areas to visit in the country, where you can feel the vast expanses and hike steep cliffs, valleys, streams and more.

The colorful and stunning mountains of the Eilat area, besides contributing to the city’s breathtaking view, will provide all nature lovers with an unforgettable experience. There are a variety of routes and sites to visit and enjoy by hiking, bicycling, driving, camel riding and even rock climbing or rappelling down cliffs for the extreme sports enthusiasts.

Don’t wait up. Visit Eilat. Escape to the sun.

Negev

The Israeli desert with its breathtaking landscape and various attractions is offering the perfect place for a holiday. The Negev invites the visitors to an exciting journey that is rich in variety of opportunities.

Israel is a small country with 62% of the total area occupied by the Negev desert. The reddish gleaming desert terrain is characterized by many impressive geological rock formations. The visitors enjoy here a unique view of an untouched vastness – silent and majestic.

There are traces of past civilizations and their agriculture as well as archaeological sites. The Negev offers an unmistakable backdrop for encountering the Bedouin tribes – people of the desert.

The Israeli desert is special for the following reasons:
The desert is very near: just 4 hours of flying from Europe. Israel has two international airports – Ben Gurion and Ovda, which guarantee a short trip to the desert to all travellers (half an hour to an hour and a half). Starting from November, there will be direct flights from Europe and Russia to Ovda airport including Ryanair, Wizzair, and SAS.

Easy to Hike and Bike: There are a lot of marked paths. Israel offers the most imposing hiking trails of the world and hundreds of safe paths lead through the Israeli desert.

Cordial local population: The desert dwellers are friendly and hospitable and make the desert experience both pleasant and exciting for visitors.

Tourists Activities: Along with the development of accommodation, the huge offer of tourist activities has converted the Negev in a popular, interesting, versatile and creative destination in recent years.

Magnificent landscapes: Lots of tourists today, enjoy the charm of the Negev with its landscapes rich in variety

There are spectacular sand dunes in the north.
The Ramon Crater is present in the middle with its bold cliffs and seasonal water sources.
In the east, one experiences the African desert with wide savannas and acacia trees.
To the south, one finds red and black granite, contrasted by sandstone foothills having a powerfully pleasant colour.
During a desert trip of approx. 3 hours, you can get to know the entire spectrum of the desert landscape and enjoy its variety, which one experiences in other deserts often only with a long trip of several kilometers. Many tourists decide for to stay for 2 or 3 days in each region of the Negev.

The Negev is very safe to travel. In case of emergency, the rescue units working in the area are some of the best trained in the world and are always close by. Should anyone require medical assistance, Israel offers high quality, first class advanced western medical services.

Relax in the “Salty Goodness” of the Dead Sea and Experience an Unforgettable Reviving Vacation

With breathtaking natural beauty, soothing rich mineral Spas, proved healing qualities and many unique experiences, it’s no wonder the Dead Sea became one the world’s prominent tourist destinations. This mysterious salty lake is all you need for a perfect mind-body holiday experience.

Relax. Salt, mud, sun…and there’s more. Soak up in natural (hot) sulfurous springs and enjoy Spa treatments. Familiar with the phrase “guilty pleasure?” It doesn’t apply here. Take the “guilty” out and simply enjoy a healthy revitalizing relaxing vacation.

Let Go and Enjoy One of Nature’s Most Wondrous Gifts

Float. Thanks to the exceptional high level of saline in the water you will be able to perform a small “miracle” by, fine, not walking but naturally floating on water. Get in the water, lean back and let nature take its course. It may take a minute to get used to but then, we promise, it’s magical.

Heal. Entering the Dead Sea area feels like stepping into a different world. Different view, different pace, different air and even a different sun.

The last two are the results of the special geological conditions of the area and the primary reasons for the area’s healing powers.

The Atmosphere is different because the sea saline dissolves into healthy rich minerals you absorb through the air. The sun is different because the location, so low below sea level, weaken and filters the harmful UV rays. Step outside and enjoy nature’s wondrous gifts.

Discover the Child in You and Let Nature Heal You
Get Muddy – The Dead Sea mud has proven health benefits. It improves, revitalize and provides relief for your skin. You can buy and use it at home, but why miss out on the opportunity to channel your inner child? Cover yourself with that black mud head to toe and simply have fun. We dare you to take a selfie.

