7 Incredible Places of Interest You Should Visit in Israel

Israelis not only a technological power but also a hot tourist destination that is worth an in-depth tour. With so many charming cities, numerous remarkable religious relics, and impressive natural beauty, it is very easy to compile a long list of must-see attractions. However, if you travel to these seven incredible places of interest, you will be rewarded with the most amazing experiences!

Wailing Wall in Jerusalem

The Wailing Wall, also called the "Western Wall", considered a sacred site by Jews, is a must-see in Jerusalem. For thousands of years, Jews from all over the world have come to this historic stone wall to whisper prayers and mourn about their pain. In the early morning, just when the sun shines over the Mount of Olives to illuminate Jerusalem, the Wailing Wall is already full of Jews who have come to pray.

The Wailing Wall

You can see many Jews writing their wishes and prayers in small notes and setting them into the cracks of the wall as they believe that their prayers will be received by God this way. Also, many Jewish families hold bar mitzvahs for their 13-year-old boys and share their joy here. Spare some time and listen to the whispers, the grand and stately prayer scene will take your breath away.

Tips:

1. The Wailing Wall is divided into two sections respectively for men and women.

2. Don't speak loudly to avoid disturbing pilgrims.

3. Don't leave the wall with your back to it as it is considered sacred; face it, head down and slowly walk backward to leave.

Dead Sea

The Dead Sea on the border of Israel, Palestine and Jordan is the lowest lake in the world at 430.5 meters (1,412 feet) below sea level. The Dead Sea has a high concentration of salt, nearly 10 times higher than most oceans, leaving no life in the water. But surprisingly, it allows people who can't swim to float in the sea. You can take incredible pictures of tourists lying on their backs in the sea, floating with a glass of drink in one hand and a magazine to read in the other hand.

Tourists floating in the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea's water is salty and mineral-rich, and it can alleviate chronic diseases like arthritis and psoriasis. Besides, the black mud at the bottom of the Dead Sea is a popular skincare and beauty product. So don't forget to enjoy a black mud spa or buy some beauty and bath products made from Dead Sea mud as souvenirs.

Tips:

1. Arm yourself with goggles in case your eyes are splashed with seawater.

2. It's better not to go into the sea if you have unhealed wounds.

3. To avoid sunburn, don't float at midday.

4. Don't float for more than 40 minutes under the sun, or your body may lose too much water.

Old Jaffa

Old Jaffa is one of the oldest port cities in the world, with a history of at least 4,000 years. "Jaffa" is a homonym of the Hebrew word "beauty" as the scenery here is beautiful, and the city still maintains its pristine appearance. The famous spots in Old Jaffa include Gan HaPisga, the Church of St. Peter, the House of Simon the Tanner, the Tomb of Tabitha, and don't miss the bell tower built in the Oslo era, the flea markets, and Aiami neighborhoods.

Old Jaffa

Wandering through the narrow lanes named after the constellations, you may encounter some unique shops, stylish restaurants, art galleries, and old city walls. Strolling along the waterfront trail, you can see the skyscrapers of Tel Aviv. Just as locals do, you can sit at an outdoor table to watch people fishing or stay late to enjoy the romantic night view of the port.

Baha'I Garden

Most of the tourists pouring into the city of Haifa will come to the same building – the Baha'i Garden. Located on Mount Carmel, this is the final resting place of Barb, the Bahaist prophet. After more than one hundred years of construction, the Baha'i Garden finally was unveiled in 2001 and listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2008. Centered on the Shrine of the Barb with its golden dome, 19 huge terraces of flowers, water fountains, and sculptures stretch about a kilometer/0.6 of a mile from the foot of the mountain to the top. Coupled with many kinds of plants and eagle carvings in various shapes, the garden is permeated with a strong Persian style. After stepping up to the top platform, you can have a full view of the symmetric garden, stunning port, and downtown Haifa.

Tips: Baha'i Garden is free to visit, but your bags must be checked before entering the garden. Food is not allowed to be taken in.

The panorama of Baha'l Garden, port and downtown Haifa

Caesarea National Park

Caesarea National Park is one of the most important and magnificent archaeological sites in Israel. Located on the Mediterranean coast between Tel Aviv and Haifa, it was originally an ancient port city built by King Herod about 2,000 years ago. You are recommended to start your trip from the south gate of the park to the north. You may have a chance to enjoy a modern concert during the summer in the restored Caesarea Amphitheater, then walk through the arches and marvel at the remains of the Hippodrome, Reef Palace, Bath Complex, and fabulous mosaic floors as well as impressive Crusade citadels. It is also home to a unique underwater museum where you can dive underwater to explore the sign-posted ruins of this ancient city.

Caeserea National Park

The restored ancient buildings near the Crusader harbor house cafés, restaurants, and art galleries, so after your tour, you can go there in the late afternoon to enjoy a breathtaking sunset, beautiful beaches, and delicious meals in the harbor.

Basilica of the Annunciation

The Basilica of the Annunciation is the most prestigious historic site in Nazareth. It used to be a cave where the Angel Gabriel told Mary that she would give birth to the Savior, Jesus Christ. Nowadays, it is one of the best-known Christian churches in the world after being rebuilt five times. Each sculpture in the gate or figure in the colored glass is telling an interesting biblical story.

Basilica of the Annunciation

The highlights are the delicate paintings of the Virgin Mary with regional characteristics donated by churches from different countries, such as the Virgin Mary in a kimono from Japan and the Goddess of Mercy from China, which represent a different understanding of the Virgin Mary and Jesus.

Lake Tiberias Region

The superb scenery, hot springs, and historic sites draw a large number of travelers to the Lake Tiberias Region every year. Lake Tiberias, the largest freshwater lake in Israel, is like the water of life for the Israelis and also the name of this region. As one of the holy cities of Judaism situated on the west bank of the lake, Tiberias is a perfect combination of gorgeous ancient sites and colorful modern landscapes. You can not only see a fascinating panorama of the lake from all directions but also get close to the littered black basalt ruins of the Crusader and Ottoman ages.

Lake Tiberias Region

There are many things that should not be missed here: take a boat ride on the lake to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery and feed the seagulls with bread; enjoy a splendid sunrise in the morning when strolling along the lake; taste the famous St. Peter's fish in one of many local restaurants; refresh yourself in the hot spring and visit the ancient ruins.

...So, if Israel is included in your bucket list, then you should start to plan a trip now. Alternatively, you can tell Odynovo your preferences and tastes to tailor-make a unique Israel tour for you.