Get To Know Israel

Hey there! So you're thinking about a trip to Israel? What an incredible choice! This country is an unforgettable blend of ancient history and cutting-edge modernity. It’s where millennia-old stone streets lead to bustling tech hubs, and where every meal tells a story. Here's everything you need to know before you land, so your trip can be as seamless as it is magical.

Jerusalem Landscape

Time - A Manageable Difference

Israel is in the Israel Standard Time zone (IST), which is UTC+2. This is typically 7 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Time, but remember to check for Daylight Saving Time changes. The time difference is significant, but it's consistent and easy to manage once you've adjusted.

Visa

The good news: For U.S. and most Western European passport holders, a tourist visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.

• What you'll need: A passport valid for at least six months past your planned departure date.

• Pro Tip: While not always required, having a printed copy of your flight tickets and hotel reservations can be helpful at immigration.

Airports

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is Israel's main international airport, located about 30 minutes from both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. It’s a modern and highly efficient hub.

Local Tip: For trips focused on the south, like Eilat or the desert, you can look for flights into Ramon Airport (ETM), which is much closer to the region.

🛌Accommodation in Israel:  Between the nightlife of Tel Aviv and the spirituality of Jerusalem, Israel has it all. To help you choose the perfect place for you, I've created detailed guides to the recommended neighborhoods and accommodations in each city.

• Where to Stay in Tel Aviv: The Ultimate Guide to the City That Never Stops

• Where to Stay in Jerusalem: The Complete Guide to the Holy City's Neighborhoods

Tel Aviv South Beach

Getting Around

Navigating Israel is straightforward with a few options:

Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Apps like Gett and Uber are widely used and reliable, especially in the major cities.

Public Transportation: Buses and the national train system are efficient ways to get around. You can use a smart card called a "Rav-Kav" or, even easier, pay directly with your credit card or phone using a mobile app like Moovit or the official Rav-Kav app.

Renting a Car: This is the best option for exploring outside the major cities, like the Galilee or the Negev Desert, and gives you the freedom to discover hidden gems.

Water

Good news: The tap water in Israel is perfectly safe to drink, and in most places, it's considered to be of excellent quality. This is one of the most pleasant surprises for travelers. You can fill up bottles from the tap and use them for brushing your teeth without any worry. Israel is a world leader in water desalination and filtration, so you can count on clean, safe drinking water throughout your trip.

Internet and SIM

Okay, pay attention:

eSIMs: This is the most hassle-free option. You can buy a plan from providers like Airalo or Holafly before you even leave home and activate it instantly upon arrival. No need to swap physical SIM cards or wait in line.

Local SIM Cards: For the best value, pick up a physical SIM card from a local provider like Cellcom, Pelephone, or Partner. You can get one at the airport, but you'll find better deals at official stores in the city. You'll need to show your passport for registration.

Public Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is widely available in most hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls. The quality can vary, so for important tasks, mobile data is the most reliable and secure option.

Ready to discover the real Israel? All the apps that will help you navigate the chaos of Tel Aviv, find the best spots in Jerusalem, and save a lot of time and money are waiting for you in the full post. Click here to start planning your smart trip.

The clock tower, Jaffa

Weather

Israel has a Mediterranean climate, which means hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Spring & Fall (March–May, September–November): These are the most pleasant seasons for travel, with warm days and cool nights. Perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, especially in Tel Aviv and by the Sea of Galilee. It's the best time for beach vacations but can be challenging for city tours.

Winter (December–February): Mild temperatures. You might experience rain and even some snow on Mount Hermon in the north. This is the best time for hiking in the desert.

Language

Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels. A few key phrases:

• Shalom: Hello / Goodbye

• Toda: Thank you

• Bevakasha: Please / You're welcome

• Ma Nishma? (mah nishma): How's it going?

Culture & Etiquette

Israeli culture is known for its warmth and directness. Don't be surprised if people are upfront or ask personal questions; it's considered friendly and a way to connect.

Shabbat: Remember that from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening, public transport and many businesses shut down. Plan your travel and activities accordingly!

Holy Sites: When visiting religious sites in Jerusalem or elsewhere, dress modestly. This means covering your knees and shoulders. For men, a kippah (skullcap) is often required at Jewish holy sites.

Money

The currency is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS or ILS).

Payments: Israel is a modern, cash-lite society. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere—from small shops to large restaurants. It's a good idea to have a small amount of cash on hand for street markets or tips, but you'll rarely need large amounts.

Electricity

The voltage is 230V, and the plugs are a unique Type H, with three round pins.

Heads Up: Your U.S. plugs will not fit Israeli outlets. Make sure you have a travel adapter.

The Local Cuisine

Israeli cuisine is a vibrant fusion of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Eastern European influences.

Street Food: You haven't truly experienced Israel without trying falafel and sabich (a pita sandwich with fried eggplant and egg).

Hummus: Don't miss out on a "hummusia"—a specialized restaurant dedicated to fresh, warm hummus.

Shuk (Market): Go beyond the classics and explore the local markets like Shuk HaCarmel in Tel Aviv or Machane Yehuda in Jerusalem for a feast for the senses.

Holidays and Events

Israelis live from holiday to holiday, and experiencing one is a truly unique cultural event.

Shabbat: The weekly day of rest from Friday evening to Saturday evening. Many places, especially in Jerusalem, shut down completely.

Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah): Usually in September, this two-day holiday is celebrated with festive meals and family gatherings.

Yom Kippur: The Day of Atonement, ten days after Rosh Hashanah. The country comes to a complete standstill—no cars on the roads, and everything is closed.

Passover (Pesach): The week-long holiday celebrating the Exodus from Egypt. Many Israelis travel and a lot of businesses change their menus to exclude bread and other wheat products.

Independence Day (Yom Ha'atzmaut): A festive national holiday in spring with celebrations and fireworks across the country.

I hope this guide has given you a glimpse into all that Israel has to offer. This country is a living mosaic of history, culture, and innovation. It's a place that will challenge your perceptions and fill you with a sense of wonder. Get ready for an adventure unlike any other.

Enjoy your trip! ✨