Masada

After Herod’s death the site was all-but abandoned…until the year 73. After the Romans destroyed Jerusalem in 70 and expelled Jews from their holy city, a group of Jewish refugees made their way to the summit of Masada and converted the once grand palace into their home. Having no interest in the palace’s grandeur and considering themselves zealots, the refugees built a synagogue, created a mikveh, planted crops and tended goats. The Romans, however, could not tolerate their defiance and went on to besiege the mountain for three years, condemning thousands of legionnaires to camp in the extreme heat in a quest to starve the mountaintop inhabitants into surrender. (The outlines of the Roman encampments are clearly visible to this day.) Thousands of Jewish slaves were forced to build a giant ramp to the summit and after the months it took to complete the construction, the mountaintop zealots — realizing that the next day would bring Roman soldiers into their hideout — determined to commit mass suicide rather than have their their wives, children and themselves murdered or enslaved. When the Romans finally battered their way onto the mountaintop they met no resistance and discovered 960 corpses. Two women who had hidden themselves from the mass suicide shared details of the events with the “conquerors” and Jewish Roman historian, Josephus, told the story of Masada in his book “The Jewish Wars.” The pledge by the zealots’ leader, Elazar Ben Yair on the last night of freedom has entered immortality: “Since we long ago resolved never to be servants to the Romans, nor to any other than to God Himself, Who alone is the true and just Lord of mankind, the time is now come that obliges us to make that resolution true in practice…We were the very first that revolted, and we are the last to fight against them; and I cannot but esteem it as a favor that God has granted us, that it is still in our power to die bravely, and in a state of freedom.” The Byzantines built a church atop Masada in the 4th-century, but it and the mountain went on to be abandoned for centuries.

In 1964. Israel’s Professor Yigal Yadin lead a two-year international excavation to discover Masada’s secrets. Their hundreds of discoveries support Josephus’ history, with the archeologists even finding the clay tokens on which the zealots had carved names and used as lots to decide who would “euthanize” their families and themselves first…and last.

The story of what occurred two millennia ago atop Masada has become a symbol of Israelis’ commitment never to allow “Masada to fall again” and, fifty years after the excavation, Masada is, after Jerusalem, the most visited site in Israel. Access to the summit on foot is possible up the traditional snake path used by Herod, and up the Roman ramp. But the majority of the millions of tourists who visit Masada are whisked from the Masada Museum and Visitors Center to the summit in giant cable cars that operate daily with the exception of Yom Kippur. Every June, the base of Masada becomes the site of giant Opera Festival and spectacle that uses the floodlit mountain as a backdrop.

NATURAL PHENOMENA

The Dead Sea is one of the most unique natural phenomena on the planet. A crevice in the earth’s crust that is part of the Great Rift Valley allows the waters of the River Jordan to flow south into a lozenge-shaped lake at the lowest point on our planet. With no outlet, the rays of the blazing sun evaporates the Jordan water to a point where its mineral content is highly concentrated; and it is this density of minerals and salt that makes it impossible to sink in the sea: bathers float effortlessly on the water’s surface. Because the sun has to travel an additional 1,200 feet to reach the shore, ultra-violet rays are filtered out and oxygen is enriched to a point where even the fairest skins tan but do not burn.

This is why a visit to the Dead Sea enables sufferers of rheumatic diseases to breathe better, and why victims of psoriasis and other serious skin ailments receive temporary cures by bathing in the Dead Sea, slathering themselves with Dead Sea mud and baking in the non-burning sun.

The Dead Sea is lined with spas, bathing beaches and spa hotels.

The Dead Sea Natural Spa

A geological wonder in a uniquely serene setting, the Dead Sea is an extremely popular tourist attraction. Experience the calm tranquility of the water with its distinct healing properties while enjoying the unparalleled beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Dead Sea, also known as the oldest natural spa in the world, is blessed with an extremely high salt concentration of 31.5%, allowing tourists from far and wide the amazing experience of effortlessly floating on the waters of the lowest place on Earth. While here, you can bathe in the healthy black mud of the area or explore the fascinating and historically rich nearby landscapes.

Luxury hotels, varied cuisine from gourmet restaurants to fast food eateries, great souvenir shops, the extraordinary history of the nearby Masada, and many cultural activities throughout the year, make the Dead Sea a popular destination for local tourists as well as International visitors.

Time to Basket in Nature’s Glory

Get high on life in the lowest place on earth
The Dead Sea, officially the lowest place on earth (428m below sea level) and one the world’s natural wonders, is an enthralling and evocative combination of natural splendor, compelling ancient history, and modern luxuries.

Float on the waters, take a mud bath or go exploring – with 330 sunny days a year, the Dead Sea area is filled with superb attractions including natural healing spas, magnificent hiking trails, gourmet and fast food restaurants and adrenaline-charged attractions.

