Israel
Israel occupies a narrow strip of the eastern Mediterranean — desert, fertile valleys, and ancient stone cities compressed into an area smaller than New Jersey, where three of the world's major religions trace their deepest roots.
Overview
Israel sits at the crossroads of the Middle East, bordered by Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. Its capital, Jerusalem, is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, though Tel Aviv serves as the commercial and diplomatic hub for many international offices. Hebrew and Arabic are both official languages; the currency is the New Israeli Shekel (ILS). Israeli society blends Jewish traditions spanning millennia with significant Arab, Druze, and other minority communities, producing a layered and often contrasting cultural identity.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many Western countries, including the United States, EU member states, and the United Kingdom, may enter Israel visa-free for up to 90 days. Other nationalities may apply through Israeli embassies or consulates abroad. Israel operates an entry screening process; travellers with stamps from certain neighbouring countries may face additional questions at the border. Visitors should check current entry conditions with the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority before travelling.
Airports in Israel
3 airportsAirlines based in Israel
6 airlines
Famous Attractions in Israel
Jerusalem's Old City contains the Western Wall — the last remnant of the Second Temple complex — as well as the Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, all within a single square kilometre. The Dead Sea, at roughly 430 metres below sea level the lowest point on Earth's surface, draws visitors to its hypersaline waters. Masada, a mesa fortress in the Negev Desert, preserves Herod the Great's palace complex. In the north, the ancient port city of Akko (Acre) retains well-preserved Crusader-era tunnels and bazaars, while the Bahá'í Gardens in Haifa cascade dramatically down Mount Carmel.
Weather & Climate
Israel's climate varies considerably by region. The Mediterranean coastal strip and north enjoy warm, dry summers (26–32 °C) and mild, wet winters (8–15 °C). The Negev Desert sees summer temperatures exceeding 40 °C and cold nights in winter. Jerusalem sits at altitude, occasionally receiving snow in January or February. The best time to visit most of the country is spring (March–May) or autumn (October–November), when heat is moderate. Light layers are advisable even in summer evenings, particularly in hilly areas.
Interesting Facts About Israel
- Home to the world's lowest point, the Dead Sea.
- Hebrew was revived as a spoken language in the 19th century.
- More museums per capita than almost any other country.
- The drip irrigation system was developed in Israel.
- Cherry tomatoes were developed by Israeli agricultural researchers.
Official Resources
- gov.il — Israeli government official portal
- tourism.gov.il — Israel Ministry of Tourism official site
- iaa.gov.il — Israel Airports Authority, covering Ben Gurion Airport
- ims.gov.il — Israel Meteorological Service for weather and forecasts
- rail.co.il — Israel Railways national train network information