Israel has always been one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet. A nation rich in history. It is the religious center of numerous belief systems. And, on top of all that, it is home to some of the most beautiful vistas on the planet. But most people don’t realize that traveling to Israel isn’t like visiting somewhere like France or the UK. There is a lot more you need to be aware of before you travel.
We are here to help you get more out of your trip to Israel by providing you with some key travel tips. It is all too common for people to travel to Israel without having done any research and they end up leaving early due to the challenges they face while there. This guide will help you get the most out of your trip while also helping you stay as safe as possible.
The New 2025 Visa System
This is perhaps the most important part of this guide. As of 2025 Israel will be changing their Visa system. This new system, called the ETA-IL visa or Israel Evisa, will be a mandatory requirement for tourists from most nations.
The Israel ETA-IL Visa is designed to better control the flow of tourists without having to expose them to the arduous process of applying for a traditional visa. Acquiring an Israeli Evisa is extremely simple and can be done online. Once you have filled out the form and paid the fee you will swiftly receive your visa and can travel without worry!
You should check if your country is one of those eligible for an Evisa before applying. People of all ages will require one to enter the country. And, most importantly, it does not allow you to work, study, or stay for an extended period of time. So make sure you are adhering to the visa rules while there!
Pack Modest Clothing
Many of the most popular tourist sights in Israel are of religious significance. Jerusalem, The Western Wall, Temple Mount, Al-Aqsa Mosque. All of these sites, and the rest, are well worth visiting. But you need to be aware and respectful of the local customs in regards to how you dress.
Modesty is key here. Many of the more orthodox members of the Israeli communities are very likely to harass you if you are showing off too much skin. And this can sour your trip completely. We recommend packing light garments that cover you but still provide good ventilation. And don’t stress too much if you forget to pack any. There are many markets where you can buy appropriate attire.
Budget Your Trip
This is good advice for any trip you take. But Israel isn’t a cheap place to visit by any means. And you can very quickly see your trip funds dwindle if you aren’t being price cautious. The biggest hit you will likely take is accommodation. Everyone wants to stay in the city centers. This means the hotels there will come at a premium price nearly all year round. So try to find accommodation further out and make use of local transport to get around.
Our biggest money saving tip is to shop at the local markets for all your food. Sure, you can treat yourself to a nice restaurant meal every now and then. But you will save a lot of money buying for yourself. If you can book yourself into a hostel with a kitchen then that is even better. You will save more money on accommodation and be able to save a fortune on food.
See The Sights
While many cities in Israel do have a thriving social scene, the true beauty of a trip to Israel is in the history, culture, and exploration of the many wonders on offer. To that end we highly recommend doing as many excursions and tours as possible.
Whatever city you are staying in we highly recommend going on a walking tour as soon as you can. This is both a great way to get a feel for the city and also learn about its history and people. The tour guides will often also know the best spots for shopping and dining.
Spend some time exploring the many local markets. Beyond the amazing food on offer you will also find a myriad of amazing trinkets, works of art, and some of the most stunning items of clothing you will ever see!
The Dead Sea is a must see location while here. It is a truly wondrous sight and is surrounded by a number of stunning hiking routes and health resorts. If you’re looking for a more relaxing holiday in Israel then one of the resorts near the Dead Sea will be the ideal choice for you!