Safed Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, and more in Safed, Israel. Learn about the culture, customs, and transportation options in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Safed

Safed, also known as Tzfat, is a beautiful and historic city located in Upper Galilee, Israel. Surrounded by stunning landscapes and filled with centuries-old buildings and landmarks, Safed is a must-visit destination for any traveler interested in history, culture, and natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Safed

Whether you want to explore the city’s rich history, get lost in its natural beauty, or simply indulge in its delicious food and drink options, Safed has plenty of attractions to offer. Here are some of the best places to visit in Safed:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Safed is known for its rich history, and there are plenty of cultural attractions to explore. Here are some of the top museums and historical places to visit:

  • The Jewish Quarter: This historic neighborhood is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Jewish history and culture.

  • The Israel Bible Museum: This museum is one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of Jewish biblical artifacts and highlights.

  • The Museum of Hungarian Speaking Jewry: This museum tells the story of Hungarian Jewry from the 16th century to the present day.

  • The Galleries of Safed: The Galleries of Safed is a collection of art galleries featuring both local and international artists.

Natural Attractions of Safed: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Safed is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Here are some of the top natural attractions to explore:

  • Mount Meron: This mountain is Israel’s second-highest peak, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Nachal Amud: Nachal Amud is a beautiful nature reserve offering hiking, swimming, and picnicking opportunities.

  • Ein Zeitim: This olive grove is a great spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of the area.

  • Banias Waterfall: This waterfall is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the region, surrounded by lush vegetation and offering plenty of opportunities for hiking and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Safed

Safed is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts, offering a variety of scenic routes to explore. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in Safed:

  • The Israel National Trail: This trail runs from the Lebanese border to the Red Sea, passing through Safed along the way.

  • The Arbel Nature Reserve: This reserve offers some of the most scenic hiking trails in the region, including a steep climb up Mount Arbel for stunning views of the Sea of Galilee.

  • The Netofa Valley: This valley is home to a number of beautiful hiking trails offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Safed: Activities and Tours

Safed has plenty of activities and tours to offer, ranging from cultural attractions to outdoor adventures. Here are some of the top things to do in Safed:

  • Take a walking tour of the city’s historic neighborhoods.

  • Explore the city’s art galleries and studios.

  • Visit the ancient synagogues of Safed, including the Abuhav Synagogue and the Ari Synagogue.

  • Enjoy a dip in the nearby hot springs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Safed

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Safed:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Safed and explore the city’s historic Jewish Quarter.

  • Day 2: Take a walking tour of the city’s art galleries and studios.

  • Day 3: Hike through the nearby Arbel Nature Reserve.

  • Day 4: Visit the Israel Bible Museum and the Museum of Hungarian Speaking Jewry.

  • Day 5: Enjoy a day of relaxation and swimming in the nearby hot springs.

  • Day 6: Explore the ancient synagogues of Safed.

  • Day 7: Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as the Sea of Galilee or the city of Akko.

Food and Drink Scene of Safed

Safed has a rich food and drink scene, offering plenty of local dishes and drinks to try. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Safed:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Shakshuka: This classic Israeli dish features eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce.

  • Falafel: A staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, falafel is a delicious fried chickpea patty often served in a pita with vegetables and hummus.

  • Kebabs: Kebabs are a popular meat dish in the region, often served with rice or salad.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: The region surrounding Safed is known for its wine production, and there are many local wineries to visit.

  • Arak: This anise-flavored liquor is popular throughout the Middle East.

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

Safed offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Safed:

  • The Ruth Rimonim Hotel: This luxury hotel is located in the heart of the city’s historic Jewish Quarter.

  • The Safed Inn: This hostel offers affordable accommodation in the city center.

  • The Ruth Safed Boutique Hotel: This hotel offers a more boutique-style experience, with comfortable rooms and beautiful views.

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

Safed is known for its beautiful arts and crafts, making it a great destination for souvenir shopping. Here are some of the top local products to bring home from Safed:

  • Artwork and sculptures from the city’s galleries.

  • Olive oil and other local food products.

  • Handmade jewelry and ceramics from local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Safed

Safed has a rich Jewish heritage, and the city is home to many historic synagogues and religious landmarks. Visitors to Safed should be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Safed

The best time to visit Safed is during the mild spring and fall months, when temperatures are comfortable and the landscape is lush and green. Summer can be quite hot, while winter can be rainy and chilly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Safed

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Safed:

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Tip in restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Don’t:

  • Speak loudly or disturb religious services.

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.

  • Visit religious sites during Sabbath hours.

Safety and Health

Safety in Safed

Safed is generally a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Petty crime can sometimes occur in busy tourist areas, so be sure to keep your valuables close and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in Safed

There are no major health concerns for visitors to Safed, but it’s always a good idea to take the necessary precautions before traveling. Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccinations and follow food and water safety guidelines.

Getting to Safed: Transportation Options and Logistics

Safed is easily accessible by car, bus, or train. Here are some transportation options for getting to and around Safed:

Airports Near Safed

  • Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv is the nearest international airport to Safed.

Bus Stations Near Safed

  • The central bus station in Safed offers connections to many major cities in Israel.

Other Options

  • Taxis and private cars can also be hired for transportation in and around Safed.

How to Get Around in Safed

Safed is a small city that is easy to explore on foot, but public transportation and taxis are also available for longer distances. Bicycles can also be rented for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Where to Go Next from Safed: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some top destinations to visit on a day trip from Safed:

  • The Sea of Galilee: This beautiful lake is just a short drive from Safed and offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, boating, and relaxation.

  • The city of Akko: Akko is a historic city located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its Crusader-era landmarks and beautiful beaches.

  • The Golan Heights: This mountainous region is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, and skiing.

Conclusion

Safed is a beautiful and unique destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you want to explore the city’s rich history, indulge in its delicious food and drink options, or get lost in its natural beauty, Safed is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Location of Safed Location of Safed Historic Synagogue in Safed Historic Synagogue in Safed Alley in Safed Alley in Safed