Just above the Bat Galim Promenade, at the foot of Mount Carmel in the city of Haifa, is the Clandestine Immigration and Navy Museum. A large museum with many hands-on exhibits including two retired ships and a submarine on display and open for exploring, the museum is operated by the Israeli Navy and Ministry of Defence so don’t be surprised to find the front door locked – the guards will open it for you and ask for identification. Once inside, a short video presentation is shown giving a brief overview of the Israeli Navy’s history and then the large collection of both clandestine immigration and naval maps, photographs, articles and souvenirs can be browsed. Also, for those interested, a database of war medal and decoration recipients is available behind the guard’s booth.

The North of Israel (otherwise known as the Galilee) is often slightly overshadowed by some of the other places to visit in Israel. But, with so much beauty, history, culture, and, of course, adventure awaiting you in the North of Israel, it shouldn’t be that way, and no matter what your interests, you should have a problem narrowing down what to do in the north, rather than finding things to do. Here, we’ll give you five of the greatest places to visit in the North of Israel, from the city of Haifa, to the Sea of Galilee, the beautiful nature and leisure spots, and the amazing parks and nature reserves.

The Bahai Gardens is possibly the most distinct tourist attraction in all of Haifa, and is very likely the most visited. Every year, hundreds of thousands of tourists and locals alike travel to the Bahai Gardens on Mount Carmel in Haifa, the most holy site of the Bahai faith. Last year alone, 750,000 people enjoyed the beautiful terraces of the Bahai Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mount Arbel located in Israel’s Lower Galilee region stands sharply and prominently over the Sea of Galilee. Its graceful stature and steep slopes, particularly on the eastern side, provide magical views across the Sea of Galilee and beyond, to the Golan Heights, and Israel’s tallest peak at Mount Hermon. Designated as Arbel National Park and Nature Reserve, the mountain has beautiful observations, hiking trails, archaeology and Biblical history, and is the only place approved for base jumping in Israel.

Haifa’s German Colony is probably the culture and tourism center of this beautiful city. Located just beneath the Bahai Gardens, Haifa’s largest tourist attraction, the German Colony has been beautifully restored in recent years, and is now lined with trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. A visit to Haifa is not complete without exploring the German Colony, and those who do visit take away great memories. A visit is definitely one of THE things to do in Haifa.

One of the loveliest places to walk and see in all of Haifa is the Louis Promenade on Mount Carmel. This pleasantly peaceful promenade etched onto the slope of Haifa’s mountain is perfect for walks, jogs, runs and basking in the warm Mediterranean sun. With an exceptional view that extends from the city of Haifa to the distant white outcropping that is Rosh NaHikra, you can see the coastal cities of Nahariya, Akko (Acre) and the Krayot with the low, green mountains of the Western Galilee.

For those touring or staying in Haifa, the Carmelit Underground Train is a handy and fun way to go from the Downtown Haifa area to the Carmel Center. Cut through the rock of Mount Carmel, the Carmelit …

The Haifa Educational Zoo is an ideal place for families to visit while in Haifa. Originally built in 1949 by Pinchas Cohen as an education center for a neighboring school. After renovations in 2002 the zoo now hosts more than 100 species of wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and plantlife. Built on a beautiful nature reserve on Mount Carmel with views of the Mediterranean Sea, the zoo covers 35 dunams (8.6 acres) making it perfect for everyone, especially families with small children.

The Galilee makes up much of the north of Israel, totaling one-third of the whole country. Divided into three areas: the Lower Galilee, Upper Galilee, and Western Galilee, the Galilee has a hilly landscape with flat fertile plains, and an almost Tuscan-style appearance. The famous Sea of Galilee and River Jordan are located here, as are many pretty agricultural villages which sit alongside ancient ruins, and amazing hills and valleys which are mentioned throughout history as the location of famous battles and events.

Israel is home to some of the best spas in the world, so come and chill out in style! Criss-crossed by spas offering varied treatments from across the world, Israelis are big on their treatments, and whether it involves a quiet weekend retreat in a rural corner of the country or the center of a major city, there is a huge selection of spas to choose from.