Kibbutz Nahal Oz is a name that will forever be associated with the horrific events of October 7, 2023, and the place will never be the same. The vibrant gardens, expansive fields, and farmlands once provided an idyllic life for the small community. Green lawns connected the kibbutz bungalows, gardens bloomed, and children rode their bikes along the kibbutz pathways. Today, the kibbutz is unrecognizable, and the ruins of the once-thriving community are a testament to the events of October 7.Kibbutz Nahal Oz back in 2015 (Image source: Shlomo Roded, CC BY 2.5)Plan Your VisitLocation:Kibbutz Nahal Oz, Sha’ar HaNegev, IsraelOpen Times:By appointment and with a guided tourPrices:Enquire about tours to Nahal Oz for accurate prices.Average Visit Duration:Half-day and full-day tours are available.Tours:Gaza Envelope Toursare available; Visits must be arranged in advance with a licensed company such as Bein Harim Tourism.Before the massacre on October 7th, Nahal Oz was thriving, and growing at a steady pace as new members joined the kibbutz. The community had a dairy farm, crop fields, and a chicken coop. The kibbutz farms specialized in carrots, wheat, cotton, and asparagus. Members of the community also ran a silicon plant and an engineering firm. Residents enjoyed a cultural center, schools, and a local bar. There was also a Visitor Center for Heritage, Security, and Agriculture. But they lived in the shadow of a constant threat. Rockets, exploding balloons, and burning kites were regularly sent across the border from Gaza, into the Nahal Oz fields.Where is Nahal Oz?Spread across about 140 acres, the kibbutz is located in southern Israel, in the northwestern part of the Negev Desert, not far from the border with the Gaza Strip. Neighboring towns include Sderot and Netivot.What Does Nahal Oz Mean?The literal translation of Nahal is a stream, and Oz means courage. But Nahal is also a Hebrew acronym for Fighting Pioneer Youths, and it is the name of an Israeli army brigade that combines military service with social welfare and educational programs. Before the 1990s, Nahal was also involved in establishing agricultural settlements, often along the country’s borders. The Nahal program helped establish about 108 kibbutzim and agricultural settlements. The first of these settlements was Kibbutz Nahal Oz.Defense wall around the Nahal Oz Kindergarten (Image source: Dr. Avishai Teicher CC BY 2.5)In 1951 Nahal Oz was founded as a military post, in 1953 it evolved into a civilian community that lived as a communal farm. In 1955, the kibbutz was officially formed. The group of young, patriotic Israelis had agricultural training and were also able to protect the fledgling kibbutz from any attacks.They built, plowed, sowed, and planted on the former land of Be’erot Yitzhak Kibbutz which had moved further inland. At first, there were no fences, just open fields around the small community. The kibbutz experienced regular infiltrations by thieves, and Fedayeen (Palestinian militants), which culminated in the tragic murder of one of the kibbutz security officers, Ro’i Rothberg in 1956.On the day of Ro’i Rothberg’s murder, the community was preparing for the wedding of four kibbutz couples, and even the country’s Chief of Staff, Moshe Dayan was invited. In the morning, as food was being prepared, and decorations hung for the weddings, there were reports of an infiltration across the fields.Ro’i set out on his horse to chase the infiltrators away, but instead, he was murdered, his body mutilated, and dragged into Gaza. A day that was supposed to be filled with joy, became one of mourning, and instead of singing and dancing, the first grave was dug on the kibbutz.In the years that followed, Nahal Oz still had to contend with frequent attacks, burned fields, and shelling. Each time they would replant their fields and continue. Fences were built, and rebuilt, but nothing could prepare them for October 7th.Nahal Oz Massacre on October 7th AttackBy 2023, Nahal Oz had a population of approximately 400-500. The Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah on October 7, 2023, was supposed to be a day of celebration as Nahal Oz marked its 70th anniversary. But there were no celebrations. In the early hours of October 7, an estimated 100 -150 Hamas terrorists and Palestinian civilians broke through the fence dividing Gaza from Israel and entered Nahal Oz. Nahal Oz was one of several communities in the Gaza envelope targeted that day, as well as an open-air music festival happening nearby.The terrorists found families still asleep, or only just waking up. They massacred whole families, took hostages, tortured, raped, and mutilated the residents of Nahal Oz. There was hardly a family that was unaffected by this unimaginable tragedy. Almost a quarter of the kibbutz members were either murdered or kidnapped.In addition to the bloodshed, the terrorists burned and destroyed property, and stole or destroyed all of the kibbutz’s farming equipment. The Hamas terrorists filmed their attack with GoPro cameras and uploaded evidence of the atrocities to social media. By the early afternoon, Israeli soldiers had arrived, and by nightfall, Israeli forces had cleared the kibbutz of all infiltrators.Kibbutz Nahal Oz Since October 7thThe surviving residents were evacuated, and Kibbutz Nahal Oz was declared a closed military area. The residents left behind their homes, land, and belongings, as well as their farms. As the war raged in Gaza, they gradually returned to the kibbutz to work the land and milk the cows.However, the Nahal Oz community has not yet made a plan to return to the kibbutz. They have been rehoused in other parts of the country, and are contemplating if and when to return to the place they once called paradise.In a hostage exchange deal in November 2023, 40 of the abducted Nahal Oz residents were returned to Israel. Among those still held in Gaza is one-year-old Kfir Bibas, the youngest abductee, but it is still not clear whether he is alive or dead.Places To Visit In and Around Nahal Oz KibbutzKibbutz Nahal Oz is still as it was in the aftermath of October 7th, debris lies on the ground, buildings are pockmarked with bullet holes, and personal items have been abandoned. You can tour the attack sites, and visit the kibbutz dairy farm (the feeding and milking have continued). See the graffiti dedicated to those who lost their lives and those who fought so bravely.Nova Music Festival in Re’im Forest where the October 7 terrorists took the lives of approximately 364 people. There are several memorials at Nova.Netivot is where the piles, and piles, of destroyed and burned vehicles have been collected from the October 7 attack.Kobi Hill offers an overview of the Gaza Strip.Sderot is one of the frontier towns where you can learn about the bomb shelters and protected bus shelters, and see some of the rockets that have been repurposed or turned into art.Nahal Oz Military Baseis not part of the nearby Kibbutz Nahal Oz. It was also attacked on October 7, and It is possible to see the outside of the base.Roadside rest stationsoffer Israeli soldiers a brief break and provide them with free meals, showers, and laundry services. Here you might be able to meet and chat with some of the soldiers.Should You Visit the Gaza Envelope?While the country is at war, the Gaza Envelope remains a volatile area, however, people still live and work in the region, and tours are provided for those who wish to bear witness to the events of October 7. Visiting the Gaza Envelope area is not a matter of gawping at the pain and suffering of others, but rather a gesture of solidarity with the people of Nahal Oz and Israel as a whole.

Kibbutz Be’eri is located less than 4-5km from the border with Gaza, in the north-western Negev Desert of southern Israel. For decades the community of approximately 1,200 lived an idyllic rural life with comfortable homes surrounded by greenery.That all changed on October 7, 2023, when Be’eri was one of several communities along the Israel-Gaza border that was brutally attacked by hordes of Hamas terrorists. The death and destruction of that day changed the kibbutz forever.The Birth of Kibbutz Be’eriOn October 6, 1946, Be’eri was one of 11” test farm” communities established by HaNoar HaOved VeHaLomed (Working and Studying Youth) a movement consisting of passionate young Zionists, dedicated to purchasing land for Jewish settlements. They wanted to see if the arid land of the Negev could be farmed.The kibbutz was named after Berl Katznelson, a prominent force behind the Zionist movement in the early 1900s. (Be’eri was his pen name). When Israeli independence was declared in 1948, Israel was attacked on all sides. The Egyptians bombed Kibbutz Be’eri, but it was never conquered. After the war, the kibbutz moved 3 km southeast.Initially, it was a struggle, there was no infrastructure, a lack of agricultural tools, and scorching temperatures. But the settlers held strong and slowly built the foundation of what would eventually be one of the wealthiest kibbutzim in Israel.In more recent times the residents have become accustomed to the regular sirens warning of incoming rockets from Gaza, none of which destroyed any Be’eri homes or killed any people (until October 7). Each house has a bomb shelter, and everyone knows the drill. They had 15 seconds to get to safety.Be’eri’s farms also suffered from the proximity to Gaza with burning kites, and exploding balloons often being sent across from Gaza to burn the kibbutz’s fields. Still despite this, it was a slice of paradise for those who chose to live on Kibbutz Be’eri. But nothing could prepare them for October 7, 2023.Life on Kibbutz Be’eriPrior to October 7, the community lived in harmony, they had a large communal dining hall, a shady square, and even a theater. There were neat paths, green lawns, and beautiful trees. The residents strived to build a peaceful relationship with the neighbors in Gaza, and volunteers from Be’eri would help transport Palestinian cancer patients from Gaza to Israeli hospitals for treatments. They also employed Palestinians from Gaza on the kibbutz and have a fund to help them financially.The kibbutz was known for its cultural events, communal singing, farming, and industry. Be’eri’s economy is traditionally based on agriculture and they cultivate potatoes, peanuts, and jojoba trees (for the oil used in cosmetics).Before October 7, the kibbutz had a thriving cultural and commercial life, some of these activities have ceased while others are slowly re-establishing themselves.Lalush Bakery - The kibbutz bakery sold hand-made cookies, cakes, pastries, and bread.Ayuna Carpentry Boutique and Furniture Store - All the furniture sold in this trendy store was made in the adjacent workshop.La Medavesh (The Bike Peddler) - The Kibbutz Be’eri bike center rented and sold bikes.Be’eri Dairy Farm - Cheese was made with milk brought directly from the Be’eri dairy, and traditional methods were used with no additives.The Gallery - Be’eri had a venue for exhibiting Israeli art, often by renowned artists. Depending on the exhibition, The Gallery displays include paintings, sculptures, photography, installations, and prints. There are plans underway to rebuild The Gallery.Dfus Be’eri - The most successful enterprise on the kibbutz was and is the Be’eri Printers. They do regular printing as well as printing driver’s licenses, and passports.Kibbutz Be'eri Massacre on October 7th AttackIn the early hours of Saturday, October 7, 2023, the holiday of Simchat Torah, when Jews celebrate receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai, hundreds of armed Hamas terrorists broke through the Gaza border fence and infiltrated Kibbutz Be’eri and other nearby communities. They entered the kibbutz from three directions and went on a killing spree.The youngest victim was ten-year-old Mila Cohen and the oldest was 88-year-old Hannah Kritzman. Approximately 96 kibbutz members were slaughtered, and at least 26 people were taken into Gaza.The terrorists were accompanied by a Palestinian journalist who broadcast live throughout the massacre, and the terrorists filmed their actions with GoPro cameras. Gaza citizens joined in the rampage and destruction, gleefully looting the kibbutz homes and businesses.Eventually, Israeli army forces arrived but it took two days to clear the kibbutz or any danger fully. First responders testified to having seen the aftermath of rape, mutilations, and decapitations. A large number of kibbutz buildings and homes were burned to the ground, or riddled with bullets.Be’eri After October 7thFollowing their evacuation, the residents of Be’eri moved to temporary accommodation. About a week after the massacre Dfus Be’eri was reopened and about a month and a half later the farmers began sowing wheat in the kibbutz fields. It took about six months before the residents could begin contemplating living on the kibbutz again. In a hostage exchange, several of the abducted kibbutz members were returned to Israel.Many of the homes are still in ruins, with broken tiles, shards of glass on the ground, gutted roofs, and belongings scattered on the ground. On parts of the kibbutz, time has stood still, capturing the scene of October 7 with broken children’s toys, overturned furniture, mounds of rubble, and objects burned until they are no longer recognizable. Some of the residents have returned to the kibbutz to try and rebuild their lives.Sites to Visit in the Gaza EnvelopeSderot - This is one of the largest communities in the area where you can learn about the bomb shelters, and see repurposed rockets.Nova Music Festival Site - On October 7, the terrorists attacked revelers at this outdoor music festival, raping, mutilating bodies, and taking the lives of approximately 364 people.Moshav Tkuma - The overwhelming sight of 800 burned and destroyed vehicles piled high from October 7, can be seen at Moshav Tkuma.Kibbutz Nahal Oz - Visit this devastated community which was attacked on October 7.Gaza Envelope Communities - You could visit other communities in the Gaza periphery including Kibbutz Holit, Moshav Yated, and Ofakim.Meet and Volunteer - Meet the people who live and work in the Gaza Envelope and learn about their complexity and challenges. There are several volunteer opportunities in the area including helping the farmers.Black Arrow Monument - Here there is a lookout point toward the Gaza StripYad Mordechai - This community in the Gaza periphery has a thriving honey business, and you can visit their bee house and learn about the honey-making process.ANZAC Monument - Not far from Kibbutz Be’eri is the ANZAC Monument commemorating Australian and New Zealand soldiers who lost their lives here in the battle between the British and the Ottoman forces during World War.Plan Your VisitLocation - Kibbutz Be’eri, northwestern Negev, Southern IsraelOpen Times - This is the site of a major tragedy for the community and Jewish People, and out of respect, it should only be visited with a guided tour.Prices - Check for tour prices.Average Visit Duration - Half-day and full-day tours of Kibbutz Be’eri and the Gaza Envelope are available.Tours - As this is still a sensitive area and an emotionally-charged site where people lived, and many died, tourists should only visit with an organized tour.

Reim is a small, secular kibbutz within 7km of the Gaza Strip in southern Israel’s Gaza periphery or Gaza Envelope. The kibbutz was initially called “Tel Reim” or Hill of Friends, the Hebrew translation of the adjacent archaeological site - Tel Jemmeh. Eventually, it became simply “Reim” or Friends in honor of kibbutz members who lost their lives in the Israeli War of Independence in 1948.The main sources of income for kibbutz Reim are agriculture and a laser company called Isralaser. Other industries on the kibbutz include IsraBig, which manufactures machine tools, and a room letting business. The agricultural side of the kibbutz included orchards, a chicken coop, and crop fields.As of 2008, the kibbutz's economy was based on agricultureIn 2008 the kibbutz embarked on an ambitious project to become the first Israeli community to rely completely on solar energy for domestic consumption. Over the years, Reim and the rest of the Gaza Envelope communities became the target of rockets, burning kites, and explosive balloons sent across the border from Gaza. Each home had a safe room (residential shelter) with reinforced walls and doors. When sirens were heard warning of incoming rockets from Gaza, the residents of Reim had 8-15 seconds to reach their safe room.Plan Your VisitLocation- Kibbutz Reim, northwestern Negev, Southern IsraelOpen Times- The kibbutz stands in ruins, as yet the residents have not returned, but it was once their home, and that needs to be respected. Visiting independently is not advised both for safety reasons and out of respect for the people who lived through October 7.Prices- Only visit Kibbutz Reim with a guided tour, check for tour prices.Average Visit Duration- Half-day and full-day tours of the Gaza Envelope can include Kibbutz Reim.Tours- The Gaza Strip Envelope Private Tour is availablethrough Bein Harim Tourism to bear witness to the horror of October 7, and show solidarity with those who have suffered.The Establishment of Kibbutz ReimWhen the State of Israel was established in 1948, the Jewish underground forces of the Palmach that had battled against the British were demobilized. Some members joined the new Israeli Defense Force and some formed the Israel Boys and Girls Scouts Federation.It was this group that in 1949, built Kibbutz Reim at the confluence of the Besor and Gerar streams, on the edge of the Negev Desert. Kibbutz Reim. The kibbutz grew as young families joined, looking for a high quality of life in a cooperative community and a rural environment. By 2023 the kibbutz was home to approximately 435 people.Kibbutz Reim Before October 7, 2023The pastoral community on Reim Kibbutz lived a quiet life, with comfortable housing, and everything they needed within the agricultural collective. They had a supermarket, clinic, swimming pool, green lawns, a school, and gardens. They regularly celebrated cultural events such as festivals, and exhibitions. The kibbutz was known for its landscaped gardens, wide paths, and rich community life. Residents had playgrounds, a club, a gym, a museum, a pub, and regular services within the community such as hairdressers, a locksmith, and a post office.Reim Massacre on October 7th AttackMore than 100 armed Hama terrorists entered Kibbutz Reim as the sun was rising on October 7, the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, the last day of Sukkot. It was part of an organized attack on several communities in the Israeli territory adjacent to Gaza known as the Gaza Envelope or Gaza Periphery.Reim Kibbutz’s six-member security team did its best to hold off the infiltration but to no avail.Members of the kibbutz were trapped in their homes, hiding from the rampaging Hamas terrorists who violently tore through the community. Reim residents who survived remained in their homes for over 24 hours during the attack.In the aftermath, they found that 5 kibbutz members and two Thai workers had been killed. One teenage resident, Liam Or, and four Thai workers were taken hostage in Gaza. Not far from the kibbutz, another massacre was taking place at an open-air music festival, the Nova Party.Reim Nova Festival Massacre October 7th AttackA weekend-long trance music festival (Supernova nature party) was being held in several Reim kibbutz fields. At dawn, rockets began flying over the festival goers. They knew that this was a common occurrence near Gaza, but the rocket barrage did not end, it just kept going.Next armed Hamas terrorists drove into the crowd of 3000+ partiers, on motorcycles and trucks. Others landed by engine-driven paragliders. Revelers scattered in all directions running for their lives, chased by terrorists on a mission to kill as many Jews as possible. They indiscriminately shot into the crowd, mutilated the bodies of partygoers, raped women, and took hostages.Most of the people attending the festival had arrived by car, and as chaos erupted, they headed for their cars and tried to escape death. But the cars were met on the roads by rampaging terrorists who shot them down and burned the cars.Some of the innocent partygoers managed to escape, others hid for hours in orchards, ditches, and safe rooms until they were rescued. At least 364 people were murdered and 40 people were taken hostage from the party.Reim Since October 7 AttackSince that tragic day, the kibbutz has remained abandoned, its residents were initially evacuated to Eilat and later moved to Tel Aviv. All of the Reim hostages were returned to Israel during a hostage exchange deal. Several farmers remained at the kibbutz to maintain the agricultural operations, while the rest of the residents wish to return to Reim once it is safe.What Can You See and Do in and Around Kibbutz Reim? Tel Jemmeh - A 23-meter-high archaeological mound adjacent to Reim Kibbutz, has been identified as a Canaanite royal city. There are several other archaeological sites in the area including Horvat Grarit.Nova Party Site - See where the largest massacre of Jewish people since the Holocaust took place. Trees have been planted at the festival area by the families of victims to commemorate their lost ones.Moshav Tkuma - See the huge pile of 800 burnt and destroyed cars, as a result of the Hamas attack on the Nova party site.Kibbutz Be’eri - Also hit tragically by the Hamas attack was Kibbutz Be’eri, one of the wealthiest and largest of the communities in this area. The devastation has been left for the time being as a reminder of that awful day.Kibbutz Nahal Oz - Another victim of the October 7 attack was this kibbutz where you can see the destroyed homes and farms.Gaza Envelope Volunteer Opportunities - It is possible to volunteer with several organizations to help the communities of the Gaza Envelope recover.Ofakim - See the police station held under siege by Hamas and eventually infiltrated. Learn of the heroic rescue operation that returned the police station to Israeli hands.Kfar Aza - Attacked by Hamas on October 7, this community lost 70 members slaughtered by Hamas, and 18 were abducted to Gaza.Graffiti Art - Tour the bomb shelters of the area which have been painted with poignant graffiti art commemorating the events that changed the Gaza communities forever.

