The lively “Capital of the North”, Haifa is Israel’s third largest city and by far one of its most exciting.

While a visit in the spring or summer is an excellent opportunity to go for a swim or lounge on one of its beautiful beaches, Haifa is brimming with things to do and see all year round.

Haifa’s fantastic location at the slopes of the impressive Mount Carmel (an attraction in itself) has earned the city the nickname “the San Francisco of Israel”, and living up to this reputation it is awash with stunning beaches, fascinating sights, buzzing nightlife and an edgy music scene.

Bahá’í Garden – Beauty, grandeur, and inspired design

In July 2008, the Bahá’í Gardens were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in recognition of their “outstanding universal value” as a holy place of pilgrimage for the followers of the Bahá’í Faith.

The Bahá’í shrine and gardens are an inspired creation of beauty, grandeur, and exquisite design in a special and tranquil atmosphere like none other. The Bahá’í Gardens are also one of the country’s most popular attractions, drawing over a million visitors a year.

Mount Carmel – The evergreen mountain near Israel’s Mediterranean shore

One the most striking attractions is Mount Carmel, a symbol of beauty and bloom, and an ideal sight for leisurely hikes and family picnics. There is no need to overexert yourself to see the spectacular views from the top of Mount Carmel, as you can travel up and down the mountain via the subway system, the Carmelit.

Art & Culture

Haifa is a creative and vibrant city and, as such, fantastic art venues and cultural attractions can be found around every corner. Among the many excellent venues on offer are the notable Madatech Science and Technology Museum- Israel’s national Museum of Science, Haifa’s Museum of Art and the Haifa Educational Zoo, located on Mount Carmel.

Haifa also has rich and varied cultural events, such as the Holiday of Holidays Festival which celebrates the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim festivals all taking place in December. Also don’t miss the Haifa International Film Festival, a weeklong event held every September which transforms the entire city into a film attraction showing over a hundred films in every possible genre.

Content courtesy of the Israeli Ministrey of Tourism