The Wailing Wall
Average Daily Expenses (Per Person)
All Budget Styles
Jerusalem
|
Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
₪ 311.68 |
| Accommodation1 | ₪ 190.92 |
| Food2 | ₪ 85.62 |
| Water2 | ₪ 13.86 |
| Local Transportation1 | ₪ 23.24 |
| Entertainment1 | ₪ 25.33 |
| Communication2 | ₪ 8.38 |
| Tips and Handouts1 | ₪ 22.22 |
| Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps1 | ₪ 4.00 |
| Alcohol2 | ₪ 46.89 |
The capital city of Israel is Jerusalem, which is probably one of the most historically rich cities in the world. It is also the largest city in Israel. While Tel Aviv holds many of the responsibilities of a capital city, officially, Jerusalem is still considered the capital. It is important to note that most countries have their embassies in Tel Aviv, not in Jerusalem.
Jerusalem has many different districts, but as a tourist you are most likely to spend the majority of your time in the Old City. The Old City is still walled in and has many places of significance for Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. Other districts in Jerusalem include West Jerusalem, which is the commercial center of the city, East Jerusalem, which was claimed by Israel during the Six Day war of 1967, Me'a Shearim, famous as the home of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish population, and Ein Kerem which is popular with artists and sculptors.
Jerusalem is a city with many neighborhoods, and while it's easy to walk around most neighborhoods, to go any significant distance you will need some other form of transportation. Cabs are readily available and generally reasonably priced. Cabs are on a meter so the price is generally predictable. Buses are another wonderful option for traveling around Jerusalem. They can be quite crowded, but they are frequent and cheap. Jerusalem also opened a light rail system in late 2011. It currently connects the northeastern areas to the southwestern areas along the western side of the city. There are plans for additional lines to open in the future.
Jerusalem has an endless supply of sights of significance to many different religions. It's virtually impossible to see every major sight in the city during one visit so it is best to prioritize your options. In addition to visiting the religiously important sights, you should also allow yourself time to simply walk through the Old City and other neighborhoods of interest. In addition to being a city of such religious significance, Jerusalem is also a fun city to explore in and of itself, and you should not miss this experience while you're here.
Jerusalem has many different districts, but as a tourist you are most likely to spend the majority of your time in the Old City. The Old City is still walled in and has many places of significance for Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. Other districts in Jerusalem include West Jerusalem, which is the commercial center of the city, East Jerusalem, which was claimed by Israel during the Six Day war of 1967, Me'a Shearim, famous as the home of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish population, and Ein Kerem which is popular with artists and sculptors.
Jerusalem is a city with many neighborhoods, and while it's easy to walk around most neighborhoods, to go any significant distance you will need some other form of transportation. Cabs are readily available and generally reasonably priced. Cabs are on a meter so the price is generally predictable. Buses are another wonderful option for traveling around Jerusalem. They can be quite crowded, but they are frequent and cheap. Jerusalem also opened a light rail system in late 2011. It currently connects the northeastern areas to the southwestern areas along the western side of the city. There are plans for additional lines to open in the future.
Jerusalem has an endless supply of sights of significance to many different religions. It's virtually impossible to see every major sight in the city during one visit so it is best to prioritize your options. In addition to visiting the religiously important sights, you should also allow yourself time to simply walk through the Old City and other neighborhoods of interest. In addition to being a city of such religious significance, Jerusalem is also a fun city to explore in and of itself, and you should not miss this experience while you're here.
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Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea
By wanderinggurl
on May 15, 2010 in Entertainment
Go to Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea from Jerusalem. Public buses are frequent and easy to catch so there's no need to take a tour. Spend the morning hiking through the waterfalls in Ein Gedi and the lounge by the Dead Sea in the afternoon.
Cheap Jerusalem Hostel: New Swedish Hostel
If you're looking for a cheap hostel or place to stay in Jerusalem, check out the New Swedish Hostel. It's not really new, nor is it Swedish, but it's a good place at a great price. They have a large room with a lot of dorm beds, and private rooms with doubles and triples in the back and upstairs. It's in a great location right in the middle of town off of the main "street" that runs east-west through the middle of the old town. From the Jaffa gate head straight into old town, down the gradual stairs that are this main road, and it will be on the left after a hundred meters or so. It has a kitchen, internet, and a TV room. If you stay a few days or more, get to know the guy at the front desk. He'll mellow out with time.
