Afula Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to eat, where to stay, and more in Afula, Israel.


Introduction to Afula

Located in the Jezreel Valley in Israel, Afula is a charming city that offers a unique combination of traditional culture and modern amenities. As the capital of the Valley of Springs region, Afula is a popular destination for tourists who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in natural beauty and cultural heritage. This comprehensive guide will take you on a tour of the best places to visit, things to do, and experiences to enjoy in Afula.

List of Places to Visit in Afula

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Afula is rich in history and culture, and there are several museums and historical sites worth visiting. Some of the must-see attractions include:

  • The Afula Cultural Center: A state-of-the-art cultural complex that hosts concerts, exhibitions, and events.
  • The Afula Museum: A museum that showcases the history and culture of the Jezreel Valley region.
  • The Mishkan Le Omanut Art Museum: A museum that houses a collection of Israeli and international art.
  • The Yehi’am Fortress National Park: A well-preserved fortress that played a significant role during the Crusades.

Natural Attractions of Afula: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Afula is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes that offer plenty of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Some of the best natural attractions include:

  • Mount Gilboa: A scenic hill that offers panoramic views of the Jezreel Valley.
  • Ein Harod National Park: A nature reserve that features hiking trails, waterfalls, and a museum of art.
  • Gan HaShlosha National Park: A park that has natural pools and waterfalls that visitors can swim in.
  • Hamat Gader Hot Springs: A thermal spa that offers a relaxing retreat with natural hot springs and swimming pools.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Afula

Afula is the perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts, thanks to its beautiful landscapes and well-maintained trails.

  • Harod Valley Rail Trail: This is an old railroad that has been converted into a bike and walking trail that stretches from Afula to Beit She’an.
  • Nahalal Ring Trail: A 10-kilometer trail that starts and ends in Nahalal, a town outside of Afula.
  • Mount Tabor Hiking Trail: This trail leads to the top of Mount Tabor, which has stunning views of the Jezreel Valley.

Best Things to Do in Afula: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, biking, and sightseeing, Afula also offers several other activities that visitors can enjoy. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Wine Tasting Tours: Afula has several wineries, and visitors can taste locally produced wines and learn about the winemaking process.
  • Cooking Classes: Visitors can learn to make traditional Israeli dishes like falafel and hummus.
  • Horseback Riding: There are several stables in Afula that offer horseback riding tours through the countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Afula

If you have a week to spend in Afula, here’s a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip:

  • Day 1: Visit the Afula Museum and the Yehi’am Fortress National Park.
  • Day 2: Explore the Hamat Gader Hot Springs and take a dip in the pools.
  • Day 3: Visit the Mishkan Le Omanut Art Museum and take a wine tasting tour of the local wineries.
  • Day 4: Hike the Nahalal Ring Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch.
  • Day 5: Take a cooking class and learn to make traditional Israeli dishes.
  • Day 6: Visit the Gan HaShlosha National Park and swim in the natural pools.
  • Day 7: Bike the Harod Valley Rail Trail and enjoy the scenic views of the valley.

Food and Drink Scene of Afula

Afula offers a diverse food and drink scene that is heavily influenced by the local culture and traditions. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Falafel: Fried balls of chickpea paste served inside a pita with hummus, vegetables, and tahini sauce.
  • Shakshuka: A dish made of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, often served with bread.
  • Knafeh: A dessert made of shredded phyllo dough filled with sweet cheese and topped with orange syrup.

Local Beverages

  • Arak: A traditional Middle Eastern liquor made of anise seeds.
  • Israeli Wine: A range of wines is produced in the area surrounding Afula, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay.

Where to Stay in Afula: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Afula has several accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Avigail Guest House: A charming guesthouse with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Afula City Inn: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Ruth Rimonim: A luxury hotel that offers a wide range of amenities, including an outdoor pool and spa

What to Buy in Afula: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Afula is known for its unique handmade crafts and local food products. Some of the best souvenirs and products to bring home include:

  • Olive Oil: The Jezreel Valley region is known for producing high-quality olive oil.
  • Pottery: The town of Safed, near Afula, is known for its pottery and ceramics.
  • Honey: The area surrounding Afula has several apiaries that produce delicious local honey.

Local Culture and Customs of Afula

Afula is a traditional Israeli city that has a close-knit community and a strong sense of local culture. Some of the local customs and practices include:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Respect the Sabbath: Many businesses and public transport cease operations on Friday evening and Saturday.
  • Shake hands or greet people with a “shalom” (hello) and “todah rabah” (thank you) when appropriate.

Best Time to Visit Afula

The best time to visit Afula is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) when the weather is milder, and the crowds are smaller. The summers can be hot, and the winters can be cold and rainy, but these seasons offer unique experiences like swimming in the natural pools during summers and spontaneous greenery during the winters.

Do’s and Don’ts of Afula

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn a few basic Hebrew phrases like “shalom” and “todah rabah”.

Don’t:

  • Photograph or film people without their permission.
  • Show disrespect towards the Israeli flag or national symbols.
  • Smoke in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Afula

Afula is generally a safe city for travelers, but visitors should be cautious when using public transportation and walking in crowded areas. It is always best to lock your valuables in your hotel safe or carry them with you at all times.

Health in Afula

The Israeli healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and visitors can access medical care through the public healthcare system or private hospitals.

Getting to Afula: Transportation Options and Logistics

Afula is conveniently located and has several transportation options for tourists. Some of the most common transportation options include:

Airports Near Afula

  • Ben Gurion International Airport: The main international airport that is located about two hours drive from Afula.

Bus Stations Near Afula

  • Afula Central Bus Station: A large bus station located in the city center, which connects to most destinations in Israel.

Other Options

  • Driving: Afula is easily accessible by car, and rental cars are available at the airport.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available in Afula, although they can be expensive for travel within the city.

How to Get Around in Afula

Afula is a compact city, and most of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, there are several transportation options available for visitors, including:

  • Buses: The Afula Central Bus Station operates local and regional bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas.
  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Afula and can be hailed on the street or booked through a taxi company.
  • Bike Sharing: Afula has several bike-sharing services that allow visitors to rent a bike and explore the city at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Afula: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Afula is a great base from which to explore the surrounding areas, which offer stunning natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Some of the best nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Nazareth: A historic city that is home to several biblical landmarks and cultural attractions.
  • Tiberias: Located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, Tiberias is a popular destination for its natural and historical sites.
  • Haifa: A coastal city that is known for its vibrant culture and stunning views

Conclusion

Afula is a hidden gem in Israel that offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. Whether you want to hike, bike, taste local wines or visit cultural attractions, Afula has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your itinerary and make the most of your trip to Afula.