Israel Tripadvisor Forum (2024)

FAQs

Is it safe to go to Israel right now? ›

Overall security situation

We continue to advise reconsider your need to travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories overall due to the volatile security situation, including the threat of terrorism, armed conflict and civil unrest. Rockets have been fired at Israel from Gaza, Lebanon and Syria.

Reconsider travel due to terrorism and civil unrest. The security situation remains unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire, often take place without warning.

You should bring around 300$ in cash to Israel. You can order shekels from your bank here before you leave, but it is easier to exchange in Israel. Avoid changing too much money in the airport; exchange rates are bad there. However, you may want to change ~$50 to shekels for transportation to where you are staying.

If you want to travel on an absolute budget in Israel, you should allow at least 30-40 USD a day for accommodation, some transportation, some attractions, and of course, food. Check our guide to ways to see Israel on a budget for more ideas.

April and May, and September to November are shoulder season. This is arguably the best time to visit Israel, as there will be fewer crowds and the climate is more tolerable for the inevitable long walks that sightseeing involves.

Tourists should also be very vigilant when traveling in the West Bank or East Jerusalem, including the city of Bethlehem. While the area is safe for tourists, transport can be tricky therefore travelers are encouraged to only go to these areas as part of an organized tour.

Food & Drink

Restaurants in Tel Aviv tend to be on the pricey side, but most restaurants in other cities are fairly reasonable – and the portions are huge! A main dish is on average $12 – $15 USD. If you're on a budget, the street food in Israel is incredible and you can usually grab a meal for around $2 – $3 USD.

The official currency in Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS). US Dollars are not accepted. You will need to exchange your dollars for Shekel upon arrival; there are ATM machines inside the arrivals hall at the airport. You can also exchange your money at the local banks and some hotels.

Frequently Asked Questions About Holy Land Tours

Our tours to Israel, Jordan, and Egypt start from about $1,300 to $9,900. The cost of the tour is determined by the duration (6-25 days) and the operator of the trip.

How far does the US dollar go in Israel? ›

Building a hotel in Israel takes about 10 years, and the pace of building tourist infrastructure, relative to the development of demand, is very low. The lack of supply, combined with increasing demand, results in higher prices on the one hand and a decrease in the level of service on the other hand, explains Patael.

At this point, no cruise lines are going to Israel.

United Airlines has canceled flights to Israel til further notice, while Delta has canceled flights until September 30 (flights will continue to operate under an El-Al codeshare) American Airlines has canceled flights until March 2025.

TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays of 90 days or fewer until January 1, 2025. Beginning January 1, 2025, visa or Electronic Travel Authorization. (ETA-IL) will be required.

Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere in Egypt. Potential targets include religious sites and tourist locations. The situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions, and the security situation could deteriorate with little notice.