NEW BOARDWALK AT THE DEAD SEA
Just in time for the Passover and Easter holidays, a new, stone 4k boardwalk and free, accessible public beaches with full facilities have opened in the hotels area of the Dead Sea. The promenade will eventually extend another ten kilometers, to include a total of 16 public beaches, connecting Ein Bokek and Hamei Zohar, along the southern part of the Dead Sea. This is part of a major new leisure and hotel complex that is planned for the region.

Visitors to the Dead Sea – the lowest place on earth and the world’s largest natural spa known for its unique wellness properties since Biblical times – can now enjoy full access to wide, sandy beaches, walking, jogging, cycling or even taking a Segway along the entire length of the new boardwalk. The new beaches are all free to the public, with facilities that include beach chairs, showers, canopies, sports equipment, children’s playgrounds and more.

The beaches are accessible for the disabled, with special wheelchairs and trails that can take visitors right into the waters of the Dead Sea. Special illumination allows tourists and visitors to walk the boardwalk at night, while at the same time enjoying the very special atmosphere at the Dead Sea.

TAKE RELAXATION TO THE NEXT LEVEL

The Dead Sea, officially The Lowest Place On Earth (428m Below Sea Level) And A Shortlist Candidate For The World’s 7 Natural Wonders, Is An Enthralling And Evocative Combination Of Natural Splendor, Compelling Ancient History And Modern Luxuries.

From the healing powers of the Dead Sea’s cobalt blue waters, through the awesome beauty of the surrounding landscape to the myriad of fascinating sights this area has to offer, the Dead Sea is a place of tranquility, health and inspiration for body and soul alike.

Float on the waters, take a mud bath or go exploring – with 330 sunny days a year, the Dead Sea area is filled with superb attractions including natural healing spas, magnificent hiking trails, gourmet and fast food restaurants and adrenaline-charged attractions. Along the main part of the 75 kilometer stretch dotted with beautiful beaches, you will also find world class hotels and spa facilities to guarantee a truly indulgent experience.

The Magical Beaches of the Dead Sea
The beaches of the Dead Sea are like nothing else the world has to offer. There are many kilometers of beautifully developed and well-maintained spots where you can soak up the sun while on your dream vacation. Choose your spot on the rocky sand and take in the breathtaking scenery with the incredible mountain ranges surrounding the sea. The warm waters of the Dead Sea are always calm and offer superior relaxation from the minute you get in.

On the southern shores at the lowest point on earth, you will find an array of hotels where you can enjoy a magical sunrise over the lake, leaving an array of colors on the small ponds with the salt formations scattered throughout. To complete the experience of being at the Dead Sea, take some of the silky dark mud and lather it on allowing your skin to absorb the helpful minerals. Dead Sea mud has been proven beneficial to the skin and body. You will feel refreshed with skin that looks and feels younger. Give yourself the pampering that you deserve and get dirty with the Dead Sea mud – it’s healthy!

Discover the desert area around the Dead Sea
There is more to do than just relaxing in the spas and floating in the Dead Sea. If you are travelling south from Jerusalem, complement your desert experience by stopping at kibbutz Ein Gedi, a natural oasis on the slopes of the Judean desert, and take a hike through a nature reserve where you will see wildlife like the ibex (a kind of mountain goat) and enjoy the waterfalls and pools cascading on the rock formation. Ein Gedi also offers hotel accommodations and spas which houses hot sulphur pools and have different types of healing and therapeutic massages too. Continue south from here to Masada, a national landmark with a strong historical connection, located at the top of a massive mountain that the adventure seeker can hike, or it can be reached comfortably by cable car.

Tel Aviv’s “WHITE CITY” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, because the city is home to more Bauhaus, modern and “International” architecture than any city on earth.

Tel Aviv was founded in 1909 as a garden suburb of the crowded port city of Jaffa. Very quickly it grew into a bustling metropolis so that by 1929, it was a flourishing city that was the apex of the Zionist dream. With the rise to power of Hitler in 1933, dozens of German Jewish architects escaped to Palestine – many of whom were students or graduates of the legendary Bauhaus school of design. The burgeoning of Tel Aviv required more and more buildings, and the arriving architects very quickly adapted their northern European Bauhaus design to the needs of the eastern Mediterranean heat. A walk through central Tel Aviv will bring you face to face with dozens of these extraordinary office buildings, apartment buildings and stores.

TEL AVIV PORT VS JAFFA PORT

Jaffa Port offers an ancient history, stone buildings and cobbled lanes while Tel Aviv Port is a contemporary cultural, recreational and commercial hub.

The modern city of Tel Aviv had its humble beginnings in the port of Jaffa where immigrants, armies and traders docked their ships. The port is famed as one of the oldest in the world and today it is still used by local fishermen while the historic surrounding area has become a popular tourist destination.