Tiberias
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
₪ 263.61 |
| Accommodation1 | ₪ 165.30 |
| Food2 | ₪ 83.65 |
| Local Transportation1 | ₪ 13.71 |
| Entertainment1 | ₪ 31.23 |
| Alcohol2 | ₪ 50.29 |
Tiberias is a major tourist destination in Israel. It's positioned on the western side of the Sea of Galilee and is a popular spot for Israeli and international tourists alike. The town itself offers great views of the beautiful blue waters and the surrounding green hills. Tiberias is also considered to be one of the Jewish Four Holy Cities. Many people also use Tiberias as a jumping off point to explore the Golan Heights area.
One popular activity in Tiberias is to rent a bike and cycle around the lake. The trip is approximately 60 kilometers and takes close to a full day if you stop off at some sights along the way. If the weather is particularly hot, or you're not in the best shape it is recommended that you get up early to begin your trip before the heat of the day. There are some great swimming beaches on the other side of the lake that can offer you a refreshing place to cool off and rest your legs. Also around the lake are some interesting sights that are of religious significance. These include Capernaum with the House of Peter, Kinnarot Cemetery, and Tabgha, where the Feeding of Multitude occurred.
Within Tiberias itself you can see a handful of sights as well. These include Rambam's Tomb, the Church & Monastery of the Apostles, the tomb of Rabbi Moshe Ben Maimon, and the Antiquities Museum. Tiberias is also a fascinating place to see Israelis on vacation. You'll see all types, from Hasidic Jews to Muslims and the nonreligious enjoy a vacation on the lake's shores.
There are no shortage of hostels or restaurants around the town. If you choose to do a bike ride you can rent a bicycle from most of the hostels and some of the hotels. You'll also find no shortage of sweets here, as ice cream and slushees are available almost anywhere.
One popular activity in Tiberias is to rent a bike and cycle around the lake. The trip is approximately 60 kilometers and takes close to a full day if you stop off at some sights along the way. If the weather is particularly hot, or you're not in the best shape it is recommended that you get up early to begin your trip before the heat of the day. There are some great swimming beaches on the other side of the lake that can offer you a refreshing place to cool off and rest your legs. Also around the lake are some interesting sights that are of religious significance. These include Capernaum with the House of Peter, Kinnarot Cemetery, and Tabgha, where the Feeding of Multitude occurred.
Within Tiberias itself you can see a handful of sights as well. These include Rambam's Tomb, the Church & Monastery of the Apostles, the tomb of Rabbi Moshe Ben Maimon, and the Antiquities Museum. Tiberias is also a fascinating place to see Israelis on vacation. You'll see all types, from Hasidic Jews to Muslims and the nonreligious enjoy a vacation on the lake's shores.
There are no shortage of hostels or restaurants around the town. If you choose to do a bike ride you can rent a bicycle from most of the hostels and some of the hotels. You'll also find no shortage of sweets here, as ice cream and slushees are available almost anywhere.
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Biking Around the Sea of Galilee
By backpackguru
on Nov 2, 2011
Many people recommend biking around the Sea of Galilee. This is a great way to see all of the sites around the lake, and it gives you an opportunity to take a plunge at one of the beaches on the other side of the lake. This is where most of the best swimming beaches are. You can rent a bike from most of the hotels and hostels around town for a reasonable price. It can be a longer bike ride than you expect. Some guidebooks mistakenly say it's an easy half day ride, while others say it requires to days. The reality is, if you're in descent shape it can be done in a day (but only a half day if you're in excellent shape and don't stop). You do need to get up and leave early to get back before the sunset and have time to linger at the sites. There are a few restaurants where you can grab lunch on the other side of the lake. Definitely take some time to swim, but don't misjudge the amount of time it will take you to get back. It can be a long ride.
Tel Aviv-Yafo
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
₪ 407.44 |
| Accommodation1 | ₪ 274.73 |
| Food2 | ₪ 92.89 |
| Water2 | ₪ 17.50 |
| Local Transportation1 | ₪ 13.75 |
| Entertainment1 | ₪ 54.29 |
| Tips and Handouts1 | ₪ 7.70 |
| Souvenirs1 | ₪ 260.00 |
| Alcohol2 | ₪ 65.40 |
Tel Aviv is the second largest city in Israel and is situated on the Mediterranean coast 60 kilometers north of Jerusalem. It's a rapidly growing city and is perhaps the most modern and cosmopolitan city in Israel. If you're looking for an embassy, you are likely to find it here, despite Jerusalem being the official capital of Israel.
