Top Things to See
 Jerusalem
Jerusalem is a fascinating city whether you are shopping, dining, marvelling at historical sites or making a religious pilgrimage. For many faiths, it is one of the most revered cities on Earth. Well known attractions include the Wailing Wall, the Dome of the Rock and the Israel Museum which houses the Dead Sea Scrolls. Visitors can tour Mount Zion and the Tomb of David, follow the Way of the Cross and enter the Church of the Holy Scripture. Excursions to three important sites are to the Abu Ghush, En Karem and the Hill of Rachel.
 Jerusalem’s Armenian Quarter is a unique ethnic community, centred around the Monastery and Church of Saint James. A fine introduction to Armenian history and culture can be found at the Mardigian Museum and the nearby shops selling renowned Armenian ceramics and unusual carved crosses. Delectable Armenian cuisine is on offer at the very charming Armenian Taverna
 The Christian Quarter inside Jerusalem’s walled Old City holds the most important Christian church, the Holy Sepulchre, and a number of monasteries, archaeological sites, and shrines along the Via Dolorosa. It is also an exotic shopping area with hundreds of stores along narrow, enclosed pathways. Prepare to bargain, don't rush, and do accept a cup of tea or coffee offered by some shop owners.
 The newly restored Jewish Quarter includes a residential area, ancient and modern synagogues, archaeological sites, and shops selling books, certified antiquities, art, and Judaica. The Quarter's most famous landmark is the destroyed Hurva Synagogue, surmounted by a wide arch. The square provides a small playground, and leading off it is the Cardo, the Wohl Archaeological Museum, and Burnt House. From here you can also get to the medieval remains of Saint Mary of the Germans, and the broad stairway that leads to the Western Wall. Many cafes and Falafel stands will help sustain you as you explore this vibrant community.
 Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv is an exciting city bustling with commerce, culture, nightlife and sandy beaches. The Museum of the Diaspora is internationally famous, presenting fascinating insights into Jewish history and culture. The colourful Carmel Market is a popular place to visit. Classical music fans will delight in the regular performances of the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra (www.ipo.co.il), drawing audiences from all over the world. The Jaffa Port, situated a mile from the city, is one of the oldest ports in the world with archaeological finds dating back to the third century BC. Jaffa also has a nice beach, the fabulous Old Jaffa flea market and vibrant nightlife.
 Dead Sea (Ein Bokek)
Ein Bobek is the biggest and most developed therapeutic complex along the entire Dead Sea coast. With luxury hotels, numerous clinics and spas, hot springs, shopping malls, restaurants and bars, it exists purely for the relaxation and enjoyment. The Dead Sea is renowned for its rejuvenating and therapeutic benefits, having more minerals and salt than any other body of water in the world. There are many other activities on offer such as jeep tours, camel rides, mountain biking, rappelling, hiking, desert barbecues and Bedouin feasts.
Perched on a cliff on the left bank of the Dead Sea, stands the ancient palace ruins of King Herod, Masada Palace. It can be reached by cable car or a meandering footpath, granting a stunning view of the Dead Sea and pink mountains of Moab. Another interesting sight around the Dead Sea is Mount Sodom, a 13km mountain range comprised of pure salt which has many caves with extraordinary hanging salt formations. Also in the area is Qumran, the place where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered by a shepherd in 1947. Excavations at the site found more than 900 pieces of scrolls in more than 30 caves. These relics can be seen at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem.
 Eilat (Red Sea)
Israel's southernmost city Eilat, sits on the tip of the Red Sea. A popular year-round resort area, many tourists flock to Eilat to enjoy world-class diving, sunbathing and the exotic beauty of the landscape. The most pleasant time of year to visit is in the winter when temperatures average 22°C. Summertime can often exceed 40°C. However, the relatively cool and clean waters of the Red Sea make it a favourite tourist attraction.
Haifa
Sitting on the Mediterranean Sea is the cosmopolitan city of Haifa. Along with its superb sea views, the city is a great base for touring the Galilee, including the sea grottoes at Rosh Hanikra.
Note:
Haifa was a primary target of rockets during the 2006 Israel-Lebanon crisis. Please check current travel advisory warnings before travelling to this area.
 Jericho
Known as the ‘City of Palms’, Jericho is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited sites. The walls and towers of Jericho are 4000 years older than the pyramids of Egypt. This ancient town dates back more than 10,000 years and lies 260 metres below sea level, 36km east of Jerusalem. Other sites worth visiting in the area are Deir Quruntal and Mount Temptation, where Jesus spent 40 days and nights fasting and meditating; also where a monastery was later built. Not for the faint at heart, Deir Quruntal can be reached on a steep and fairly challenging path.
 Netanya
Netanya's long seashore of sandy beaches has made the town a very popular tourist resort. In March 2006, American property tycoon, Donald Trump, announced plans for a new hotel in Netanya. In addition, Netanya is home to the Poleg Nature Reserve and the beautiful Irises Dora Rainpool nature parks. The Irises Park contains the world's largest population of a species of iris flowers (iris atropurpurea) Note:
Netanya has been the target of numerous terrorist attacks. Please check current travel advisory warnings before travelling to this area.
 Tiberias
Tiberias is a popular holiday town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, an ideal base for exploring the exotic region, or for simply relaxing on the nearby freshwater beaches. Within the city itself are famous hot springs which have been used since Roman times. The mystical city of Safed, Golan Heights and fascinating nature reserves make for great day trips. A unique activity you can participate in while in Tiberias is joining Professor Yizhar Hirschfeld of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in his archaeological excavation. Volunteers are welcome to join and help uncover this most spectacular historical site. Contact the university for more information.
Top Things to Do
Browse a Souk
Israel’s bustling souks (markets) are lively and fascinating places to visit. You can find anything from antiques to rugs; jewellery and clothing to live camels! In Tel Aviv, search for unique finds at the Old Jaffa flea market, or enjoy the buzz of the Carmel Market.
Explore a National Park
Nature lovers can enjoy Israel's 50 national parks, many of which are also home to historic sites. For more information, visit www.parks.org.il/ParksENG.
 Float in the Dead Sea
World famous for its therapeutic benefits, the Dead Sea has more minerals and salt than any other body of water in the world. People come from all over the globe to soak and effortlessly float in its soothing water. Many health spas are in the area offering a range of treatments utilizing Dead Sea salt, mud and minerals. Truly a treat!
 Follow the Path of the Cross
Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem's Old City traces the traditional path Jesus walked from judgment to crucifixion. The path has been followed by hundreds of millions of pilgrims over 1500 years. There are nine 'stations' along the route leading to five more in the Christian Quarter's Church of the Holy Sepulchre, traditionally recognized as the site of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.
 Go Diving in the Red Sea
The town of Eilat sits on the Red Sea, renowned for its clear water and vibrant marine life. Enjoy a dive, snorkel, swim or simply relax on the beach at this popular resort area.
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