Summer is coming! Summer in Israel is a special time of year, filled with intense heat, balmy summer nights and endless energy. For those visiting Israel during the summer months, there are plenty of summer events, festivals, markets and happenings across the country making it one of the most unique seasons to experience. Time for carefree days, iced coffees and plenty of sunshine. Here are some of our favorite ideas and best things to do in Israel in the summer.
Summer in Israel? Hit the beach!
Beaches in Israel are some of the most beautiful in the world and during the summer months, become the hottest spot for locals and tourists alike. Tel Aviv beaches are popular year-round, but during the summer the sandy shores are packed with sunbathers, surfers and the constant pattering sound of “matkot”, and Israeli racquetball game.
From Alma beach to Nordau Beach to Hilton Beach in Tel Aviv along the Mediterranean Sea down to Eilat Beaches in the southern part of Israel overlooking the Red Sea, there is no shortage of options. Make sure to slather on the sunscreen, the sun in Israel is blazing. Morning, noon or night, the beaches are one of the best things to do in Israel in the summer.
Spend time in nature
Israel has many national parks and beautiful outdoor spaces which are ideal to enjoy during the summer months. From botanical gardens to desert landscapes, there is breathtaking nature seen from north to south. Sites like Ein Gedi nature reserve, a desert oasis or the Ba’hai gardens in the northern city of Haifa offer exciting sightseeing in the great outdoors. In Jerusalem, the Wohl Rose Garden is a highlight along with the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens.
One of the best things to do in Israel in the summer is making the most out of the natural beauty and unique landscapes across the country. The hot summer means that early morning hikes are the best way to beat the scorching sun. For an unforgettable experience, our Masada Sunrise tour is available every day of the week from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. This tour includes a sunrise hike, a breathtaking view from the Masada fortress followed by a visit to Ein Gedi and a relaxing float in the Dead Sea.
Float in the Dead Sea
No visit to Israel can be complete without a visit to the famous Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. In the summer months, the weather tends to be much hotter, especially in the region so visitors must remember to prepare for the sun and heat when in the area. Healing mud nourishes dry skin and a relaxing float is one of the best ways to rejuvenate and unwind. A unique experience that can only be had in Israel, a memorable float in the Dead Sea is one of the best things to do in Israel during summer. Check out our Dead Sea tours, departing daily from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Go to Petra
Every day throughout the summer, we offer many guaranteed departure tours leaving Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Eilat, heading to the famous ‘rose-red city’ of Petra. Don’t let the heat put you off, because the magic and wonder of Petra will never cease to amaze. The tour options to Petra this summer are available in one day, two-days, three-days and four-days formats.
Find out more about visiting Petra, and make memories with this once in a lifetime opportunity.
Stay cool indoors (museums and malls)
To stay cool against the blistering summer sun and heat, there are many air-conditioned indoor options. Israel has over 200 museums ranging from modern art to history, religion, science, and philosophy. With the highest number of museums per capita in the world, visitors looking to stay cool indoors have no shortage of options.
Check out upcoming art exhibitions in Israel or learn more about museums in Israel. Check out the best museums in Tel Aviv or popular Jerusalem museums such as Yad Vashem or the Tower of David Museum. Another indoor option for those seeking relief from the outdoor heat, that happens to be one of the best things to do in the summer in Israel is shopping! Israel has many malls including the newest to open, the TLV Fashion Mall, offering high-end brands, and the nearby Sarona Market filled with shops and food stalls, offering an array of international culinary delights.
Cool off with ice cream or frozen yogurt
Nothing feels more like summer than a cool, icy, treat and Israel has plenty of delicious options. Israelis are ranked 7th in the world for ice cream consumption, and the average local Israeli is believed to consume approximately 10 liters of ice cream per year, which increases during the summer.
From ice cream to some of the best frozen yogurt in the world, visitors can find cool treats in any convenience shop, corner store or ice cream shop. One of the other summer treats that is a must-eat while in Israel is the iced coffee. Check out some of the best coffee in Tel Aviv and test out the icy cold beverages, they are one of the best and most delicious ways to stay cool.
Make the most out of summer nights
When the sun goes down the warm temperate climate remains during summer nights in Israel. From rooftops patios to summer festivals, there are always events happening during the summer. Check out the best date spots, and best bars in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, ideal for enjoying a nightcap or cold beer after a perfect summer day.
Bike, Bike, Baby
Biking in Israel is popular year-round and for many locals is their main method of commuting. For visitors to Tel Aviv, there are many city bike options ideal for a relaxed bike ride along the beach. Read more about biking in Tel Aviv. For more advanced biking enthusiasts, check out other biking in Israel options. Another fun mode of transportation ideal for the summer in Israel are the scooters available around Tel Aviv, making it easier than ever to get around.
Try some water sports in Israel
Surfing, swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling and more, it is all possible in Israel in summer. Staying in the water is one of the best ways to beat the heat, and Israel has many options for watersports. For those eager to try kite surfing or scuba diving, there are plenty of opportunities. Read more about water sports in Israel and how to make the most out of these new experiences, easily one of the best things to do in Israel in the summer.
Summertime in Israel is a special season that is not to be missed!