Ofakim (Horizons in Hebrew) is a city in southern Israel 25 km northwest of Be’er Sheva and about 25km from the border with the Gaza Strip. The vibrant city is known for its diverse population, strong sense of community, and commitment to fostering innovation and growth. Surrounded by the Negev desert, it boasts stunning landscapes and sunny weather year-round. With its bustling markets, cultural venues, and parks, Ofakim offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. However, Ofakim was one of the communities attacked on October 7, 2023, by Hamas terrorist infiltrators, and this event put Ofakim in the headlines and changed the city forever.History of OfakimFounded in 1955 with the intent to develop the Negev region, and become an urban hub for the surrounding rural communities. The first residents were new immigrants, with the majority being Moroccan Jews. In the first few years, the standard of living was low, homes were rudimentary huts or shacks, and there was high unemployment and many social problems. But as industries developed in the area, the economy grew and Ofakim also welcomed new immigrants from the former Soviet Union and Ethiopia.In the 1990s Ofakim had the highest unemployment rate in the country, and approximately a third of its residents were living on welfare. But after a change in city management Ofakim strived to make improvements, and they seemed to have turned things around.As the city developed it gained a tennis center, soccer stadium, and the impressive Nahal Shomriya Cycle Route. New railway lines connected Ofakim to Be’er Sheva, and after years of stagnation new housing, youth centers, cultural venues, and infrastructure projects were developed. Then came October 7, 2023.Herzl Boulevard - the entrance to the city of OfakimOfakim Massacre on October 7th AttackOn October 7, Ofakim was the furthest community from the border to be attacked by infiltrating Hamas terrorists. It started when an unprecedented number of rockets were fired from Gaza in the direction of the city. Then as dawn was breaking Hamas terrorists entered the Ofakim neighborhood of Mishor Hagafen, and began killing anyone they encountered. They were well-armed with grenades, RPGs, and rifles.A battle took place between the terrorists and Ofakim residents including police officers, local security forces, and citizens armed with knives, and any weapon they could get hold of. Thanks to the heroic response of the residents, the magnitude of the death and destruction in Ofakim was limited. Within five hours 50 people were killed by the terrorists.The residents of Ofakim hid in their homes for many hours, some even stayed in hiding until the following day, scared that there may be terrorists still lurking in the city. In the aftermath, it has taken the residents of Ofakim many weeks, and some even months to go back to life as usual. You can still see bullet holes in buildings, and in places, there are even blood stains that have not yet been removed.Racheli of OfakimWhen five terrorists entered the home of Rachel and David Edry, the couple used their charm and some tasty food prepared by Rachel to distract the captors from their mission to kill. Rachel chatted and joked with the terrorists to stay alive until they could be rescued. She repeatedly asked to go to the bathroom where she signaled to the Israeli soldiers watching the house, giving them information about how many terrorists were in the house and where they stood.The ordeal went on for 15 hours until 3am on Monday morning. Ultimately the couple was rescued when a police SWAT team entered the home and killed all of the terrorists. Racheli’s home became a tourist attraction overnight, with people stopping by to take photos of the bullet-riddled walls.Foreign Secretary James Cleverly visits the house of David and Rachel Edri(Image source: UK Government CC BY 2.0)Things to See and Do in and Around OfakimOfakim Park - Situated east of Ofakim, this large 125-acre green oasis is home to the historic Patish Fortress, hike paths, and cycle routes. Ofakim Park is closed for maintenance until further notice.HaBsor Park (Eshkol Park) - A large, beautiful park with a cool spring and freshwater pools, a reconstructed train bridge from the British Mandate period, and an archaeological site from the ancient Egyptian period.Be’er Sheva - A large city with several points of interest including Lunada Children’s Museum, ANZAC Memorial Center, a restored Ottoman mosque and railway station, Be’er Sheva River Park, and a dynamic Old City.Israel Airforce Museum -The Israeli Air Force Museum is located at Hatzerim Airbase in the Negev desert. The museum was established in 1977 and has been open to the public since 1991Kibbutz Be’eri - One of the communities attacked on October 7, here you can bear witness to the destruction caused by the Hamas terrorists. Approximately 96 kibbutz members were murdered and 26 were taken hostage.Kibbutz Reim and Nova Music Festival Site - On October 7, Hamas terrorists went on a killing spree rampaging through crowds of people who had gathered for a music festival near Kibbutz Re’im. At least 364 festival-goers were massacred and 40 taken hostage in Gaza. It is possible to tour the site with a guide.Rachel’s House - In Ofakim, see the house where Rachel charmed the Hamas terrorists and kept them distracted for 15 hours while she and her husband waited to be rescued by Israeli forces.

In the heart of Tel Aviv, Hostages Square has emerged as a poignant and powerful gathering point for solidarity, reflection, and advocacy. This central location, known for its vibrant urban life, has taken on profound meaning in recent months, uniting Israelis and visitors in support of the hostages and their families following the harrowing events of October 7th, 2023.The Story Behind the NamePreviously known for its casual city buzz, the square was renamed and repurposed as a focal point for community support during the ongoing hostage crisis. Large displays featuring the faces and stories of the abducted individuals personalize the tragedy, reminding passersby of the human cost behind the headlines. Vigils, rallies, and art installations have transformed the space into a living memorial, ensuring the issue remains at the forefront of public consciousness.A Space of Collective ActionThe square now serves as a hub for various forms of activism, from candlelight vigils to organized marches demanding international intervention and humanitarian aid. Volunteers distribute information, and families of hostages often speak to crowds, sharing personal stories that underscore the urgency of their loved ones' plight.The Impact on Tel Aviv’s CommunityHostages Square encapsulates the resilience and unity of Tel Avivians, bringing together people from all walks of life. While the atmosphere is somber, there’s also a palpable sense of determination to channel collective grief into meaningful action.How to Get InvolvedVisitors to the square can participate by attending events, contributing to relief efforts, or simply offering their presence as a show of solidarity. The square also features digital campaigns that link to international advocacy groups and humanitarian organizations working to secure the hostages’ release.Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square is more than a location; it’s a testament to the power of unity and the enduring hope for a resolution. If you’re in the city, a visit to this space is not only a gesture of support but a deeply moving experience that connects you to the heart of Tel Aviv’s resilient spirit.

This Jericho, Jordan River and Dead Sea tour operates from October to May and takes visitors to a number of stunning locations. All highlights mentioned here are visited on this tour but not necessarily in this order. The Jericho, Jordan River and Dead Sea Tour visits the city of Jericho, one of the oldest cities in the world. Jericho features in the Bible where Joshua and his troops caused the city walls to fall in the Battle of Jericho. In the Book of Luke Zacchaeus climbs a sycamore tree to see Jesus over the crowds that had come out to greet him as he entered Jericho. On this tour we visit the ancient sycamore tree that features in this Biblical story. While in Jericho the tour visits Elisha’s Spring. This spring supplied the city with fresh water over the course of thousands of years. Without the spring people would not have been able to survive in this harsh environment. Just 2 km from Jericho is the archaeological mound of Tel Jericho, the site of the original Jericho settlement. Archaeologists have uncovered 23 layers from previous settlements in Jericho dating back to 9000 BC. One of the most fascinating finds is a Neolithic watchtower dated c. 8000 BC. The tour continues to Mount of Temptation where the devil tried to tempt Jesus to forsake God. On the mount a Greek Orthodox monastery seems to defy gravity clinging precariously to the cliffs. You’ll get to go up to the top of the mount by cable car and take in the stunning views. This tour includes Qaser el Yahud, a site on the Jordan River where John baptized Jesus. At Qaser el Yahud the Jordan River has been made accessible to visitors who want to be baptized here. This is also where the Israelites may have crossed the Jordan into the Promised Land.To end off a perfect day the tour takes you to the Dead Sea. Here you can float in the water that is 8.5 times saltier than the ocean; lather your skin with mineral-rich Dead Sea mud and soak up the sun on the beach.

On this Christian Jerusalem tour, you can follow in the footsteps of Jesus and visit sites where major Biblical events took place. The tour starts on the Mt. of Olives at the Church of the Ascension where Jesus ascended to heaven leaving an imprint of his foot in a slab of stone. A 4th-century chapel once stood here but today we see a Crusader-era chapel.The Jerusalem tour stops at the nearby Church of the Pater Noster. Here Christ taught his disciples the Lord’s Prayer. Plaques cover the walls bearing the Lord’s Prayer in multiple languages. We see the original place where Jesus taught his disciples.We descend the Mount of Olives taking in the views of a 3,000-year-old Jewish cemetery and the Old City across the Kidron Valley. We make a brief stop at the Dominus Flevit a teardrop-shaped chapel designed by Barluzzi to mark the site where Jesus looked out over Jerusalem and wept.The tour visits the magnificent Church of All Nations and the adjacent Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prayed and was arrested on the eve of his crucifixion. Crossing the Kidron Valley the tour enters the Old City through the Lion’s Gate. We can see the Pools of Bethesda where Jesus cured a paralytic.The Christian Jerusalem tour visits the Church of St. Anne built above the site of Mary’s birth. We visit the Convent of the Sisters of Zion and see the Second Temple Era water cisterns and engraved Roman flagstones. Here Pilate judged and sentenced Jesus who took up his cross and walked through the jeering crowds along the Via Dolorosa to Calvary and his crucifixion. The Jerusalem tour retraces a part of Jesus' route along the Via Dolorosa through the Old City pausing at the 3d Station of the Cross. ThisJerusalem walking tour in the footsteps of Jesus will be a unique spiritual experience for every visitor!

The City of David Tour starts as we take in the view of Jerusalem fromMount Scopus. From here we can look down on an ancient Jewish cemetery and beyond the Old City walls to Temple Mount, the site of the Dome of the Rock. On the slope of Mount Scopus,we view the Garden of Gethsemane and the adjacent Church of All Nations with its stunning mosaic façade.The City of David Tour pauses at the Kidron Valley’s ancient Jewish burial tombs then we rejoin the bus and continue on to the Old City. The Jerusalem tour takes us through the Zion Gate into the Old City’s Armenian Quarter where the tour guide will tell us about this unique community and its history. From here the tour continues into the Jewish Quarter to see the excavated 1500-year-old Byzantine-era Cardo, once the main thoroughfare of Jerusalem. Later the Crusaders built shops along this route where modern stores now fill the historic spaces. The highlight of any Jewish Jerusalem tour is the Western Wall; the last surviving part of the Second Temple that was destroyed in 70AD. Jews come from across the globe to pray at the Western Wall (Kotel) and place a prayer note between the wall’s ancient stones.We leave the Old City via the Dung Gate and enter the City of David to tour underground Jerusalem. This excavated city is believed to have been the original settlement in Jerusalem dating back 3,000 years. Ingenious subterranean tunnels were carved out of the rock to bring water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam at the City of David. We pause at the Spring of Gihon before concluding the tour.In case a visit to one or more of the Spanish synagogues is not possible, we will visit the Hurva Synagogue instead. Of all theCity of David tours available, this one is the absolute best!

The Judean Desert Jeep Tour heads off through the Judean Hills and into the sparse desert landscape referred to in the Bible as “wilderness.” On route we pass by the Inn of the Good Samaritan and pause at the sign indicated we are at sea level. Descending further Jericho can be seen in the distance. The tour reaches the shores of the Dead Sea at 430m below sea level. We pass Qumran, a site famed for the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls. The 2,000 year old parchments bearing the Old Testament were discovered in caves near Qumran.Here we change vehicles to a 4X4 jeep suitable for the desert terrain and the jeep safari tour really heats up! The tour sets out through the desert landscape scaling steep inclines and racing down into ravines, between hills and over rocky terrain. At the Cliffs of Dragot we’re treated to a panoramic view of the desert and the Dragot River below. Along the way your guide will point out unique desert plants and signs of animal life. Our jeep safari adventure takes us to the Murbaat Caves where artifacts were uncovered dating back thousands of years including 2nd century documents. Fascinating texts were discovered from the Second Jewish Revolt in 132-135AD including those written by Rabbi Shimon Bar Kochba leader of the revolt. The caves held an ancient set of tefilin proving that this Jewish tradition existed thousands of years ago.To cool down after out desert jeep safari our last stop is at the Dead Sea. Here we can relax and wash away the heat and dust of the desert. The Dead Sea is 8.5 times saltier than the ocean which makes the water thick like oily syrup that won’t let you sink! The high mineral content of the water and the dry, allergen-free air of the Dead Sea provide natural health benefits. It is also the perfect way to rejuvenate after our desert safari before heading back home.

This Christian tour to Galilee travels north along the Mediterranean coast then turns inland towards the forests, hills, and farmlands of Galilee. Here Jesus spent his ministry spreading the word of God among the people in rural villages. The tour reaches Magdala, the hometown of Mary Magdalene. Magdala was the site of a biblical-era fishing village and Second Temple-Era synagogue. During the excavation of the synagogue a coin dated 29 AD was uncovered proving that the synagogue existed during Jesus’ lifetime. Jesus may have preached in this synagogue during his ministry.We continue our Christian Galilee Tour traveling north along the shore to Ginosar where we visit the Beit Yigal Allon Museum. Here you can see a 1st-century fishing boat discovered buried in mud on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. The boat has been dated to 100 BC - 70 AD. Jesus would have visited Ginosar and even met the fishermen of the village. He may have sailed out onto the Sea of Galilee in a fishing boat just like this one.This Christian tour to Galilee takes us around the northern end of the Sea of Galilee past the Mount of Beatitudes. This is where Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount to an audience of followers. Today a magnificent chapel tops the Mt. of Beatitudes. The church was constructed in 1939, designed by Antonio Barluzzi, and funded by Mussolini! The Church of the Beatitudes has an elegant dome, colonnaded cloisters, and eight sides representing the eight Beatitudes. The next religious site on our tour is Kafr Kanna. This small town is the traditional site of the wedding feast where Jesus turned water into wine (John 2:1-11). Today the Franciscan Wedding Church (1879) marks the site where the miracle took place. Cana is where Jesus later healed an official’s son. The tour draws to an end as we leave the green rolling hill of the north and head south returning you to your hotel in central Israel.

This Christmas Eve in Bethlehem tour culminates with Midnight Mass in Manger Square, Bethlehem however it starts with a tour in Jerusalem. We stand on the Mount of Olives looking out across the Kidron Valley to the Old City. From here we have a spectacular view of the city and the golden Dome of the Rock. We descend the Mount of Olives passing the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus came to pray after the Last Supper and where he was arrested. The Christmas in Bethlehem tour enters the Old City of Jerusalem and we make our way to the massive Church of the Holy Sepulcher that encompasses the last Stations of the Cross – where Jesus died on the cross and was placed in a burial tomb. The Sepulchre was built in 326 AD to protect these holy sites. Here we see the Rock of Calvary, the Stone of Unction and Jesus’ burial tomb. The Christmas Eve tour leaves Jerusalem’s Old City and travels through modern-day Jerusalem past the Israel Museum, Shrine of the Book and the Knesset towards Bethlehem. We stop at the Hill of Evil Counsel and have panoramic views of Jerusalem at night. Our Christmas Eve tour continues on to Bethlehem.As we arrive in Bethlehem you can feel the Christmas spirit and the streets are decorated with lights and Christmas decorations. We stop for refreshments then arrive in Manger Square. As midnight approaches we enjoy Christmas Eve dinner not far from Manger Square. At Midnight the tour either enters the Church of Nativity for Mass or we see Midnight Mass screened on large screens in Manger Square. The Christmas Eve Midnight Mass in Manger Square is a moving experience and the atmosphere is magical. Following Midnight Mass the Christmas tour leaves Bethlehem and makes its way back to the tour’s original pick-up points. This unique Bethlehem tour is held only once a year on Christmas Eve and provides transportation, tour guide service, entrance fees and Christmas Eve dinner for one inclusive price.

Set off on an exhilarating journey from Jerusalem through the Judean Hills, passing the Inn of the Good Samaritan and stopping at the sea level marker. Descend further to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, with its striking turquoise waters bordered by a white salt crust.Begin with Masada, a dramatic flat-topped rock rising 450 meters from the desert plains. Take a cable car to the plateau summit for stunning views of the Dead Sea. Masada's well-preserved ruins tell the story of Jewish zealots who, during the First Jewish–Roman War, chose death over capture, symbolizing Jewish resilience and independence.After exploring Masada, continue to the Dead Sea, passing Ein Gedi and Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. If time allows, we may visit the Dead Sea Mineral Cosmetic factory for refreshments. Conclude your day by relaxing on the Dead Sea beach, soaking in its therapeutic saltwater, breathing the oxygen-rich air, and using the mineral-rich black mud as a skin mask. Don’t miss the chance to capture a moment floating in the Dead Sea!

We begin the Jerusalem Old City Tour with a bird’s eye view across Jerusalem from Mt. Scopus. From here we see beyond the Old City walls to Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock. We drive down the mount passing an ancient Jewish cemetery and stop at the Biblical Garden of Gethsemane and the stunning Church of All Nations. Then we see the Kidron Valley where monumental Jewish tombs have stood for centuries. We approach the Old City passing by the Dormition Church on Mt. Zion. The tour visits the Room of the Last Supper. Here Christ ate with his Apostles on the eve of his crucifixion. This room is also called the Upper Room as it is on a floor over the site of King David’s Tomb. The tour enters the Old City Armenian Quarter via the Zion Gate and we pass the Armenian Church of St. James. Your tour guide will tell you about the fascinating Armenian culture before we move on to the Jewish Quarter. Here the tour pauses at the Byzantine-era Cardo. This excavated 1,500-year-old street was once Jerusalem’s main thoroughfare. At the Jewish Quarter, we stop to see the sacred Western Wall. As the last surviving part of the Second Jewish Temple, the Western Wall is the holiest Jewish landmark in the world. Here we join others who come to place a prayer note in the crevices of the ancient wall. Next, our tour of Jerusalem Old City retraces the course Jesus took as he carried his cross to Calvary – the Via Dolorosa. We arrive at the sacred Holy Sepulchre. This 4th-century church holds the last few Stations of the Cross including Calvary where Jesus was crucified and his burial tomb. The vast structure is shared by several Christian denominations and has more than 30 chapels. The tour of Jerusalem Old City comes to an end but not before we have some retail therapy in the traditional Old City bazaar.

Take this incredible day tour from Eilat to Petra which starts with a 2.5-hour drive through the majestic, pristine desert landscape, past ruby mountain sceneries, and stunning views on our way to Petra. The Nabataean culture carved the city of Petra right out of red-colored rock cliffs about 2,300 years ago. Nowadays, Petra is an untouched archaeological site; We pass obelisks and cave tombs, then enter Petra on foot or horseback via a long narrow gorge or “Siq” flanked by high rock cliffs. As we reach the end of the Siq, the incredible Petra Treasury looms up in front of us. The Treasury's facade is intricately decorated and carved with columns, statues, and a 3.35-meter-high urn. The tour takes you to tombs that will make you feel like Indiana Jones, and other structures all carved out of the rosy rock cliffs.See the Palace Tomb spires over the ridge, decent to the ancient Petra Theater, and make a wish at theDjinn Blocks.After 3-4 hours in Petra, we will head south toward Eilat, through the beautiful wilderness.Enjoy a Worry-Free Vacation: This Eilat to Petra day tour starts with a transfer from the Israeli resort city to the Arava border, where our representatives will meet you and assist with the visa requisition and border crossing. Our expert local tour guide will meet you on the Jordanian side of the border and your adventure will begin.Note that a 1-Day Tour of Petrawon't leave you with enough timeto fully explore this wonderful archeological park. This is why most travelers recommend a2-Day Tour to Petra, in order to see Ad Deyr - the iconicPetra Monastery up on the ridgeand visitQasr Al-Bint Templeandthe Great Temple of Petra.