Haim Yafim
The waterside hangers have been converted into galleries and cultural spaces like the Nalaga’at Center operated by the deaf and blind community and the Dvir Gallery. From the waterfront the ancient cobbled alleyways wend their way up through stone buildings reminiscent of old Jerusalem. In among the historic buildings are galleries, specialty stores and excellent restaurants. As you reach the upper levels of the Old Port area you can see St. Peter’s Church, the Wishing Bridge, the Old Jaffa Museum and the Ilana Goor Museum.

Tel Aviv Port
In contrast to Jaffa Port Tel Aviv has a more commercial and contemporary feel. The port operated from 1938 to 1965 and has undergone renewal and restoration to convert it into a shopping and entertainment district. The port area consists of converted hangers and a long wide waterfront promenade. It is popular with families visiting the Dyada Center for children’s activities and others visiting the yoga center, center for women, conference venue and the Cavim Institute of Design and Architecture. The promenade is always alive with street performers, musical events and outdoor markets. The port is a contemporary and dynamic area for creative and cultural expression. When the sun goes down the Tel Aviv Port becomes a popular nightlife destination with bars and clubs.

NON STOP MARKETS

Check Out The 24/7 City’s Must visit Markets

A tour of the markets in Tel Aviv, with their unparalleled human tapestry and never-ending variety of delicacies is probably one of the best ways to get to know the true local spirit of Tel Aviv.

Here are some of the markets that are definitely a must, when visiting the sunny city:
Carmel Market: The city’s most famous market, renowned for its colorful spirit and food stalls, featuring fresh local delicacies and excellent restaurants serving fresh food straight from the market. You can also find hidden food placed behind the stalls and around the area. They are really worth finding.

The Flea Market: Located in Jaffa, packed with fantastic authentic antiques from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, a joy to bargain hunters. This market is also home to many fashionable and excellent cafés and restaurants of all varieties of cuisines: from Greek, to Italian, to Arabic.

Nahalat Binyamin Arts & Crafts Market: Open on Tuesdays and Fridays, this is a ‘fair-like’ artists’ market, rich with creative and original ideas for gifts. It is just the place to pick up that perfect souvenir you won’t find in any store.

Sarona Market: Offering a unique and fabulous culinary adventure, Sarona Market is located in the Trendy Sarona Complex, and is home to a modern and vibrant “food court” which offers a huge assortment of culinary options. Sarona is also extremely family friendly, filled with outdoor activities and fantastic playgrounds.

Tel Aviv Port Market: With more of a Farmers Market feel, this seaside Market is packed with tasty treats and specialty produce which you can enjoy, on the spot of take home as culinary souvenirs.

TEL AVIV STREET FOOD

It is no wonder that Tel Aviv was named one of Saveur Magazine’s “Outstanding Culinary Destinations

Tel Aviv, home to sandy beaches, non-stop action and a raging nightlife, is also chock-full of unique restaurants and bars, making the seaside city a trendy foodie destination. The Tel Aviv food industry is truly the city’s heart and soul and while plenty of high-end eateries can be found throughout Tel Aviv, it is fresh local street food that has taken the city by storm.

Taking traditional street food to a whole new level
Say goodbye to the days where Tel Aviv street food was mostly limited to the scrumptious, yet singular concept of crisply fried falafel stuffed into a freshly baked pita. Today, the Tel Aviv street food scene is just that – a scene, with gourmet and specialty treats being served to the masses on local street corners. Take a walk down Ibn Gvirol, Ben Yehuda or Carmel streets and choose from a myriad of high-end meats, fish, prepared vegetables and sauces, all artfully inserted inside pita bread, between slices of toast or other casings. Nibble on the succulent delicacies inspired by the four corners of the world – sabich and tahini in laffa bread, unique herring sandwiches and more, as you continue to wander throughout the city, a taste of Israeli culture on your tongue and a pleasant sense of satisfaction in your belly.

Restaurant quality meals for the foodie on the go

What more could a bustling city full of hurried business professionals and excited tourists want than easy access to flavorful and trendy dishes that can be eaten on the go? With more and more unique streetside quick-stop eateries popping up throughout the city and serving dishes like entrecote-stuffed ciabatta bread and cornflour arepas, it is no wonder that Tel Aviv was named one of Saveur Magazine’s “Outstanding Culinary Destinations.”

Foodies delight: Tel Aviv and its hip street food scene, with countless delectable choices on every corner, is the ultimate culinary travel destination and a must-visit stop on your next Israel trip.

