Solo Travel In Israel: Expert Tips, Itinerary + More (2026)

Have you been looking for how to solo travel in Israel? I’ve got you covered!

In addition to multiple visits and touring around Israel, I lived in the country for two years in both Haifa and Tel Aviv (I even got citizenship)!

Between multiple archaeological excavations, traditional tours, an internship photographing archaeological sites where I traveled mostly solo to get to them on public transit, working in a Tel Aviv hostel, renting a car and more experiences, I know how to travel solo in Israel!

Do these three things right now, then keep reading for all you need to know to explore this amazing country alone:

• Download Moovit, Waze, WhatsApp and Gett on your phone
• Decide if you’re getting an eSIM or regular SIM card when you arrive
• Learn the Hebrew alphabet song and practice (this one’s optional, as English is widely spoken, but can be helpful)
• Get travel insurance (I use Allianz)

Also get excited, because Israel is one of the best and safest countries for solo travelers, full of friendly and fun people and things to do!

In general, Israel is very safe compared to most countries, although right now is obviously different (but still generally safe for travel in touristy areas).

There are certain things to be aware of, like not to drive with an Israeli license plate into Gaza or the West Bank (Gaza in general isn’t safe, or certain areas of the West Bank). I also recommend staying away from more risky border areas without a tour guide.

Is it safe to travel to Israel at the moment?

You can definitely travel solo to Israel right now, but I recommend booking a tour(s) to go around the country. Staying in Tel Aviv solo is fine, just communicate with locals and know what to do when there are sirens, for example.

Disclaimer: There is always some risk traveling anywhere, and Israel is no exception. There are random terror attacks, even when there’s not a war.

Once, when I lived in Yafo/Jaffa, I was told I had to stay away from my sublet apartment because of a threat the police were looking into, for example. Because of the police and IDF, though, Israel feels safe – don’t be alarmed by the soldiers, as they’re there to protect you!

Is Israel safe for solo female travel?

In short, yes – I traveled there solo regularly, especially while living there! Mostly, it can be easy to get lost when you’re not used to using Moovit, or if you don’t have data on your phone, and more things. And, obviously, while there’s war I don’t recommend solo travel outside of Tel Aviv without a tour group/guide.

Here are a few tips:

• Download the Moovit app and learn the Hebrew alphabet so you can be comfortable with using it before you arrive
• Download the Gett app for taxis to avoid getting overcharged
• Get a Rav Kav upon arrival
• Download the Google Maps of the areas onto your phone in advance in case you don’t have data or cell phone service
• Keep reading for packing tips to know how to dress, and always stay hydrated
• Stay away from places that flood in the Winter, like in the Negev
• If you’re going to secluded places for hiking or swimming, make sure there are people around and/or find a new friend to bring (from your hostel or a Facebook group, for example)
• Be careful with drinking. Make sure you’re with a trusted group, or stop when you know you need to
• Men in Israel are bold – they’re harmless, just be bold right back to them
• Have the Google Translate app on your phone, and a website tab open for converting prices (usd, for example, to shekel)

Is it safe to walk around Tel Aviv alone and at night?

Also, yes – I did this all the time. However, a coworker who grew up in Israel didn’t – so really, it’s up to you.

Once, I my phone died and I had to find my way home to Jaffa at night, so I found my way to the beach, took off my shoes and walked along the beach to Jaffa! There are usually people on the beach at night in Tel Aviv, as long as it’s not too late (like early morning hours – locals stay out late, especially in the warmer months).

Quick Facts for Israel Travel

To save you time – because I know from experience that solo travel takes a lot of planning:

⏰ Time Zone: Israel Standard Time (GMT+2)

💰 Currency: Shekel

🎫 Visa: Travelers from the US typically are granted a 3-month tourist visa upon arrival (which is free of charge), that can be extended.

🎫 Passport Stamp: Instead of stamping passports, Israel gives travelers an entry card (but they reserve the right to stamp your passport). Keep your entry card! If you don’t, you can get charged the VAT tax.

📱Everyone in Israel uses WhatsApp – literally no one texts on regular texting! WhatsApp is also great to have for traveling around the world anyway.