Israel is a city of neighborhoods, and you could easily pass several days exploring some of the more interesting neighborhoods. Areas throughout Tel Aviv that are worth checking out include Old Jaffa, which is one of the oldest ports in the world. You'll also find a popular flea market nearby. Rabin Square is the largest public square in Israel and Dizengoff Centre is the most famous shopping area in Tel Aviv. Also be sure and take a stroll down the shore promenade where you can people watch and enjoy the warm Mediterranean coastline. Joshua Gardens is Tel Avivs main central park and is also worth a visit. There are also a handful of museums in Tel Aviv that are worth a visit. These include Tel Aviv Museum of Art and Museum of the Jewish Diaspora.
The best way to travel between neighborhoods in Tel Aviv is by bus. The bus system, like elsewhere in Israel, is quite efficient and easy to understand. Another option is taxis, which are readily available almost anywhere. You can expect to pay anywhere from 20 to 30 NIS for a local ride in Tel Aviv, and do confirm that your driver is using their meter.
The restaurant scene is Tel Aviv is excellent. You can really find any food option you might desire. There are many international options throughout the city including Chinese, sushi, and French or Italian. Food can be quite expensive, and if you're on a budget you'll find falafel or hummus options at many of the street stands around town.
Israel is a city of neighborhoods, and you could easily pass several days exploring some of the more interesting neighborhoods. Areas throughout Tel Aviv that are worth checking out include Old Jaffa, which is one of the oldest ports in the world. You'll also find a popular flea market nearby. Rabin Square is the largest public square in Israel and Dizengoff Centre is the most famous shopping area in Tel Aviv. Also be sure and take a stroll down the shore promenade where you can people watch and enjoy the warm Mediterranean coastline. Joshua Gardens is Tel Avivs main central park and is also worth a visit. There are also a handful of museums in Tel Aviv that are worth a visit. These include Tel Aviv Museum of Art and Museum of the Jewish Diaspora.
The best way to travel between neighborhoods in Tel Aviv is by bus. The bus system, like elsewhere in Israel, is quite efficient and easy to understand. Another option is taxis, which are readily available almost anywhere. You can expect to pay anywhere from 20 to 30 NIS for a local ride in Tel Aviv, and do confirm that your driver is using their meter.
The restaurant scene is Tel Aviv is excellent. You can really find any food option you might desire. There are many international options throughout the city including Chinese, sushi, and French or Italian. Food can be quite expensive, and if you're on a budget you'll find falafel or hummus options at many of the street stands around town.
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Street Markets
By backpackguru
on Nov 2, 2011 in Souvenirs
Tel Aviv is a modern city, with an excellent party vibe and beautiful beaches. It has a completely different feel than it's nearby neighbor, Jerusalem. There are many international restaurants to choose from and tons of clubs to visit. One of the most interesting parts of Tel Aviv is the markets though. You can find fresh Mediterranean produce, homemade arts and crafts, among other things around these great street stalls. You can pass several hours checking out what people are selling. Some of the more interesting booths have photography from around Israel. The photography has managed to capture scenes at the Western Wall and various events than an outsider would never be able to capture.
Eilat
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
₪ 421.26 |
| Accommodation1 | ₪ 280.14 |
| Food2 | ₪ 105.74 |
| Water2 | ₪ 3.50 |
| Local Transportation1 | ₪ 39.74 |
| Entertainment1 | ₪ 48.00 |
| Alcohol2 | ₪ 80.00 |
Eilat serves as the gateway to Israel from Egypt. It is a popular tourist destination as it sits on the beautiful Red Sea and has some wonderful diving or snorkeling opportunities. For the most part, Eilat can be considered a resort town, with no shortage of sun, entertainment, bars, and partying. You will find both Israeli and international tourists looking for an oasis to escape to here.
The main beach area in Eilat is the two kilometer stretch of waterfront known as the North Beach area. The area is lined with fancy hotels and there's a promenade that has plenty of artist stalls, restaurants, and shopping options. It's a great place to take a walk during the evening when the activities are in full force. Another beach area, the southern beach, has more coral reef areas and is better for snorkeling. It is protected by the Israel Nature Reserve Authority, but there are many public beaches and a handful of scuba diving shops that offer trips. You do need transportation to travel to this southern beach areas.