TEL AVIV ADVENTURES

Cool things to do in the hot city

Tel Aviv is world famous for being the city that never stops, renowned for its amazing nightlife, the fabulous beaches, the fantastic culture and art and much more. But here are a few lesser known things you can do in the summer in the city.

Check out the Bracelet bars
Bracelet bars are a great way to drink the night away on a budget. Simply wend your way to one of the many bars in Tel Aviv which let you pay a fixed price in advance and drink as much as you want or as much as you can…

Friday afternoons drum circles
Make your way to the famous Banana beach on Friday afternoons and treat yourself twice – enjoy the awesome drum session on the beach and check out the gorgeous sunset – both completely free of charge!

Rooftop fun
Maybe it’s the weather; maybe it’s the view – one thing’s for sure, Tel Avivians love the outdoors, especially with a drink in hand. During the summer you’ll find most bars and pubs raise the roof (literally!) and turn into outdoor venues, while many bars pop up on rooftops of commercial and office buildings. To find these awesome places all you need to do is simply follow the sounds of music and fun.

Outdoor fitness
Nothing’s more important than your health, and one of the best things you can do for your body is to give it some exercise. Tel Aviv offers some great ways to do just that – from swimming in the sea, running along the promenade, bicycling through the fabulous city streets and even getting some gym action on in any of the outdoor (free) exercise stations located around the city.

Epic Summer Events
From world famous international artists to amazing tech, art and beer festivals, gallery openings, exhibitions, live street music, to open cinemas and beach parties that last all night, Tel Aviv in the summer is an endless source of fun and entertainment not to be missed!

Colorful History and Irresistible Levantine Charm

The smells of the sea flavored with black coffee and spices from the markets, Levantine culture combined with European, ancient mixed with new – this is Jaffa. One of the oldest port cities in the world whose history dates back to the great flood, today’s Jaffa is a vibrant city that never ceases to surprise and innovates. Picturesque alleys, art galleries, unique boutiques, ancient building, wonderful landmarks and an abundant of authentic middle-eastern restaurants – a trip to old Jaffa is a must-have multi-sensory stimulating experience for anyone visiting Israel. Prepare to fall in love.

Discover the magic of a vibrant Port City
Situated on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, in the southern part of Tel-Aviv, Jaffa has been the center of historical events for thousands of years. Still an active port today the Jaffa Port is a great place to explore. Wander through the art galleries, shopping boutiques and gourmet food markets. Stroll by the old docks, listen to live music, drink, eat and absorb the special atmosphere.

To get a better view of the city, climb up the hill to Peak (Ha’Pisga) Park overlooking the bay and gaze at the beautiful city below. On your way down, make a wish at the Wishing Bridge. Who know, it may come true.

Go on A Romantic urban adventure
Jaffa streets are full of surprises. Stroll in the narrow stone-paved streets of old Jaffa, discover hidden courtyards and notice the small details – painted ceramic tiles, small sculptures and upper open terrace. See the people, enter the art galleries, artists’ studios and unique boutique.

Keep exploring. From the Clock tower square at the heart of the city continue to the well-known Jaffa Flea Market and weave your way through daily basics and hidden treasures. It’s time to test those bargaining skills. Enjoy the small quaint cafés, middle-eastern authentic restaurants, great bar and some of best hummus you ever tasted. Guaranteed.

National Parks

Despite Israel being small its scenery varies immensely! You will find new cities and old, beaches and lakes, deserts and green mountains. Israel’s National parks and nature reserves make all this possible for you to experience the wondrous landscapes.

In the south of the country you will find the expanse of the golden and orange plains of the desert. The Negev, Arava and Eilat are the fiery beautiful landscapes of the south that home the Dead Sea, Mitzpe Ramon and the beautiful desert oasis of En gedi not mention some wonderful hiking and cycling trails. When the sun sets the south turns in to a red illuminous sea of magic and when dark the sky turns in to a blanket of sparkles as the vast scenery makes it possible to see every star.

In the North of the country you are welcomed with Luscious green hills and mountains including the snow-capped Mount Hermon. The Golan Heights home to magnificent mountainous scenery and an array of cultures. There are endless forest trails and water fall hikes for all the family to enjoy. The view from the mountain tops is breath taking as your eyes take you all the way out to the Mediterranean. Below the mountains you will find the green slopes of the Galilee home to the famous Kinneret, wineries and some wonderful relaxation spa’s. It really is a wonderland.

The national parks offer exciting cultural and natural adventures. You have the opportunity to visit magnificent historical sites and follow wonderful nature trails while searching for some of the countries species i.e. The desert ibex and leopards, Eagles in the Golan. The impressive diversity of natural wonders, encounters with unspoiled nature and with plants.

