Things to do in Galilee

Galilee is known for its powerful biblical associations and lush landscapes. The region attracts both pilgrims and outdoor enthusiasts and has numerous world-class archaeological sites. Other attractions in Galilee include the Israeli collective farms, called kibbutzim, and many ranches and campsites that offer food, accommodation and fun outdoor activities.

Nazareth, one of the most important Christian sites in the world, is the place where Jesus spent most of his life and where the Annunciation took place, according to the Bible. Attractions in Nazareth include the Church of the Annunciation, the Church of Saint Joseph, the Synagogue Church, and the Mosque Quarter. Nazareth is perched on the breathtaking Jezreel Valley, one of Galilee's many impressive natural features. The Sea of Galilee, where Jesus reputedly walked on water, is also a place of great religious significance and a beautiful body of water to explore.

Galilee has a number of renowned national parks and wilderness areas, though visitors should note that, in Israel, National Parks are not necessarily nature areas. The Gan Hashlosha National Park has gorgeous warm pools, waterfalls, and an Archaeological Museum. Beit She'an National Park houses the ancient remains of the city of the same name, with a well-preserved Roman theatre and Byzantine bath house. Hamat Tiberias National Park is home to 17 natural springs believed since antiquity to have healing properties.

Hamat Tiberias National Park photo

Hamat Tiberias National Park

The 17 springs of Hamat Tiberias have been used since antiquity to cure various ailments. In fact, the springs were so renowned for their healing properties and the relief they pro…

Hamat Tiberias National Park

The 17 springs of Hamat Tiberias have been used since antiquity to cure various ailments. In fact, the springs were so renowned for their healing properties and the relief they provided for various maladies that people were permitted to bath in them without censure on the Sabbath.

The pools and various spa facilities and treatments are still the greatest draw for visitors, but there are some cultural attractions as well. Built between 337 and 286 BC, the Hamat Tiberias synagogue contains the oldest surviving mosaic floor in Israel. The central mosaic is a beautifully preserved design representing a large zodiac. The Hammam Suleiman Museum is also located in the park and is situated right at the entrance.

Beit She'an National Park photo

Beit She'an National Park

Beit She'an was established in the 5th century BC. Its hilltop location made the settlement strategically valuable, meaning that many over the centuries sought to conquer it. It wa…

Beit She'an National Park

Beit She'an was established in the 5th century BC. Its hilltop location made the settlement strategically valuable, meaning that many over the centuries sought to conquer it. It was the seat of Egyptian rule before falling to the King of Assyria, and was later resettled as a Hellenistic city during Alexander the Great's time.

A period of conquests followed until the Romans returned the city to its former residents. Beit She'an's face changed markedly after Christianity was declared the Roman Empire's official religion in the 4th century AD. Today, this thriving city lies around the remains of an ancient centre. The Byzantine bathhouse, Roman theatre and the Roman amphitheatre used for gladiatorial battles are among its most notable ruins.

Gan Hashlosha National Park (Sahne) photo

Gan Hashlosha National Park (Sahne)

The Amal River's warm waters flow through the Gan Hashlosha National Park and can be enjoyed year round, with temperatures in the region averaging around 82F (28C). Park visitors c…

Gan Hashlosha National Park (Sahne)

The Amal River's warm waters flow through the Gan Hashlosha National Park and can be enjoyed year round, with temperatures in the region averaging around 82F (28C). Park visitors can relax in its warm pools and rejuvenate in the natural Jacuzzi underneath an invigorating waterfall.

This is a wonderful place to spend the day swimming and exploring walking trails with the family. Lifeguards are on duty, and visitors will find changing-room and shower facilities, a kid's playground and plenty of tables and shaded areas for picnics. There is also a restaurant for those who don't want to bring their own picnic.

Caesarea photo

Caesarea

Herod the Great established the ancient port city of Caesarea 2,000 years ago as a tribute to the Roman Emperor, Augustus Caesar. Before this, it was known as Straton's Tower after…

Caesarea

Herod the Great established the ancient port city of Caesarea 2,000 years ago as a tribute to the Roman Emperor, Augustus Caesar. Before this, it was known as Straton's Tower after its founder Straton, who may have ruled Sidon in the 4th century BC. Caesarea is conveniently located between Haifa and Tel Aviv and is a popular excursion for visitors. Its rich archaeological heritage includes the remains of a Roman aqueduct and theatre, as well as houses and palaces. The Roman theatre is used as a concert venue for big Israeli and international stars and is a special place to catch a show.

Nazareth photo

Nazareth

Nazareth is one of the most important Christian holy sites, attracting pilgrims from all over the world. Jesus spent most of his life in the area and, today, the city has both Musl…

Nazareth

Nazareth is one of the most important Christian holy sites, attracting pilgrims from all over the world. Jesus spent most of his life in the area and, today, the city has both Muslim and Christian residents. Visitors can expect a quaint mix of red roofs and white churches to greet them from the Galilean hillside, the summit of which offers a glorious view of the Jezreel Valley. The area is also home to some significant religious places. Visitors should stop at the Church of the Annunciation, where the upper sanctuary's walls depict scenes from the life of Mary. Catholic communities from around the world donated the work.

Outdoor Adventures in Galilee photo

Outdoor Adventures in Galilee

Galilee is renowned for its natural beauty and ancient biblical sites, and outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the region's many fun activities, which include camping, cycling, hiking, …

Outdoor Adventures in Galilee

Galilee is renowned for its natural beauty and ancient biblical sites, and outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the region's many fun activities, which include camping, cycling, hiking, horse-riding, kayaking, 4x4 tours and river-rafting. Seasoned rafters and kayakers will find the area's white-water scene tame, though amateurs can look forward to some amazing river trips through the area's beautiful scenery. A few operators in eastern and upper Galilee, and the Golan Heights offer tours through the rugged and breath-taking landscapes. There are many different routes, covering various religious and historical sites as well as the region's natural features.