The Best Places To Visit In Northern Israel

Northern Israel is a blend of spectacular landscapes, ancient history, ethnic diversity, thriving cities and enchanting towns. While Tel Aviv and Jerusalem may steal most of the attention, the northern regions also deserve to be explored. Here are a few of the best places to get you started.

Feeling inspired? Consider joining Culture Trip’s specially curated small-group Israel tour, led by our Local Insider.

1. Haifa

Amusement Park, Market, Architectural Landmark

Israel, Haifa District, Haifa. The Shrine of the Bab at the Bahai Gardens.

The third-largest city in Israel and the so-called capital of the north, Haifa is a mountainous port city with a beautiful stretch of Mediterranean coastline. Traditionally seen as a working-class and relatively unappealing place for tourists to visit, Haifa has undergone somewhat of an image transformation in recent years. With a large student population, lively nightlife and thriving culinary scene, Haifa is now on the map in terms of tourism in Israel. Add to that the beach and attractions, such as the pristine Bahai Gardens, and you’ll understand the surge in popularity. Often referred to as a city of coexistence, it’s home to a diverse population that includes a sizeable Arab community, who live and work side by side with the Jewish population. Notable events include the annual International Film Festival, the A-Sham Arab Food Festival and the Holiday of Holidays, a festival that takes place every December that celebrates Hanukkah, Christmas and Ramadan. It’s a reflection of the religious diversity and tolerance of the city. Head to Shawarma Hazan in the Lower City for a juicy, meat-heavy pita that will leave you nodding your head in delight.

2. Old City of Acre

Architectural Landmark

Israel, North district, Galilee, Acre (Akko), old town, UNESCO, Ottoman city, Salah Ve Bazri street along sea wall

Acre (Akko) is a jewel of the Israeli north. Situated on the Mediterranean coastline just 90 minutes by train from Tel Aviv, it’s home to the ancient and enchanting Old City, which attracts locals and tourists throughout the year. There are also well-preserved Crusader walls (which were declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2001), a vibrant Arab shuk, charming cobbled streets and fascinating historical sites that reflect a long and tumultuous past. It is also a foodie paradise, with an array of fabulous restaurants, from hummus joints (Hummus Said is a must) to gourmet seafood (such as Uri Buri).

4. Golan Heights

Natural Feature, Historical Landmark

Banias nature reserve, Golan Heights, Israel.

The Golan Heights are a large mountainous region that Israel captured in the 1967 Six-Day War and has kept ever since. It’s characterised by spectacular views and natural landscapes, as well as superb hiking trails, outdoor adventures and a plethora of wineries. Not to be missed is Mount Hermon, home to the only ski resort in Israel. It also has the awesome Nimrod Fortress (the largest Crusader fortress in the country), Hamat Gader (the therapeutic natural hot springs that have been used for over two millennia) and Banias Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Israel. If you want a beverage, visit the Golan Heights Winery, the most established winery in the region.

5. Zichron Ya'akov

Architectural Landmark

Big building and street, Zichron Yaakov,Israel, Mediterranean Sea,Asia

It’s easy to fall in love with this picturesque town in the Carmel Mountain range. Founded in 1882 by Romanian Zionist pioneers and developed thereafter by Baron Edmond James de Rothschild, Zichron Ya’akov is today home to quaint streets, wineries, boutique hotels and stunning views over the Mediterranean. The First Aliyah Museum is a must if you’re interested in the story of the Romanian pioneers, as is the Aaronsohn House; it tells the fascinating and tragic story of the Jewish spy ring, NILI, which provided intelligence to the British during World War I.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

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