Family Trip to Israel

Israel is a great family destination with something for everyone, from exploring historical sites such as the Western Wall and Masada to experiencing the vibrant culture of Tel Aviv, relaxing on the beaches of the Mediterranean, and hiking in the beautiful landscapes of the Galilee and Negev. Kids will love the interactive museums and fun outdoor activities, while parents can enjoy delicious food and wine tours. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Israel is an unforgettable destination for families. Here are some reasons why you should consider going on a family trip to Israel:

• Rich cultural and historical significance with numerous biblical and historical sites such as Jerusalem’s Old City, the Sea of Galilee, Masada, and the Dead Sea.
• Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches, mountains, and deserts offer a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and camping.
• Fun and interactive museums for all ages, such as the Israel Museum, the Science Museum, and the Children’s Museum.
• Delicious and diverse cuisine that offers something for everyone, including famous Middle Eastern dishes such as falafel, hummus, and shakshuka.
• A welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere with many kid-friendly activities, such as amusement parks, water parks, and animal reserves.
• Excellent infrastructure and transportation, making it easy to get around the country with children, and English is widely spoken.
• Many opportunities for spiritual exploration and learning, including visiting holy sites, attending religious ceremonies, and meeting with diverse communities.

Things to Do in Israel With Kids

Here are some things you can do on your family trip to Israel:

1. Visit the Old City of Jerusalem – explore the ancient streets, visit the Western Wall, and see the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
2. Float in the Dead Sea – take a dip in the salty waters of the lowest point on Earth.
3. Explore the Israeli Desert – hike through the stunning landscapes of the Negev Desert or take a camel ride.
4. Visit the Masada National Park – explore the ancient fortress and learn about its fascinating history.
5. Have fun at an amusement park – enjoy rides, games, and attractions at Luna Park Tel Aviv or Superland.
6. Visit a water park – cool off in the hot Israeli sun at one of the many water parks such as Meymadion or Yamit 2000.
7. Learn about science at the Bloomfield Science Museum – a hands-on museum that is both fun and educational.
8. Meet animals at the Zoos and Animal Reserves – visit the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo, the Hai Bar Yotvata Reserve, or the Ramat Gan Safari.
9. Explore the beach – Israel has many beautiful beaches, such as the Tel Aviv beach or the Banana Beach in Eilat, that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
10. Learn about Israeli culture and history – visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, or the Museum of the Jewish People to learn about Israeli history and culture.

Want to know more? Here’s a longer guide on the Best Things to Do in Israel.

Where to Go on Your Family Trip to Israel

Israel is quite compact, so you can visit most of the country. Here are some places to go in Israel with kids:

1. Tel Aviv – with its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and many attractions, Tel Aviv is a great destination for families.
2. Jerusalem – visit the Old City, see the Western Wall, and learn about the city’s rich history.
3. Eilat – a beachside city with many family-friendly activities, such as water sports, snorkeling, and a variety of attractions like Dolphin Reef.
4. Haifa – visit the Bahai Gardens, explore the city’s markets and museums, and enjoy the panoramic views from Mount Carmel.
5. Dead Sea – float in the salty waters, cover yourself in the famous mud, and visit the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve.
6. Galilee – hike in the beautiful landscapes of the Galilee region, visit the Sea of Galilee, and explore the ancient city of Tiberias.
7. Caesarea – see the ancient Roman ruins, visit the underwater museum, and enjoy the beach.
8. Masada – hike to the top of the ancient fortress and learn about its fascinating history.
9. Golan Heights – enjoy the stunning views, visit the Banias Nature Reserve, and learn about the region’s history.
10. Nazareth – visit the Church of the Annunciation, explore the markets, and learn about the city’s Christian history.

Check out all the Tourist Attractions in Israel.

Where to Stay in Israel With Kids

Here are some places to stay on your family trip to Israel:

1. Tel Aviv – the city offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodations, including hotels, serviced apartments, and vacation rentals.
2. Eilat – there are many resorts and hotels in Eilat that cater to families, such as the Isrotel King Solomon or the Dan Eilat.
3. Jerusalem – the city has many family-friendly hotels, such as the Leonardo Plaza Hotel, the Inbal Jerusalem Hotel, or the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem.
4. Dead Sea – the area offers a variety of family-friendly resorts, such as the Herods Dead Sea or the Ein Gedi Spa.
5. Galilee – there are many vacation rentals and family-friendly accommodations in the Galilee region, such as the Kibbutz Lavi Hotel or the Cnaan Village Boutique Hotel & Spa.
6. Haifa – the city has many family-friendly hotels, such as the Dan Carmel Haifa Hotel or the Crowne Plaza Haifa.
7. Netanya – a beachside city with many family-friendly hotels, such as the Ramada Hotel and Suites Netanya or the Island Suites Hotel.
8. Tiberias – there are many family-friendly hotels in Tiberias, such as the Leonardo Club Hotel Tiberias or the Caesar Premier Tiberias Hotel.
9. Ashkelon – a beachside city with many family-friendly hotels, such as the Dan Gardens Ashkelon or the Leonardo Hotel Ashkelon.
10. Herzliya – a city with beautiful beaches and many family-friendly hotels, such as the Sharon Hotel Herzliya or the Daniel Herzliya Hotel.