Birdtastic Hula Lake

Hula Valley The Hula valley is located in a drained swampland by an attractive large lake, and is one of the area’s top places for friendly hiking and biking excursions. The Hula Valley is the country’s primary migration route for birds, making bird watching a very popular and fascinating experience. In 2009, the BBC Nature Magazine named the Hula Valley as one of the top nature watching places in the world.

Discover One of the World’s Top Birdwatching Sites
In the heart of the picturesque Hula Valley in Upper Galilee, only two hours drive north from Tel-Aviv, between two majestic mountain ranges, lays a place of extraordinary beauty – the Hula Lake. One of the most important birdwatching sites in the world, this ecological internationally acclaimed wetland reserve, is an oasis for birds and nature lovers everywhere. Offering a rare and unique opportunity to experience nature without barriers or partitions, it’s an invitation for an experience of a lifetime.

Follow the Birds and Marvel Nature
During every migration season (spring and fall) over 500 million birds and close to 400 species travel through the Hula Lake. This wetland paradise is the perfect stopover for small waterfalls, cormorants, heron, pelicans, raptors, strokes and cranes.

Declared by the BBC Wildlife as one of the world’s top ten birdwatching sites, Hula Lake or as it called in Hebrew Agamon Hula, naturally attracts birdwatchers from all around the world. Join the international Hula bird festival every year in the fall and enjoy a truly not-to-be missed-experience.

There are several ways to witness this dazzling humbling phenomenon. All you need is simply choose your adventure.

Explore the Trails. Tour the park’s magical trails. You can walk, bike or use club carts to drive around. You’ll pass through fruit groves waterway and get a glimpse of the wetland wildlife.

Drive a Tractor. Join a guided tour in a Tractor-Drawn “Safari Wagon” that takes you deep into the Agamon’s premises. The wagon “hides” you from the birds and therefore enables a rare up close and personal encounter with these beautiful creatures.

Sunrise and Night tours. For the more adventurers, there are 2 special tour experiences. One is the ‘Sunrise Tour’ that offers unbeatable birdwatching and photography opportunities. Alternatively, the ‘Night Owl Tour’ offers a completely different look on the reserve. With campfire and star-gazing you’ll peek into the lives of wild cats, nocturnal raptors and fruit bats.

Uplift the Spirit and Witness Nature Preservation at Work
Agamon Hula gained world acclaim for being model for a sustainable ecological system balancing between nature, tourism and agriculture.

Visit the ringing center in the park and watch the work done to preserve nature. Go to the “bird Island tour” and maybe you’ll even get a chance to help release a bird back to nature. It doesn’t get much better than this.

With so many different types of animals and tireless work to preserve nature in creative ecological ways, Hula Lake offers more than a fun trip with beautiful scenery but a true feel good experience that opens the heart and mind.

Eilat’s Dolphin Reef

Come fall in love with these treasures of the Red Sea at the Dolphin Reef of Eilat.

Bond with the dolphins at Eilat’s unique seaside attraction
The Dolphin Reef Eilat is a wildlife treasure on the shores of the Red Sea, where action-packed adventures go hand-in-hand with nature and relaxation. At the Reef, visitors enter a magical site, interacting with dolphins in their natural habitat; a stunning beach, where the plant-life is in full bloom and the view is breathtaking.

The site’s lengthy pier is an amazing spot for observing the local “bottlenose” dolphins as they go about their everyday routines of eating, playing, hunting, mating and socializing – at times choosing to engage with the site’s human visitors as well. Visitors seeking a more hands-on experience can attempt to interact with the dolphins through any one of the several activities open to the public.

A truly magical experience is watching the dolphins during mealtimes, scheduled yet captivating feeding times. There is something exciting in the childlike and spirited play of dolphins with their handlers, eagerly awaiting their food. The sheer joy sensed once the meal meets its diner almost instinctively provokes a round of applause by all members of the audience. In fact, visitors tend to feel as excited and satisfied as if they were the ones to have been fed themselves.

Take the plunge and dive with the dolphins
The beauty of the Dolphin Reef is that visitors don’t need to remain at a distance, but can take the plunge and dive with the dolphins, observing them in their unique ecosystem; swimming down to a depth of six meters and experiencing the magnificent and secret life as it naturally takes place beneath the sea. Or, visitors can choose to snorkel with the dolphins slightly closer to sea level; floating alongside the dolphins, enabling playful interaction between humans and dolphins

The Dolphin Reef’s “relaxation pools” are where visitors can let their worries wash away while floating to the sound of relaxing music. On-site eateries keep visitors feeling pampered and catered to, without them having to step outside the small sanctuary of natural beauty.