Some of the top sights in Eilat include the Underwater Observatory, which is a great way to see the Red Sea without getting wet. Dolphin Reef is a facility that helps to rehabilitate sick and injured dolphins. Kings City in Eilat is a theme park that is designed with bible theme. Another interesting option is to take a tour into the Negev desert, which surrounds Eilat. There are many hiking trails and some very impressive scenery that are most easily visited through an organized tour.
There are countless restaurants throughout Eilat, most of which cater to tourists. Along the main promenade areas you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants, but you will also find these restaurants are often the most expensive. Off the promenade area you will find plenty of other restaurants which, while not cheap, are usually more reasonably priced.
The main beach area in Eilat is the two kilometer stretch of waterfront known as the North Beach area. The area is lined with fancy hotels and there's a promenade that has plenty of artist stalls, restaurants, and shopping options. It's a great place to take a walk during the evening when the activities are in full force. Another beach area, the southern beach, has more coral reef areas and is better for snorkeling. It is protected by the Israel Nature Reserve Authority, but there are many public beaches and a handful of scuba diving shops that offer trips. You do need transportation to travel to this southern beach areas.
Some of the top sights in Eilat include the Underwater Observatory, which is a great way to see the Red Sea without getting wet. Dolphin Reef is a facility that helps to rehabilitate sick and injured dolphins. Kings City in Eilat is a theme park that is designed with bible theme. Another interesting option is to take a tour into the Negev desert, which surrounds Eilat. There are many hiking trails and some very impressive scenery that are most easily visited through an organized tour.
There are countless restaurants throughout Eilat, most of which cater to tourists. Along the main promenade areas you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants, but you will also find these restaurants are often the most expensive. Off the promenade area you will find plenty of other restaurants which, while not cheap, are usually more reasonably priced.
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Crossing the Border Between Egypt and Israel
By backpackguru
on Nov 2, 2011 in International Transportation
If you're crossing the border from Egypt and get held up at all, you'll likely finding yourself spending the night in Eilat, even if you didn't mean to. It's a nice city and there are some descent hotel and host options, but if you went diving or snorkeling on the Sinai Peninsula, it's not really worth it to go here. You already saw the best part of the Red Sea.
If you've traveled around the Middle East at all, you might get held up at the border, particularly if you've been to Syria, Iran, or Lebanon (among others). They really just want to make sure you're traveling with good intentions. Put on your best tourist smile and you likely won't have any problems besides an annoying delay.
If you've traveled around the Middle East at all, you might get held up at the border, particularly if you've been to Syria, Iran, or Lebanon (among others). They really just want to make sure you're traveling with good intentions. Put on your best tourist smile and you likely won't have any problems besides an annoying delay.
Haifa
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
₪ 340.40 |
| Accommodation1 | ₪ 193.73 |
| Food2 | ₪ 133.78 |
| Local Transportation1 | ₪ 14.86 |
| Entertainment1 | ₪ 17.14 |
| Alcohol2 | ₪ 40.00 |
Located on the northern Mediterranean coast of Israel, Haifa is Israel's third largest city. It is also a beautiful, and strategic located city near the border with Lebanon. The population of Haifa, which is approximately 300,000, is surprisingly diverse. There are Jews, Muslim, and Chistian Arabs throughout the city. While Haifa is an industrial city, with a strong work ethic and a good job base, it is also a beautiful city with many gardens and a stunning coastline. Today the job base has increasingly become technology based with some large companies such as Google and Microsoft offering employment in the area. Haifa University is also the country's top technology university.
The best way to travel around Haifa is by the elaborate bus system. Buses are convenient and run every day of the week. Haifa is also a very walkable city, so with the exception of longer trips, most destinations can be reached on foot.
There are some great restaurants throughout Haifa, and some of the cheapest food options are the street food you might find. As elsewhere in Israel, falafel is readily available throughout the city. There are also plenty of shawarma stands that are great for grabbing a quick lunch. You'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Romanian and Italian options. Restaurants in Haifa, like elsewhere in Israel, are quite expensive, but the food is generally a high quality. You are expected to tip in most restaurants, and approximately 10% is considered customary. If you receive poor service, it is acceptable to tip less.