Best ways to travel Israel Solo

🌴 Join a Tour

The best way to see Israel when you’re on your own, especially if it’s your first trip, is to find tours to the places you want to go.

You can find one tour that covers all the main spots and then do others on your own, or choose multiple tours for smaller groups of places for one day, two days etc.

👉 This Day trip from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and Dead Sea is perfect if you’re short on time and want to see the Dead Sea and the Old City of Jerusalem in one day!

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Harrison_H:
“A long day that covers the essential parts of Jerusalem and the Dead Sea. A must do for anyone visiting Tel Aviv. Our guide Udi was full of knowledge and humour. Overall very enjoyable.”

🤩 Learn More About this Day trip from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and Dead Sea Here

👉 This Underground Jerusalem Tour covers many of my favorite spots, including the Western Wall Tunnels, Hezekiah’s Tunnel/Siloam Tunnel and the City of David, and more! Then, you’re free to explore the Old City on your own.

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Sandra_P:
“Saw things I had no clue existed. I would have never found this myself. He is VERY knowledgeable, funny and friendly. Very well organized, unique and interesting experience”

🤩 Learn More About this Underground Jerusalem Tour Here

👉 I went on the D-TLV Pub Crawl Night Tour and know a lot of the people who lead these tours from when I worked at the hostel, and I highly recommend it for meeting new people and experiencing the TLV club scene in a safe group!

🤩 Go on the D-TLV Pub Crawl Night Tour

🌴 Use public transportation and/or rent a car

While I don’t recommend this as much currently outside of cities, Israel has an excellent public transportation system including buses, trains and light rail. Of course, you won’t be able to use these on Shabbat and the Sherut is not reliable (I tried to use it a time or two and it never came).

You can also take Taxis or Uber, and rent a car (I use Discover Cars) for travel to places without public transit, like archaeological sites and National Parks.

For all over Israel, get a Rav Kav, which is the public transit card for the bus (and trains, but you have to buy the ticket at the train stations for that). You can fill it up at stations and stores around the city. If you don’t get one and fill it up outside of the bus, you’ll have to buy one for one ride on the bus, but it’s more expensive – so be sure to pick one up at the airport!

My experience:

During my internship, I wasn’t allowed to rent a car to get to archaeological sites I was photographing, so I’d get up super early and take public transit to meet the site managers, who would pick me up and drive me the rest of the way… I definitely would rather have had a rental car!

I also rented a car to participate on the Tel Azekah dig for a day before my Masters program started at TAU. I brought a friend and we also stopped at Ashkelon, then I returned the car to the airport and took the train and a bus back to my hostel, where I worked a night shift. Those were crazy times!

🌴 Volunteer and/or stay at a hostel

If you’re short on budget, hostels are a cheaper option, plus they’re a fantastic way to meet new people, find activities and find people who will travel with you!

If you’re really short on budget, most hostels in Israel take volunteers in exchange for a free place to stay, and some hostels also include some meals.

🌴 Find Facebook Groups

Everyone in Israel uses Facebook. I found my hostel job on Facebook plus apartments and sublets, and I was in groups for other job opportunities and trips/activities! Literally anything you’re interested in, you can find Facebook and WhatsApp groups for them.

I mostly recommend this only if you’re going to be in Israel for more than a week and have time to spend on this.

🌴 Participate on an archaeological excavation

One of my favorite things to do in Israel is archaeology! I knew, from my first tour, that I needed to go on a dig – and I did! If you’re anything like me, hearing about archaeological sites and digs – especially the really interesting sites – will make you wish you could experience this.

Digs mostly take place in the summer for 4 weeks per season, and you can volunteer for anywhere from a day, to a week to all four weeks usually. Just contact the people in charge of the excavation you choose and ask for details!

Israel is incredibly diverse, so it’s easy to fit in! There are people of every race; there are Jews, Arabs, Muslims, Christians, Druze, Bedouin and more people, from countries all over the world and people whose families have been in the land continuously since ancient times. Luckily, English is widely spoken as well.