On the Sunday before Easter, we join Christian pilgrims retracing the route Jesus took when he entered Jerusalem in c.33 AD as the Messiah. When Jesus entered the city for the Jewish Passover celebrations he was greeted by crowds hailing him as the Messiah; they waved palm branches and laid palms at his feet as he entered the city. This event is recorded in all four of the Gospels (Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44 and John 12:12-19). Today the Palm Sunday event is recreated with Christians bearing palm branches, playing musical instruments, waving flags, singing and praying along the route. They are led by the Catholic Patriarchate, Custos of the Holy Land, Latin Patriarch and Greek Archbishop in their ceremonial robes. The procession is uplifting and the atmosphere is the one of joy and brotherhood with participants from around the world. We begin with a panoramic view over the Judean Desert and Jordan Valley, then stop at the Chapel of Bethpage where Jesus sent his disciples to find a donkey for him to ride into the city. We transfer to the Church of the Ascension on the Mount of Olives and join the procession continuing down the Mount of Olives to the Church of Dominus Flevit which was designed by Antonio Barluzzi and marks the place where Jesus wept before his arrest and crucifixion. We pass the Garden of Gethsemane and Basilica of the Agony going through the Kidron Valley to the Old City where we enter via the Lions Gate. The joyous procession continues into the Old City along the Via Dolorosa, the route Jesus took to his crucifixion. At several points, the procession pauses for blessings and to give praise to Christ. We stop at the Church of Saint Anne and Bethesda before leaving the Old City via the Muslim Quarter where we can enjoy some of the traditional market atmosphere. Transportation awaits us on the edge of the Old City for your return transfer.

In this private Jerusalem tour, you will see the highlights of one of the holiest cities on earth. Start the day with your personal guide from Mount Scopus or Mount of Olives with views across the Old City, Temple Mount, and the Golden Dome of the Rock.Take in the scenery from the same hilltop as Jesus would have done two thousand years ago. The next stop is at the Garden of Gethsemane, and the adjacent Church of All Nations. The church, with its stunning golden mosaic facade, holds the Rock of Agony, where Jesus is believed to have prayed on the night before his crucifixion. From the Church of Gethsemane, we drive past Mount Moriah and adjacent to Kidron Valley where you can look down and see monolithic ancient Jewish tombs.Driving alongside the 16th-century Old City walls, we enter the Old City via one of the ancient city gates. We walk through the Jewish Quarter until we reach the Western Wall (Wailing Wall or Kotel). Pause for a moment and soak up the atmosphere of this sacred Jewish site. The wall is the last remaining part of the Second Temple that stood on Temple Mount until it was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD.Pass through the Muslim Quarter and get some leisure time at the one-of-a-kind Old City bazaar with its bright colors, vibrant characters, and unique shops to explore. From here, enter the Christian Quarter and walk along part of the Via Dolorosa, the route Jesus took to his crucifixion. See several of the Stations of the Cross that mark significant biblical moments on this route. The Via Dolorosa leads us to the Church of the Holy Sepulchere, a 4th-century basilica that encompasses Golgotha where Christ was crucified.After a lunch break, walk through the Jewish Quarter along the Byzantine Cardo, a colonnaded street that was the main thoroughfare In biblical times. Today it functions as a shopping alley with stores selling amazing local arts and crafts. Pass by the Armenian Quarter before exiting the Old City through the Zion Gate, and continue to Mount Zion, the site of the Tomb of King David and the Room of the Last Supper. Finish your day with a ride through the new neighborhoods of Jerusalem, and drive through the Valley of Gehenna.See the President’s Residence and the Valley of the Cross, then pass the Israel Museum, the Shrine of the Book, Israel's Parliament building (Knesset), and the Supreme Court.Note that while it was compiled by our experts, this itinerary is just one suggestion; you can customize your tour and see much more of Jerusalem’s magic: The City of David, the renowned Israel Museum, the Western Wall Tunnels, Jaffa Gate and more (see FAQ section for details)

Start your Masada and Dead Sea private tour by descending through the Jordan Valley with Jericho in the distance and imagine the Israelites crossing the Jordan River into the promised land. We pass the site where Jesus set his parable of the Good Samaritan, and the landscape changes dramatically as we descend through the desert hills. Spot Wadi Kelt on the horizon, and pause for a moment to appreciate the expansive panoramic view of the desert at the point where the descent drops below sea level.Drive along the northwestern shore of the Dead Sea to where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in the Qumran caves. Today at Qumran, visitors can see excavated remains dating back to the Iron Age and learn about the Essenes, a mystical Jewish sect that lived here in the Second Temple period.Continuing parallel to the Dead Sea past the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, an idyllic desert oasis. We reach Masada and visit the Masada Museum. This state-of-the-art museum brings to life the historic events that took place on the mount. Next, ascend to the summit of Masada via cable car, taking the opportunity to look down at the snake path used thousands of years ago by Romans. Explore the remains of the palace-fortress built by King Herod between 37 BC and 31 BC. And see the excavations including the ruins of a synagogue, a Roman bathhouse, and storehouses giving us a real insight into life on Masada.Following your descent from Masada we stop for lunch. Then the tour brings you to one of the Dead Sea’s top beaches. Here you can enjoy free time and the unique sensation of floating in the salinated water of the Dead Sea. Cover your body in mineral-rich Dead Sea mud, said to have maintained Cleopatra’s youthful looks. At the end of the tour, return to your hotel feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.Note that while it was compiled by our experts, this itinerary is just one suggestion; you can customize your tour and see many more of the area's great attractions: Visit Qasr al-Yahud,Hike the Havarim Stream or Havar Ha-lashon, explorethe sites of Jericho and more (see FAQ section for details).

This Jerusalem and Bethlehem tour starts with a breathtaking view of Jerusalem. You can see the Old City walls and beyond it the Dome of the Rock on Temple Mount. Then, we descend from Mt. Scopus driving past the Mount of Olives, home to the Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of Gethsemane. We drive past Mount Moriah, and parallel to the Old City’s ancient walls through Kidron Valley where you can see the ancient tombs of Benei Hezir, Zechariah, and the Tomb of Absalom were built.The Jerusalem tour enters the Old City via one of the ancient gates and we continue on foot through the Jewish Quarter. Here we see the Byzantine Cardo, an excavated ancient street that was once a bustling thoroughfare. On our walk through the Jewish Quarter, we pass the Hurva Synagogue and pause for the perfect photo looking down on the Western Wall with Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock behind. We stop at the Western Wall, the one part of the Second Holy Temple that survived destruction in 70 AD.We continue to the Via Dolorosa and follow a section of the path Jesus took from his judgment to his crucifixion at Golgotha. The Via Dolorosa leads us to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This ornate 4th-century church encompasses the last Stations of the Cross including Calvary (Golgotha) where Jesus was crucified. Before departing from the Old City, we pass through the Old City Market (Shuk).We drive from Jerusalem to Bethlehem past the Church of the Angels in Shepherds’ Field. We arrive at Manger Square where we enter the Basilica of the Nativity. This church was built above the Grotto of the Nativity where Christ was born. While in the church we see 12th-century mosaics and the original floor from the first church built by Saint Helena in the 4th century.If possible, we will visit the adjacent Church of Saint Catherine and descend to subterranean caves to see sacred tombs and chapels including the Chapel of St. Jerome. We make our way back to Jerusalem or Tel Aviv where you are returned to your hotel.Note that while it was compiled by our experts, this itinerary is just one suggestion; you can customize your tour and see much more of Jerusalem and Bethlehem: The Pool of Bethesda, the City of David, the Milk Grotto, the Basilica of Ecce Homo and much (see FAQ section for details)

Start your private tour of Jerusalem and the Dead Sea at the top of Mount Scopus, with panoramic views across Jerusalem. Drive past the Garden of Gethsemane at the foot of the Mount of Olives and look down at ancient Jewish tombs as we drive through Kidron Valley. Pass Mount Moriah as we continue parallel to the 16th-century Old City walls. Enter the Old City and continue to explore the Old City on foot.Walk through the Jewish Quarter and see the excavated Byzantine Cardo, once the main shopping street of biblical Jerusalem. Get a view looking down on Temple Mount, the Dome of the Rock, and the Western Wall before descending to the Western Wall Plaza. The Western Wall the last remaining wall of the Second Temple was destroyed in 70 AD. Take a moment to soak up the atmosphere and perhaps place a prayer note between the crevices of the wall’s massive stones.Continue your walk to the Christian Quarter and follow part of the Via Dolorosa, the route Jesus took to his crucifixion. This leads us to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, which encompasses Golgotha, the site of the crucifixion and Jesus’ tomb. Before leaving Jerusalem, walk through the Old City market where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of a traditional Middle Eastern bazaar. Leave Jerusalem to drive South through the Judean Desert to the lowest point on Earth. We pause at the sea level elevation mark and stop at a lookout point with views across the desert, the Jordanian mountains, and the Dead Sea.Upon reaching the Dead Sea take the opportunity to float in the thick salty water. Due to the mineral-rich water, high oxygen levels in the air, and diminished UV rays, the region is said to have therapeutic benefits. Cover your body and face in the nourishing Dead Sea mud and relax on the beach before returning to your hotel rested and rejuvenated.Note that while it was compiled by our experts, this itinerary is just one suggestion; you can customize your tour and see much more of Jerusalem’s magic: The City of David, the Dome of the Rock, the famous Israel Museum, the Western Wall Tunnels, Jaffa Gate and more (see FAQ section for details)

The main attraction of Caesarea is the Caesarea National Park. The ancient Roman history of this site is recorded by Roman historian Josephus Flavius. On the edge of the national park is the massive Roman Theater. This classic Roman theater is perfectly preserved. It has the typical semi-circular shape with seating on staggered stone steps facing the stage and sea beyond. In Roman times the theater would have been important in entertaining the many foreigners and sailors who came into port. The theater was originally built under Emperor Vespasian and later expanded by King Herod.Herod’s Reef Palace Several pillars remain from the inner courtyard of King Herod’s Reef Palace. The opulent palace would have had two stories and was partly built on the marine reef jutting out onto the sea. Today parts of the palace can still be seen and parts are submerged beneath the sea. Experts differ in opinion as to whether this was Herod’s palace or a later construction. We can also see the remains of a swimming pool alongside a floor mosaic and ritual bath. Among the archaeological remains, there is a large hippodrome with reconstructed frescoes. Here the Romans would hold horse and chariot races. Throughout the park, there are large Roman columns, capitals, sculptures, gravestones and carved architectural features attesting to the importance and opulence of this former Roman city. Also at the site, we can see where the bathhouse, temples, storerooms and homes once stood. Of particular interest among the many archaeological findings was an inscription naming Pontius Pilate. This was the first recorded mention of Pilate’s name dated within Jesus's lifetime. Structures remaining from the Byzantine era include a villa with floor mosaics and the ruins of a Byzantine church. Remains dating back to the Crusader era include the reconstructed Crusader Gate, a large moat that encircled the Crusader fortress, a high defensive wall and arched entranceways.Want to visit Caesarea National Park? Join ourCaesarea, Acre and Rosh Hanikra Tour.

Masada is a dramatic rock outcrop rising out of the flat landscape of the Judean Desert in southern Israel. The rock mesa overlooks the Dead Sea just 20km away and is about 400m high with a flat rock plateau summit covering about 500m in an area with steep cliffs on every side. This isolated clifftop holds a special place in the region’s history and Jewish history because of two major events. Masada’s place in history and the invaluable archeological finds made here have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.Herod’s Palace Fortress at Masada Between 37 BC and 31 BC Herod the Great (73 BC-4 BC), the Rome-appointed King of Judea had a massive palace-fortress built on the top of this high, remote outcrop. He had the complex built as a retreat and refuge for himself in the event of a revolt. This incredible complex of structures included massive storerooms, guardhouses, water cisterns, the commandant’s office, watchtowers, a bathhouse, and elaborate palaces for the king.The Northern Palace is particularly impressive, built on the edge of the plateau on three descending terraces. The Western Palace is the largest structure on the summit covering 3700m². Today we can still see parts of the ancient mosaics and murals that decorated the bathhouse and palaces. Thanks to the remote location and dry climate much of the original fortress has survived.The Siege of MasadaThe second important event on Masada took place during the First Jewish-Roman War (66 BC-73 AD). A group of Jewish rebels desperate to preserve their freedom entrenched themselves on Masada’s plateau summit. They inhabited what remained of Herod’s abandoned fortress and took advantage of the excellent fortifications and inaccessible location to protect them from the Romans. The Jews of Masada became the last stronghold against the Romans. The Romans held Masada under siege and used all of their military strength to try and scale the cliffs.In the end, the Romans built an earthen ramp on the western flank of Masada so that they could bring their battering rams and military machines closer to the fortified walls that surrounded the summit.Once they eventually managed to breach the fortified walls the Romans found that all the 960 Jews had taken their own lives rather than be captured, tortured, enslaved, or forced to forsake their religion. Masada became a symbol of heroism, martyrdom, selfless courage, Jewish determination, and commitment to the freedom of the Jewish nation.Visiting MasadaToday visitors can enjoy a visitor center at the base of Masada where there is a small museum, food court, and souvenir store. From there you can take a cable car to the summit. Alternatively, it is possible to hike the “Snake Path” - a twisting and turning path up the face of Masada. At the top of Masada, visitors can tour the many excavated structures of Herod’s fortress and enjoy the breathtaking views across the desert and the Dead Sea.Want to see the amazing view from Masada? Join ourMasada and Dead Sea Tour.

Kalia Beach is located at the southernmost end of the Dead Sea’s eastern shore. The beach has been made easily accessible with stairs, ramps and walkways. There are useful facilities to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.Kalia Beach – an Eco-Friendly BeachKalia is an eco-friendly beach where environmental awareness is actively encouraged. This is done by providing special beach ashtrays; recycle bins; solar energy is used for heating the showers and glass bottled drinks are sold at the kiosk and visitors are encouraged to return them for a deposit when they have finished.Kalia Beach FacilitiesThere is an entrance fee of 54 ILS for Kalia Beach but this means you have the convenience of the facilities. The entrance fee allows you free use of the showers, toilets, WiFi, beach chairs, and umbrellas. There is a lifeguard on duty and the beach is accessible to those with physical challenges. There are lockers where you can store your belongings for about 15 ILS and towels to rent. Kalia Beach has the Lowest Bar in the World (at the lowest point on Earth). The bar serves food and drinks on the water’s edge. For a more substantial meal, there is a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. At the beach, there is a gift shop and cosmetics center that sells Dead Sea products, useful beach items, and souvenirs. There is Dead Sea mud available to smother over your skin. The mud is a natural skin mask that feeds your skin vital minerals and extracts toxins. It is possible to camp on Kalia Beach for approximately 85 ILS per person per 24 hours.If arriving with an organized tour your entrance will be included in your tour price and you will be taken all the way to the entrance. If arriving by public transport you can call Kalia Beach and arrange for a shuttle to pick you up from the public bus stop or you could walk 10 minutes to the beach. Taking a taxi from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv would be very expensive. The beach is open daily from 8:00 to 19:00 (18:00 in winter) except for Yom Kippur. Want to float in the lowest place on earth? Join our Dead Sea Tour.

The Garden of Gethsemane is planted at the foot of the Mount of Olives facing the Kidron Valley and Jerusalem’s Old City walls. The name of the garden is Hebrew for “oil press” and the garden is planted with olive trees, some dating back hundreds of years. The trees are still harvested for their olives each year just as they were in biblical times. Some of the olive trees you can see today in the Garden of Gethsemane are more than 900 years old. Archaeologists and botanists have studied the garden’s olive trees and concluded that they may have been here when Jesus visited the garden. 2000 years ago the garden would have been an olive grove with an olive press nearby.The Garden of Gethsemane in the BibleIn the Gospel of John, we read of how Jesus came here to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane with his disciples after the Last Supper. It was here that Jesus was betrayed by Judas and arrested by the Romans. In the garden, Jesus agonized over the fate he knew awaited him. For this reason, it is also called the site of the Agony in the Garden or the Agony of Christ. Jesus would have known the garden well. It lies on the natural route between theTemple Mountand the village of Bethany and he would have often retreated to this olive grove in prayer and contemplation.The Bible tells us that Jesus was familiar with the garden which made it easy for Judas to seek him out and direct the Romans to arrest him. “…a place named Gethsemane and he (Jesus) said to his disciples, stay here while I pray…” (Gospel of Matthew). “Jesus’ anguish at Gethsemane was so deep that his sweat was as drops of blood falling to the ground.” (Gospel of Luke) The Garden of Gethsemane is identified as the site where Christ went with his disciples on the eve of the Last Supper to pray before his arrest and subsequent crucifixion. Although the garden is best known as the place where Jesus prayed on the eve of his arrest it is also the site of Mary’s dormition and assumption. The Eastern Orthodox Church teaches that the Virgin Mary died in the Garden of Gethsemane. Mary’s Tomb is within a 12th-century church nearby. The church bears beautiful murals which tell of Mary’s death and burial by the disciples.As early as 333AD Christian pilgrims visited the Garden of Gethsemane. The travel journal of a 4th-century pilgrim of Bordeaux describes Jerusalem and the Garden of Gethsemane as being at the foot of the Mount of Olives. The Church of All Nations is further up the mount and there is another olive grove garden next to the church.This church was constructed in the 1920s and features precious floor-to-ceiling mosaics depicting biblical scenes from the Garden of Gethsemane including Jesus praying and Judas’ betrayal of Jesus. There are alternate sites where Jesus might have prayed on the night of his arrest.Where is Gethsemane located?Next to the Church of All Nations, there is a garden where the “Rock of the Agony” is located and this is a possible location of the Garden of Gethsemane. The Eastern Orthodox Church holds that the garden was near the Tomb of Mary; the Greek Orthodox Church believes it was further east and the Russian Orthodox consider the orchard next to the Church of Maria Magdalene to be the true Garden of Gethsemane.The Grotto of GethsemaneBy the 4th century AD, the garden had become a pilgrimage site, and although alternate sites have been proposed, the present site we call the Garden of Gethsemane fits the biblical description. Within the garden, you can see the Grotto of Gethsemane (also called the Cave of the Olive Press) where Jesus and his disciples may have slept. The 190m² cave has not altered since Jesus spent time here. You can still see where a hole in the wall held a wooden beam used in the process of pressing olives. Today the grotto is used as a chapel. Nearby is the Tomb of Mary where the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus is said to have been buried.The Church of All NationsOn the edge of the garden stands the Church of All Nations (The Basilica of the Agony) built around the rock where Jesus prayed on that fateful night. The church was designed by Antonio Barluzzi and built in 1924 with funds from Christian communities across the globe – hence the name. The church is recognizable by its stunning gold and colored tympanum mosaic above the entrance depicting Jesus, his followers, and disciples. Part of an earlier Byzantine church that stood here in the 4th century has been incorporated into the structure of the church. In the church, you can see part of the Byzantine mosaic floor and the rock where Jesus prayed.The Garden of Gethsemane is a must-see site for Christian visitors; even visiting Popes have spent time in the garden and planted olive trees. On Holy Thursday during Passion Week pilgrims gather to pray in the Garden of Olives and led by the Franciscan Custos they make their way in a procession to the Church of Saint Peter in Gallicantu onMount Zion where Jesus spent the night imprisoned after his arrest. To explore more of Jerusalem and visit the Garden of Gethsemane, Join our Jerusalem Old City Tour.