A STUNNING URBAN OASIS

At Tel Aviv’s Sarona Market, the culinary options are endless
Built in and around 150-year-old Templer structures in the heart of Tel Aviv is Israel’s culinary melting pot: Sarona Market. Reflecting Tel Aviv’s exemplary culinary atmosphere and placing a modern urban twist on the city’s more traditional marketplaces, Sarona is the place to visit to satisfy your every craving – and get a taste for the diverse ethnic inspirations that drive the bustling sea-side city.

Visit Israel’s largest covered culinary marketplace
From gourmet creations to spins on traditional local dishes, Sarona Market has it all and will satisfy every quaking belly. With over 90 restaurants, food stands, pubs and culinary boutiques operating seven days of the week, all you need to do is decide whether you’d rather tuck into a bowl of succulent ramen, a plate of spicy empanadas, a tangy sub sandwich or a sweet baked confection. Can’t decide? The eateries are all adjacent to one another, making a seafood entree followed by spicy pad thai or a juicy burger an easy feat.

Need to take a break between courses? Sarona Market is also home to accessory shops, museums, a visitor’s center and other fun, must-see attractions.

Go Green
TGIF! Fridays at Sarona are exceptionally enthralling, with farm-fresh produce available for purchase, making the culinary experience that much more interactive and engaging. Once you’ve selected your produce, continue on your urban market adventure, adding savory imported cheeses, top-quality Italian balsamic vinegar, boutique beers and sweet confections to your shopping bag, all tasty additions to a weekend home-cooked meal.

Experience modern Israeli cuisine in full force at Sarona Market. With no end to the available culinary options reflecting the popular and unique foodie atmosphere of Tel Aviv, Sarona Market is a must-visit hotspot that will certainly satisfy every imaginable gustatory craving.

CAESAREA’S RICHES – STUNNING AS IT IS SIGNIFICANT

Explore the wonders of the past that were built by one of the greatest builders of the ancient world – King Herod.

Gorgeously situated on the shores of the sparkling, turquoise Mediterranean, and less than an hour’s drive from Tel Aviv, lies the ancient and magnificent city of Caesarea.

The city and its archeological wonders are a testament to its significance throughout the ages. A visit to the national park and ancient port, a tour of the Roman hippodrome and amphitheater and a walk among the impressive palace among its many historical treasures is akin to travelling back to the time of the great empires. Not to be missed is the ‘Travel through Time experience’ – a fascinating, moving experience that is actually a mini ‘sound and light show’ taking you on a magical recounting of the tale of Caesarea through the ages.

Enriching the visitor experience is Caesarea’s glistening seaside beauty and its modern day pleasures such as the lovely quaint restaurants and cafés and the only golf course in the country.

TEL AVIV ON WHEELS – JOIN THE RIDE IN THE NON STOP CITY

Get your wheels on and go anywhere they take you in this fabulous city.
One of the ultimate ways to discover Tel Aviv is via its 100km of dedicated bike lanes, where you can enjoy the Tel-O-Fun public bike hire system that lets residents and visitors pick up and drop off sleek green bicycles in 150 stations citywide.

If you enjoy spending your time on wheels, you should also check out the many dedicated skating parks, where you can watch the local daredevils do their thing, or get your own skateboard or rollerblades and join the action.

Another fantastic place to enjoy this fabulous city on wheels is the ‘Tayelet’ – a stunning newly renovated promenade, where you can bike, rollerblade or even Segway and enjoy the lively atmosphere and colorful stream of people as you become taken by its infectious energy and the beautiful beachside views.

TOWER OF DAVID MUSEUM

Jerusalem’s Citadel, known as the “Tower of David”, is a historical and archaeological asset of international significance. The Tower is a medieval fortress that is located near the Jaffa Gate, the historical entrance to the Old City and has been the symbol for the city of Jerusalem for generations.

At the Tower of David Museum you are presented with Jerusalem’s astounding story. While absorbing yourself in legends of the past and their dramatic chronicles it will not take you long to realise that the very stones of the museum are part of this city’s living history.

The 500-year-old walls are part of the Turkish citadel; its name derives from a tower so massive that early Jerusalemites ascribed it to their great King David and despite the name being ‘The Tower of David’ it was actually build by King Herod.

Your visit can begin with a breath-taking view of old and new Jerusalem from the top of the tower. Each ancient room has been revamped to showcase a different period, allowing the tempestuous events of 4,000 years to fall perfectly into place in your mind.

The windows frame glimpses of modern Jerusalem, and with each doorway you exit, you look down into the citadel’s central courtyard, where archaeologists have unearthed remains dating from the Maccabees to the Middle Ages. This incredible site really is a maze of time!

