Vacationing in Israel? Here Are a Few Places You Don’t Want to Miss!

Israel – Your Dream Vacation

If you can only take one amazing trip this year, and you’re having a hard time choosing between action, entertainment and something of historic interest, get three-in-one by booking a trip to Israel. It’s the one place on earth you can get closer to home and farther from home at the same time.

Singles, Couples and Large Groups – Israel is Waiting for You!
From arts and education to architecture, to shopping and breathtaking landscape, Israel has something for everyone. Choose to spend your entire visit in Jerusalem or venture beyond this main city to interesting and enriching adjoining towns. It is our pleasure at JoyTravel.com to present you with a variety of must-see site seeing options to make your trip to Israel beautiful, exciting, and of course – joyful.

Must See Places to Visit in Israel
Here are just a few of the many landscapes, cities and attractions you won’t want to miss in Israel.

 1. Historical Sites

The Kosel: The holiest, most sacred remnant of the Beis Hamikdash, the Western Wall is the most frequented site of Jewish heritage. Every day, thousands of Jews from all around the world flock to pray at its storied stones and entrust their prayers by placing kvitlach and innermost hopes in its hallowed cracks. The adjoining plaza can be found teeming with worshippers at almost every hour of the day and night. 

Timna Valley: ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ could have been set in this ancient mining town. Located in Arava (not far from the beautiful sea town of Eilat) these cliffs and slopes retain physical reminders of copper mining taking place all the way from the Middle Ages and beyond. Those with a sense of the past will appreciate remnants of an Egyptian excavation camp.

Masada: The remainders of a massive fortress sit on a mountain overlooking the Dead Sea. These bluffs are a must for history buffs. Adventurers can hike the Snake Path to the summit of Masada or simply ride the cable car for beautiful views of the mountain.

Tzfas: As one of the Four Holy Cities, this mystical metropolis has attracted millions of visitors since the times of classical antiquity. Tzfas is perched on the highest mountain in Northern Israel but boasts much more than scenic views. With its snowy winters, warm summers and a bevy of historical and cultural sites, it’s a must-see stop on every Israeli pilgrimage. Tzfas is also the home of Kabbalah, Klezmer music and numerous holiday resorts. 

Churva Synagogue: No sacred voyage would be complete without an uplifting visit to this 19th century masterpiece of the Jewish Quarter. The Churva is known for its magnificent dome and is a landmark steeped in history. Take in 360° views of Jerusalem and admire the temple’s ornate interior before spying a glimpse of the world’s largest holy ark.

The Kosel Tunnels: Have a passion for archaeology? Venture off the beaten path with guided tours of the Kosel tunnels. Dating back thousands of years, these stunning underground passageways offer a unique walk beneath the Old City where you’ll see ancient cisterns, aqueducts and other structures and artifacts related to the Second Temple.

Mea She’arim: Experience ultra-Orthodox life in Yerushalayim’s oldest Jewish neighborhood. Escape the typical tourist trap and get an authentic view as you stroll through the ancient streets of this Charedi enclave built by the Old Yishuv.

2. Ocean Attractions

Tveria: Built on the site of the Israelite village of Rakkath, this vibrant city offers an ideal mix of culture and coastal escape. You can take a spiritual journey through Tveria’s ancient synagogues and cemeteries. For relaxation, the town’s quaint lake port also offers fishing and recreation along the western shores of the Sea of Galilee.

The Red Sea: Miami Beach is to Florida what the city of Eilat is to Israel. Surrounded by mountains, Eilat is home to the Red Sea where you can dive, boat, fish, scuba dive and more. This resort town is known for its beautiful hotels, fine dining and luxury shopping experiences. It has a tropical climate, which makes it popular with locals during the summer while non-locals flock to it during winter months for a reprieve from the cold.

Sea of Galilee: This beautiful seaside town is full of attractions like hot springs, national parks, and fishing. Ancient carvings can still be seen on the stone walls..

Ramon Crater: The Ramon Crater, located in the Negev Desert, formed thousands of years ago. Situated off the country’s biggest national park, it is shaped like a giant heart and considered to be the world’s most massive erosion crater.

3.  Shopping

Throughout Israel there are large outdoor bazaars and modern malls. If you had to choose a few experiences, these would be the ones:

Machna Yehuda Shuk: Referred to by locals as just the “Shuk,” this is considered one of the most vibrant markets in Jerusalem. You can find anything from art, jewelry, items for the house, sweets, bakery items, milk, fish, dairy, produce, spices and more. Shop by day and party at night as this popular marketplace transforms itself into a thriving entertainment, music and dance scene.

Geula: Shoppers looking for familiar conveniences find a diverse selection of goods in this delightful neighborhood. Plan a pit stop at Malchei Yisrael Street where you’ll discover dozens of charming clothing and accessories shops amidst the town’s many shuls and yeshivas.

Old Jaffa: Also located in Tel Aviv, Old Jaffa is an “older” town made up of cobble ways, alleys and rambling stone architecture. It’s nestled by the sea and is a lovely mix of yesteryear shopping and dining combined with modern entertainment and theater. It’s not uncommon to shop by day and party at night in this old school meets new age Tel Aviv town.

4. Museums

Yad Vashem: This memorial to the Holocaust was built in 1953 on Mount Herzl. In addition to the beautiful dome that highlights photo’s of victims of the Holocaust, there is a Children’s Memorial, a synagogue, library and more.

Yitzhak Rabin Center: Built in 1997, this national institute is named after Israel’s Prime Minister who was considered one of the country’s most visionary leaders whose life was cut short in a tragic assassination. The institution’s goal is to create programs and activities to connect Israel’s multicultural society and promote peace. Don’t miss the Israeli Museum that anchors this landmark. The Israeli Museum contains almost 200 short films that show Israel’s development as a nation.

Tel Aviv Museum of Art: If you were to visit one museum in Israel, the Tel Aviv Museum of Art would be it. Featuring modern and ancient art, this museum reflects both treasures of Israel as well as those throughout the world.

5. Gardens and Nature

Gardens and nature abound in Israel. But for a real treat of both spiritual and national beauty, here’s the best-kept secret for some breathtaking views of the Har Habayis:

Aish HaTorah rooftop: You may know it as a global organization, but in the Old City, Aish HaTorah is a stunning site to behold. This educational compound is centered in the Jewish Quarter and offers everything from immersive city tours to outdoor private events. Tourists hoping to steal a glance of paradise head to the rooftop terrace for a truly awe-inspiring experience.

6. It’s Always Hump Day in Israel
We would be remiss if we didn’t throw in the bonus opportunity of riding a camel! What trip to Israel would be complete without a photo sitting upon its most famous furry resident? Camel rides are about as easy to find in Israel as cabs are in New York or at least an Uber. Just make sure you find a reputable site that has you sign a waiver and expect a bumpy ride!

Visiting Rabbanim:

Individuals looking to expand their spiritual education and get a bracha from Israel’s many tzaddikim can choose from countless escorted tours conducted by JoyTravel. Rediscover Jewish history and heritage with extended itineraries that include stops at the country’s most significant landmarks, synagogues, cemeteries and cultural sites.

Let JoyTravel Help You Plan Your Trip to Israel!

We realize that the list above is more than you could possibly do in one trip. Let JoyTravel help you narrow down the list to what works for your lifestyle and budget. We can guarantee that whatever dream vacation you are looking for, Israel will welcome you with a giant Shalom. From everyone at JoyTravel, Mazel Tov!