If you’ve never been to Israel, you are in for a treat. Walking around in a land steeped in culture and drenched in the bright Middle Eastern sun, will give you memories for a lifetime. There is so much to do and see, that as soon as you leave, you’ll want to plan your next trip. Best of all, this country is very kid-centered so wherever you go, there will be tons for your children to do.
Travel Prep
A common problem many people face when traveling to the Middle East from the US, is jet lag. Families will small children may find that getting over jet lag can take up to a week! Don’t get stuck sleeping through your trip. Try these jet-lag busting ideas instead:
- Night flight. Taking a flight overnight is conducive to sleeping. When the lights are dimmed and the tablets are put away, kids can actually get comfortable so they can sleep.
- Natural supplements. Keeping your family awake can only work if you are awake. Find a plant-based product which will give you the boost you need to enjoy your vacation. Take a look at analyze that for honest reviews about which jet lag supplements are safe and effective.
- Expose yourselves to sunlight during the day to help your body acclimate and reset it’s circadian rhythm.
5 Fantastic Places To Visit In Israel
1. Old City, Jerusalem
Entering the Old City in Jerusalem and stepping on the ancient stones is an experience which cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world. It is a one-kilometer area surrounded by stone walls which can be entered through any one of 7 different gates.
Old City, Jerusalem
The Old City is divided into four quarters: The Christian Quarter, The Jewish Quarter, The Muslim Quarter and The Armenian Quarter.
The Christian Quarter
The most famous holy site is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, also known as the Church of the Resurrection. There are about 40 holy sites located here, including the Franciscan monastery, the Patriarchate of the Greek Orthodox and the Latin Patriarchate.
You will also find museums, hotels, souvenir shops, restaurants and tons of tourists.
The Jewish Quarter
Winding stones paths snake in between tightly packed homes of the Ultra-Orthodox. Many Jewish schools are also in the area so you will see many children to and from their way to learn. This quarter leads into the wide expanse Western Wall Plaza. People of all religions come to pray and to stuff little notes of prayer into the venerable stones of the Western Wall.
The Muslim Quarter
Test your bartering skills in the famous shuk, or marketplace, in the Muslim Quarter. Vendors are packed into this area selling everything you could ever hope to buy. Even if you don’t purchase anything, your kids will be spellbound by the sights and sounds.
The most famous Muslim holy site is the Dome of the Rock which can only be entered by Muslims. However, tourists are able to tour the area around it as well as the Al-Aqsa Mosque nearby.
The Armenian Quarter
This is the smallest quarter and is home to ancient community of Armenians who have lived there for over 2,000 years.
2. Dolphin Reef, Eilat
Located in the southern tip of Israel, Eilat is a true oasis in the desert. It’s also a fun family destination. Choose from a plethora of hotels to stay in, many with spectacular swimming pools as well as kids clubs for when you need some adult time.
There are so many touristy things to do here, but the most special is the Dolphin Reef. Plan to spend an entire day relaxing on the beach, hanging out with dolphins and getting a bite to eat. The water is clear and beautiful which makes snorkeling an obvious activity. You can also go scuba diving and swim with dolphins.
Dolphin Reef, Eilat
If your kids are too little to do either of those activities, there are floating docks to sit on. Many people dangle their feet into the water and wait for dolphins to swim by and touch their legs. The best part about this place is that the dolphins are not trained to perform and can freely swim wherever they like. Watching them swim happily in their natural environment is truly relaxing. Adults and kids of all ages get lost in the natural magic of this wonderful reef.
3. Sea of Galilee
Located in northern Israel, the Sea of Galilee is actually a lake. Israelis love to camp alongside it and go swimming in this freshwater lake. There is a ton to do if you are a tourist in this area. Take a boat ride, rent bicycles or go on a water hike. Float lazily down the Jordan River in a kayak or canoe. Go to the hot springs. Check out amusement parks with daring water slides.
Sea of Galilee
Or travel around to different Kibbutzim where you can make chocolate, build and paint wooden toys and go on a ride through a banana grove.
4. Masada and The Dead Sea
Climb up Masada or take a cable car up to the top of this fortress. The views of the Dead Sea and the surrounding area are worth it!
The Dead Sea is therapeutic and relaxing. Slather yourself in mud and be amazed at how you really don’t sink in the heavily concentrated water. Younger kids may appreciate playing in mud, but beware that they won’t be able to spend too much time in the super salty water.
You may want to try a family friendly water hike nearby in Ein Gedi, full of small waterfalls and refreshing pools.
5. Tel Aviv Port
The city of Tel Aviv has a pulse and beat to it like no other. Vibrant, busy streets full of tall buildings, delicious restaurants and fashion-forward clothing designers give way to the glorious Mediterranean beaches.
Tel Aviv
Walk or scoot along the Tel Aviv Port, and hop on a merry-go-round, get some ice cream, play in the sand, listen to a street musician or get sprayed by the sea. There are also shallow areas of water which are perfect for kids. If you want to escape the sun for the hottest hours of the day, duck inside any number of restaurants or indoor play areas for children.
Our Ultimate Travel Advice
Experience the sights and sounds of a region which is packed with culture. Kids are welcome to act as kids and there is no shortage of child-based activities to choose from no matter which part of the country you are in.