Here are my top tips for ways to fit in even more while traveling solo in Israel:

What to Pack & Wear (or buy in Israel)

There are certain things to wear and have in Israel to fit in and just to be prepared for the climate, culture and travel activities. These include:

To know what to wear and pack for a trip to Israel, the first thing to know is what time of year you’re visiting to be ready for the weather.

👉 You’ll definitely need sunscreen, a hat and a good water bottle.

👉 Electrolyte packets like these for better hydration, because walking around in the sun will get to you.

👉 This microfiber towel for the beach is perfect to avoid having to rent one, and you can also use it for yoga:

👉 Good walking/hiking sandals like Chacos that can also get wet, so perfect for all those hikes (even in waterfalls).

• Check Price on Amazon
• Check Price on REI

👉 Blundstones (especially for Fall or Winter), which you’ll see most Israelis wearing.

• Check price on Amazon
• Check price on REI

🔌 Electrical Converter: Israel uses plug types C, H and M, a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

Learn a bit of Hebrew (and Arabic, if you want to go the extra mile)

Hebrew is the official language in Israel, though English is spoken by most people. You’ll hear a lot of Arabic as well, plus Russian and more languages.

Getting familiar with the Hebrew alphabet can help you read signs and use Moovit (public transportation app where some places are only in Hebrew).

It’s also helpful to know commonly used words and phrases, which you can learn on an app like Duolingo!

Plan for Shabbat and Holidays

Shabbat and Holidays in Israel are unlike anywhere else, and being prepared for them will help you know what to do and not find yourself without a plan!

Shabbat is the day of rest, so a lot of places are closed and there isn’t regular or reliable public transportation. I recommend being on a tour with a guide, or planning to stay in (get food in advance), go to the beach etc!

Some holidays, including Yom Kippur, are like Shabbat – on Yom Kippur there is no traffic, even – while other holidays have festivals and celebrations that everyone gets really into, like Purim and Laila Levan (TLV White Night).

Understand the Local Culture

Knowing what the locals do and how to act in certain situations can help make solo travel much easier and less stressful – here are my top tips for first time and solo travelers in Israel:

• Where to hang out, like beaches and clubs

If you’re looking for a break from being a tourist, going to beaches and clubs (or the pub crawl mentioned earlier) are great ways to meet people!

• Mealtimes & Restaurant etiquette

In Israel, mealtimes tend to be later, and people stay out later in the summer especially. People do tip at restaurants, around 12-15%, and you’ll need to ask for your check because they won’t bring it to you! Sometimes, if you sit at the bar the bartender might offer you a free shot of Arak for a toast (this is based on my experience, so no guarantees)!

• People are bold

People say what they mean without the fluff for the most part in Israel. This might feel like a bit of a shock, but it’s really appreciated because you know it means you won’t be wondering what people meant!

People say Israelis are like cacti – spiky on the outside, but sweet on the inside.

• Be open-minded

Obviously, I’m not saying you can’t be opinionated, but be open to learning new things, whether it’s trying new foods, learning the Israeli way of life, or learning about people’s political views.

Most Israelis protest and have strong opinions, but they also have a much better understanding of world politics in general than people from the US from education and travel, plus living in the Middle East and serving in the IDF – so, listen and learn!

Short answer: No, Israel is expensive! Long answer: Definitely have some cash, but know how to make it cheaper because you definitely can.

• Hostels: There are some amazing hostels in Israel! Check out Abraham Hostel, which has locations in multiple places.

• Groceries & cooking: Eating out gets really expensive, really quickly in Israel, but getting groceries and cooking will save you a lot!

• Have cash, but use a travel credit card when you can: I use the Chase Sapphire Preferred so I don’t have foreign transaction fees, and I get points to use towards future travel!

• Walking & Public Transportation: Unless you need to get somewhere by car, walking and public transit is cheap. You can also rent bikes and scooters, which most people in the cities use anyway. There are trains connecting TLV, Jerusalem, Haifa and more places.

• Visit during shoulder season: Shoulder season is always cheaper, but be sure to miss the worst of the rainy season in the Winter if you want to avoid that (unless you want to see possible snow and ski at Mt. Hermon)!

