Holon Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Holon, Israel with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.
- Introduction to Holon
- List of Places to Visit in Holon
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Holon
- Holon Bike Trail
- Israel National Trail
- Best Things to Do in Holon: Activities and Tours
- Dimona Silica Factory
- Nachalat Binyamim Art Market
- Week-Long Itinerary for Holon
- Food and Drink Scene of Holon
- Where to Stay in Holon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Leonardo Boutique Hotel Holon
- Tzabar Hotel Holon
- What to Buy in Holon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Israeli Designer Clothes
- Sabonete Soaps
- Local Culture and Customs of Holon
- Best Time to Visit Holon
- Do’s and Don’ts of Holon
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Holon: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Holon
- Where to Go Next from Holon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Tel Aviv
- Jerusalem
- Conclusion
Introduction to Holon
Holon is a vibrant city located in the Israeli Coastal Plain, in Israel. It is widely known for its cultural sector, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters scattered throughout the city. Holon is also a hub for outdoor activities, with various parks and natural reserves that will fulfill every nature lover’s wish.
List of Places to Visit in Holon
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
The Israeli Museum of Caricature and Comics
The museum showcases the history of Israeli comics and caricature, and it is the only museum of its kind worldwide. It features over 7,000 pieces, including comic books and graphic novels, among other things. The museum also has a library, a souvenir shop filled with comic-related merchandise, and interactive exhibits.
The Design Museum Holon
The Design Museum Holon is an award-winning and extraordinary building, designed by world-renowned architect Ron Arad. The museum is dedicated to exhibiting industrial design, fashion, and architecture exhibits that highlight contemporary design trends or showcase up-and-coming designers.
The Israeli Children’s Museum
The Israeli Children’s Museum is an award-winning institution that provides children with a fun, interactive learning experience. It features five floors of interactive exhibits that incorporate all the senses, including touch, smell, and sound. The museum’s exhibits range from high-tech gadgets to traditional crafts and games, such as candle making.
Natural Attractions of Holon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
The Holon Nature Reserve
The Holon Nature Reserve is a 34-acre park featuring over 800 plant species and a diverse range of wildlife. The reserve features walking paths and cycling routes and is accessible to people with mobility disabilities. Overall, the reserve is an excellent place to spend a relaxed afternoon enjoying nature.
The Yamit 2000 Water Park
The Yamit 2000 Water Park is one of the biggest water parks in Israel, and it attracts hundreds of visitors each day during the summer months. The park features water slides, a wave pool, and various water attractions suitable for all ages. Additionally, the park’s facilities include food stands and changing rooms.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Holon
Holon Bike Trail
The Holon Bike Trail is a 10-kilometer cycling route that takes riders on a journey through the city’s historic sites, nature reserves and provides scenic views. It’s perfect for a day out for families and avid cyclists.
Israel National Trail
The Israel National Trail passes through Holon as its 123rd stage. The trail is 1,100 kilometers long and passes through some of Israel’s most stunning landscapes, making it a great adventure for nature lovers and hikers.
Best Things to Do in Holon: Activities and Tours
Dimona Silica Factory
The Dimona Silica Factory is a unique attraction that provides visitors with an insight into the processes behind the sandblasting industry. Visitors can observe a glassblowing artist create stunning glass artwork or learn sandblasting techniques.
Nachalat Binyamim Art Market
The Nachalat Binyamim Art Market is another top spot for art enthusiasts. The market operates in the pedestrian zone of the Nachalat-Binyamim quarter and features exhibitions, live music, and food stands. Visitors can admire and purchase paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and jewelry.
Week-Long Itinerary for Holon
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the Israeli Museum of Caricature and Comics |
| 2 | Take a stroll through the Holon Nature Reserve |
| 3 | Visit the Design Museum Holon |
| 4 | Explore the Yamit 2000 Water Park |
| 5 | Cycle along the Holon Bike Trail |
| 6 | Visit the Israeli Children’s Museum |
| 7 | Take a day trip to Tel Aviv or Jerusalem |
Food and Drink Scene of Holon
Must-Try Dishes
Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a popular dish for breakfast, which consists of cooked tomatoes, onions, garlic, spices, and poached eggs on top. It’s a filling and tasty dish that both locals and tourists adore.
Falafel
Falafel is a Middle Eastern staple that’s available in virtually every street corner in Israel. It consists of deep-fried ground chickpea balls served in a pita bread with hummus, tahini sauce, and salad.
Local Beverages
Arak
Arak is a traditional alcoholic drink made from grapes and flavored with anise. It is often served as an accompaniment to dinner or as an after-dinner drink.
Limonana
Limonana is a refreshing drink made of lemonade and mint, and it’s perfect for quenching thirst on hot days.
Where to Stay in Holon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Leonardo Boutique Hotel Holon
The Leonardo Boutique Hotel Holon is a 4-star hotel located in the center of the city. It features spacious and comfortable rooms with a balcony, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
Tzabar Hotel Holon
The Tzabar Hotel Holon is a budget-friendly option located in the city center. The hotel provides comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast.
What to Buy in Holon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Israeli Designer Clothes
Holon has a long-standing reputation for being a fashion hub, and it is home to some of Israel’s most talented fashion designers. The Nachalat Binyamim Art Market is a great place to browse and purchase some unique clothing items.
Sabonete Soaps
Sabonete is one of the most famous producers of handmade soaps in Israel. Founded in the late 1990s, Sabonete Soaps uses only natural ingredients and essential oils to create high-quality and fragrant soaps.
Local Culture and Customs of Holon
Holon is considered to be a melting pot of different cultures and religions, and it hosts many events throughout the year that reflects this. One of the most significant events in Holon is the annual Purim carnival, which is a festive celebration of Jewish tradition that includes music, food, and costume parades.
Best Time to Visit Holon
The best time to visit Holon is during the spring and autumn months, from March to May or September to November. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the city’s attractions are less crowded than during the summer months.
Do’s and Don’ts of Holon
Do:
- Dress modestly when visiting the religious sites.
- Try the local food and drinks.
- Visit the Nachalat Binyamim Art Market on Tuesday and Friday mornings.
Don’t:
- Smoke in public places.
- Leave your belongings unattended in crowded areas.
- Photograph or film without permission.
Safety and Health
Safety in Holon
Holon is a relatively safe city and has a low crime rate. Some areas may be higher risk, so it is essential to take standard safety precautions, such as securing your valuables and keeping an eye on your surroundings.
Health in Holon
Israel is known for its high standard of medical care, and Holon is no exception. There are many hospitals and medical centers in the city that provide excellent medical services in case of an emergency.
Getting to Holon: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Holon
The nearest airport to Holon is the Ben Gurion Airport, which is just a 20-minute drive away.
Bus Stations Near Holon
The Holon Junction Bus Station is serviced by many of Israel’s bus companies, making it a convenient way to travel to and from Holon.
Other Options
Taxi services and car rentals are also available and can be booked at the airport or through a travel agent.
How to Get Around in Holon
Holon is a relatively small city, and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Alternatively, visitors can hire bicycles to explore the city or take public transportation, such as buses or taxis.
Where to Go Next from Holon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv is a lively city that offers a wide range of attractions and activities, including beaches, museums, and art galleries. It’s only a short drive from Holon and can be easily accessed by bus or taxi.
Jerusalem
Jerusalem is one of the holiest cities in the world and is known for its rich history and architecture. Visitors can take a day trip to Jerusalem and explore its many attractions, such as the Western Wall and the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial.
Conclusion
Holon is a city filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. From impressive museums to scenic nature reserves, Holon has something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your trip to this fantastic city with this comprehensive guide, and make your visit unforgettable.
