Things to see in Israel

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Israel Attractions

As the the birthplace of Christianity and Judaism, Israel is densely packed with enough attractions and experiences to last a lifetime.

For lovers of sun, sand and sea, head to the renowned Red Sea and enjoy floating in its crystalline turquoise waters; or for a rejuvenating experience, visit one of the many Dead Sea spa resorts and while you're in the area, head to Israel's most popular tourist destination of Masada located in the Judean Desert.

Bethlehem is worth a visit, as well as Nazareth, one of the most important Christian holy sites where Jesus spent most of his life; while Yad VaShem is an important memorial to the Holocaust providing a multifaceted tribute to the millions of Jews who died during World War II.

The best time of year to visit is during the spring (March/April) and autumn months (September/October), when the weather is cooler and more tolerable for tourists. Since travelling distances are not great in Israel, it's often almost quicker to drive to some places than to catch a plane. There are good public transport systems in place in the major cities. The best way to experience Israel is to hire a car and take a relaxed approach to seeing the country and exploring all the religious and historical sites it has to offer.

Masada

Situated in the Judean Desert and overlooking the Dead Sea, is one of Israel's most popular tourist attractions - the mountaintop fortress of Masada (sometimes spelled Massada). This enduring symbol of Jewish history is the site of the heroic defiance by 967 Jewish Zealots,... see full details

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the holiest Christian site in Jerusalem - the site of Jesus' crucifixion, burial and resurrection. First constructed in 335 by Emperor Constantine, persistent damage has been inflicted on the structure over the centuries and subsequent repair-work has... see full details

Yad VaShem

This vital memorial to the Holocaust provides a multifaceted tribute to the millions of Jews who died during World War II. The focus of the museum is to commemorate and document the events of the Holocaust and provide ongoing research and education. The Museum's... see full details

Citadel or Tower of David

The Citadel was constructed in the 1st century BC as a fortress for King Herod, and has since served as a strategic defence position of the Old City. The tallest tower of the Citadel, the Phasael, is the place to appreciate the magnificent... see full details

Bethlehem

Bethlehem is just six miles (10km) south of Jerusalem, and is a major tourist attraction for pilgrims and visitors alike. The putative birthplace of Jesus, this is a charming town despite its tourist-centred commercialism. The Church of the Nativity is the focal point for... see full details

The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea and its immediate environment is a landscape abundant with natural wonders. Most notable of these is the high salt and mineral concentration found in the sea's waters, that enables visitors to float effortlessly on the surface. The therapeutic properties of the... see full details

Eretz Israel Museum (The Land of Israel Museum)

The Eretz Israel Museum has a unique layout and character, more in the nature of a museum park clustered around the ancient mound of the Tel Kasile, where ongoing archaeological excavations are in progress. The museum consists of various pavilions, each displaying different cultural... see full details

$Ancient Beit She\'an City$

Beit She'an National Park

Beit She'an was established in the 5th century BC. Its strategic location brought with it many skirmishes in an effort to control this hilltop settlement. It was the seat of Egyptian rule before falling to the King of Assyria and was later resettled... see full details

Caesarea

The ancient port-city of Caesarea was established 2,000 years ago by Herod the Great as a tribute to the Roman Emperor, Augustus Caesar. Its rich archaeological heritage includes the remains of Roman architecture - most notably, an aqueduct, a theatre, houses and palaces. For... see full details

Nazareth

Nazareth is one of the most important Christian holy sites, attracting pilgrims from all over the world. It was here that Jesus spent most of his life and it was here that the Miracle of the Annunciation took place. Nazareth is home to... see full details

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