The Cardo Maximus was the name given to the north-south thoroughfare of Roman and Byzantine cities. “Cardo” means heart and the Cardo ran through the “heart” of the city. In the 130s AD, Hadrian had Jerusalem rebuilt and like other Roman cities, Jerusalem’s street plan included a Cardo. It was a paved, 22.5 meter-wide road running southward from the Damascus Gate. Later during the Byzantine era in the 6th century AD, Emperor Justinian had the Jerusalem Cardo extended taking it further south all the way to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Zion Gate. The street may have been used for ceremonial processions from theChurch of the Holy Sepulchre. For the entire length of the Cardo, the road was flanked with colonnades, covered walkways and a shaded arcade.Today visitors to the Old City of Jerusalem can wander through theJewish Quarter and look down on the southern part of the excavated Cardo. You can see the tall, thick columns, ornate capitals, the arcade where merchants would have stood, and the large flagstones that paved the Cardo. 500 years after the original Cardo was constructed the Crusaders built a bazaar along part of the road. Today these Crusader-era stores have been restored and once again serve their original function. The shopping section of the Cardo is beneath a beautiful vaulted ceiling and the modern stores are housed in the ancient Crusader shops that line the Cardo. The stores sell locally made jewelry, religious artifacts, artwork, and other merchandise. Other sections of the Cardo are no longer visible having been covered by new structures over the years.The famous Madaba Map, a floor mosaic found in a 6th-century Byzantine church in Jordan depicts the Holy Land with the Cardo as its main artery. The Madaba Map is the oldest surviving cartographic depiction of Jerusalem. Visitors to the Cardo in Jerusalem can see a replica of the Madaba Map. Visitors can also see a large mural painting by students of the French school of art Creation de la Cite. The mural depicts the Cardo as it would have been 1500 years ago, a bustling street with vendors displaying their wares; a covered walkway; animals, and colorful characters.Join the Jerusalem Old City tour to visit the Jewish quarter and see the Cardo.

The Jewish Quarter is one of the four sections within Jerusalem’s Old City walls. The 0.1km² area has been home to Jews since 800 BC and today continues to be inhabited by about 2,000 Jewish residents. The Quarter can be entered via the Dung Gate and is bordered by the Armenian Quarter, the Street of Chains and Temple Mount. The Jewish Quarter is a lively residential neighborhood and tourist attraction with restaurants, stores, hotels, hostels and museums. There are also many Yeshivot (schools for Jewish religious study) and synagogues. Like the rest of Jerusalem, the Quarter radiates light off the stone buildings and stone-paved lanes.When the Jordanians took the Old City in 1948 many of the ancient buildings were destroyed. Since 1967 when Israel reclaimed the Old City reconstruction and excavation have been ongoing. Almost the entire Quarter has some kind of archaeological treasure beneath it. In fact, there are two or three levels buried beneath the surface and most of the buildings have documented excavation sites in the basements!Jewish Quarter LandmarksAmong the archaeological remains, there is Hezekiah’s Broad Wall, a 7-meter wide wall that formed part of the ramparts in the First Temple Period (957 BC-587 BC). A Herodian complex of mansions from the Second Temple Period (530 BC-70 AD) has been uncovered five meters below ground level. Visitors can see the remains of homes that belonged to the rich and powerful of that period. The Hurva Synagogue was originally built in the 1700s but was repeatedly destroyed over the years. In the 2000s the Hurva Synagogue was restored to the way it appeared before its last destruction in 1948. A complex of four Sepharadi Synagogues has also been rebuilt.Additional attractions in the Jewish Quarter include the Byzantine Cardo, once the main street that ran through the city as early as 130 AD. This thoroughfare was flanked by columns supporting covered walkways. You can see the excavated Cardo and even shop in the stores that now fill the Cardo bazaar built in the 12th century by the Crusaders. Other Jewish Quarter attractions include the remains of the Byzantine Nea Church, a large structure that stood at the southern end of the Cardo.The Burnt House is a Jewish Quarter museum in an excavated Second Temple Period house. Batei Mahse is a 19th-century residential compound originally built for poor Jewish families to live rent-free. At Alone on the Ramparts Museum, you can see a photographic exhibition depicting the events of the Jordanian attack and capture of the Old City in 1948.The Archaeological Park Davidson CenterThe Israelite Tower was part of a defense system devised by the Jews during the First Temple Period. The Archaeological Park Davidson Center holds a display of artifacts and architectural elements found in excavations within the Old City. Some of the earliest findings date back to the 10th century BC and include a tower, gatehouse and city walls. At the Davidson Center visitors can go back in time to the Second Temple Period through a 3D model of Temple Mount.The Western WallThe main attraction of the Jewish Quarter is undoubtedly the Wailing Wall (also known as the Western Wall and the Kotel). The Wall is the only surviving part of the original Second Temple. As the most revered Jewish site in the world Jews (and gentiles) come from all corners of the Earth to pray at the wall and place a prayer note between the ancient stones. The section of the wall that opens up to an expansive plaza is actually only a small section of the original Temple’s outer retaining walls. Below ground, even more of the Kotel has been excavated and it is possible to tour these subterranean sections through the Western Wall Tunnels.Want to explore the old city quarters? Join the Jerusalem Old and New Tour and get a chance to visit inside the old city walls.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:-The Old City and the Western Wall are open 24/7.Prices:Free! There is an entrance fee for the Western Wall Tunnels.Average Visit Duration:30-60 minutes. A guidedOld City touror Jewish Jerusalem tour, will take you to the Western Wall.Getting There:The closest entrance to the Western Wall is the Dung Gate.Popular Times:Jews gather to pray at the Western Wall at all times of the day and night, and you’re not likely to have it all to yourself at any time. You’ll find Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays particularly crowded. And if you’re interested in observing a Jewish service, visit the Kotel just before sunset.Special Events:During any of the Jewish holidays, on Friday nights, and Saturday mornings, you will find a special atmosphere at the Kotel.Pro Tip:Visit on a Monday or Thursday to see one of the Bar Mitzvah ceremonies. The symbolic importance of the Wall to Jews has made it a popular place for various ceremonies.Western Wall Tours: Many Jerusalem tours will include a visit to the Western Wall. You could join a Jewish tour of Jerusalem or a tour of the Old City.Jerusalem's Old City is home to the most sacred Jewish site in the world, the Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall and the Kotel. This important religious, and historic site is among the top attractions of Jerusalem. Virtually every Jerusalem tour includes a stop at the Kotel. The Western Wall in the eveningAlthough it is a Jewish landmark, the Western Wall is open to people of all faiths who are willing to respect the traditions of the site. Pro Tip: It is best to visit the Kotel dressed in modest attire such as a dress or pants that cover your knees, and a top that does not reveal too much of your shoulders or cleavage. Men will find paper skull caps provided but they should also avoid visiting the Kotel in shorts, vests, or tank tops.Why is the Western Wall so Special?According to historical records, religious scriptures, and Jewish tradition, theTemple Mount was the site of several biblical events and the place where the First and Second Temples once stood.The Western Wall is the last remnant of the Second Temple which was destroyed in 70AD. If the Temple still stood on Temple Mount, Jews would worship there, and it would be the most sacred Jewish site in the world. But as the Temple did not survive, all Jews have left is the one remaining wall, the Western Wall.The Western Wall in all of its gloryIn the Jewish Talmud, it is written that the Temple on the Temple Mount held the Foundation Stone, where the world was created. Jewish tradition holds that the Temple Mount was where Abraham bound Isaac. Across the globe, Jews face the Temple Mount when they pray. All of these factors make the Temple's only surviving wall a sacred site. The Western Wall performs the important function of keeping the memory of the Holy Temple alive. Pro Tip: The best place to get a photo of the Western Wall is from the top of the stairs that lead up to the Jewish Quarter. Here You can get a shot with the Dome of the Rock above the wall.What to Expect at the Western WallVisitors approach the Western Wall from the Western Wall Plaza, a large open space facing the wall. The wall itself was built with massive blocks of limestone. It is about 50 meters long and reaches a height of 19 meters above ground with 28 layers (courses) of stone from various historic periods. The lower rows of stone date back to the original Second Temple.Religious Jews praying at the Western WallExpect to see throngs of people at the Kotel. You can go right up to the wall and touch it. You can even place a prayer note in the cracks between the large stones.Pro Tip: Take a piece of paper and a pen with you. When you leave the wall, walk backward for a few steps before turning your back on the wall. This is a custom to show respect for the site.A partition divides the wall into two sections, one for women and one for men. This is because Jewish tradition holds that members of the same sex are prohibited from praying together.Pro Tip: Recently, a mixed prayer area was approved by Robinson’s Arch close to the plaza, where men and women can pray together. There has been a lot of controversy over this area, so depending on the political atmosphere this place may or may not be operating when you visit.The section of the wall that you see above ground is not all that remains of the Western Wall. Beneath ground level, the wall continues, and archaeologists have excavated sections of it that can be seen in the Western Wall Tunnels.History of the Western WallKing Solomon built the First Holy Temple on Temple Mount (also called Mount Moriah) in 957 BC and it stood until 587/586 BC. The Second Temple was built in its place in 516 BC. The temple stood until it was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD. The temple held the Holy of Holies, the inner sanctum of God’s Tabernacle, and the place where, according to rabbinical law, a divine presence still presides. It was here that the Arc of the Covenant was kept.A model of the Jerusalem Great Temple (Image source: Berthold Werner)The only part of the temple to survive the Roman destruction of the Second Temple in 70 AD was part of the retaining wall, on the mount’s western slope. The retaining walls had been added by King Herod in 20BC when he expanded the temple. As the only part of the temple that could still be identified it was natural that Jews would consider it sacred and the nearest thing they had to the actual temple.Later during the Byzantine Era Jews were forbidden from entering Jerusalem so they would pray on the Mount of Olives, overlooking the Temple Mount. After the Muslim conquest in the 7th century they were once again permitted to enter the city and approach the only remaining part of their temple, the western retaining wall.In the centuries that passed Jews were periodically able to enter Jerusalem and pray at the Western Wall and there were other times when they were forbidden from entering the holy city. The Ottomans took over Jerusalem in the 16th century and the leader Suleiman the Magnificent recognized the right of the Jews to pray at the Western Wall. He had an area of about 4 meters wide and 28 meters long cleared alongside the wall giving the Jews ease of access to the wall.The Western Wall in 1870 (Image source: Félix Bonfils)From 1917 to 1967 the British controlled Jerusalem. They agreed to uphold the existing status quo at religious sites but then in 1947, the British closed off access to the wall together, and the Old City was held by Arab militias. During the War of Independence in 1948 Jordan gained control of the Old City, and for the next 19 years, Jews could not pray at the Western Wall.In 1967 Jerusalem was liberated during the Six Day War, and the Western Wall fell under Israeli jurisdiction. There is dramatic historic film footage of the moment when Israeli troops reached the Western Wall for the first time. The then-Defence Minister Moshe Dayan placed a note with a prayer for peace on the wall. Perhaps this is where the tradition comes from, but it could also be from the Kabbalistic teaching that says all prayers ascend to heaven from the Temple Mount.Israeli Paratroopers during the liberation of the Old City, under the Western WallThere was no Western Wall Plaza at the time, just a narrow alleyway that stretched alongside the Kotel in the Muslim Mughrabi neighborhood. After the war, the area was cleared (which became a controversial issue) and the open area in front of the Kotel was expanded to cover 56 meters.What to See and Do at the Western WallApproach the Kotel and go right up to the wall. You can simply stand there soaking up the spiritual atmosphere, or you could pray or place a prayer note in between the stones. Pro Tip: There are free, clean public toilets on the left-hand side of the Western Wall Plaza.The Part of the Western Wall that Few People SeeIn addition to the famous exposed section of the Western Wall, two other smaller parts of the Western Wall can be seen - the Southern Section of the Western Wall and theSmall Western Wall (HaKotel HaKatan) as well as the subterranean section in the Western Wall Tunnels.Southern Section of the Western WallDuring the Second Temple Era, a shopping street ran alongside the wall that we know today as the Kotel. But during the temple’s destruction, stones and rubble were thrown down onto the street, hiding it from view for centuries. Since 1967, excavation of the area has revealed several treasures, including parts of the southern Temple Mount retaining wall. It is now preserved in the Southern Wall Archaeological Park adjacent to the Dung Gate.Pro Tip: Visit the Davidson Center, which is part of the park, and has multimedia presentations and explanations about the site's history.Small Western WallAbout 170 meters north of the Western Wall Plaza, a narrow alleyway near the Iron Gate that leads to Temple Mount, is the Small Western Wall. It is a continuation of the famous Western Wall and stretches for about 17.7 meters. The space in front of this small section of wall is just 4.2 meters wide. It is directly opposite where the Holy of Holies would have been if the temple was still standing on Temple Mount.Pro Tip: If you want a quiet moment at the Kotel, then the Small Western Wall is probably your best bet.Western Wall TunnelsAnother way to get a deeper understanding of Kotel and see it from a unique viewpoint is to tour the Western Wall Tunnels. The entrance is to the left of the Kotel and leads you down, below ground where you can see excavated remnants of the ancient city and a course of stones belonging to the Western Wall. These stones are the largest stones on the wall and the closest to the sacred site on Temple Mount. The Western Wall Tunnels are also home to the Chain of Generations Center.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times: The Old City and Via Dolorosa are open 24/7. Specific chapels and churches along the way have their own open hours: Church of the Holy Sepulchre 05:00-20:00 April-September and 05:00-19:00 October-March.1st Station of the Cross Madrasa al-Omariya school after 14:00.2nd Station of the Cross, Terra Sancta Museum Monday-Saturday 09:00-noon.2nd Station, Church of the Condemnation 08:00-18:00Prices: Free!Average Visit Duration: 30-90 minutes.Popular Times: The Old City never but you should try to visit during daylight hours when the chapels, stalls, and churches are open. Some places may be closed on Friday afternoon and Saturday.Special Events: Every Friday at 15:00 Franciscan friars lead a procession along the Via Dolorosa starting from the first station. On Good Friday the procession is particularly impressive with chanting, prayer, and a multitude of devoted Christians bearing crosses and holding palm fronds.Via Dolorosa Tours: Many Jerusalem tours will take you there;Join a tour of the Old City or a Christian tour of Jerusalem to see the Via Dolorosa. There are also special tours during Easter that take you along the procession route.Perhaps the most famous walk through the Old City of Jerusalem is along the Via Dolorosa, the Way of the Cross, or the Way of Suffering - in the footsteps of Jesus. This route stretches for 600 meters and takes you along several lanes, through street markets, past interesting eateries, and souvenir stores. Walking down Via DolorosaBut apart from being an interesting way to see the Old City, the Via Dolorosa has deep religious and historic significance. According to tradition, this is the route Jesus took bearing his cross from his trial to his crucifixion at Calvary.Not only will you be retracing Christ’s steps, and seeing the lanes of the Old City, but you can also discover hidden gems along the way. Most people don’t know that the Via Dolorosa has several fascinating and unique chapels tucked away behind unassuming doors in the stone walls that flank the streets. And at the end of the Via Dolorosa, you’ll reach the iconic Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the most sacred Christian site in the world.Where is the Via Dolorosa and How Do You Get to It?There are many Christian holy sites in Israel, and Via Dolorosa goes through several of them. It run through the Muslim Quarter and Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City. It is not one street, but rather a route that travels along several streets. The walled city has several gates where you can enter and eventually find the Via Dolorosa. But the closest gate to the start of the Via Dolorosa is Lions Gate. Stations 1-7 are in the Muslim Quarter, and the rest are in the Christian Quarter.Church of the Holy SepulchreVarious religious bodies, archaeologists, and experts disagree about the exact starting point of the route. Some biblical scholars believe that the judgment of Jesus most likely took place outside the Antonia Palace, which no longer exists, and where the Umariya School now stands. Others suggest that it took place at Herod’s Palace near the Tower of David. It is best to look at the Via Dolorosa as an approximation of Jesus’ route and as a tradition rather than a precise map of his movements.History of the Via DolorosaVia Dolorosa is not mentioned by name in the Bible but the First Testament does describe Jesus bearing his cross from his judgment before Pontius Pilot to the site of his crucifixion. The Bible describes several moments where Jesus stopped or fell as he made his way to Calvary and these moments are commemorated by the Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa. But not all the stations are mentioned in the Bible. Several of the stations (3, 4, 6, 7, 9,13) are based on tradition rather than events described in the Bible. Christian pilgrims first started following the Via Dolorosa in the Byzantine Era. It became part of the Holy Thursday procession that started on the Mount of Olives, entered the city, and proceeded to the Holy Sepulchre. The route altered several times over the next few centuries as people argued about where exactly the route started. From 1350 to 1517 Franciscan friars conducted tours of the Via Dolorosa, but in the reverse direction, starting at the Holy Sepulcher and ending at Pilate’s house.Via Dolorosa in 1950In 1517 they began walking the route in the same direction as Jesus had done. Over the next few years, the church published various guides for pilgrims which expanded on the biblical text that described Jesus’ walk to Calvary. Only then were Stations of the Cross commemorated, and the version of the route we see today was slowly formed, although there were a number of opinions about what route exactly Christ followed.What to See on the Via DolorosaThere are 14 Stations of the Cross where Jesus paused or stopped as he walked along the Via Dolorosa to Calvary. Nine stations are on the Via Dolorosa and the last five are inside the Holy Sepulchre Church. The Stations of the Cross on the Via Dolorosa are marked by a round metal plaque attached to the wall bearing the number of the station in Roman numerals. On the ground is a semi-circle of paving stones.1st Station of the Cross - Sanctuary of the Condemnation of JesusLocated about 300m from Lions Gate, It is located inside the Madrasa al-Omariya school. Entrance to the school is only possible after 14:00, or on Friday or Saturday when the children are not at school. It is best to visit between 15:00 and 17:00. (Matthew 27, 11-14)2nd Station of the Cross - Jesus takes up the crossLocated across from the first station, in the Monastery of Flagellation. Pro Tip: You can enter the monastery from 08:00-18:00 or 17:00 in winter. Enter the Chapel of the Flagellation which commemorates where the Roman guards put a crown of thorns on Jesus’ head and mocked him as the king of the Jews. Across the courtyard of the monastery compound is the Chapel of the Imposition of the Cross. It is a modern chapel built on the remains of an earlier 11th-century church. The monastery is also home to the Terra Sancta Museum where there is a multimedia show about the Via Dolorosa and a display of archaeological findings. The museum is open Monday to Saturday 09:00-noon, and there is a small entrance fee. (Matthew 27. 27-30)3rd Station of the Cross - Jesus fell for the first time under the weight of the crossAfter making a sharp left onto Al-Wad Street you’ll come to the third station. This is the site of the Polish Biblical Archaeological Museum. You can enter the small Armenian church that marks this station. Above the entrance is a stone relief depicting the scene.Pro Tip:Opposite the third station is one of the few public toilets you’ll find along the route.Stations of the Cross number 3 and 4 in the Jerusalem Armenian Quarter4th Station of the Cross - Mary meets JesusAdjacent to the third station is the place where Jesus met his mother. (Until 2008 this station was commemorated about 25 meters further down the street). See the Armenian Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Spam. Pro Tip: This church is not always open but if it is you can enter and see a Byzantine mosaic with two footprints commemorating where Mary may have stood.5th Station of the Cross - Simon of Cyrene is forced to help Jesus carry the crossThe Romans picked someone out of the crowd, Simon of Cyrene, and ordered him to help Jesus who was by now beaten, tired, and near collapsing. On the wall is a handprint believed to be where Jesus leaned against the wall. The building is not 2000 years old but the piece of stone bearing the handprint is said to be from the original building. The Franciscan Chapel of Simon of Cyrene lies behind the walls, housed in the first Franciscan house in Jerusalem dating back to 1229. (Mark 13:21/Luke 23:26)6th Station of the Cross - Veronica wiped Jesus’ faceVeronica was one of Jesus’ followers, and she saw Jesus going past her house. His face was dirty and bleeding. She came out of her house and wiped his face with a piece of cloth. After he had moved on she discovered that an impression of his face had been left on the cloth. The cloth turned out to have miraculous properties and could cure anyone who touched it. Today it is in the Vatican. The Greek Catholic (Melkite) Church of Saint Veronica stands at this station. A piece of pillar is embedded in the wall of a house that bridges the street.7th Station of the Cross - Jesus fell for the second timeThe chapel that marks this station is usually closed but try the door, and you might get lucky. Inside is an original column from the ancient Roman Cardo Mazimus (the main street) that once ran through Hadrian’s city called Aelia Capitolina. A 13th-century tradition holds that this was where Jesus left the city walls on his way to Calvary that would have stood outside the city at that time.8th Station of the Cross - Here the women of Jerusalem wept for JesusIn Jesus’ lifetime, this spot would have been outside the city walls. As you approach this station you’ll pass the German hospice of Saint John where you can see a Maltese cross on the wall, and you’ll pass the Greek Convent of Saint Charalambos where the wall bears a Latin cross and the words “Jesus Christ conquers” in Greek. (Luke 23:27-31)9th Station of the Cross - Jesus fell for the third timeTo get to the ninth station you need to go back from the eighth station and turn right on to Souq Khan al-Zeit. After about 100 meters on your right will be a flight of stone steps. At the top of the steps turn left along a winding lane and after about 80 meters you’ll find a Roman pillar encased in the wall of the Coptic Patriarchate. (don’t worry there are clear signs and crowds of tourists all going in the same direction). The area is a Coptic compound and is on the roof of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. You will also see where a community of Ethiopian Christians has taken up residence on the rooftop. Pro Tip: At the end of the street to the right is an entrance that will lead you down to the Helene Cistern. It is a real hidden gem, seeped in legends. From here there is a passageway to the courtyard in front of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.Stations of the Cross inside the Church of the Holy SepulchreThe Stations of the Cross that are inside the church are not marked by plaques but they include the 10th station where Jesus was undressed; the 11th station where Jesus was placed on the cross; the 12th station where Jesus died on the cross; the 13th station where Jewsis was taken down off the cross, and the 14th station where he was placed in the tomb.

