Tel Aviv

Since the majority of flights to Israel arrive into Ben Gurion airport, near Tel Aviv, the ‘city that never sleeps’ is as good a place as any to start a tour of Israel. Tel Aviv is Israel’s vibrant, modern metropolis, renowned for its nightlife, sandy Mediterranean beaches and cultural attractions including the famous Bauhaus architecture of the White City district.

Jerusalem

Next, no visit to Israel could miss out a tour of one of the world’s most historic and fascinating cities, Jerusalem. Jerusalem is Israel’s capital city, and packed full of breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage sites, many of them of great significance to followers of the main religious denominations. The museums are world-class, and the colorful markets provide an opportunity to buy authentic wares and sample local cuisine. Notable landmarks include the Mount of Olives, The Church of the Holy Sepulcher and Temple Mount, as well as the Wailing Wall, Dome of the Rock and Al Aqsa Mosque. Visitors are often surprised to find that Jerusalem also has a modern side to it and a range of luxury contemporary hotels.

The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea, which is actually a large lake, is another highlight of a tour of Israel. In fact many visitors book their flights to Israel just to vacation here. Its mineral-rich waters are known throughout the world for their therapeutic and beautifying properties. Not only do visitors come to bathe in the waters and mud, but the many luxury spas offer an invitation to enjoy a pampering treatment or two. The area around the Dead Sea is also worth exploring, with the Qumran Caves is highly recommended a visit, since it was here that the famous Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered.

The Sea of Galilee

The Sea of Galilee is of enormous religious significance for many – the lake is where Jesus is said to have delivered many sermons, and it is also believed to be the place of his baptism by John the Baptist. The lake is surrounded by many notable historical sites including Tiberias, the largest city in the region, home to important archeological sites and Hot Springs.

Negev

The Negev desert to the south of Israel takes up over half the country’s land area. Home to many notable historical sites, flocks of visitors arrive to explore the region’s unique geography, flora and fauna. When booking your flights to Israel check out the newly available eco-lodgings, perfect for a stopover in the region. Be’er Sheva is located at the gateway to the Negev, and is its capital, a city that dates back over 3700 years to the times of Abraham. As well as ancient remains to view, visitors shouldn’t miss a stroll around the famous Bedouin market. The Ramon Crater is another attraction to include on a trip here, one of the natural wonders of the world.

Eilat

After a whirlwind of sightseeing you may want to relax and enjoy some beachside downtime. Eilat, situated at Israel’s southernmost tip fits the bill perfectly, with its glorious beaches and clear blue sea. It even has its very own Coral Reef making it a popular destination for novice and professional scuba divers alike. Dolphin Reef, the Underwater Observatory and The Kings City biblical theme park are all attractions on offer in Eilat if you tire of sunbathing. Close by, the desert and mountains provide the ideal ingredients for a day trip out, either by camel or jeep.

With so much to see and do, sunshine all year round, and plenty of convenient cost-effective flights to Israel, no wonder more and more people are opting for an Israeli holiday!