Israel is a beautiful country, there’s no denying that fact. With its diverse landscapes and scenery, ranging from desert in the south to lush green hills in the north, that beauty is incredibly varied, and whilst traveling in Israel you are almost certain to, very often, gasp in awe at the beauty this land has to offer. 

Here are five of the most beautiful places in Israel which you might like to include when deciding what to do in Israel.

Hula Valley

The Hula Valley in the far north of Israel may appear very different to the sandy desert that many people consider Israel to be covered by, but this spot, which is one of the most important stop-off spots for migrating birds and as a result, one of the best bird watching sites in the world, was until recently a malarial swamp which was drained and rehabilitated. Today, people visit from around the world just to watch the birds, although the tranquil outlook and peaceful leisure activities make it a great place for all to visit.

Ramon Crater

The Ramon Crater in the Negev Desert was, for centuries a wonder to those who lived in the land. Thought to be the work of an asteroid which collided with the earth and created a huge crater-like landform (and a number of smaller ones nearby), it is now known that the Ramon Crater is actually the result of water erosion when the desert was, thousands of years ago, covered by oceans. With its incredible outlook, and the unique climate and wildlife within the crater itself, the Ramon Crater is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Israel. Many visitors to Israel miss the Negev but check our Negev Tours for ideas about how to visit.

The Golden City of Jerusalem

Jerusalem, the ‘City of Gold’ is beautiful. Whether you observe it from up close, walking through the narrow streets of the Old City, or step back and take in the panorama from one of the amazing outlook spots such as the Haas Promenade, the glistening stone which symbolizes this city, considered so holy and important by so many people, and the magical approach to the city through the lush Jerusalem Hills make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Israel. There are many ways to visit Jerusalem, but check out our Jerusalem Tours for some great options for starting to explore this city.

The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is the lowest place on earth and whether you actually go in it or admire its beauty from further away, there is little doubt that this is one of the most beautiful places in Israel. Its saline bright blue waters combined with the bright sunlight of the surrounding Negev Desert, create magnificent sunrises and sunsets which people visiting Israel from around the world marvel at every day. Visit the Dead Sea on your own, or take a tour to Masada and the Dead Sea, or the Dead Sea alone.

Sunset over the Mediterranean Coast

Israel’s Mediterranean Coast produces amazing sunsets! Whether you are walking along the promenade alongside Tel Aviv Beach, sitting at the beautiful archaeological site at Caesarea, or observing from high atop Mount Carmel, you will likely be blown away by the magnificent shades of red that the sky will turn as the sun falls beyond the horizon.

Tel Aviv. THE Mediterranean ‘Capital of Cool’

There aren’t many, if any, cities in the world as vibrant, diverse, and exciting as Tel Aviv. Although not a huge city by global standards, Tel Aviv is, on the one hand a beach resort with sandy beaches stretching along its western perimeter, and on the other hand, a commercial center with skyscrapers stretching along its eastern perimeter. In between is some of the most incredible architecture, culture, shows, nightlife, and atmosphere you will find anywhere in the world.

Haifa

Jerusalem is all history. Tel Aviv is about modern dining and café culture. And Haifa just does its own thing. This lovely northern city’s main highlight is the Baha’i Gardens, which tumble down the hillside towards the sea in a series of immaculate green terraces. They’re a must-do for all travelers here, but Haifa’s big attraction for many visitors is that it’s the perfect base to explore the north. Akko, Mount Carmel, and Caesarea are right on the doorstep, and even Nazareth and Megiddo could be easily done as a day trip from here. Hands down the most easygoing city in the country, Haifa should be part of everyone’s itinerary.

Nazareth

Forever linked to the story of Jesus in the Bible, Nazareth is one of the main pilgrimage destinations in the country. The holy sites here are some of the most important in the world for those of the Christian faith. This is where the Annunciation took place, and where Jesus Christ was brought up, and the center of town is home to important churches that celebrate this history. Don’t miss the Basilica of the Annunciation and exploring the vibrant bazaar area, which adds some modern bustle to the twisty, old city lanes.

Jaffa

A picturesque vision of honey-colored stone, Jaffa is a chilled-out little harbor town with an illustrious past as a major port. Made for aimless wandering and home to an excellent flea market, Jaffa provides an old-world style respite from the modern thrum of Tel Aviv next door. The muddle of lanes leading down to the sea, where once the great ships of the ancient Mediterranean empires docked, are now a haven for café-hopping and lazy afternoon sightseeing. All who visit succumb to its charms.

Bethlehem

A major Christian pilgrimage center, Bethlehem is home to the Church of the Nativity, built over the site where Jesus Christ is said to have been born. The stately church complex with its far-reaching historical significance, and the busy market vibe of the bazaar make this the number one highlight of the West Bank. Although many travelers only come here as a day trip from Jerusalem, the town is an excellent place to base yourself for excursions into the surrounding countryside.

Timna Park

Raw and rugged desert scenery at its best, Timna Park, near the Red Sea resort of Eilat, is one of the most beautiful corners of the Negev. The landscapes here have a visceral quality, which enchant all who visit, with towering cliffs and surreally-shaped boulders set between vast tracts of multi-hued sand. Timna’s copper mining history (which stretches back to the ancient Egyptians) is also worth exploring; the area is full of ancient mine shafts and rock inscriptions that desert adventurers can seek out.