Ben Yehuda Street cuts across Tel Aviv and is home to many of the city’s top restaurants, pubs, and several hotels. It’s a popular street not only because of its proximity to many attractions but also because Ben Yehuda Street is where you’ll find interesting stores, trendy designer shops, bakeries, and more. For foodies, Ben Yehuda is a dream, and for getting a feel for Tel Aviv’s vibrant street culture this is the place. Pro Tip: Look out for graffiti art, and Bauhaus architecture on Ben Yehuda Street, Tel Aviv.Ben Yehuda and Allenby Streets interjectionBen Yehuda Street runs from Allenby Street in the south to Dizengoff Street in the north. It runs parallel but not adjacent to Tel Aviv’s seafront. It crosses iconic Tel Aviv streets such as Bograshov St., Frishman St., Gordon St., Ben Gurion St., Arlozorov St., Nordau Blvd., and Allenby and Dizengoff.Ben Yehuda Street is named after the founding father of modern Hebrew, Eliezer Ben Yehuda (1858-1922) who is best known for compiling the first modern Hebrew dictionary which was published between 1908 and 1922. Pro Tip: When researching your trip, don’t get confused with Ben Yehuda Street in Jerusalem.Plan Your VisitLocation - Ben Yehuda Street, Tel AvivOpen Times - 24/7Prices - FreeAverage Visit Duration - 1-2 hoursTours - Take a food tour of Tel Aviv to discover the hidden gems along Ben Yehuda Street, or include this street in a private walking tour of Tel AvivBen Yehuda Street Restaurants#1 - Brown Hotels Lighthouse - This boutique hotel offers a delicious breakfast at its terrace restaurant.#9 - Hong Kong Dim Sum - A casual dim sum restaurant.#73 - Cafe Xoho - A quaint cafe with an emphasis on healthy fresh dishes, and options for vegans and vegetarians.#89 - Mochikva - Authentic bubble tea and mochi shop, with a contemporary hipster vibe.#90 - Ernesto 90 - An Italian restaurant with, an affordable and top-quality menu with indoor and outdoor seating.#94 - Shakshukia - A great place to try Israel’s popular breakfast dish, shakshuka, with eggs baked in a rich spicy tomato sauce.#170 - HaLevantini - Authentic Israeli and Middle Eastern/Mediterranean classics prepared to perfection by a well-known chef.#182 - Shila - One of the top restaurants in the city offering an innovative dining menu in a sophisticated atmosphere.#188 - Dosa Bar - Fancy some vegan Indian food, try this place with its casual atmosphere.#192 - Barbunia - A popular blue-collar seafood restaurant with a buzzing atmosphere, and classic Mediterranean fish dishes and salads.#202 - Under the Tree - Popular with locals, this restaurant serves a varied menu of generous portions, all fresh, with an emphasis on comfort food.#228 - Nini Hachi - Great kosher sushi served in modern relaxed surroundings.#256 - Shtsupak - A seafood restaurant with a variety of vegetarian dishes, and options for kids. (not kosher).Ben Yehuda StreetBen Yehuda Street ShopsBeh Yehuda Street is known for its excellent Judaica stores, as well as Jewelry stores and souvenir shops. The quality of the goods varies but is generally good. There are Thai massage places on Ben Yehuda Street and service businesses including a laundromat, pharmacies, supermarkets, kiosks, and nail salons.Ben Yehuda Street Bars#15 - Sami Burger & Beer - Both a restaurant and a bar, this is where you’ll find the best burger in town and a lively atmosphere.#59 - Campus - Turn the lights down low, a casual place with no frills.#83 - Little Prague - A restaurant bar with a cozy atmosphere and menu of classic Czech dishes.#124 - Nimi Cocktail Experience - Great cocktails.#155 - Jango Wine Bar - Chic and warm atmosphere.#196 - Java - A cute bar and coffee place with a great outdoor area.See and Do on or Near Ben Yehuda Street Tel AvivWhere Ben Yehuda Street crosses Ben Gurion Street you can visit the home of Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben Gurion. The house has been turned into a museum and offers insights into the early days of the State of Israel.Ben Yehuda Street is close enough to the beach for easy access, and at the northern end, you can walk to Tel Aviv Port, a gentrified commercial and entertainment area on the waterfront. The port is a short walk from Tel Aviv’s marina.Gordon Street which crosses Ben Yehuda is known for its many private art galleries.

Plan Your VisitLocation: Sheinkin Street, Tel AvivOpen Times: 24/7Prices: FreeAverage Visit Duration: 1-2 hours.Popular Times: Sheinkin Street is at its liveliest on Fridays but you might prefer to visit on a Thursday when there will be vacant tables at the cafes and fewer crowds on the street.Notes for Visitors: During Pride Week, Sheinkin hosts street partings, live entertainment, and accommodation for visitors. Pro Tip: Sheinkin is home to some of the most popular gay bars in Tel Aviv.Tours: Combine a walking tour of Tel Aviv with a visit to Sheinkin, or opt for a graffiti tour of the city to see some of Sheinkin’s hidden gems.Local juice store at Sheinkin StreetIf you ask anyone in Tel Aviv what’s the trendiest, most bohemian street in the city, they’ll tell you Sheinkin. Sheinkin has been the go-to hipster hangout, and street for alternative urban culture, cool cafes, galleries, and unique one-off specialty stores for years. Sheinkin Street is conveniently located in the heart of Tel Aviv, starting at Magen David Square where it meets Allenby Street, Nachalat Binyamin Street, and the colorful Carmel Market. The street crosses iconic Rothschild Blvd. and extends to Yehuda HaLevy Street, where it becomes Lincoln Street.Pro Tip: Use this handy guide to shopping in Tel Aviv to find the best places to shop on Sheinkin, and maybe take a food tour in nearby Carmel Market.What Can You See and Do on Sheinkin Street?The main attraction of Sheinkin is simply wandering along the street and exploring the concept stores, boutiques, street art, and cafes. Take your time looking at the trendy clothing and accessory stores like Heavens, or the secondhand stores. Some of the clothing stores in Sheinkin are boutique designer stores. You can find the unique designer jewelry store of Michal Negrin on Sheinkin as well as jewelry by Maya Geller.Take a walk on the wild side at Miss Sunshine TLV, an alternative clothing store, or get a tattoo at TLV Ink. Stop at the bookstore, or pick up some vintage clothing. Find the perfect handbag at Starjelly, or get a unique outfit for your child at Taflaya. One of the longest-running boutique stores on Sheinkin is Belle &Sue, selling high-end casual wear. Halfway down the street is a small park with a pleasant cafe, and playground.Pro Tip: At the northern end of Sheinkin, near Magen David Square there are a lot of interesting shoe stores.A busy cafe on Shenkin StreetAfter exploring the stores along Sheinkin you’ll need to sit down for a cup of coffee at one of the sidewalk cafes. Try the Coffee Club for an all-day breakfast, Frenchy for a healthy sandwich, or Salene Freitag bagel shop. Indulge yourself at Alon Shabo pastries and wash down those delicious sweet treats with freshly squeezed juice from Beautiful and Juices. The stores and restaurants on Sheinkin come and go so some of those listed here may have been replaced by the time you visit.Pro Tip: The best way to explore Sheinkin is to start at Magen David Square and walk along the street to Rothschild Boulevard.History of Sheinkin StreetIn the early days of Tel Aviv in 1913, the area around present-day Sheinkin was buzzing with small industries, craftsmen’s workshops, and artisans' studios. That original free-spirited artsy ambiance persisted even after the workshops and industries had gone.In the 1980s Sheinkin was the place to see and be seen by the who's-who of Tel Aviv’s celebrity scene. It gained a reputation for its liberal character and live-and-let-live vibe. The street was even immortalized in a Hebrew pop song, Living in Sheinkin, and was the setting for the TV series Florentin, and the film The Bubble. It has remained a bohemian hangout although it has calmed down considerably and is more conservative since the 80s. Today Sheinkin is synonymous with anything artsy, funky, or flamboyant.Who Was Sheinkin?Menahem Sheinkin (or Shenkin) was one of the original Zionist leaders who helped establish Tel Aviv. He was responsible for setting up the Sheinkin neighborhood in 1913 to provide workshops and studios for tradesmen and cottage industries.

Plan Your VisitLocation- HaYarkon Street, Tel AvivOpen Times- 24/7Prices- FreeAverage Visit Duration- 2-4 hours.Popular Times- Fridays.Notes for Visitors- HaYarkon is better explored on foot because of the heavy traffic.Tours- Finding Tel Aviv’s hidden gems is a lot easier when you’re being guided by a local professional. To discover all that HaYarkon Street has to offer, take a Tel Aviv walking tour.HaYarkon Street in Tel Aviv runs parallel to the seafront promenade, starting north at Tel Aviv port and continuing to Charles Clore Park where HaYarkon becomes Kaufmann Street which travels south into Jaffa. It is a busy, often congested street, packed with hotels, interesting sites, embassies, and service businesses. The street is named after the Yarkon River that runs into the sea at its northern end. You probably won’t be coming to HaYarkon Street specifically to see an attraction but any visitor to Tel Aviv will at some time drive or walk along this iconic street. The main reasons you’ll find yourself on HaYarkon Street are for hotels, embassies, access to the best beaches, and nightlife.The intersection of Yarkon and David Ben Gurion streetsPoints of Interest on HaYarkon StreetKikar Atarim - At the northern end of HaYarkon, this public square was completed in 1975 in the Brutalist style. It doesn’t offer much to tourists except perhaps sea views, and proximity to the marina, beach, Gordon Pool, and “Crazy House.” Pro Tip: If you’re interested in art then Kikar Atarim offers some interesting graffiti art as well as its proximity to the Leonardo Art Hotel where there is an art gallery, and Gordon Street which is known for its many private galleries.Independence Park - The first trees were planted here on Israel’s first Independence Day in 1949 and is perched on a limestone cliff overlooking the sea. The park has evolved over the years, once being the go-to place for gay hookups and having been neglected for several years. But today it is a fully renovated park with several sculptures, memorials, and statues. There are paved paths and open green lawns leading to a lookout point over the sea.181 HaYarkon Street (the Crazy House) - Designed by Leon Gaignebet and inspired by the work of Gaudi it is in the deconstructive style. It is difficult to describe, with its white balconies that look soft, as if they were paper stuck haphazardly to the frame of the building. This fascinating and extremely unusual structure has been called an architectural curiosity.181 HaYarkon Street (the Crazy House)Embassy Buildings - HaYarkon Street is home to several embassies including the British Embassy, Indian Embassy, Russian Embassy, and a branch of the American Embassy.96 HaYarkon Street - A building in the International Bauhaus Style built in 1935, and restored in 2012. The building’s penthouse apartment is one of the most expensive properties in the country.96 HaYarkon StreetLondon Square - A memorial park sandwiched between HaYarkon Street and the promenade, dedicated to British casualties in World War II. In the park are several interesting monuments such as the ship-shaped monument to illegal Jewish immigrants, and the monument to the Altalena immigrant ship that anchored here in 1948. Don’t expect expansive lawns as the park is more concrete than grass.Opera Tower - Facing a spacious plaza, the Opera Tower stands on the site of a historic cinema, where Israel’s first parliament was convened in 1948.Hassan Bek Mosque - Just before HaYarkon changes its name and becomes Kauffmann Street, is this magnificent historic mosque. If nothing else it is worth a photo. It was built in 1916 in the classic Ottoman style with a tall majestic minaret. Pro Tip: It is lit up at night and is very Instagram-friendly.Pro Tip: If you want to experience HaYarkon Street you can follow a walk along the street and double back returning to your starting point by walking along the seafront promenade.Tourist Hotels on HaYarkon St.There are many hotels on HaYarkon Street, mainly because of the excellent location for reaching both the beaches and the city’s attractions. Tourists can choose from some of the city’s top luxury hotels like Dan, Sheraton, Renaissance, and the Brown Hotels. Or opt for mid-range options that still provide everything you need such as the Prima Hotel, Tal By the Beach, Melody Hotel, and the Maxim Design Hotel. For budget travelers, there are popular hostels like the “HaYarkon Hostel”.Nightlife, Entertainment, and RestaurantsHaYarkon Street never sleeps! When the beachgoers have gone home, and businesses have closed for the day, HaYarkon is still buzzing with restaurants, clubs, and bars as well as hotels and hostels. It is not the top nightlife spot in Tel Aviv, but it is certainly one of the places where you’ll find all-night parties and plenty of bars.Imperial Cocktail Bar - classy Asian colonial-inspired.Molly Blooms - An iconic Irish pub with tasty pub grub.Bar 51 - Modern slightly hipster hangout with an extensive wine menu and small meals.Jachnun Mul HaYam - Try some traditional Yemeni food at 22 HaYarkon.Aperitivo - a wine bar at 78 HaYarkon with classy decor, outdoor seating, food, and cocktails.Ultra Cocktail Bar - There are live musical performances at this simple bar in the Sea Tower.Asimi - A bright and airy restaurant in London Garden with sea views.Yassou Tel Aviv Greek - At the corner of Frishman and HaYarkon is a popular Greek restaurant.Manara - A sophisticated restaurant in the Sheraton Hotel serving an innovative Levantine menu (kosher).Pro Tip: At 66 HaYarkon is the Imperial Hotel, once “just” a hotel, today it occasionally turns into a pop-up exhibition - Imperial Hotel Wonderland. The hotel’s 38 rooms are decorated by artists and become outrageous fantasy works of art that visitors can walk through and explore.

Plan Your VisitLocation: 5 Shvil HaMeretz, Tel Aviv Pro Tip: This gallery has changed locations a few times over the years, so ignore any other addresses online - this is the right one!Open Times:Wednesday 12:30-19:00, Thursday 13:00-19:00, Friday and Saturday 11:00-15:00.Prices: FreeAverage Visit Duration: 1 hour.Popular Times: Friday and Saturday.Special Events: The museum’s regularly changing exhibitions are advertised on its website.Tours:Take a private tour and tailor-make it to cover the Hanina Gallery and other hot Tel Aviv cultural and art venues.If you love independent art galleries, and finding hidden gems then Hanina is for you. Originally founded in Jaffa in 2008 by Jonathan Hirschfeld and Yakir Segev, today Hanina is a non-profit gallery owned by a collective of young Israeli artists. The gallery’s location in the Shapira neighborhood, in South Tel Aviv is off the beaten path for most visitors to the city.Pro Tip: Wondering where the name comes from? The Hanina Contemporary Art Gallery was originally at 25 Hanina Street in Jaffa. The literal translation of the word “Hanina” is pardon, amnesty, mercy, or compassion.The gallery owners strive to promote diversity throughout the Israeli art world and give a platform to artists who often go unheard. In addition to the visual artwork, the gallery also hosts lectures, film screenings, and events to promote intercultural dialogue. The fact that this is a non-profit enterprise gives the artists freedom that is often missing in other more formal institutions. Every artist involved in the Hanina Gallery has a passion for what they do and for the social change art can often initiate. Thanks to the guiding principles of this gallery, the work exhibited here truly provides a space for different voices, not usually heard in Israel’s commercial art world including artists of all generations, and all artistic styles no matter what message their art is trying to express.Pro Tip: Hanina Gallery is located in an area that tourists don’t usually get to, and there isn’t a lot to see there. However, within a few minutes’ walk from Hanina Gallery you can find several other small galleries and art studios. For example, Artspace Tel Aviv, Five Easy Pieces Art Salon, Ofer Zick Art and Design Studio, Studio Liat Segal, Raw Art Gallery Showroom, and Dvir Gallery.What’s On at the Hanina GalleryThe group of artists presenting their creations at Hanina Gallery are a diverse bunch, they include artists with classical training and others who are self-taught. In addition to the gallery’s regular themed exhibitions or exhibitions of a particular artist’s work, they also host live performances and art workshops. The artists that run the gallery work together democratically, each with their autonomy over their own projects, but collaborating on gallery decisions.

