Tiberias Travel Guide

Discover Tiberias, a culturally-rich city in the Sea of Galilee region of Israel, with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and more.


Tiberias is a beautiful city located in the Sea of Galilee region of Israel, offering an abundance of cultural and natural attractions, making it a perfect travel destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive travel guide will take you through the best things to do in Tiberias, including must-visit attractions, hiking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and more.

Introduction to Tiberias

Tiberias is a city that has a rich history dating back to the Roman period. It was established in the 50s CE by Herod Antipas as the new capital city of Galilee. The city has many important historical sites, including ancient synagogues, mosques and historical landmarks. Tiberias is also well known for its hot springs and spas, which provide visitors with a unique and relaxing experience.

List of Places to Visit in Tiberias

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Tiberias has a wealth of culturally significant attractions, including museums and historical landmarks. One of the most impressive historical landmarks in Tiberias is the ancient synagogue, which dates back to the 3rd or 4th century CE. Other must-visit cultural attractions include the Hammat Tiberias National Park, Beit Shean National Park, and the Tomb of Maimonides.

Natural Attractions of Tiberias: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Tiberias is blessed with scenic natural attractions to explore. The Sea of Galilee is the not-to-be-missed tourist spot that is richly wooded and narrow. Visitors can explore the area’s beautiful scenery by hiking or biking along the Jordan River Trail. Other natural attractions in the area include the Mount Arbel National Park and the Banyas Waterfall.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tiberias

Tiberias offers a plethora of opportunities for hikers and bikers, making it an ideal destination for an outdoor adventure. The Jordan River Trail is a 50-kilometer hiking trail that runs through the Hula Valley, providing hikers with stunning views of the Galilee Mountains. Another popular hiking spot in Tiberias is the Mount Arbel National Park, which boasts of beautiful views of the Sea of Galilee.

Best Things to Do in Tiberias: Activities and Tours

Tiberias has a wide range of activities and tours to suit various tastes and preferences of tourists. Visitors can enjoy water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, or take a boat tour of the Sea of Galilee. For those who want a more relaxed experience, hot springs and spas, like the Hamat Gader, offer visitors a time to chill out and unwind from everyday stress.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tiberias

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Tiberias:

  • Day 1: Visit the ancient synagogue, explore the city’s old town, and learn about the city’s history at the Tiberias Museum.
  • Day 2: Hike or bike along the Jordan Trail. Take a picnic break at the Banyas Waterfall.
  • Day 3: Take a boat tour of the Sea of Galilee and visit the Mount of Beatitudes.
  • Day 4: Explore the beauty of Mount Arbel National Park and visit the Capernaum National Park, home to some of the most important archaeological finds in all of Israel.
  • Day 5: Experience the city’s rich wine culture on a tour of local wineries, such as the Tulip Winery or the Golan Heights Winery.
  • Day 6: Take a day trip to the city of Nazareth, one of the holiest sites in Christianity.
  • Day 7: Relax at the Hamat Gader Hot Springs and Spa.

Food and Drink Scene of Tiberias

Must-Try Dishes

One of the best things about visiting Tiberias is experiencing the city’s rich culinary tradition. Visitors can try local dishes like falafel, hummus, and shakshuka, or feast on grilled fresh fish from the Sea of Galilee. Don’t forget to try the local delicacy, the stuffed grape leaves known as sarma.

Local Beverages

Tiberias has a wide range of local beverages to quench your thirst, from traditional mint tea to the unique wine blends of the region. One must-try beverage is the refreshing Limonana mint lemonade.

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

Tiberias has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. One can choose from high-end hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and charming guesthouses. Some recommended places to stay are Leonardo Plaza Hotel Tiberias, Astoria Galilee Hotel, and Prima Galil Tiberias Hotel.

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

Looking for mementos to take home? Tiberias has a wide range of souvenir shops, including the craft stalls along the old town’s streets. You can buy traditional handicrafts, such as pottery, made by the locals, jewelry, and religious items.

Local Culture and Customs of Tiberias

Tiberias is an integral part of Israeli culture, which strongly values hospitality and social interaction. Dress modestly while visiting religiously significant landmarks and respecting local customs. Visitors should observe cultural sensitivity and be mindful of cultural differences for peaceful coexistence.

Best Time to Visit Tiberias

Tiberias is a year-round destination, with sunny days mostly from April to October. The city is bustling with cultural activities and festivities during the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tiberias

Do:

  • Respect local customs and culture.
  • Try local food and drinks.
  • Dress appropriately for visiting religious sites.
  • Take part in cultural activities and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Speak or behave offensively towards locals.
  • Pretend to be anything other than friendly and curious about the people and culture.
  • Smoke in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tiberias

Tiberias is a safe city, but like any city, there are risks. Visitors should keep their belongings safe and avoid traveling alone at night. The city also witnesses occasional border conflicts due to its proximity to the border with Syria, which visitors should watch out for.

Health in Tiberias

Tiberias is generally safe for visitors, and the healthcare system in Israel is of high quality. Make sure to have proper health insurance coverage before traveling to the city.

Getting to Tiberias: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tiberias

The nearest airport is the Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, which is around 120 km away from Tiberias.

Bus Stations Near Tiberias

Central Tiberias Bus Station is located about 1 km away from the city center and is well-connected to other cities in Israel.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Tiberias by train from the Haifa central railway station via Akko station.

How to Get Around Tiberias

Tiberias has an efficient and inexpensive public transportation system consisting of buses and taxis. Visitors can also opt for bike rentals and car rentals to explore the city and the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Tiberias: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tiberias serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas. Visitors can take day trips to cities like Nazareth, Acre or head to the nearby Golan Heights, known for its wineries and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Tiberias is a city steeped in history, rich traditions and culture, scenic beauty and culinary delights. With this comprehensive tour guide, visitors can ensure a memorable visit to this incredible city. Travelers can take in Tiberias’s natural beauty, learn about the city’s rich history and culture, indulge in local delicacies, and experience the city’s unique hospitality.

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