The museum also utilizes its unique space for multi-sensory exhibits by leading designers and artists from Israel and abroad. This One of a kind museum hosts the annual ‘Night Spectacular’ which is a unique sound and light show where the whole of the Citadel is lit up with stunning designs!

Jerusalem’s Old City walls, built in the early 16th century by the Turkish Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, have eight gates. All but one (the Gate of Mercy) still serve Jerusalemites and visitors streaming to its markets, and sacred and historic sites.

Following is a thumbnail description of the gates, counter-clockwise from south to west:

The Zion Gate: Bearing Jerusalem’s earliest biblical name in Hebrew and English, this gate’s Arabic name is the Gate of the Prophet David, as the Tomb of King David, on adjacent Mount Zion, is only a few steps away. Zion Gate leads directly to the Armenian and Jewish quarters.

The Dung Gate: This gate’s unusual name derives from the refuse dumped here in antiquity, where the prevailing winds would carry odors away. Nehemiah 2:13 mentions a Dung Gate that was probably near this one. This gate leads directly to the Western Wall and the Southern Wall Archaeological Park.

Gate of Mercy: This gate, in the eastern Temple-Mount wall, may be the best-known of them all. Also called the Golden Gate or the Eastern Gate, it has been blocked for centuries, and is said to be awaiting a miraculous opening when the Messiah comes and the dead are resurrected.

Lion’s Gate: This portal is named after a pair of ferocious-looking animal carvings that flank it. They are actually tigers, the heraldic symbol of the 13th-century Sultan Beybars. It is also called St. Stephen’s Gate, after the first Christian martyr, who tradition says was stoned nearby. Lion’s Gate, which leads to the Pools of Bethesda, the Via Dolorosa, and the markets, became famous during the Six Day War.

Herod’s Gate: Despite its name, the notorious Judean king had nothing to do with this gate. In Arabic and Hebrew this north-facing gate, which leads to the Old City markets, is called the Flowers Gate. Some say the name derives from a rosette carved over it. However, in Arabic a similar word means “awakened,” and may refer to a nearby cemetery and the hope of resurrection.

Damascus Gate: This most imposing of Jerusalem’s gateways also faces north and is named for the grand city from which Jerusalem’s rulers once came. It is always a busy thoroughfare, thanks to the bustling markets within. Below the 16th-century gate, archaeologists have uncovered part of the entryway built by Emperor Hadrian in the second century CE.

The New Gate: This is the only Old City entryway not part of the original design of the 16th-century walls. It was breached in the waning days of the Ottoman Empire to allow Christian pilgrims quicker access to their holy places within the ramparts.

The Jaffa Gate: This was the destination of Jewish and Christian pilgrims disembarking at the Jaffa port, hence its name. It led (and still leads) directly to the Jewish and Christian quarters, as well as to the most popular parts of the market, and to the Tower of David Museum, once Jerusalem’s citadel and now a showcase of its history.

Jerusalem is a mesmerizing and magical city. Many people who visit Jerusalem rave about the amazing atmosphere, the unforgettable sites, the breathtaking views and more. However, to truly understand what Jerusalem is all about, there are some things that you simply have to experience through your stomach. Here are just a few of the things you really should try while visiting Jerusalem:

Malabi: A unique a combination of beverage and dessert, made of a mixture of rosewater, milk, cornstarch and sugar. Malabi is a very popular Jerusalem dish, sold in many middle eastern restaurants and kiosks throughout the city. Guaranteed to be nothing like anything you have ever tasted.

Knafe: A very interesting and sensationally tasty dish when served and eaten fresh. Knafe is essentially an Arabic desert made of melted goats cheese and topped with hairs of orange pastry hairs, dipped in sweet rosewater syrup. Finding the perfect Knafe is a mission, once you find it, eating it becomes an addiction.

Jerusalem Pretzel: An absolute must when touring the fascinating sites of the old city is stopping by one of the small green carts and purchasing an authentic Jerusalem pretzel. Along with it, you will get a fragrant local green herb called Zaatar which goes great with the delicious warm doe.

“Meorav Yerushalmi”: Directly translates to “Mixed Jerusalem” this delicious mix of different meats in a special local blend of spices is an absolute carnivores’ heaven.

“Ashtanur”: Short in Hebrew for “fire in the oven” Ashtanur is an authentic local pitta bread which you can find in midtown or the markets during lunchtime. If you’re especially hungry, try it wrapped around a portion of shawarma or falafel.

Sabich: an absolute original, the Sabich is a truly unique local dish comprised of a Pitta bread packed with fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, and pickles, usually topped by Amba, a local, flavorful condiment. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked for life.