Plan Your VisitLocation: Ben Gurion Boulevard, Tel Aviv.Open Times: 24/7. Ben Gurion Househours are - Sun, Tues, Wed 09:00-16:00, Mon 09:00-19:00, Fri 09:00-13:00, Sat 11:00-15:00. Gordon Pool: Sun 13:30-21:00, Mon -Thurs 06:00-21:00, Fri 06:00-19:00, Sat 07:00-18:00.Prices: Free.Average Visit Duration: 1 hour.Tours: Ben Gurion Blvd. (and the rest of Tel Aviv) is packed with hidden gems that can only be discovered on a Tel Aviv personalized private tour.Fresh juice stall, Ben Gurion BoulevardBen Gurion Boulevard or Sderot Ben Gurion in Hebrew, is a beautiful tree-lined boulevard in Tel Aviv that is far enough from the tourist center to make it a hidden gem, yet close enough to reach on a short walk through the city. It connects two sites worth visiting - Rabin Square and the beachfront. The boulevard was named after Israel’s first prime minister and is also the site of his former home.Where is Ben Gurion Boulevard?Ben Gurion Blvd. runs west from between City Garden shopping mall and Rabin Square on Ebn Girol Street to HaYarkon Street on the beachfront. It brings you to Kikar Atarim, a plaza overlooking the marina and the Gordon Pool. Ben Gurion Blvd. runs parallel to Gordon Street and Arlozorov Street and intersects several streets including Ben Yehuda Street and Dizengoff Street.What to See on a Walk Down Ben Gurion Blvd.Most of the houses along Ben Gurion Blvd. were built in the 1930s to house Jews fleeing war-torn Europe. They were designed in the Bauhaus or International style. This functional architectural style with clean lines, and rounded balconies, earned Tel Aviv UNESCO status as the White City for its high concentration of Bauhaus buildings.Bauhaus style building,Ben Gurion BoulevardA walk down Ben Gurion Blvd. will give you a great overview of Bauhaus as well as other classic architectural styles. The shady boulevard is surprisingly green with an eclectic mix of ficus, olive, sycamore, and tamarisk trees as well as a few palm trees. Pro Tip: Israel’s most prominent street artist, Rami Meir has painted graffiti art at two places on Ben Gurion - on the corner of Ben Yehuda Street and Ben Gurion Street on the wall of Kiyosk Eli, a kiosk in the middle of the street, and at the junction with Dizengoff Street.Square of the Righteous Among the NationsAs you leave Rabin Square and start walking west on Ben Gurion Street, you’ll see a park on your right. This memorial park is dedicated to gentiles who risked their own lives to save Jews during the Holocaust.Pro Tip: The park was home to Tel Aviv’s first zoo but was eventually moved because the residents complained about the noise and the smell. Today the best zoo in Israel is the Safari Park in Ramat Gan. Beit Hannah Just before the intersection with Reiness Street at #75 Ben Gurion is a one-story house named in honor of Hannah Chisik who lived here in the 1920s. In 1926, she established training farms for young women to help them become self-sufficient. The farm produce was then sold from a store in this house. The building itself was designed in 1935 by Jacob Pinkerfeld in the Bauhaus style. Today Beit Hanna (which has another branch in Florentin) offers a space for women to come together and enjoy sport, spirit, and personal growth in classes and activities. Ben Gurion HouseIsrael’s first prime minister, David Ben Gurion lived in a modest house at the western end of the boulevard for about 40 years. #17 Ben Gurion Blvd. was perfectly located for Ben Gurion to walk down to the beach where he would stand on his head for a few minutes as part of his exercise routine. The house has been restored and furnished as it would have been when Ben Gurion and his wife Paula lived here and is now a house museum open to the public.KiosksAs in the past, several kiosks line the boulevard selling food and drinks. The boulevard also has several cafes, many with outdoor seating.A kiosk at the intersection of Boulevard Ben Gurion and Ben Yehuda StreetPro Tip: Along Ben Gurion Street there are Tel-O-Fun bike stations where you can rent a bike, explore the city’s many bike paths, and return the bike to any other bike station throughout Tel Aviv.Gordon PoolCreated in 1956, this iconic Tel Aviv pool is filled with salt water from underground springs. It is a large complex with a gym and exercise studio.Gordon PoolPro Tip: Enjoy a meal at Stolero in the Gordon Pool lobby overlooking the Tel Aviv Marina.

Plan Your Visit Location: Yemin Moshe neighborhood, JerusalemOpen Times: 24/7. Montefiore Windmill Visitor Center is open Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 to 17:00 (19:00 in summer) and Friday and Saturday from 10:00 to 14:00.Prices: Free. Entrance to the Montefiore Windmill is also free.Average Visit Duration: 1-2 hours.Notes for Visitors: If arriving by car you will need to park nearby and enter the neighborhood on foot as it is mostly a pedestrian-only area.Special Events: Although Yemin Moshe might be a sleepy quaint neighborhood, it is surrounded by beautiful parks where there are several outdoor performance venues. The parks, plazas, and open-air performance venues are often used for festivals and special events including the Chutsot Hayotser International Arts and Crafts Fair, and the Jerusalem Film Festival.Tours: Combine a private tour of Jerusalem with a visit to Yemin Moshe. Pro Tip: There is a free tour of the Montefiore Windmill on Fridays and Saturdays that must be pre-booked on the Windmill website.Yemin Moshe street sign in three languages, Hebrew, English and ArabicYemin Moshe is a charming Jerusalem neighborhood reminiscent of a quaint European village. It offers cobbled lanes and stone houses draped in vines and bougainvillea, with colorful window boxes and quaint eateries. Today it is one of the gentrified, luxury residential neighborhoods overlooking the Old City. This is a haven in the busy city yet close enough to walk to from the Old City. And if you’re wondering about the name it means “the right hand of Moses” not the biblical Moses, but Moses Montefiore who was responsible for the establishment of the neighborhood.Pro Tip: Yemin Moshe is not far from The First Station, and you could easily walk between both sites.Yemin Moshe and Mishkenot Sha'ananimIn 1859, Mishkenot Sha'ananim (Dwellings of Tranquility) was built across from Mount Zion, just a few steps from the Old City. It consisted of two elongated buildings, one was a shared space that answered the needs of the community and included a hospital, two synagogues, and a bakery with a communal oven. The other building was divided into 28 tiny apartments. The neighborhood was inhabited by the destitute.Pro Tip: The two original long buildings still exist. One is home to the Jerusalem Music Center and the other building is used by the Jerusalem Municipality to host honored guests. Among those who have stayed here have been Jean-Paul Sartre, Marc Chagall, and John Le Carre.Although MIshkenot Sha'ananim was built to accommodate the poor it was not enough, and soon the neighborhood needed to be extended to make room for new residents.The Neighborhood of Mishkenot Sha'ananim and the Montefiore WindmillHistory of Yemin Moshe, JerusalemAt a time when the residents of Jerusalem lived within the Old City walls, a crowded, yet expensive place to live, Yemein Moshe was built beyond the walls as a neighborhood and was intended for the poor who could not afford to live inside the city. The year was 1894, and the first two buildings constructed were called Mishkenot Sha’ananim. The project was funded by Moses Montefiore (1835-1874), perhaps the most famous British Jew at the time.Yemin Moshe was a simple neighborhood with larger homes than the original two Mishkenot Shaananim structures. The homes were one-story stone houses with red brick rooftops. The community shared an oven, and they supported themselves by running a printing press, textile factory, and windmill for grinding wheat.In 1948, the State of Israel was established and the War of Independence broke out with neighboring countries attacking on all sides. Jordanian forces took East Jerusalem, and Yemin Moshe found itself on the edge of the barbed wire fence that divided the city for 19 years. The neighborhood was abandoned as it was too dangerous to live in.In the 1960s the Yom Kippur War saw the entire city of Jerusalem return to the hands of the Israelis. After the war, the neighborhood underwent a complete makeover, the poor were moved out and luxury properties were built. Thankfully, many of the original structures as well as the character of the historic neighborhood survived.Points of Interest in Yemin MosheThe neighborhood isn’t overflowing with attractions, but it is worth visiting to enjoy the ambiance which is something unique and different from other areas of Jerusalem. The best way to explore Yemin Moshe is to simply wander along the picturesque alleyways.Pro Tip: The neighborhood has a lot of stairs that connect the different levels of the neighborhood which is built on a slope. It is not wheelchair-friendly. Many of the alleyways are pedestrian-only with no access for cars.Montefiore WindmillYemin Moshe’s most famous attraction is a beautiful stone windmill, built in 1857 three years before Mishkenot Sha’ananim was established. The windmill was built by Moses Montefiore using funds from the estate of Judah Touro. The intention was that the windmill would encourage the residents to make a living by running the mill and help them to become self-sufficient, grinding their own flour. The mill wasn’t a success because of the lack of wind in the area, and pretty soon it was abandoned. The stone windmill is perched on a hill offering breathtaking views of the city and serves as an iconic symbol of Jerusalem's past. Today the windmill houses a small museum dedicated to Montefiore, a visitor center, and a wine-tasting center.Pro Tip: The plaza by the windmill is sometimes used for outdoor performances by the Khan Theater’s repertoire company.Sunburst at the historic windmill in Yemin MosheJim Angleton CornerThis quiet spot is an observation point overlooking the walls of the Old City. It is situated near the Confederation House (also in Yemin Moshe). The observation point is in memory of Jim Angleton, a former Chief of Counterintelligence of the CIA, and it stands where the barbed wire fence divided the city for 19 years.Pro Tip: You’ll find at least three other memorial gardens around Confederation House, including the Amschel Rothschild Sitting Corner where there are benches for you to rest after climbing all the stairs in this neighborhood!Great Sephardi SynagogueBuilt in 1897 to be used by Yemin Moshe residents, it is built out of the same characteristic Jerusalem stone and has been restored. This is an active synagogue where services are held.Mishkenot Sha'ananimAs the first Jewish neighborhood built outside the Old City walls, Mishkenot Sha'ananim exudes historical charm. Its cobblestone streets, galleries, and quaint cafes create a picturesque setting, inviting visitors to explore and relish the unique atmosphere that defines Yemin Moshe. The buildings have now been turned into a cultural center and a music center as well as a guest house.Pro Tip: The closest Old City gate to Yemin Moshe is Jaffa Gate so you can very easily walk from the Old City to Yemin Moshe.Restaurants and CafesYemin Moshe's culinary scene adds a flavorful touch to the neighborhood. From charming cafes serving aromatic coffee to exquisite restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisines, the dining options reflect the rich tapestry of tastes within this historic enclave.Pro Tip: On two sides of the neighborhood there are some of Jerusalem’s best parks.

Plan Your VisitLocation:Beit Eliyahu Golomb House, 23 Rothschild Street, Tel AvivOpen Times: Sunday-Thursday 08:30-16:00, Fridays and Saturdays closed.Prices: Adults 20 ILS, seniors, soldiers, and children under 18 yrs 15 ILS, disabled visitors free.Average Visit Duration: 1 hour.Special Events: There are regular special evening and afternoon programs geared towards school children and groups. On Family Day, and Israeli school holidays there are special activities for parents and children.Relevant Tours: Tours of the museum can be arranged in advance and are available in English, Hebrew, Russian, and French. The museum may be able to offer a tour outside the museum of Rothschild Blvd. If you take a private Tel Aviv tour, remember to ask your guide to stop at this interesting attraction.Golomb House - The Hagana Museum, Tel Aviv(Image source:Avishai TeicherCC BY 2.5)The literal translation of ”Hagana” is defense, but in this case, the name of the museum refers to the armed Jewish force that operated in Palestine from the 1920s to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. The Hagana (or Haganah) fighting force protected Jewish settlements from Arab attacks in British Mandate Palestine. Following the British “white paper” that restricted immigration to Palestine, the Hagana organization assisted more than 100,000 Jews to immigrate illegally, escaping war-torn Europe. Later, the fighters of the Hagana participated in the War of Independence fighting side by side with other Jewish military groups and the newly founded Israeli Defense Force.The museum covers the formation and activities of the Haganah organization as well as its heroes, and major achievements. It is located in a house built by the Sharet family in the 1920s which was one of the first houses built in Tel Aviv. The house is the former home of Eliyahu Golomb, one of the founders of the Haganah organization. It was here that Haganah members met in secret to discuss and plan the defense of settlements and the illegal immigration of Jews to British Palestine.Pro Tip: The museum is located on one of Tel Aviv’s most beautiful boulevards, where you can see examples of Bauhaus architecture, and visit Independence Hall where Israeli independence was declared in 1948.What to See at the Hagana MuseumThree floors have been added to the original house and a different topic is covered on each floor. In addition, the museum has a large auditorium and a smaller audio-presentation room and it holds the Hagana archives. The museum displays use the latest museum technology to bring the subject matter to life. There are huge video screens, historic photographs, recreated scenes, models, and authentic artifacts.Original RoomsAt the entrance level of the house, two of the rooms have been preserved as they were in the early 1940s. These rooms are used for changing exhibitions.Eliyahu Golomb's apartment, the Hagana Museum (Image source:Hagit.B CC BY 4.0)Birth of the Defense ForceOn the first level, you can delve into the establishment of the organization in 1919, learn about its roots in Bar Giora and Hashomer, and discover the many daring missions and battles of the Hagana.Hagana on the BattlefieldAlthough their fighting methods were more guerilla warfare, this section of the museum looks at the Hagana’s battle against the British from 1945 to 1947. It also covers their weapons and brings to life the personal story of a young Palmach member and a young holocaust survivor who participated in several major battles. There is a moving audio presentation about the immigration ship, Exodus.Pro Tip: If you enjoy this museum then you might want to check out the Palmach Museum, Lehi Museum, and the Etzel Museum, all dedicated to the pre-state Jewish underground movements.War of IndependenceTake a journey through the events of the War of Independence and learn about the Hagana’s integration into the Israel Defense Force after the establishment of the State of Israel.Pro Tip: On Independence Day entrance to the museum is free, and there are special events and exhibits.Know Before You Go - Hagana MuseumThe museum is fully accessibleThe Hagana Museum is suitable for childrenDisplays are in Hebrew and EnglishA visit starts with a short film about the period

Plan Your VisitLocation: 6 Tarsat Street, Tel AvivOpen Times: Sunday-Monday closed. Tuesday 10:00-21:00, Wednesday 10:00-18:00; Thursday 10:00-21:00, Friday 10:00-14:00, and Saturday 10:00-18:00.Prices: Adults 50 ILS; students, Tel Aviv residents, and disabled visitors 40 ILS; senior citizens 25 ILS. Entrance is free for visitors under 18 years old; escorts of disabled visitors, and recruited army reservists (order 8).Average Visit Duration - 1-2 hours.Special Events: The museum hosts concerts, lectures, and special events that are advertised on its website.Notes for Visitors: Enjoy the museum’s Helena Wine Bar. The museum has audio guides in English and Hebrew, lockers, a museum store, and is fully accessible.Tours: Take a private Tel Aviv tour and include a stop at the Eyal Ofer Pavilion. If you are with a group it is possible to arrange a tour of the museum.Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art(Image source:Yair TalmorCC BY 3.0)This awe-inspiring museum is one of the Tel Aviv Museums of Art locations. Formerly the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion, this branch of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art is devoted to temporary exhibitions of contemporary art from Israel and abroad. The art covers a wide range of mediums from photography and paintings to installations and sculptures. The unique structure feels like a warehouse, or the framework of a building, with natural light flooding into the exhibition space. Art is displayed on the blank canvas provided by the barren walls and high ceilings of the museum building. If you’re interested in current artwork that will amaze, fascinate, and sometimes shock you, then don’t miss the Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art.History of the Eyal Ofer Pavilion Art MuseumThe history of the Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art goes hand in hand with the history of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, although the museum has changed locations several times and today there are three branches of the museum in three different locations. So it can get a bit confusing!It all started in 1932, when Tel Aviv’s first mayor, Meir Dizengoff donated his home on Rothschild Blvd. to the city for use as a museum. In 1959, the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion for Contemporary Art, designed by the Israel Prize laureate architect, Yaakov Rechter, was opened. It was intended to be the new home of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, but it was soon clear that a larger space was needed. And so in 1971, the museum was relocated from Dizengoff’s house to 27 Shaul Hamelech Street and it became the museum’s main building.At that time the pavilion was used to display miniature period rooms and a glassware collection. In 2019, the museum building needed a facelift, and a new donor, Eyal Ofer, was found to fund the renovations. The remodeling was designed by the original architect’s son. Further renovations were completed in 2023. The Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art continues to be an integral part of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art.Tel Aviv Museum of Art LocationsThe Tel Aviv Museum of Art includes the main building (Paulson Family Foundation Building) which holds the museum’s permanent collection of modern art plus changing exhibitions. Plus the Herta and Paul Amir Building which focuses on Israeli art and temporary exhibitions. Both these sections of the museum are on Shaul Hamelech Boulevard. Then there is the Eyal Ofer Pavilion which is in a different location in Tel Aviv on Tarsat Street.Pro Tip: The museum is located in Tel Aviv’s Cultural Square, close to other cultural venues including Israel’s national theater, Habima, and the Charles Bronfman Auditorium.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times: Wadi Farasa is part of the Petra Archaeological Park. Petra Archaeological Park's open times are 06:00-18:00 and until 16:00 in winter.Prices: Admission is 90 JD, and the Jordan Pass includes a discount to the Archaeological Park.Average Visit Duration:The average time spent in Wadi Farasa is 2 hours.Popular Times:The best time to visit Farasa Valley is in the early morning or late afternoon.Special Events: Petra by Night, an evening candlelight spectacle, takes place in front of the Treasury on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 20:30. The show features Bedouinemusic, a light show, and tea.Relevant Tours: On a tour of Petra you will see the most important and most impressive sites but to visit Farasa Valley you should take a two-day tour, to make sure you'll have time to enjoy it. With a Petra tour from Israel,you’ll see two countries on one trip.Farasa Valley is located in the Petra Archaeological Parkand borders the town of Wadi Musa on the western side of Mt. Altar. The valley (or wadi) is divided into east and west sections. Farasa Valley East holds the majority of ancientNabateanstructures but it is not the main part of Petra. Most tourists never reach Farasa Valley and instead stick to the area entered via theSiq. But for those who are willing to follow the path less traveled, Farasa Valley holds unique Nabataean tombs, temples, and other rock-hewn structures. Petra has an average of 2000 visitors a day, but few reach Wadi Farasa which offers a place of tranquility, and a chance to immerse yourself in the past.Cave-like tomb in Wadi Farasa(Image source:Michael GuntherCC BY 3.0)How to Get to Wadi FarasaThe hike through Wadi Farasa goes from the High Place of Sacrifice to Qasr al-Bint and you can start at either end. From the Street of Facades take the hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice on Jebel al-Madhbah and from there continue on the path to Wadi Farasa. Alternatively, take the stairs from behind Qasr al-Bint. Pro Tip: Starting your exploration of Wadi Farasa from Qasr al-Bint is an easier hike than if you start at the High Place of Sacrifice. The loop route from Qasr al-Bint to the High Place of Sacrifice takes a minimum of 2.5 hours.The path through Wadi Valley is not marked but there is signage at some of the structures. For this reason it is best to hire a private tour guide to explore the wadi.What to See in Farasa ValleyFrom Qasr al-Bint you will see the following structures, in this order until reaching the High Place of Sacrifice:Amud FaraounAfter about half an hour of hiking, you’ll reach a free-standing column that was probably once part of a portico to a structure that no longer exists. It is also called Pharaoh’s Column and Zibb Faraoun.Por Tip: This half-hour stretch of the hike has no shade.Broken Pediment TombThis square facade carved into the cliff and reached via rock-cut stairs features two pilasters on either side of the entrance which is topped by a broken pediment. You can enter the chamber which is 10 meters long and 8.5 meters wide. Pro Tip: Take a look inside the small door to the right of the tomb to see a burial chamber with two burial niches on the wall.Renaissance TombThe Renaissance Tomb dates back to the 2nd century AD. It is one of the most impressive structures in Wadi Farasa thanks to the tall twin columns flanking the entrance. Inside the chamber, there are rock-carved loculi (burial niches) that were never used.Renaissance Tomb, Wadi Farasa, Petra(Image source: DossemanCC BY 4.0)Roman Soldier’s TombThe Soldier’s Tomb complex was built by the Nabataeans in the 1st century AD, renovated by the Romans in 106 AD, and destroyed by an earthquake in 363 AD. The complex includes a courtyard, several cisterns, rock-cut tombs, and the remains of several two-story buildings. The tomb’s facade features three carved male figures in niches between four columns topped by a frieze and pediment. One of the figures is wearing a Romanmilitary breastplate. The central entrance leads to two chambers. The first chamber has burial niches in the walls, and the second, an antechamber is empty. The courtyard in front of the tomb had porticoes on three sides with 4-meter-high columns connected by arches.Soldier Tomb, Wadi Farasa, Petra(Image source:Jorge LáscarCC BY 2.0) Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Colorful Triclinium opposite the Soldier’s Tomb which has bright red and white striped interior walls that would have been covered with painted stucco. The Color Triclinium with its interior walls divided into columns and niches is one of the most impressive interiors in Petra.Garden TombIn the upper area of Wadi Farasa East, you’ll find the Garden Temple or Garden Triclinium. For many years experts thought the structure carved into the rock was a tomb or temple, but they now know that it was used as part of the Nabataean water system. Pro Tip: Spot the adjacent cistern that was part of the water system. Wide rock-carved stairs lead up to a flat area or platform that would have once been a courtyard. The structure’s facade measures 7.5 meters and has three openings divided by two columns and visitors can enter the two connecting chambers that were carved into the rock. Inside you can see rare Nabataean frescoes depicting local flora and fauna.Banquet HallOn the top of the rock outcrop where the Garden Tomb was carved and behind the cistern are the remaining walls of a Nabaraean banquet hall. Today the carved walls are all that remain but it would have had a vaulted ceiling. The chamber was probably used for feasts honoring those buried nearby.Lion MonumentAs you near the High Place of Sacrifice you will see the Lion Monument which may have been a drinking fountain for devotees on their way to make offerings. The “lion” represents the god al-Uzza.