How much does a 10 day trip to Israel cost?

An ordinary 10-day trip through Israel, excluding flights, typically falls within the range of $2,500-$3,000. For a more luxurious experience, the cost can rise to somewhere around $900 per person, per day.

The overall expense of a tour is influenced by factors such as the tour operator and the exact number of days. Most tours generally cover meals, accommodation and sightseeing.

Travelers on a budget can anticipate spending approximately $50-$70 per day in Israel, including expenses for food, transportation, accommodations, and activities. Budget-friendly options are around $10-$15 per person, while mid-range restaurants typically charge around $50 per person.

Getting Around Israel

I’ve already mentioned some about how to get around Israel, but here’s more specific information to help you plan your solo trip:

Can you get around Israel without a car?

You can somewhat, especially in and between cities. However, you’ll need a car or tour guide for many of the National Parks, archaeological and historical sites, smaller towns, wineries and more places outside of the main cities.

Renting a Car & Driving in Israel

I’ve rented a car in Israel, and I wrote a comprehensive post to help you more if you decide to rent a car.

I use and recommend Discover Cars for renting a car in Israel (just be sure to check the reviews for each location and rental company)!

If you rent a car, only drive in Israel. Do not cross into the West Bank or Gaza with and Israeli license plate, as it’s dangerous.

Best Places to Stay in Israel for Solo Travelers

I have recommendations for:

• Places to stay in Tel Aviv including neighborhoods, hotels, hostels etc;
• Places to stay in Haifa including neighborhoods and accommodation for every budget in each;
• Places to stay in Jerusalem for every budget.

If you’re looking specifically for Tel Aviv, here are my top places to stay for each budget range:

Where to stay in Tel Aviv on any Budget

✅ Budget Option: Abraham Hostel Tel Aviv

Abraham Hostel is arguably the best hostel in Tel Aviv – and, it’s a chain with other locations around Israel! They also have a bar, game room, and events, plus a fantastic location around a lot of Tel Aviv hot spots.

You can book a dorm, private room, double room or apartment.

🛏️ Check Current Prices at Abraham Hostel Tel Aviv Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: 65 Hotel Tel Aviv (an Atlas Boutique Hotel)

65 Hotel Tel Aviv is a classy boutique hotel is located on Rothschild Boulevard, which is one of the most famous and has a lot of restaurants, bars and sites to check out. The hotel’s design is part of the draw, with postcolonial and modern retro. There’s also a cafe with free breakfast, a bar where you get your first drink free, and a garden.

🛏️ Check Current Prices at 65 Hotel Tel Aviv Here

✅ Luxury Option: Royal Beach Hotel Tel Aviv (an Isrotel Hotel)

Royal Beach Hotel Tel Aviv is a luxury hotel right on the Mediterranean beachfront. There’s a bar, restaurant, pool and spa, and so much more to discover!

🛏️ Check Current Prices at the Royal Beach Tel Aviv Here

Itinerary Stops for Traveling Israel Solo

Every Israel Itinerary should have all the main parts of the country that are worth seeing – or at least the main ones you can fit into your time!

Here are my top places to see (read more details, like how much time and what to see in each place, in the links provided):

Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is a must in Israel. It has the perfect mix of city, beach and museums, and it’s fun with amazing nightlife and food! I lived there, and I’d say I’m biased but I’m pretty sure everyone loves TLV!

Jerusalem

Jerusalem is also a definite must when visiting Israel. It’s the intersection of the three major religions, of course, and you just can’t miss the Old City, other historical and archaeological sites and more!

Haifa, Caesarea, Akko & more

I also lived in Haifa and highly recommend it for the B’hai Gardens, the coexistence and more, plus surrounding sites and towns that are amazing to see!

👉 This Caesarea, Rosh Hanikra and Acre Day Trip from Tel Aviv includes more than just those two sites, and adds some of the other best day trip spots from Tel Aviv into one day!

