Backpacking Israel | best places to go

Visit Israel

Welcome to Israel, a backpacker's mosaic of history, culture, and diverse landscapes. Pros? Immerse in ancient cities, float in the Dead Sea, and experience vibrant nightlife. Israel's compact size allows for efficient exploration, but costs can be higher compared to some neighboring countries. Safety is a priority, though geopolitical tensions may impact certain regions. For backpackers seeking an enriching blend of history and modernity, Israel offers a unique journey, where every step reveals a tapestry of traditions and innovation, making it a distinctive destination in the Middle East.

Best known for:Known for: backpackers | architecture | uniqueness
Best time to visit: March - May, September - November

Safety warning

The current risk level for Israel is high. Check the advice before going.

Why to go?
Why backpacking in Israel

Backpackers

The backpacker scene in Israel is vibrant and diverse, offering a unique experience for travelers. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, Israel attracts backpackers from all over the world.
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Architecture

Israel is home to a wealth of ancient ruins and interesting architecture, including the iconic Western Wall in Jerusalem, a remnant of the ancient Jewish Temple. The ancient city of Caesarea boasts a well-preserved Roman amphitheater and aqueduct, …

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Uniqueness

Exploring Israel is a unique and off the beaten track experience due to its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. The country is home to numerous ancient sites, such as the Western Wall in Jerusalem, the ancient port city of …

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Food

The food in Israel is so good because it is a melting pot of various culinary traditions from around the world. With influences from Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, North African, and Eastern European cuisines, Israeli food is a flavorful fusion of …

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💡 Highlights
Top-5 things to do in Israel

Jerusalem: Explore the historic and religious sites in Jerusalem, including the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock. Experience the rich cultural and spiritual significance of this ancient city.
Tel Aviv: Visit the vibrant city of Tel Aviv, known for its beautiful beaches, bustling markets, and lively nightlife. Enjoy the modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere while exploring the city’s art galleries, museums, and trendy neighborhoods.
Dead Sea: Float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Experience the unique sensation of weightlessness and indulge in mineral-rich mud treatments, known for their therapeutic benefits.
Masada: Hike up to the ancient fortress of Masada and marvel at the breathtaking views of the surrounding desert. Learn about the heroic story of the Jewish rebels who defended the fortress against the Roman army.
Galilee: Explore the picturesque region of Galilee, known for its beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and biblical sites. Visit the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus is said to have walked on water, and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside.

But Israel offers more...

🌆 Cities: Eilat, Haifa, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Tiberias

🎎 Festivals: Jerusalem International Film Festival, Olive Festival, Red Sea Jazz Festival, Tamar Festival, Tel Aviv Pride Parade

🏔️ Hikes: Ein Gedi, Israel National Trail, Masada, Mount Arbel, Ramon Crater

🏞️ National parks: Beit Guvrin, Caesarea, Ein Gedi, Masada, Tel Megiddo

🌤️ When to go?
Best time to go backpacking Israel

The best time to visit Israel for backpacking is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is generally pleasant, with mild temperatures and less rainfall compared to the winter months. This allows for comfortable outdoor activities and exploration of the country's diverse landscapes. Additionally, these seasons avoid the peak tourist crowds and high temperatures of the summer, making it easier to find affordable accommodations and enjoy popular attractions without long queues.JANFEBJUNJULAUGDEC

detailed advice per month

Risk level: high (88%)
Safety advice for Israel

There’s an ongoing threat of missile and rocket attacks in Israel. Israeli authorities have issued updated advice to communities in northern Israel about limiting movement and staying close to bomb shelters. We continue to advise do not travel to Israeli border areas with Lebanon.

In an attack or other armed conflict, you should follow the advice of local authorities. See our general advice on protecting your safety: There’s an armed conflict, and monitor local media and public safety information updates through the National Emergency Portal (accessible in Israel only). Make sure you have enough essential supplies.

Our overall travel advice level for Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories remains at reconsider your need to travel, with higher levels applied to some areas. You should also consider whether you need to remain in country, and if not, you should depart when it's safe to do so.

Do not travel to Gaza, border areas with Gaza, border areas with Lebanon and the West Bank (excluding East Jerusalem), due to the volatile security situation.

There continues to be a high threat of military reprisals and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region. Military attacks may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and diversions and other travel disruptions. Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion International Airport may pause operations due to heightened security concerns at any time. Australians who want to leave are encouraged to take the first available option.

GPS signals may be blocked in parts of Israel, disrupting navigational apps.

Land border crossings to Jordan are open but may close at short notice.

If you're an Australian citizen or permanent resident in Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories you should register on DFAT's registration portal. Keep your registration details up to date so we can contact you with important updates.

Israel has a naval blockade in place along the coast of Gaza. Don't join others seeking to break the blockade. Previous attempts to break the blockade have resulted in death, injury, arrest or deportation of foreigners (see 'Full advice').

Since 7 October, Israeli Defense Forces have been conducting major operations, including in and around Gaza and areas near the northern border with Lebanon.

Israel is a target for terrorism, rocket and drone attacks and military confrontation. Terrorist attacks could happen at any time or anywhere. Always be alert. Have an exit plan. There are tensions and security risks close to Israel's borders with Lebanon, Syria and Egypt. There are ongoing threats of rocket and drone attacks and military activity. Authorities are monitoring security on Israel’s northern border.

Due to the current security situation and the risk of it deteriorating further, the Australian Embassy has temporarily suspended all non-essential in-country travel outside Tel Aviv for Australian officials and their families posted to Israel. Dependants of Australian officials continue to have the option of voluntary departure to return to Australia.

Security in the West Bank is unpredictable. This includes Nablus, Jenin, Bethlehem, Hebron, Jericho and Ramallah. Tensions are high. Violence occurs. Take care around West Bank checkpoints. If you're in the West Bank during military action or civil unrest, stay in a safe place indoors and away from windows. Take care when visiting the Old City in Jerusalem. Transportation and other services could be affected. Be alert to your surroundings and have an exit plan. Monitor media for the latest updates.

Our ability to provide consular help in Gaza is extremely limited. If you're in Gaza, be aware of your surroundings and review your personal security plans. Monitor local media (including social media), UN alerts, and your own organisation's security contacts for information about changing security conditions and alerts to seek shelter. If it's possible to leave, carefully consider the safest means.

The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt may be closed or have highly restricted access for long periods and is subject to change at short notice. It has been subject to air strikes during the current Gaza conflict.

source: smartraveller.gov.au

source: www.gov.uk

Israel
My tips to get you on the way!
Does Israel sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.

Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.

Lonely Planet

Rough Guide

Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Israel. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Israel may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.

Check visa requirements for Israel

Check vaccination requirement for Israel

Get your travel insurance

Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Israel, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.

Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.

Hostelworld

Expedia

My personal packing list 🎒
author

Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.

Money & Documents
Passport, visa (originals + some photo copies)
Passport photographs
Credit and debit cards (on world profile)
Cash (US$ or €)
Money belt
Vaccination proofs

Clothing
Light, quick-dry clothing
No jeans, too heavy
Ultralight rain/wind jacket
Thermo underwear
Quick-dry towel
Sunglasses

Electronics
Mobile phone + charger
Power bank
Travel adapter
Local sim card (buy it on arrival)

Health
Toothbrush
Deo
Sunscreen, lips sunburn
Anti-diarrhea
Paracetamol
Blister plasters
Anti-mosquito (DEET)
Toilet paper
Nail scissors

Others
Small number lock
Waterproof packing cubes (for dirty clothes)
Card game(!)
Ear plugs
Travel pillow