Israel

Israel rewards travelers who plan around its contrasts: ancient stone streets, Mediterranean beaches, desert landscapes, and lively modern cities can all fit into one journey. Use Hello’s trip planning tools to organize a route such as Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, and the Galilee, while leaving flexibility for weather, holidays, and changing local conditions. Before booking, check your government’s latest travel advice and the Israeli authorities’ entry requirements. Most foreign visitors need either an approved ETA-IL or a visa before arrival, depending on nationality and purpose of travel. Security guidance can vary by region, and border areas—including those near Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria—may carry specific restrictions or advisories. Keep your passport, insurance details, accommodation confirmations, and emergency contacts accessible. Israel uses 220-volt electricity with Type H and C outlets, so an adapter may be necessary. September and October can remain hot, while winter brings cooler evenings and occasional rain; pack breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a light layer.

Israel is compact enough for a varied itinerary, but travel times can stretch during rush hours, weekends, and security-related disruptions. Trains connect Ben Gurion Airport with Tel Aviv, Haifa, and other major destinations, while buses serve cities and places beyond the rail network. Public transport generally pauses from Friday afternoon through Saturday evening for Shabbat, although schedules differ by location; plan intercity journeys before Friday and confirm services locally. In Tel Aviv, walking, buses, trains, and bicycles are practical for most sightseeing. Jerusalem’s light rail is useful around the city center, but the Old City is best explored on foot. Taxis should be taken from official ranks or booked through a reputable local service, and agree that the meter will be used. A rental car is convenient for the Galilee, Negev, and Dead Sea, yet parking in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv can be difficult. Download route information before leaving Wi-Fi, and use Hello eSIM—bought and activated before landing—to check live timetables, maps, and updates without roaming charges.

Israeli food is a delicious meeting point of regional traditions, immigrant cuisines, and fresh Mediterranean produce. Start with creamy hummus, smoky baba ganoush, falafel in pita, and shakshuka served with bread for scooping. In Jerusalem, browse the Mahane Yehuda Market for spices, pastries, olives, and prepared foods; in Tel Aviv, look for modern interpretations of Levantine dishes alongside excellent bakeries and seafood. Try sabich, a pita filled with fried eggplant, egg, salad, and tahini, or order grilled fish and seasonal vegetables along the coast. Dates, halva, and knafeh make memorable sweet stops. Vegetarian and vegan travelers will find abundant choices, but ask about ingredients if you avoid dairy, gluten, or specific meats. Restaurants may add service charges, and casual eateries often expect payment at the counter. Keep some Israeli shekels for market stalls and small cafés, though cards are widely accepted. When traveling with friends, Hello’s expense splitting can make it easier to divide shared mezze, taxi fares, and market purchases fairly.

The local currency is the Israeli new shekel (ILS or ₪), and most businesses prefer payment in shekels rather than foreign cash. Carry a small amount for markets, buses, public toilets, and modest cafés, while using a card for larger purchases. Hello’s budget tracking lets you record spending in ILS, which is useful when prices accumulate across meals, transport, entrance fees, and guided tours. Stay connected with Hello eSIM: purchase and activate it before you land so you can access translation tools, maps, reservations, and transport information without relying on airport Wi-Fi or incurring roaming charges. Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites: shoulders and knees may need to be covered, and Jewish, Muslim, and Christian holy places each have their own customs. Avoid photographing people without permission, especially in religious neighborhoods and markets. During Shabbat and Jewish holidays, expect many businesses and public services to close or operate on reduced schedules. At the Western Wall, Dome of the Rock area, churches, and mosques, follow posted instructions and speak quietly.