ISRAEL TOURISM
November 2025
guesthouses go for $50–$80 . Street food - falafel, hummus, shawarma - costs around $10- $15 a meal, while sit-down dining can reach $40–$60 per person. The Israeli shekel (ILS ) is the local currency. Credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere, but keeping a bit of cash helps in smaller towns or markets. For value, travel in shoulder seasons (March–May or September–November), avoid major religious holidays, and consider staying just outside city centers. Tipping is expected: 10–15 % at restaurants, a few shekels for hotel staff, and round-ups for taxi fares.
rebuilding communities — a new form of travel that gives meaning back to movement.
advisories before departure.
Practical Info: Staying Safe and Connected Safety: Israel’s cities are generally safe for visitors. Police and tourism officers are visible, and incidents affecting tourists are rare. Still, it’s smart to register your travel plans with your embassy and stay alert to local news. Internet & communication: Wi-Fi is fast and reliable almost everywhere, from hotels to cafés. Local SIM cards are inexpensive, and eSIMs work smoothly. Language : Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Local customs : Modesty is appreciated in religious sites - cover shoulders and knees. Shops close for Shabbat (Friday sunset – Saturday night), and life slows down, especially in Jerusalem. A friendly “Shalom” or “Toda” (thank you) goes a long way. Where to Stay: From Desert Lodges to Urban Cool Israel’s accommodation scene has bounced back with style. Luxury travelers will find new high-end openings on the Tel Aviv seafront and along the Dead Sea, featuring spas, salt- water pools, and world-class dining. Boutique hotels are Israel’s sweet spot - restored stone houses in Jerusalem, design-
Getting There and Around
Ben Gurion International Airport, near Tel Aviv, is Israel’s main gateway. United Airlines and other carriers have added new nonstop flights from major U.S. cities including Washington, D.C., and Chicago. Within the country, trains connect Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and Be’er Sheva efficiently. Intercity buses are frequent and affordable,
Masada Trail at dawn, rappel down desert cliffs, or kayak the Jordan River. The Red Sea draws snorkelers and divers to its coral gardens, while the Negev is ideal for 4×4 safaris and stargazing camps. Culture seekers can roam through ancient ruins or catch contemporary art in Tel Aviv’s galleries. Street markets, from Jerusalem’s Machane Yehuda to Jaffa’s flea market, are chaotic and irresistible. Food is a way of life here — from shawarma stands to slow-cooked stews. Nightlife thrives too, especially in Tel Aviv, where bars spill onto sidewalks and DJs spin till sunrise. And for travelers wanting
Visa Rules and Entry Requirements
while rental cars make exploring rural areas and the desert easy. In cities, walking and biking work well; Tel Aviv’s flat streets are made for it. Rideshare apps and taxis are safe and widespread. Cruise passengers will find Haifa and Ashdod welcoming ports, often linking to Mediterranean itineraries. Do expect tight airport security checks - a hallmark of Israeli travel - but it’s handled professionally and efficiently. Costs, Budgeting, and Money Tips
Most Western travelers — including U.S., EU, and UK citizens — can enter Israel for up to 90 days without a visa. Starting January 2025 , however, some nationalities need to complete an electronic travel authorization (ETA-IL) before arrival. It’s a quick online form available through official government portals. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your stay. Security screening at entry is thorough but routine. Keep in mind that some regions, such as near Gaza or Lebanon, may be restricted for safety reasons - always check your government’s travel
Israel isn’t a cheap destination, but it’s
manageable with planning. Mid-range hotels average $150–$200 per night in big cities, while hostels and
connection, many local organizations welcome volunteers to help in
44 • www.itn.co.il
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