Major sights throughout Haifa include Bahai Gardens and World Center, which is a beautiful landmark of the city. It is open every day with the exception of Wednesdays. Also make sure you visit the Cave of Elijah, Stella Maris, and the National Museum of Science. In general, a day or two is sufficient to visit most of the sights in Haifa. While it is a beautiful city, and well worth a visit, there are not a large number of sights and attractions. The city is best visited as a whole, and not on a sight by sight basis.
The best way to travel around Haifa is by the elaborate bus system. Buses are convenient and run every day of the week. Haifa is also a very walkable city, so with the exception of longer trips, most destinations can be reached on foot.
There are some great restaurants throughout Haifa, and some of the cheapest food options are the street food you might find. As elsewhere in Israel, falafel is readily available throughout the city. There are also plenty of shawarma stands that are great for grabbing a quick lunch. You'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Romanian and Italian options. Restaurants in Haifa, like elsewhere in Israel, are quite expensive, but the food is generally a high quality. You are expected to tip in most restaurants, and approximately 10% is considered customary. If you receive poor service, it is acceptable to tip less.
Major sights throughout Haifa include Bahai Gardens and World Center, which is a beautiful landmark of the city. It is open every day with the exception of Wednesdays. Also make sure you visit the Cave of Elijah, Stella Maris, and the National Museum of Science. In general, a day or two is sufficient to visit most of the sights in Haifa. While it is a beautiful city, and well worth a visit, there are not a large number of sights and attractions. The city is best visited as a whole, and not on a sight by sight basis.
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Hotels
By backpackguru
on Nov 2, 2011 in Accommodation
During busy times accommodation can be scarce and hard to come by in Haifa. Head to a few of the guesthouses, but if they're all full, ask at the desk if they know of any residents that rent out rooms to travelers. It's a fun way to experience local life in Haifa. We ended up staying at a retired couples home. They invited us onto their porch for drinks and we spent much of the evening swapping stories and learning what it's like to live in such a tension filled region. They do offer a very unique perspective on things. Most of the homes aren't air conditioned, but are built in a way that lets the outside breeze flow through. You spend a lot of time on the porch and it's actually quite relaxing.
Nazareth
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
₪ 109.11 |
| Accommodation1 | ₪ 80.00 |
| Food2 | ₪ 29.11 |
Qiryat Shemona
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
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₪ 182.74 |
| Accommodation1 | ₪ 125.00 |
| Food2 | ₪ 35.24 |
| Entertainment1 | ₪ 90.00 |
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Exploring the Golan Heights
By backpackguru
on Nov 2, 2011 in Intercity Transportation
The main purpose for coming here is really to use it as a base for exploring the Golan Heights. There's actually not a lot to do within the town.
The Golan Heights has infrequent buses that go to only a few places. It really isn't a good way to get around. You could hire a taxi, but the only realistic option for truly getting to see the Golan Heights is to rent a car. This way you can set your schedule and see the parks and places you would otherwise miss. Alternatively you could hitchhike, but this can be unpredictable. If you happen to hit a holiday (which there are many) you'll be hard pressed to get a ride as well. This is one of those places where it's best to just go ahead and get your own car.
The Golan Heights has infrequent buses that go to only a few places. It really isn't a good way to get around. You could hire a taxi, but the only realistic option for truly getting to see the Golan Heights is to rent a car. This way you can set your schedule and see the parks and places you would otherwise miss. Alternatively you could hitchhike, but this can be unpredictable. If you happen to hit a holiday (which there are many) you'll be hard pressed to get a ride as well. This is one of those places where it's best to just go ahead and get your own car.
`Akko
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
₪ 56.85 |
| Accommodation1 | ₪ 40.00 |
| Food2 | ₪ 16.85 |
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Hostels
By backpackguru
on Nov 2, 2011 in Accommodation
Because security risks can rise and fall, it's difficult for hostels to stay in business. Many owners find it too risky to invest heavily in the quality of accommodation when the tourism business so frequently rises and falls. For this reason, the accommodation options in Akko are quite scarce. There are a couple of high end options and only one hostel. The dorms involve sleeping on wireframe bunks on essentially what is a back porch. Many people come and leave, hoping to find another option around town. There isn't one. It's best to just go ahead and reserve your bed so you can pick one in a quiet location. A night or two in Akko is sufficient to see the sites anyway, so just accept your fate and join the masses on the back porch.
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