You’ll visit:

• Rosh Hanikra grottos
• Caesarea Port, with amazing archaeological remains
• Haifa’s Baha’i Gardens
• Acre (Akko) Crusader Citadel, Tunnels & City Market

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Joyce_h:
“Jam packed day of touring up North!!! Bus picked us up at our hotel at the exact time given and we were taken to location to change to our respective buses for our tour. Bus was brand new, comfortable and spacious. Avi our tour guide was informative and knowledgeable. Our first stop was Caesarea’s National Park and the history was so interesting!!! Then off to the Bahai Gardens for some photo ops; only able to photograph from above or below. We did not enter gardens, but I knew that we wouldn’t. Next, Rosh Hanikra and finally the city of Akko. Here we stopped for lunch (Wish they added that to the description) which was an additional cost. Was a long day, but great to do on tour so we didnt have to drive and were able to look at the countryside. Bus driver also wonderful handling turns and traffic with a large bus with ease!!”

🚐 Learn More About this Caesarea, Rosh Hanikra and Acre Day Trip from Tel Aviv Here

Dead Sea, Masada, Ein Gedi & Qumran

These sites are all in the same area, and can be seen in one day. They’re quintessential to every Israel tour, and who doesn’t want to float in the Dead Sea?

👉 This full-day tour of Masada and the Dead Sea takes you in an air-conditioned vehicle from Tel Aviv to the foot of Masada, where you’ll take the cable car to the top and explore! You’ll also pass the Khan Al-Hatruri – The Good Samaritan Inn, explore Ein Gedi and pass by Qumran before going to float in the Dead Sea!

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Ovidiu_C:
“Definitely worth it! Great day trip from Tel Aviv. Left early in the morning and we got back around 5pm. More than enough as we did a lot. Stopped in the desert first which was an experience on it’s own. Then the Dead Sea, which is interesting to say the least. After that lunch and Masada. Very beautiful scenery everywhere we went. Our guide, Tomer, was very friendly and extremely funny. Great atmosphere the whole trip. Gave us information on everything and answered every question we had. To sum up the trip in one word, Sababa!!”

🚐 Learn More About this Masada and the Dead Sea Day Trip from Tel Aviv Here

Golan Heights

For solo travelers who want an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Golan Heights is perfect! Located in the north, this elevated plateau has gorgeous landscapes, volcanic mountains, waterfalls and hiking, and archaeological sites.

You can explore ancient ruins, such as the Gamla Nature Reserve, with Tel Dan and more archaeological sites. The Golan Heights also has hiking, nature reserves, and the Banias Waterfall.

Negev

👉 This Timna Park Jeep Tour Adventure is a great excursion from Eilat on a day trip from Tel Aviv! You’ll get to ride in a jeep in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Timna, with ancient rock formations, King Solomon’s mine, Solomon Pillars, ancient inscriptions and copper mines!

You’ll also stop for Bedouin tea!

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Angela_G:
“Alex was a great tour guide. He was knowledgeable in answering questions and showing us the highlights of Timna Park with a combination of riding in a jeep and light walking/climbing/small tunnel. The customer service was great and the tour is recommended.”

🚐 Learn More About this Timna Park Jeep Tour Adventure Here

Galilee

The Galilee region is another amazing destination for solo travelers to visit, in the north. The Galilee has the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee), ancient sites such as the city of Tiberias, churches, wineries, hiking on the Jesus Trail and more places, and more to explore.

👉 This Private Wine Tour of Northern Israel will take you to the best of Israel’s wine country, in the Galilee and Golan Heights regions! You can choose to customize your own tour or pick a pre-arranged itinerary, and visit a handful of boutique wineries with wine tastings and education.

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Marcel_M:
“A wonderful experience. Each winery was unique and interesting. Our tour guide was delightful, providing thoughtful insight to the region and to the history of Israel. Highly recommend!”

🚐 Learn More About this Private Wine Tour of Northern Israel Here

Eilat

Situated at the southernmost point of Israel, Eilat is a city that became known in history for its strategic location along the Red Sea. Today, it’s popular as a resort destination with hotels, diving and snorkeling, beaches and more.

Top Archaeological & Biblical Sites

Apart from the major cities, there are Biblical sites and archaeological sites in National Parks all throughout Israel that where solo travelers can find hidden gems (especially if you have a rental car!).

