Israel

Visit the Old City of Jerusalem

One of the oldest cities in the world and the planet’s spiritual epicentre, Jerusalem is an essential part of Israel travel, sure to heighten your appreciation for ancient marvels. Within Jerusalem’s Old City one can marvel at ancient Islamic architecture at the shrine of the Dome of the Rock, and stumble into the holiest Christian landmark, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher built in 335. The Tower of David citadel should also be high on your to-do list in the Old City, being sure to take in the Kotel Tunnels stretching for 485-metres beneath the city.

Be amazed by the Church of the Holy Sepulcher

Buried within Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City you will find the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem where, according to historic mythology, Jesus was crucified and resurrected, and a shrine now stands around his empty tomb. Built in the year 335, you need not be a religious devotee to appreciate the significance and architectural wonder of this Israel landmark. Though you may need to battle crowds to make it inside the church, the awe of the central dome and shrine will make it all worthwhile.

Walk through the Kotel Tunnels

Once you’ve taken in the impossible history and wonder of Jerusalem’s Old City from above, it will be time to appreciate it from a new angle by heading underground into the Kotel Tunnels. The ancient limestone wall of Kotel - also known as the Wailing or Western Wall - has less than 20 metres of its length exposed above ground, leaving some 485 metres buried beneath the city. The narrow walkways are lit by an orange glow and behold an eerie sense of mystery, but remain one of the most popular things to do in Israel.

Swim in the Dead Sea

Sprawling across the border of Israel of Jordan, the surreal natural buoyancy of the Dead Sea is a must experience when visiting this country, as it’s one of the only places in the world where one can submerge in water ten times saltier than the ocean. Said to be the lowest valley on the planet, this landlocked body of water sees an unusual amount of minerals descending into it, caking in the sun to create a salt content of over 30%. Though a visit here won’t see you admiring brightly coloured fish or the usual beach paradise setting, this water is said to heal many bodily ailments - or at the very least it will give you a relaxing float under the Middle Eastern sun.

Passover

Culture

A Jewish celebration of liberation honoured for a week every year, Passover is momentous part of the Israeli calendar. Expect outdoor markets, street performances and overflowing restaurants, or accept the exceptional hospitality of Judaism devotees by attending a family passover meal.

Israel Festival

Music

Held in Israel since 1961, the Israel Festival has grown substantially from its classical beginnings in an ancient Roman theatre. Now showcased in various locations across Jerusalem for 3-weeks each Spring, it is one of the most important events in Israel.

Red Sea Jazz Festival

Music

Bring both international and local acts to centre stage, the Red Sea Jazz Festival is sure to see you swaying in the salty breeze of the seaside town of Eilat. First held in 1987, the event has grown to be a 4-day celebration of jazz with concerts and workshops aplenty.

Purim

Culture

Though Purim is a holiday linked traditionally to Judaism, the festivities are now honoured extensively across the country of Israel. The ways to celebrate are numerous and varied, but usually include giving gifts to the poor, eating traditional foods like hamantaschen pastries, and attending masquerade parties.

Rosh Hashanah

Culture

The Jewish New Year of Rosh Hashanah falls in the Hebrew month of Tishrei, which usually pairs with the Gregorian calendar month of September. The time is marked by reverence, family time, shared meal and sweet treats, followed by a 10-day holiday.

Israel Museum

A medley of art and archeology, the Israel Museum has grown considerably since it was established in 1965, now holding a collection of over half a million items. Sprawling across 4 wings and offering a rotation of progressive exhibitions, this important space is one of the best museums in Israel.