Where is the Israel-Gaza Border?The Israel-Gaza border runs the length of the Gaza Strip and has two main crossings - Erez and Kerem Shalom. The Erez crossing provides access both for Palestinians crossing into Israel for work or medical treatment, and the transportation of goods. The Kerem Shalom crossing is exclusively for goods arriving from Egypt.In the far south of the Strip, which borders Israel and Egypt, is the Rafah crossing, Whilst this is also controlled by Israel, people but not cargo can pass through.Plan Your VisitLocation: Western Negev, IsraelOpening Times: By appointment and as part of a guided tourPrices: Enquire with our office for the exact cost.Average Visit Duration: Both half-day and full-day tours are available.Tours: Gaza Envelope Tours are available; however, such visits must be arranged in advance with a licensed company such as ourselvesIsrael Gaza WallThe Israel-Gaza Wall, also known as the Israel-Gaza barrier or ‘Iron Fence’ is a border built by Israel that runs the length of the Gaza Strip.Fences and walls were originally constructed as far back as 1971 and then 1994 as a means of controlling both the movement of goods and people in and out of the Strip. Until 2005, there was a one kilometer ‘buffer zone’ on either side but after Israel unilaterally disengaged from Gaza in 2005, a security upgrade was clearly necessary.Barrier against tunnels along the Israel-Gaza Strip border(Image source: IDF Spokesperson's Unit photographer CC BY 3.0)Use of State-of-the-Art TechnologyIn the years that followed, a host of state-of-the-art technologies were installed along the border, combined with the building of a seven meter high fence. These included motion sensors, watchtowers with cameras and remote-controlled machine guns, which could be used to ‘warn off’ potential infiltrators with bursts of fire, should they come too close. The wall was patrolled by battalions of soldiers and also from the air.The eventual cost of this wall/fence amounted to several billion dollars and was described by Israeli security personnel as an ‘effective hermetic solution’ and privately described it as ‘unreachable’.Hamas Attack on October 7th 2023On October 7th, which was both the Jewish sabbath and the festival of Sukkot, early in the morning Hamas militants breached the fence in a number of places. In what is now arguably a catastrophic security failure on the part of Israel, using explosives, bulldozers, pick-up tricks, drones and paragliders.With the ‘element of surprise’ on their side, Israel was caught off guard and, as a result, thousands of terrorists were able to make their way across the fence towards a number of communities in the area.In the hours that followed, a massacre took place in which approx. 1,200 people, most of them civilians, were murdered within a few hours.Today, the general consensus is that the wall was never designed with the idea of a mass invasion in mind, rather to give ‘real time indications’ when individuals were trying to come close to it.Other failures, military personnel have admitted, include an overreliance on remote-controlled aspects of security (such as communication towers, remotely-operated machine guns and surveillance cameras and hubs). These were disabled by Hamas on 7th October, quickly leaving the wall defenseless and allowing between 2,500-3,000 terrorists to stream through quickly.Places To Visit In and Around the Israel-Gaza WallKibbutz Nahal Oz and Kibbutz Nir Oz - these two kibbutzim both suffered badly in the October 7th attack, where Hamas gunmen went house to house, hunting down residents. Many individuals were tortured, mutilated andraped, before they were murdered. Others were kidnapped and some remain hostages in the Strip even now. Today, it is possible to tour these places and see the horror and destruction first-hand.Re’im Forest, site of the Nova Music Festival Massacre - It was here that, on October 7th, Hamas terrorists took the lives of approximately 364 people at a Peace Festival, most of them very young. It is possible to visit memorials to some of the victims at this site.Netivot - This is the town where a collection of burned-out and crushed vehicles sit, the result of the October 7th attack.Kobi Hill -From this vantage point, it is possible to see over the Gaza Strip.Sderot - This ‘frontier town’ was heavily impacted on October 7th and if you visit, you will be able to see bomb shelters where grenades were thrown, rockets that have since been repurposed (and in some cases even turned into art works) and the police station, which came under heavy attack and in which more than 30 Israelis were trapped inside and killed.Nahal Oz Military Base -Close to, but not part of Kibbutz Nahal Oz, this Israeli military base was also attacked on October 7th, and 66 people lost their lives here. Whilst it is not possible to enter, you can see the base from the outside.Roadside rest stations -These spots offer soldiers in the Israeli Defence Forces a break from the daily difficulties of combat, and also help out by providing them with free meals, showers, and laundry services. They are an excellent place to meet members of the IDF and talk with them openly about what their lives in uniform are really like.Nearby Places and AttractionsAshkelon national parkPrime Minister David Ben Gurion’s grave at Sde Boker, Negev desertEin Avdat nature reserveMamshit national parkShivta national parkThe Ramon Crater, Mitzpe Ramon

Saturday in Israel is unlike anywhere else. Why? Because it’s the sabbath - the Jewish Shabbat. This is the country’s official ‘day of rest’ and it’s taken very seriously, both by Orthodox Jews and those who are entirely secular.Much of the country ‘shuts down’ to give people time to rest, meet friends and family, attend services at synagogues, or simply spend some quality time with themselves.However, Tel Aviv - Israel’s liveliest city - isn’t quite like everywhere else so if you do find yourself there on Saturday, you won’t have to twiddle your thumbs, because even though no street tours are running in Tel Aviv on Shabbat, there’s still plenty going on in this ‘24/7’ metropolis.The most special day of the week, when the family gets togetherWhen Does Shabbat Begin and End in Tel Aviv?In Tel Aviv, Shabbat begins at sundown every Friday night and ends around 25 hours later so, of course, this holy day will differ according to the time of the year. In the winter, Shabbat can begin as early as 4.30 pm in December and in the summer as late as 7.30 pm in June.However, things will start to shut down a couple of hours earlier - the big supermarkets will be closed usually by 2 pm, as well as many of the stands at the famous Carmel Market (don’t despair, foodies, you can tour this incredible place from Sunday to Thursday and experience its endless culinary delights).Shabbat will end the following day (Saturday evening - called ‘motzi Shabbat’ in Hebrew) when dusk turns to night (according to the Jewish sages say you know Shabbat is over when you can see three stars in the sky).Celebrating Shabbat in Tel AvivFor observant and traditional Jews, Friday night dinner is a ‘sacred’ time of the week - a chance to catch up with family, break bread with friends or simply wind down after a hard week. Friday night services at synagogues throughout the city last for about an hour, after which people return home, make blessings over wine and bread (candles will already have been lit by the women of the house, about 30 minutes before Shabbat arrives) and sit down at the table for a leisurely dinner.In contrast, young secular Jews in Tel Aviv will often eat with their families then head out to bars and nightclubs which are open into the wee hours - Tel Aviv’s not known as the Non-Stop City for nothing!On Saturday morning, religious Jews will often attend services (that begin as early as 9 am), then head home for a Shabbat lunch. Secular Israelis will often be sleeping late and then heading out to places like Dizengoff Street (where cafes and restaurants are usually packed) for brunch. And, of course, in good weather, Tel Aviv’s beaches will be packed out with locals sunning themselves, swimming in the Mediterranean and strolling along the city’s famous Tayellet (promenade).The beach promenade in Tel Aviv is a favorite spot for the secular publicFor those who observe, Shabbat ends with the ritual of ’Havdalah’ using wine/grape juice, spices and the lighting of a braided candle. Everyone wishes each other ‘shavua tov’ (a good week to come) and ‘regular life’ in Israel resumes.If you want to celebrate Shabbat with locals, there are organizations you can reach out to, who’ll put you in touch with families - and it’s not just a chance to learn more about Jewish traditions but you’ll probably eat a fine meal too! As for a gift for your host, flowers are always welcome but if you bring chocolates/wine/cake, make sure it has a kosher label.Do Buses Run on Shabbat in Tel Aviv?The regular buses that you’ll see in Tel Aviv all week won’t be running and nor will trains. But the good news is you don’t have to rely on taxis (or your feet) to get around because a few years ago the municipality set up a ‘Shabbat bus service’.There are six lines (yellow, blue, pink, green, red, purple) that run every 20-30 minutes throughout Shabbat and - best of all - they are free.Check out times on Moovit or Google Maps - the bus stops with Shabbat buses running are marked accordingly with the specific line color!Use the Saturday bus servicesThings to Do in Tel Aviv on SaturdayThere’s a great deal to do in Tel Aviv on Saturday, depending on what kind of activities you like. Endless cafes and restaurants are open where you can wile away the hours- in fact breakfast in Tel Aviv is taken very seriously. (Just bear in mind that you might have to queue for a while, because some places are so popular they don’t even accept bookings for Shabbat).For culture vultures, Tel Aviv’s best museums and galleries are also open on Shabbat - check out exhibitions at the Tel Aviv Museum of Fine Art, head to ANU and learn about the history of the Jewish people, or even book a guided tour with the famous psychic Uri Geller at his very own museum in Jaffa!For those who love sun, sea and sand, the beaches in Tel Aviv are fabulous - they all have their own flavor - from the serene Hilton Beach (Tel Aviv’s non-official hangout for the LGBTQ community), to Frishman and Gordon beaches (where you can watch performances of Israeli dancing on Saturday mornings). Further south there’s Banana Beach, which is a huge hangout for those who like music (especially drumming) and Brazilian martial arts and Jaffa Beach which (like the Hilton) is excellent for surfing in the winter months.Finally, for those who like to walk, head for beautiful Rothschild Boulevard where there are Bauhaus buildings aplenty, or Park Hayarkon, the green lung of Tel Aviv, where you can bike, rent a paddle boat or even take a ride up in a hot air balloon and see the city from above.Park Hayarkon -The largest and most famous park in Tel AvivShopping in Tel Aviv on SaturdayAs we’ve mentioned before, all the big shopping malls and boutiques/independent stores on Dizengoff Street are closed on Saturdays but if you do want to go shopping in Tel Aviv on Shabbat, don’t fear - you do have a few options!First of all, there’s the Namal port, near Hyarakon Park, where big stores are selling popular Israeli brands (clothes by Castro and Comme Il Faut for adults and upmarket Shilav for children), as well as sports shops if you need gear for hitting the beach.Sarona Market is open seven days a week -once home to a community of German Templars, its lovely renovated buildings now house small stores, and there’s a gourmet market as well, where you can pick up specialty cheeses, wines, chocolates and eat an excellent lunch,South of the city, head to Neve Tzedek, where lots of small shops selling jewelry, high-end clothing and artwork are open on the main Shabazi Street - afterward, grab a bite at Dallal Bakery, Meshek Barzilay (fantastic vegan food) or gelato at Anita, and take a stroll around the Suzanne Dellal Performing Arts Centre.Finally, don’t forget Jaffa - the famousFlea Market (Shuk haPishpeshim) might be shut on Shabbat, but some of the art galleries and small stores selling clothing, home accessories, and designer furniture are open. Old Jaffa is also full of bars, cafes and restaurants, not just around the market but over in the harbor and when the weather is good (which is for much of the year) the area is packed full of locals, walking, fishing, drinking coffee and enjoying the fantastic views.The Jaffa Flea Market offers a unique blend of authentic shopping and diverse cuisineTel Aviv on a Saturday offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, with activities to suit all tastes. Whether you're soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches, indulging in brunch at a bustling café, exploring world-class museums, or simply wandering through its vibrant streets, there’s always something to do. While Shabbat slows down many parts of Israel, Tel Aviv pulses with energy, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the city’s dynamic culture on the Jewish day of rest.

Shawarma - the Middle Eastern food that no carnivore can eat and ever forget! Traditionally made using spiced meats (think chicken, beef, veal) stacked up on a rotisserie, then shaved off as it rotates, this delicious Levantine food is the perfect lunch snack, grab-and-go dinner option, or 3 am snack when you have hunger pangs after a night on the town.Usually served in a wrap/pita, but sometimes on a plate, it’s tender and juicy and the meat comes with accompaniments - salads, occasionally eggplant, perhaps rice, even fries, and then tahini or yoghurt sauce drizzled over it. Trust us, this is Israeli street food at its best. And the good news is that you can find it in every neighborhood in Tel Aviv.Pita ShawarmaHow Much is Shawarma in Israel?Tel Aviv’s not the cheapest place to eat out but a great way to make your buck go further is by gobbling up delicious street food. Typically, it’s going to cost you anywhere from 35 to 60 NIS ($10-16 US) for a great shawarma in one of the city’s many eateries, but the good news is that portions here are big and it’s going to seriously fill you up.Shawarma on a plate, one of three options (in a pita, in a flatbread, or on a plate)How to Make Shawarma?Don’t be put off, because It’s easier than you think to make shawarma. And if you thought chicken was boring, then this recipe will make you think again.Let’s start with the spice mixture. You’ll need turmeric, cumin, coriander garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper - adjust the measurements according to your preference. Mix them together, add in some Greek yoghurt then take this marinade and cover your boneless and skinless chicken thighs (or breasts).Leave for 3-4 hours in a zip lock bag, to let all the flavors combine, then fry or roast the chicken. Cook through and when it’s golden brown, let it cool, before slicing it up thinly then placing it in a pita or a wrap, Add your salad, and finish off with a heap of tahini and some chopped parsley atop. It really is that easy!Where to Eat Shawarma in Tel Aviv and JaffaThere are so many places to find great shawarma in Tel Aviv, whether you’re looking for something simple, something kosher or something gourmet-style! Here are seven of the spots you shouldn’t miss, if you’re looking for something tasty and filling that won’t put too much of a dent in your wallet…1. Yashka, Dizengoff Street 105 (corner Frishman)Many say this is the best shawarma in Tel Aviv (a few say it’s ‘Out of this world’) and the fact that it’s always busy is a good sign. Like many fast food joints in the city, you pay first, then give your receipt to the guys behind the counter, who will make up your order.A winning combination of fluffy laffa (the Iraqi flatbread used for wrapping) and succulent chicken or veal means this is a real ‘go-to’ spot on Dizengoff Street. If you’re extra hungry, order a side of their delicious falafel. The only downside is that there’s very limited seating - but there’s always ‘grab and go’ so you can head down to Frishman Beach, which is less than a five-minute walk from Yashka.2. Jasmino, Allenby Street 99 (corner Ahad Ha’am)With great prices and super fresh ingredients, get yourself down to Jasmino at lunchtime (there’s always a queue, but it will be full of locals and Israelis who love to chat) for juicy shawarma. It’s a typical ‘hole in the wall’ lunch joint but with a twist - all the meat is chargrilled on a barbeque and diners talk about how much they love the taste of the charcoal as they bite into chunks of chicken, veal and lamb.And for those more adventurous, why not order the brains or the sweetbreads? Whatever you choose, there's either tahini or Amba (a spicy mango sauce) to finish it off. All you need to do afterward is and find a bench outside to enjoy it since there’s no seating.One Google reviewer compared this shawarma to Beethoven’s Symphony Number 5 (‘Unique”) and another commented, “this is more than street food; it’s food for life!”Essentially, Jasmine is a spot that lives up to its reputation so don’t miss this one.3. Mifgash Rambam, Rambam Street 3 (corner Ha Carmel)A moment from the main street of the city’s Carmel Market (huge, busting, vibrant, and the perfect place to take a Tel Aviv food tour) you’ll find Mifgash Rambam, which really showcases the ‘gourmet street food’ conception.What makes it so special? Well, a few things. Firstly, before the ‘main event,’ you’ll be served with some starter plates, and they really are fantastic, particularly the chickpea salad.Then comes the main event - perfectly balanced shawarma, served in a pita, loaded up either with beef and chicken (an interesting combo) or lamb and beal, nicely layered, served with salad and drizzled with tzatziki, tahini and Amba. Oh - and they’ll throw in some fries for good measure.Even better, there’s outdoor seating, so you won’t have to look for a bench! The general consensus? “Sensational”. Indeed, one Google reviewer said it was so good that after he’d had it for lunch, he came back the same evening and ordered it again!4. Shawarma Touro Premium TLV, Dizengoff Street (corner Bar Kochva)Generous portions, excellent salads and clean bathrooms (not always a given in takeaway joints!) There’s a reason shawarma Touro Premium has a reputation for its menu. With fluffy laffa bread, melt-in-the-mouth meat slices and an array of salads and condiments you won’t find at your average shawarma spot, you’re assured of fair prices too (which in a city as expensive as Tel Aviv is always welcome).Touro Premium serves both chicken and veal shawarma, (ask if you want a mixture) and don’t forget to ask for fried onions (slightly caramelized - yum!) and spicy eggplant if you’re feeling adventurous. The owner really cares about the business and it shows in every detail, from the freshness of the food to the friendly and professional staff (who all speak good English).5. Haj Kalil, Shivtei Israel 91, Jaffa (corner Avodat Israel)You can't visit Tel Aviv without spending time in beautiful, ancient Jaffa and once you’ve wandered the Artists Quarter, explored the famous flea market and strolled around the harbor, get yourself over to Haj Kalil for some local Arabic fare where they have both an ‘express shawarma’ area for takeaway and a dining area if you want to sit down and make a proper meal of it.As well as the thinly-shaved slices of chicken in pita, if you sit down you can order beef skewers, grilled lamb chops and a range of fish dishes and the meal comes with complimentary ‘mezze’ - dish upon dish of fresh salads which could fill you up on their own. They also have a wonderful knafeh on the dessert menu and whilst they don’t serve alcohol, the pomegranate juice is outstanding.A little on the pricey side but well worth it.6. Ha Kosem, Shlomo Ha Melech Street 1 (corner King George)Ha Kosem has almost legendary status in Tel Aviv, serving up food that is so delicious and well-priced that you’ll often have to queue for 15-20 minutes at lunchtime (trust us, it’s worth it). In the heart of Tel Aviv, it’s particularly popular for its falafel but that doesn’t mean you can’t satisfy your shawarma carving here.Whether you ask for it small or large (the large comes on a plate that will easily feed two people) the crispy meat, fried eggplant slices, and fantastic salad options (they’re made regularly, in front of your eyes, so you know they’re fresh) will have your drooling. And whilst it’s not the cheapest place in Tel Aviv, this is shawarma you won’t forget in a hurry.In our opinion, Ha Kosem is a place you have to visit when you’re in Tel Aviv(even more than once, because the menu is so varied). As one reviewer commented, “Ten stars will not be enough - everything that I’ve tried was extraordinary.”7. Dabush, Ibn Gvirol Street (corner Zeitlin)Finally, another Tel Aviv eatery to check out is Dabush, today one of the most popular shawarma chains in Israel. It’s a casual place, overlooking Rabin Square, and is open from lunchtime until late at night, turning out fresh food regularly. Using both chicken, lamb and turkey meat (seasoned well and also with a hint of cinnamon) it’s well priced and the staff are friendly and helpful too.Dabush has a pretty basic menu - order a pita (small) or a laffa (large) and help yourself to their complimentary side salads and spicy pickled hot peppers. If you're really hungry, order some french fries as well! This isn’t a fancy joint and there’s limited seating, but it will certainly fulfill your cravings, especially in the wee small hours, if you’ve had a few drinks and find yourself somewhat inebriated and completely starving.Satisfy your shawarma cravings with our guide to Tel Aviv’s best spots for this mouthwatering Middle Eastern dish. Discover where to find the juiciest, most flavorful shawarma in the city, plus tips on how to make your own at home. Whether you're a street food lover or just looking for a quick, delicious bite, this guide has you covered.