What to Eat in Israel With Kids

https://youtu.be/OGdjI2DsXqU

Israeli food is more familiar than you would think. Here are some delicious Israeli dishes that kids might enjoy:

1. Hummus – a creamy chickpea dip that is often served with pita bread.
2. Falafel – a popular street food made from ground chickpeas that are fried and served in pita bread with salad and tahini sauce.
3. Shakshuka – a dish made with eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and onions that is often served with bread.
4. Sabich – a sandwich made with fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, and salad, all served in pita bread.
5. Pita Bread – a staple of Israeli cuisine, pita bread is often served with hummus or as a side dish with meals.
6. Shawarma – a popular meat dish made with lamb, chicken, or beef that is roasted on a spit and served in pita bread with salad and tahini sauce.
7. Israeli Salad – a fresh and healthy salad made with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and parsley, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
8. Burekas – a pastry filled with cheese, potatoes, or spinach, and often served as a snack or appetizer.
9. Bourekas – a flaky pastry filled with cheese or vegetables.
10. Malabi – a sweet pudding made from milk or coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch, and often flavored with rose water or orange blossom water.

What to Wear in Israel

What to wear in your family trip to Israel depends on the season and the location you plan to visit. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Modest clothing – Israel is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. This means covering your shoulders, chest, and knees.
2. Comfortable clothing – Israel can be hot, especially during the summer months, so make sure to wear light, comfortable clothing that breathes.
3. Sun protection – Israel is sunny year-round, so it’s important to wear sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
4. Good shoes – Israel has many ancient sites with uneven terrain, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes with good traction.
5. Respectful clothing – When visiting religious sites, it’s important to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants and cover their heads, and men should wear long pants.
6. Layers – During the winter months, Israel can get cold, especially at night, so it’s important to wear layers that can be easily added or removed.
7. Beachwear – If you plan to visit the beach, make sure to bring appropriate beachwear, such as swimsuits and cover-ups.
8. Backpack – A comfortable backpack is always useful in Israel for carrying water, snacks, and other essentials, especially if you plan on doing a lot of walking or hiking.

Overall, dressing modestly and respectfully is key when visiting Israel, but it’s also important to dress comfortably and protect yourself from the sun.

When to Go to Israel

The best time to go for your family trip to Israel depends on your travel preferences and the activities you plan to do. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Spring (March to May) – Spring is a popular time to visit Israel because the weather is mild, the flowers are in bloom, and there are many festivals and events, such as Passover and Easter.
2. Summer (June to August) – Summer is the peak tourist season in Israel, but it can also be very hot, especially in the south. If you plan to visit during the summer, make sure to stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
3. Fall (September to November) – Fall is a great time to visit Israel because the weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and there are many festivals and events, such as Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
4. Winter (December to February) – Winter is the low season in Israel, but it can still be a good time to visit if you don’t mind cooler temperatures. Winter is a great time for hiking and outdoor activities, and there are many festivals and events, such as Hanukkah and Christmas.

Overall, the best time to visit Israel depends on your travel preferences and the activities you plan to do. If you want to avoid the crowds and the heat, then spring or fall might be the best time to visit. If you want to experience the festivals and events, then plan your trip around the holiday season.

How Long to Stay on Your Family Trip to Israel

The length of time you should stay in Israel depends on your travel preferences and the activities you plan to do. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Short Trips (3-5 Days) – If you have limited time, you can still experience some of the highlights of Israel. You can visit Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, and Tel Aviv in a few days, or take a short tour of the Galilee region.
2. Medium Trips (1-2 Weeks) – If you have more time, you can explore more of Israel’s cultural, historical, and natural attractions. You can visit the ancient city of Akko, hike in the Golan Heights, or explore the Negev desert.
3. Longer Trips (3 Weeks or More) – If you have a month or more, you can really immerse yourself in Israel’s culture and history. You can volunteer on a kibbutz, study Hebrew, or take an in-depth tour of the country.

Overall, the length of time you should stay in Israel depends on your travel preferences and the activities you plan to do. If you want to see the highlights of Israel, then a short trip might be enough. If you want to explore more of the country, then plan for a medium-length trip. And if you want to really immerse yourself in Israel’s culture and history, then plan for a longer trip.

