A typical first trip here runs about $1,075 to $1,450 per person for 7 days at a mid-range style, before flights. Get your own number from the Budget Calculator.
- Shakshuka, eggs poached in spiced tomato sauce; a beloved breakfast
- Falafel and hummus, arguably the world's best, fresh from Arab markets in Akko
- Sabich, pita stuffed with fried eggplant, egg, hummus, and amba (mango sauce)
- Mezze spread, endless small dishes of salads, dips, and bread
- Tel Aviv's food scene is ranked among the world's most innovative
- Shabbat (Friday sunset–Saturday night), the Jewish day of rest; most things close
- Passover (Pesach), major spring festival; matzoh replaces bread for a week
- Yom Kippur, holiest Jewish day; complete shutdown of everything
- Jerusalem, sacred to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam simultaneously
- Tel Aviv Pride (June), one of the world's largest LGBTQ+ celebrations
Hebrew and Arabic are official languages. English is widely spoken.
Israel is a very internationally connected society, expect direct, fast-paced communication. Be aware of the complex political situation and avoid taking sides in conversations.
- Respect Shabbat, plan around Friday evening and Saturday closures
- Dress modestly at religious sites in Jerusalem (Western Wall, Church of Holy Sepulchre)
- Israelis are informal and direct, don't mistake directness for rudeness
- Tipping 12–15% is expected in restaurants
Latest for Israel
Updates for Israel will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.