Vibrant, colorful, youthful and dynamic, few people who make it to Tel Aviv don’t fall in love with the city. Whether you’re dying for some beach time, a foodie who can’t wait to taste some new flavors, an architecture lover who’s curious about the city’s Bauhaus history, or someone who simply loves wandering the streets and capturing the people on them, Tel Aviv offers endless photographic opportunities.Even better, Tel Aviv’s a relatively small city by world standards, and perfect for walking (unlike hilly Jerusalem, it’s flat!).From Levantine food markets and quirky independent cafes to renovated buildings and dreamy beach sunsets, Instagram lovers will be in their element, with perfect captures on every street corner.View of Kedumim Square and St. Peter's church in old JaffaSo if you’re traveling to Israel for the first time, you’re a big fan of the ‘Gram and can’t wait to find some of the best photo locations in Tel Aviv, to make your feed even more exciting and colorful, here are ten spots you really can’t afford to miss:1. Old Jaffa - The Flea Market, the Artist’s Quarter and the HarbourTop of our list - without a doubt - has to be Old Jaffa. Ancient, magical, charming and achingly beautiful, down every small side street and tiny alley you’ll find a new photo opportunity. Jaffa’s history stretches back to Biblical times and as you wander around, you’ll see many old Arabic-style houses, built in the Ottoman era, with stone walls, ornamental windows and carved wood latticework.Rummage at the famous Jaffa flea market (the Shuk ha Pishpeshim) and snap vendors selling their wares, head onto the Artist’s Quarter (and pop into some of the many studios), stroll through Abrasha Park (don’t forget to photograph St. Peter’s Church and the ‘Gates of Faith’ statue) then head down to the port, where you’ll see fishermen patiently sitting with their rods.Jaffa’s so special that the best way to see it really is with someone who knows its history - so why not consider taking a ‘Perfect Tel Aviv Walking Tour’ which is an excellent introduction to the areaA view of Jaffa Old City Port2. Carmel Market - Food Stalls GaloreThe Carmel Market is Tel Aviv’s largest and liveliest market and, in the heart of the city, is a must-see for any visitor to Tel Aviv, not to mention Instagram lovers, because of its endless photographic opportunities, in the shape of hundreds of different stalls, selling everything from fruit and vegetables to local cheeses and breads, and from oriental spices, olives, halva and typical Israeli street food.The market itself is nestled in the Yemenite Quarter (‘Kerem ha Teimanim’) which is a joy to stroll in and take pictures of as well - it’s full of tiny streets, small houses and quirky cafes, bakeries and local eateries, as well as a short walk from Jerusalem Beach. And for anyone who loves food, don’t think twice and book a Carmel Market Food Tour, where you’ll learn all about the history and culture of this terrific spot.Shuk HaCarmel, the most popular market in Tel Aviv3. Frishman Beach - Late AfternoonIt’s truly difficult to pick Tel Aviv’s most Instagrammable beach, because there are so many of them - from surfers at the Hilton Beach to Israeli folk dancers at Gordon Beach and Friday afternoon ‘Shabbat drummers’ at Banana Beach, there’s no shortage of perfect photo opportunities - from sunrise to sunset.But of all the beaches in Tel Aviv, there’s one we love - Frishman. With its powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and lovely promenade on which you can stroll, cycle, or Segway, it’s probably the most popular beach in Tel Aviv, and with good reason. The beach cafes there are a fantastic place to order a coffee or lemonade and stare at the Mediterranean before golden hour sets in and you can grab the perfect capture.People enjoy a sunny day on Tel Aviv’s Frishman beach4. Neve Tzedek- Charming BackstreetsNeve Tzedek is, arguably, one of Israel’s loveliest areas and has an illustrious history - it was the first Jewish neighborhood to be constructed outside of Jaffa (in 1883) and in Hebrew, it means ‘The Place of Justice.’ Packed with tiny, winding streets, beautifully restored houses and plenty of upmarket boutiques, cafes and top restaurants, it’s a popular area for tourists to visit.Nevertheless, if you wander its backstreets, you’ll soon realize that its reputation for being ‘a village within a city’ is well-deserved and if you step off the main drag - Shabazi Street - and hit the sidestreets, you may well hear the birds singing! With a rich history and culture, Neve Tzedek is a lovely place to stroll aimlessly and opportunities to find your perfect Instagram capture will not evade you!The streets of Neve Tzedek5. Nachalat Binyamin- Eclectic Street ArtNext door to the Carmel Market lies the buzzy pedestrianized street of Nachalat Binyamin, which is home to a twice-weekly arts and crafts market (where everything is made by locals), beautiful old buildings that have been wonderfully renovated, and plenty of cafes and shops. But the area is home to something else too - some very cool street art!Many of the streets are chock-a-block with murals, colored art and street graffiti, from up-and-coming works by Dede Bandaid to established artists like Rami Meiri (look out for the mural that features two friends standing on a balcony together one playing the violin, the other the accordion). Nor should Instagrammers miss some of the stand-out pieces such as ‘Bubble Girl’. ‘Theodor Herzl Dreaming’ and ‘In Complete.’Real street art aficionados might want to take a Tel Aviv street art tour, to understand the history and politics behind a lot of these pieces.Nachalat Binyamin Street market6. Rothschild Boulevard - Bauhaus GlamourRothschild Boulevard is one of Tel Aviv’s most glamorous walkways, tree-lined, tranquil, full of cyclists, locals, top Tel Aviv restaurants and European-inspired architecture in the form of Bauhaus buildings. This ‘international style’ which came out of 1920’s Germany means Tel Aviv is the Bauhaus capital of the world and thus known as ‘The White City’.A typical Bauhaus building (which always places form above function) will have classic modernist elements - think curved balconies and ribbon windows (Corbusier style) to white exteriors and outdoor communal spaces. This part of Tel Aviv is older than others, a more historic area, and wandering Rothschild and the surrounding streets provides endless Instagram moments.Meir Dizengoff statue, at the Rothschild Boulevard7. Dizengoff Square - the Iconic Dizengoff FountainDizengoff Street is Tel Aviv’s most famous walkway and in its heart sits a square that is home to the iconic Dizengoff Fountain. Designed by the Israeli architect Yaakov Agam, the municipality has put a lot of time and money into renovating the square and setting up shady areas, where you can pull up a free chair and start snapping.Not only is it the perfect place to find ‘cityscape’ opportunities for Instagram, but there are some beautifully restored Bauhaus buildings on the square, notably the striking Cinema Hotel. Once a cinema (there are artifacts from the 1950s, including a projector, which you can see in its lobby), it now offers ‘boutique’ accommodation and its curved white balconies will make your followers swoon. Head up to the rooftop if you want fabulous urban views.Aerial view on Dizengoff Square, Tel Aviv8. Bialik Square - City HallBeyond Dizengoff, you’ll find some beautiful squares in Tel Aviv and one of them that’s perfect for photographing is Bialik. It’s a lovely old street in Tel Aviv, where many of the European Jews who arrived in the early 20th century set up home, and in recent years the area has transformed, with lovely renovated residential buildings and the beautiful Bialik Square at the bottom.Home to the city’s first town hall, today this beautiful building is a museum (after you’ve finished photographing, feel free to pop inside and enjoy the free exhibition, then grab a cup of coffee in their garden cafe). Bialik Street is also where you’ll find the Nachman Bialik House (a pioneer of modern Israeli poetry) and the Rubin Museum (a Romanian-corn artist who drew landscapes of the Holy Land, today referred to as the ‘Eretz Israel’ style). They both afford great Instagram captures.Exterior view of the Beit Ha'Ir museum, the old city hall building of Tel Aviv, located on Bialik Street9. The Namal Port - Mediterranean VistasIf you’re looking for some classic Tel Aviv waterfront photos, then head north to the Namal (the Hebrew word for ‘port’). In the last two decades, it’s undergone enormous renovation and now is an incredibly popular spot for locals and tourists alike, boasting all kinds of restaurants, nightclubs, shops, and cafes that can keep you busy for hours.With a chilled vibe and distinctive wooden deck that acts as a promenade, a gourmet indoor market (and local farmer’s market every Friday morning), at the weekend it’s particularly buzzy (it’s ideal for young families since there’s a ‘Skyjump’ for older kids and carousel for the infants, it’s the perfect place to find that special Tel Aviv Instagram spot.View of the Tel Aviv PortFinally, if you’re traveling to Israel and want to make the most of your time in the country, we offer a wide range of day trips, which can take you from Jerusalem and the Dead Sea/Masada fortress to the Crusader city of Akko, the pastoral hills of the Galilee and the lush and dramatic Golan Heights.

Now and again, there’s nothing like a bit of retail therapy to put a smile on your face, and no more so than in Tel Aviv, which has an incredible range of markets, boutiques, malls, and small, independent stores where there’s little you can’t find - whether it’s a swimsuit and floppyhat for a day at the beach, casual wear for an evening stroll on the promenade, next to the Mediterranean, or something stylish and glamorous for an evening out at one of Tel Aviv’s top restaurants.From upmarket stores on Dizengoff Street and Kikar Hamedina to the markets of Carmel and Jaffa, prepare to be wowed by an eclectic mix of local designs and international brands. Because that’s the great thing about shopping in Tel Aviv - the city is home to many young, up-and-coming designers who are always pushing the envelope when it comes to style and creativity.Here’s our rundown of places that every fashionista should check out when making a trip to the White City…Shopping in Neve Tzedek First on the list has to be a trip to Neve Tzedek, one of Tel Aviv’s most picturesque and charming neighborhoods, perfect for a morning coffee, a light lunch, an afternoon stroll - and some shopping! The entire area, but particularly the main Shabazi Street, is full of tiny stores that sell things so pretty you won’t be able to stop yourself from reaching for your wallet.Pop into Numero 13 (selling upmarket European labels), Fine Lab (local designers Moraver and Abromavich are famed for their organic creations, which only come in black, white, and grey!), and Badim which sells gorgeous textiles in gloriously bright colors - the carpets and bedspreads are just lovely. Finally, if you love jewelry, check out Ivshin, which is full of one-of-a-kind contemporary pieces - bracelets, earrings, and necklaces which are the perfect gift for a close friend or a way to treat yourself.Boaz Kashi Jewelry at Shalom Shabazi Street in the Neve Tzedek neighborhoodShopping in Dizengoff Street Dizengoff is Tel Aviv’s main street, running down the city from north to south, close to top beaches, eateries, and a wealth of small stores. Named after the first mayor of the city, Meir Dizengoff, from the 1940s onwards it’s always been a popular hang-out for those who like cafes but it’s also home to some fine shopping, particularly if you’re looking to buy at small stores.Head to Naama Bezalel for high-quality, tailor-made garments that you can wear to elegant events or Blueberry (which has incredible staff, who take such a personal interest in customers and their clothing needs that it makes the experience special). The Old North of the area is home to a lot of bridal stores (should you be planning your special day) and further down, on the corner of King George, you’ll find the famous Dizengoff Mall which can keep you busy for hours.On a non-fashion note, if you like stylish objects then pop into the Bauhaus Centre (where you can pick up all manner of items relating to this very popular architectural style - from coffee table books and mugs to prints and jewelry).Dizengoff StreetShopping at the Jaffa Flea MarketIf there’s one place you have to go shopping when you’re visiting Israel’s cultural capital, make it Jaffa. This beautiful, ancient port town, just up the road from central Tel Aviv, has an incredible history that stretches back thousands of years, to when Jonah fled God on a ship and ended up in the belly of a whale as punishment.Taking a walking tour of Jaffa is an excellent way to get a sense of it - you’ll see the harbor, the Artist’s Quarter (where locals sell their paintings in small studios on cobbled streets), and Abrasha Park, with a Wishing Bridge, the beautiful St, Peter’s Church and stunning views of the Mediterranean.You'llAnd when it comes to shopping, just head to the Jaffa Flea Market (the ‘Shuk ha Pishpeshim’) which is a treasure trove of antiques, vintage items, second-hand clothes, and all kinds of jewelry. It’s great for those to love to poke around and bargain a bit - and the surrounding area also has boutiques and small stores where you can find shoes, bags, hats, and everything else to make your outfit look stylish.The Flea Market in the Old City of Jaffa, one of the most favorite places for shopping in Tel AvivShopping at Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel) Tel Aviv markets are pretty legendary and none more so than the Carmel Market (‘Shuk ha Carmel’) - the bustling and lively spot downtown where locals go to pick up fresh produce and tourists flock for Israeli street food, cute cafes, and busy bars. Friday afternoon, before the sabbath comes in, is particularly busy so be prepared to jostle.The Carmel is a great place to pick up well-priced wide-brimmed hats and Brazilian-style sandals, t-shirts, canvas bags, and everything else you could want if you’re heading to the beach. But it’s also a great place to shop for spices and sweet and local produce - there’s so much on offer that it can be overwhelming so feel free to ask the stall owners for advice. And for budding chefs, consider taking a food tour of the Carmel Market, to get an idea of what Middle Eastern cuisine is all about.Next door to the Carmel Market you’ll find Nahalat Binyamin, a beautiful pedestrianized street that holds a bi-weekly arts and crafts market. Everything there is made by hand by local Israeli artists - from jewelry, paintings, and wooden toys to Judaica (think Shabbat tablecloths, mezuzahs, and Hanukkah lamps) to pretty handmade garments.When you shop here, not only are you supporting small businesses but chances are you’ll end up picking something unique. Look out for the metal kaleidoscopes, the ‘Sesame Street-style’ puppets, and the watercolors of beautiful spots across Israel (from the hills of Jerusalem to the mountains in the Galilee) and if you’re a sucker for bathtime, then the handmade soaps are delightful.Halva with different flavors and fillings In one of the stalls of the Carmel MarketShopping at Sarona Market Tel AvivThe Sarona Market sits in an area that was once the home of German Templars! Today, all of the original buildings have been beautifully restored - many of them have restaurants outside - but Sarona’s main attraction is an indoor culinary market, outside of which are beautiful landscaped gardens and views of the city’s business district.Inside, there are endless gourmet offerings and plenty of street food too - from baked goods and deli fare to amazing cheeses, spices, and delectable ice cream. Sarona is also home to some excellent restaurants, including Claro (which serves upmarket seasonal plates) and the Tasting Room, where you can sample all kinds of Israeli wines, accompanied by some excellent bar food.Sarona Market - A large indoor culinary marketShopping at the Tel Aviv Port (‘Namal’)The Tel Aviv port (known as the ‘Namal’ in Hebrew) is an extremely popular destination for locals and tourists alike, boasting a long wooden boardwalk (perfect for strolling along the sea). a wide variety of cafes and restaurants, some very trendy nightclubs, and plenty of shops in which you can browse.In the different hangars, you’ll find a variety of labels - Steve Madden (the well-known creative shoe designer), ‘Comme Il Faut’ (which is a clothing business designed by women for women), and Shilav (selling the most adorable baby clothes). There’s also a nicely laid-out indoor food market where you can pick up smoothies, fresh pasta, and seafood galore, and every Friday from 9 am until 2 pm there’s a local farmer’s market.View of the Tel Aviv Port (Namal)Shopping Malls: TLV Fashion Mall, Gan Ha’ir and Ramat AvivTel Aviv malls are the place to hit if you’re looking for luxury brands and upmarket stores. The TLV Fashion Mall, on Carlebach Street, is popular with younger shoppers, with a lot of international names such as Zara, COS, and H&M, combined with Israeli designers such as Daniella Lehavi.Close to Kikar Rabin, you’ll find the Gan Ha’ir, which is an elegant, semi-open-air mall boasting over 100 stores, and plenty of cafes besides. Here you’ll find Intima (full of lovely lingerie), Max Mara (elegant Italian fashion), and Golf (one of the largest fashion names in Israel today).Or jump on a bus and in fifteen minutes you’ll be at the Ramat Aviv mall, a rather bourgeois spot where you’ll see lots of ladies who lunch. Whether it’s Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein that you’re after or Armani Exchange, and ‘fast-fashion’ Bershka, you’ll find it here.Buy from the best!Final Thoughts: Embrace the Shopping Diversity of Tel AvivTel Aviv's shopping scene is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself. From chic boutiques and bustling markets to upscale malls and unique local finds, the city caters to every fashion taste and preference. Whether you're searching for high-end designer pieces, local fashion gems, or vintage treasures, Tel Aviv offers an array of options to satisfy your retail cravings. Enjoy exploring these vibrant shopping destinations and make the most of your fashionable adventure in this stylish city.