From sites in the places in this list, to other ones like the many Crusader Fortresses, Churches and ancient Synagogues, and sites like Zippori, Bet Shearim, Tel Gezer, the Elah Valley sites and more, there’s always something new to see!

Petra/Jordan

If you want to get that quintessential photo overlooking the famous Petra Treasury, you can hop on a Jordan tour, too!

👉 This Day Tour to Petra by Bus from Tel Aviv takes you to Petra by air-conditioned bus and back in the same day! You’ll get assistance with the border crossing and there’s an upgrade option to enter Petra by horseback.

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Derek_H:
“Please don’t let some of the crazy reviews put you off this tour, I think those people would prefer a helicopter to drop them directly there and fly them away when they’re finished, yes it’s a long day but it’s one of the most amazing sites in the world. It was literally jaw dropping to see Petra. On the Jordan side the tour guide Kareem was so nice and helpful, I’ll never forget the day. I’m sorry this trip has gotten any bad reviews, seeing the Treasury for the first time is a sight I’ll never forget, you won’t regret it”

🚐 Check Prices for this Day Tour to Petra by Bus from Tel Aviv Here

Egypt

You can also do a trip to Cairo to get a photo with the pyramids.

You can take This Shuttle from Tel Aviv to Taba (border Egypt), or you can do multi-day trips from Tel Aviv to Egypt, and even include Jordan, so you can check them all off your list in one trip!

This 5-Day- Israel, Jordan and Egypt From Tel Aviv is a great way to see all of these places!

🚐 Learn More About this 5-Day- Israel, Jordan and Egypt From Tel Aviv Here

Istanbul

When I lived in Israel, I met my cousin in Istanbul and also did some solo traveling on my own there! It’s a really short flight and an easy day (or more) trip from Israel.

More tips for Traveling Solo in Israel

✈️ Airport: Ben-Gurion

For flights, WayAway is a flight aggregator that helps you find the cheapest flights. Use the code MUKI-TRAVELS for 10% off WayAway Plus.

Airport Transfers: KiwiTaxi

🛌 Accommodation: Booking.com

📸 Tours: Viator.com

🇮🇱 Book a Private Arrival Transfer From Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv City Center Here

FAQs About Solo Travel In Israel

👉 Is Israel safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Israel is generally safe for solo travelers. Take usual travel precautions and be aware of local customs, and ask people all your questions!

👉 Are there guided tours for solo travelers?

Yes, there are lots of options for tours when you’re a solo travel. I’ve listed many of them in this guide.

👉 What types of accommodation are available for solo travelers?

Hostels, guesthouses, apartments and hotels are all available through a variety of booking platforms, direct booking and even Facebook groups for solo travelers in Israel.

👉 How is the transportation system for solo travelers?

Israel has a well-connected transportation system. Buses, trains, and taxis make it easy for solo travelers to navigate the country. Just be sure to get a RavKav and download apps like Moovit for public transit (Moovit uses both Hebrew and English, so also use Google Maps), and Waze for driving. Also be sure to have a SIM or eSIM so you have data – I mostly just got lost when I didn’t have data to help guide me.

👉 Can I visit historical sites alone?

Yes, many historical sites in Israel are solo-traveler friendly. Explore ancient ruins, museums, and cultural landmarks at your own pace. I’ve been to many sites on my own, and it was great!

👉 What regions are best for solo travel in Israel?

Most places in Israel that are well known are perfect for solo travelers, like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, the Galilee, and the Negev Desert. Read even more in this guide.

👉 Is there a language barrier for English speakers?

English is widely spoken in most of the tourist areas and major cities, like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. In Haifa, it wasn’t quite as common so it was helpful to know a bit of Hebrew and to use the Google Translate app.

👉 How much should I budget for a solo trip to Israel?

Budgets vary, but a daily estimate for a budget traveler is around $50-$70 to cover food, transportation, and activities.

👉 Can solo travelers participate in local activities?

Yes, you can join local tours, cooking classes, or cultural events as a solo traveler.

👉 Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of?

Respect local customs, dress modestly in religious sites, and be mindful of Shabbat on Friday evening through Saturday.