Israel is one of the most exciting and diverse destinations in the world. As the Holy Land for the world’s three monotheistic religions, Israel boasts a rich history and culture. Here, SoGuide presents 10 “must-try” experiences during your visit to the country.

Tel Aviv Beaches

Tel Aviv’s beach ranks among the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world, with its fine sand and emerald waters. The beach is public, so you can swim there with complete peace of mind and safety. In fact, lifeguards are always on duty, and breakwaters are in place to prevent drowning. This is sure to reassure parents traveling with young children. INSERT LINK TO TOP 10 ACTIVITIES TO DO WITH KIDS. SoGuide recommends visiting in November, when the beach is much quieter and the weather is mild. The best thing about this beach on the west side is that the water is warm enough in the evening for you to swim under the glorious golden sunset, with its dreamy pink hues gently shimmering on the water’s surface.

Old Jaffa

This is the oldest part of Tel Aviv, much of which has been renovated and enhanced with numerous attractions. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets, you may notice iridescent clouds in the sky. This sight is fairly common, but remains impressive to many visitors. During your visit, you’ll also have the opportunity to see the “Wishing Bridge .” A wooden bridge featuring 12 bronze plaques representing each astrological sign. Legend has it that if you hold the plaque and look out at the sea while making a wish, that wish will come true. Not far from the bridge is a fountain inspired by astrology, which depicts the zodiac signs as large stone figures playfully spouting water.

Markets

Old Jaffa offers an eclectic mix of goods for sale, ranging from rare antique treasures at the flea market to designer craft shops featuring silk batiks and original creations. Fortunately, haggling is always acceptable, and I had fun scoring a good deal. In the industrial part of Tel Aviv, there’s a wonderful art market (Nachlat Binyamin) where you can find pottery, glassblowing demonstrations, paintings, and jewelry crafted right before your eyes by slightly eccentric artists. I bought a small, exquisitely crafted kaleidoscope keychain so I could carry a work of art in my pocket. At the very end of the market, a heavyset woman serenaded a crowd of locals with traditional Hebrew songs—songs they all seemed to know the words to and sang along to enthusiastically, if not entirely in tune.

Cuisine

Israeli cuisine is rich in diversity, and you absolutely must try it. Indeed, the country’s many waves of immigration have greatly influenced its culinary traditions. You’re sure to find something to your liking. For vegetarians, there are plenty of options, from falafel to hummus… For brunch lovers, there’s Shakshuka, a popular dish consisting of poached eggs in a tomato sauce with peppers, flavored with spices. Locals often eat it with pita bread. For those with a sweet tooth, be sure to try the crumbly Halva squares, which are usually made from sesame paste (tahini) but sometimes from semolina. The variety of flavors available at the market is impressive, but it’s a great excuse to sample a few. INSERT LINK HERE TO THE 10 MUST-TRY DISHES IN ISRAEL.

Sarona Market

Looking for dinner? But tired of restaurants that are often crowded and overpriced? Want to try something different? Sarona Market is the place for you! Sarona Market showcases every Israeli culinary delight you can imagine. The many sizzling food stalls will make it hard to choose. In the square just outside the market, you’ll find speakers blasting salsa and kizomba music, while locals dance to the beat in the square. This weekly event goes on for hours and is free for everyone. It’s the perfect place to have a great time with friends and get up close with the locals.

Dancing Jews

While walking through Jerusalem one evening, you may come across a large group of about 30 Jewish men of all ages dancing in the pedestrian streets to the sounds of Hasidic techno music, creating a festive atmosphere and spreading joy to passersby. This dance takes place most Saturday evenings to welcome the Sabbath day of rest.

Street Art

During your trip to Israel, you won’t be able to miss the streets decorated by artists. One artist in particular, Mr. Soloman Souza, single-handedly transformed the entire Mahane Yehuda Market, in the heart of Jerusalem, into his personal gallery of portraits. By day, the Mahane Yehuda Market hosts guided tours and cooking workshops, but at night, the shutters come down to reveal hundreds of works of art, featuring famous and historical faces, including those of Amy Winehouse and Einstein. In the evening, this market also becomes a lively hub with trendy bars and restaurants that stay open late, especially on Thursdays.

The Dead Sea

One of Israel’s most iconic sites. The Dead Sea contains so much salt that you can float effortlessly—a truly unique sensation. An experience to try at least once in your life. Don’t hesitate to slather your body with the sea’s mud, as Dead Sea mud is said to have skin-benefiting properties.

Jerusalem

Jerusalem is undoubtedly the city you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Israel. A holy city for the three monotheistic religions, it is home to numerous religious monuments, including the Dome of the Rock. The Old City offers a variety of activities, such as sightseeing, walking tours, and shopping in one of the many markets in the Old City.