Israel and the Palestinian Territories have thousands of years of contrast. These are ancient and holy lands for three of the world’s major religions and a beacon of modernity in the Middle East.
Travellers come to Israel and the Palestinian Territories expecting to see an age-old world. They walk through the Old City of Jerusalem, treading the footsteps of King Herod and Jesus of Nazareth, and find themselves steeped in spiritualty but these wonders are not the end of region's appeal. In Tel Aviv, art and culture spews from the streets, cafes call and beaches sparkle. Out of the cities, traditional lifestyles continue amid modern complexities. It’s an astounding dichotomy; two worlds, two millennia apart.
Israel and the Palestinian Territories travel highlights
Feel the holiness of The Dome of the Rock
It’s one of the oldest and perhaps most beautiful works of Islamic architecture, build on the Temple Mount, the holiest site in Jerusalem for Jews, Christians and Muslims alike.
Touch the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem’s Old City
It was once part of a structure surrounding the Second Temple. Today it’s the holiest site in Jerusalem.
Pass through the ancient Roman Cardo
Jerusalem was not just an early centre for the three Abrahamic faiths, it was also an important Roman hub. The pillars and paving of the Cardo still remain.
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Israel and the Palestinian Territories holiday information
Israel and the Palestinian Territories facts
Local culture of Israel and the Palestinian Territories
Geography & environment
Shopping guide to Israel and the Palestinian Territories
Israel and the Palestinian Territories festival calendar
Food & drink in Israel and the Palestinian Territories
Further reading
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Israel and the Palestinian Territories travel FAQs
- Australia: No - not required
- Belgium: No - not required
- Canada: No - not required
- Germany No - not required
- Ireland: No - not required
- Netherlands: No - not required
- New Zealand: No - not required
- South Africa: No - not required
- Switzerland: No - not required
- United Kingdom: No - not required
- USA: No - not required
It is important to be aware that many Arab and Islamic countries deny entry to any person that has evidence of a visit to Israel. Syria, Iran, Libya and several other countries are included in this list. If you are planning to visit any of these countries with the same passport you must request that your Israeli ‘tourist visa’ be stamped on a loose leaf ‘Form 17 L’ instead of in your passport. Likewise, if entering Israel through the land borders with Jordan please ask the Jordanian officials not to stamp an exit stamp in your passport. If you have evidence in your passport of visits to certain Islamic countries, Israeli border officials will scrutinize you regarding the purpose of your visit to Israel. They can sometimes appear difficult and the delay can be lengthy however patience and a friendly demeanor are advised.
Tipping is common in restaurants, and most people add 10-15% to their bill. However it’s not common to tip taxi drivers, porters and for other
Internet access is easy to come by in Israel with plenty of Wi-Fi spots and internet cafes. Service may be unreliable in remote areas.
Mobile phone coverage is good in Israel’s major centres but may be unreliable in rural and remote places. Remember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while traveling.
You’ll find western-style toilets in most cities and squat toilets in some rural places. Soap and toilet paper aren’t always provided so you may like to carry some with you.
- Can of soft drink = 6-8 shekels
- One hour in an internet café = 15 shekels
- Take-away snack or light lunch = 25-30 shekels
- Simple dinner at a café or restaurant = 60-100 shekels
Drinking tap water is safe in Israel unless otherwise stated. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a refillable bottle or canteen with you.
Many hotels, restaurants and shops accept international credit cards however expect to pay cash when buying from small businesses.
Israel has plenty of ATMs in urban centres but they’re less common in rural areas.
Yes. All peregrine passengers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Your insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first days.
For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Israel/public-holidays