Israel: The Highlights

If you’re planning a trip to Israel and want the cliff notes on the best places to stay, things to do, and restaurants, I’ve got you covered. I know my post on Honeymoon Israel was long (I mean, really long!) But I wanted to share our entire experience. That said, below I’m breaking down the highlights in a much more digestible way.

JERUSULEM, ISRAEL

To Stay: The King David (arguably the most popular - every living US President has stayed here!), American Colony, The Inbal (where we stayed!), Waldorf Astoria, The David Citade, and Mamilla Hotel

To Do: Wander through the Mahane Yehuda Shuk (Stop at Marizpan for the BEST rugelach & order the Yemenite Malawach at Jachnun Bar for lunch), Learn at the Israel Museum, Explore the beautiful Yemin Moshe Neighborhood, Tour The Old City, Visit Yad Vashem, the Jewish National Memorial.

To Eat: Machneyuda, Jackos Street, Mona, Eucalyptus, Happy Fish, Grill Bar, Chakra, & Adom

TEL-AVIV, ISRAEL

To Stay: Jaffa (love this hotel!), The Norman, The Carlton (where we stayed), The Setai Tel Aviv, The Vera, & The Drisco

To Do: Walk through Jaffa, Hang out at the Beach, Walk along the Tel Aviv Promenade, Explore (and shop) at the Ha'Carmel Market, & Wander through the Neve Tzedek neighborhood

To Eat: Lumina, OCD, North Abraxus, Onza, Hakosem, Dallal, Shila, Old Man & The Sea, Port Said, Hasalon, Milgro & Milbar, Lehem Vehaverim, & Miznon

DAY TRIPS

Hike Masada & Float in the Dead Sea

Explore the Muslim/Israeli town of Akko

Drink wine at Kishor Winery & Enjoy the view of Sea Grottoes at Rosh Hanikra

I’ve also heard that the jeep tour in Golan Heights is amazing