Western Galilee Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich Western Galilee in Israel. Check out our list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food, where to stay, local culture, and more!


Introduction to Western Galilee

Western Galilee is located in the northern part of Israel, in the Middle East, and in Asia. This region is known for its stunning natural beauty, hot springs, Mediterranean cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. With a rich history and an array of attractions, Western Galilee is a must-visit destination for those traveling to Israel.

List of Places to Visit in Western Galilee

Western Galilee offers an array of culturally important attractions, as well as outdoor adventures and scenic views.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Akko Old City - a UNESCO World Heritage site, and home to a beautiful mix of Ottoman, Crusader, and Arab culture.
  2. The Bahá’í Gardens in Akko – these beautiful terraces that overlook the Mediterranean are a true natural wonder and a must-visit place for nature lovers.
  3. Rosh Hanikra - located on the northern border of Israel and Lebanon, Rosh Hanikra is a beautiful natural grotto that offers an incredible view of the Mediterranean.
  4. Beit Hagefen Arab-Jewish cultural center in Haifa - celebrates Arab and Israeli cultures with art exhibits, performances, and lectures.
  5. The Nazareth Old Market - this market offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful streets and alleys of one of Israel’s oldest cities while tasting local cuisine.

Natural Attractions of Western Galilee: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. The Banias Nature Reserve - a huge beautiful nature reserve in the north of Israel rich in beautiful streams and waterfalls.
  2. The Carmel Mountains - this range of mountains offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean ideal for hiking and picnicking.
  3. The Ga’aton River in Nahariya - the perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area.
  4. Montfort Castle in the Western Galilee - a magnificent fortress that boasts panoramic views of the Western Galilee region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Western Galilee

Western Galilee is famous for its hiking and biking routes, and some of the most popular ones are:

  1. The Israel National Trail – stretches over 1000 km and passes through the Western Galilee region.
  2. The Nahal Amud hike – a stunning hike that offers views of the Sea of Galilee and the surrounding hills.
  3. The Biriya Forest - a thick forest in North Israel that offers a beautiful green landscape and exciting trails for hiking and biking.

Best Things to Do in Western Galilee: Activities and Tours

  1. Jeep Tours – the perfect way to explore the beautiful scenery of the Galilee region.
  2. Kayaking and Rafting – experience the beautiful waterfalls and rivers of Western Galilee by rafting or kayaking.
  3. Wine Tours – visit some of the region’s best wineries and taste some of the best Israeli wine.
  4. Apple Picking – a fun activity for families to do together in the fall season.

Week-Long Itinerary for Western Galilee

Day 1: Arrive in Nahariya, visit the promenade and the Ga’aton River.

Day 2: Explore the city of Akko, with its Old City, Citadel and the Bahá’í Gardens in Akko.

Day 3: Visit the Rosh Hanikra grotto and enjoy the seaside town of Nahariya.

Day 4: Hike in the Banias Nature Reserve and take a dip in one of the many streams and waterfalls.

Day 5: Head to the town of Safed and explore its stunning views and historical sites.

Day 6: Go on a wine tour and visit some of the region’s best wineries.

Day 7: Relax in the beautiful Carmel Mountains and enjoy its stunning views.

Food and Drink Scene of Western Galilee

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Shakshuka - a famous Israeli dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce.
  2. Falafel- a Middle Eastern dish made of chickpeas, herbs, and spices, usually served in a pita bread.
  3. Lutenitsa - a Bulgarian roasted pepper and eggplant spread.

Local Beverages

  1. Arak - An anise flavored liquor made from grapes.
  2. Israeli Wine – The Galilee region is known for its boutique wine makers and vineyards.

Where to Stay in Western Galilee: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hotel Beit Maimon – located in Zikhron Ya’akov, a charming town in the Western Galilee region.
  2. Rimonim Palm Beach Hotel in Akko – offers a stunning view of the Mediterranean and is conveniently located near the city’s attractions.
  3. Alaska Inn Hotel in Nahariya - a boutique hotel located in the heart of the city, near its best restaurants and cafes.

What to Buy in Western Galilee: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Olive Oil - Western Galilee is famous for its high-quality olive oil.
  2. Handmade Souvenirs – The region is known for its ceramics, glassware, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Western Galilee

Western Galilee is a cultural melting pot, where Arabs, Jews, and other cultures mix together. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, such as dressing modestly and showing respect to religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Western Galilee

The best time to visit Western Galilee is from March to May or from September to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Western Galilee

Do:

  1. Respect local dress codes, especially when visiting religious sites.
  2. Taste local cuisine - The Galilee region is known for its delicious food.
  3. Learn about the region’s rich history and culture.

Don’t:

  1. Wear revealing clothing in public areas.
  2. Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  3. Disrespect religious sites or practices.

Safety and Health

Safety in Western Galilee

Western Galilee is considered a safe area for travelers.

Health in Western Galilee

Visitors should take necessary precautions and follow standard health protocols in Western Galilee.

Getting to Western Galilee: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Western Galilee

  1. Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv- around a 2-hour drive from Western Galilee
  2. Haifa Airport – located just outside of the city of Haifa and offers flights within Israel.

Bus Stations Near Western Galilee

  1. Haifa Central Bus Station - located in the city of Haifa and has daily buses to cities throughout Israel.
  2. Nahariya Central Bus Station - located in the city of Nahariya and has daily buses to cities throughout northern Israel.

Other Options

  1. Taxis – available throughout the Western Galilee area.
  2. Car Rentals- renting a car is a popular way to travel in Israel.

How to Get Around in Western Galilee

Getting around Western Galilee is best done by car or taxi. Many attractions and destinations are not accessible by public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Western Galilee: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. The Sea of Galilee - The largest freshwater lake in Israel, known for its biblical significance.
  2. Tel Aviv – A bustling city known for its nightlife, beaches, and booming tech industry.

Conclusion

Western Galilee is a must-visit destination for travelers to Israel. From its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, Western Galilee has something for everyone. We hope this guide helps you plan a memorable trip to this beautiful region.



    Akko
    Rosh Haniqra