1-Week Israel Itinerary With Family

Here’s a 1-week family trip to Israel:

Day 1: Arrival in Tel Aviv

• Check into your hotel in Tel Aviv
• Walk along the beachfront promenade and explore the city’s bustling markets and restaurants

Day 2: Tel Aviv

• Visit the Tel Aviv Museum of Art
• Explore the historic Neve Tzedek neighborhood and the colorful Carmel Market
• Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach

Day 3: Jerusalem

• Take a day trip to Jerusalem
• Visit the Western Wall and the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount
• Explore the Old City’s four quarters and its many religious and historical sites

Day 4: Dead Sea and Masada

• Take a day trip to the Dead Sea
• Visit the ancient fortress of Masada and ride the cable car to the top for stunning views
• Float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea and enjoy the mud baths and spa treatments

Day 5: Galilee

• Take a day trip to the Galilee region
• Visit the ancient city of Akko and its impressive Crusader-era fortifications
• Explore the charming town of Safed and its artists’ quarter
• Visit the Sea of Galilee and the nearby Mount of Beatitudes

Day 6: Caesarea and Haifa

• Visit the ancient Roman city of Caesarea and its impressive archaeological sites
• Explore the picturesque port city of Haifa and its beautiful Bahai Gardens
• Visit the Druze village of Daliyat al-Karmel and learn about their unique culture and cuisine

Day 7: Departure

• Check out of your hotel and depart from Tel Aviv

Overall, this 1-week itinerary covers some of Israel’s highlights, from the vibrant city of Tel Aviv to the ancient city of Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Galilee region, and more. Of course, there are many other attractions and activities in Israel that you can add to your itinerary, depending on your interests and preferences.

A week too short, 2 weeks too long? Try our 10-Day Israel Itinerary With Family.

2-Week Israel Itinerary With Family

Here’s a 2-week Israel itinerary with family:

Day 1-3: Tel Aviv

• Explore Tel Aviv’s beaches, markets, and museums
• Take a day trip to nearby Jaffa
• Visit the ancient port city of Caesarea and the Bahai Gardens in Haifa

Day 4-6: Jerusalem

• Explore the Old City and its many religious and historical sites
• Visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust museum and the Israel Museum
• Take a day trip to Bethlehem

Day 7-9: Dead Sea and Masada

• Float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea and enjoy the mud baths and spa treatments
• Visit the ancient fortress of Masada and ride the cable car to the top for stunning views
• Visit the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve and hike to the beautiful waterfalls and oasis

Day 10-11: Galilee

• Explore the ancient city of Akko and its impressive Crusader-era fortifications
• Visit the charming town of Safed and its artists’ quarter
• Visit the Sea of Galilee and the nearby Mount of Beatitudes

Day 12-14: Negev Desert

• Take a jeep tour of the Ramon Crater and the Makhtesh Gadol geological formation
• Visit the ancient Nabatean city of Shivta and learn about the Bedouin culture
• Experience the unique desert landscape and stay in a Bedouin tent

Day 15-16: Departure

• Check out of your hotel and depart from Tel Aviv

Overall, this 2-week itinerary covers many of Israel’s highlights, from the vibrant city of Tel Aviv to the ancient city of Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Galilee region, and the Negev desert. Of course, there are many other attractions and activities in Israel that you can add to your itinerary, depending on your interests and preferences.

How to Get Around Israel

Israel is a relatively small country, and there are several ways to get around:

1. Car rental: Renting a car is a popular option for travelers who want the freedom to explore Israel’s many attractions at their own pace. Major car rental companies have branches throughout the country, and roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate.
2. Public transportation: Israel has a comprehensive network of buses and trains that connect major cities and tourist destinations. Bus service is affordable and frequent, and many buses run on Saturdays and holidays when other forms of transportation are not available. Trains are a fast and efficient way to travel between major cities.
3. Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Israel, and fares are regulated by law. However, taxi rides can be expensive, especially for longer distances.
4. Private tours: Private tours are a popular option for travelers who want a more customized experience. There are many tour companies that offer guided tours of Israel’s major attractions, as well as off-the-beaten-path destinations.
5. Cycling: Israel has a growing network of bike trails and dedicated bike lanes, making it easy and safe to explore the country on two wheels. Many cities also have bike rental programs.

Overall, getting around Israel is relatively easy, and there are many transportation options to suit different budgets and travel styles.

How Much to Travel to Israel

The cost of your family trip to Israel can vary depending on your travel style, accommodations, activities, and length of stay. However, here are some estimated costs to give you an idea:

• Accommodations: Budget accommodations like hostels can range from $15 to $30 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost $80 to $150 per night. High-end hotels can cost upwards of $200 per night.
• Food: Inexpensive street food can cost $5 to $10 per meal, while mid-range restaurants can cost $15 to $30 per meal. High-end restaurants can cost $50 or more per meal.
• Transportation: Buses and trains are relatively inexpensive, with most rides costing $2 to $5. Taxis can be more expensive, with rides within cities costing $10 to $20.
• Activities: Entrance fees to major attractions like the Old City in Jerusalem or the Dead Sea can cost around $15 to $20 per person. Private tours and activities can cost upwards of $100 per person.

Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $50 to $75 per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $100 to $150 per day. High-end travelers can expect to spend upwards of $250 per day or more. Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and actual costs can vary depending on your specific itinerary and travel preferences.