When it comes to sheer density of historical and religious sites, few countries can compare to Israel. Many of its cities date back to Old Testament times, and combine Biblical attractions with chic restaurants, cafes and galleries.

 

 

Set between the Mediterranean and the forested slopes of Mt Carmel, Haifa is one of the Middle East’s most beautiful cities. A beacon of tolerance in an often-troubled region, Haifa is a place where diverse religious and cultural groups live side by side in harmony. Don’t miss the spectacular Baha’i Gardens or the Biblical site of Elijah’s Cave.

 

The town where Jesus spent his childhood, Nazareth is Israel’s largest Arab city, and a vibrant mix of ancient and modern. Wandering the character-filled lanes of the old town is a true delight, and the city boasts some of Christianity’s holiest sites. Nazareth’s domed Church of the Annunciation is the largest church in the Middle East, and is believed to stand on the site of the Virgin Mary’s house.

 

One of Judaism’s four holy cities, Safed is an important centre of Jewish learning and the home of the Kabbalah movement. Set amongst the mountains of the upper Galilee, the city enjoys magnificent views over Northern Israel and has numerous historic synagogues.

 

A holy city on the picturesque Sea of Galilee, Tiberias houses the tombs of several important Jewish Scholars. The city was also an important spa centre in Roman times, and Hammat Tiberias National Park, located about 2 km north of town, feature ancient baths and an unusual synagogue containing both Jewish and Pagan symbols.

 

Enjoying a long history as one of the most important ports on the Mediterranean, Jaffa is now a predominantly Arab suburb of Tel Aviv. A stroll along its network of streets and alleys will lead you past ancient churches, superb local restaurants and funky art galleries.

 

Bethlehemhas existed for around 3500 years, but it was only after a certain baby was born in a manger behind an inn that the city really became a household name. The Church of the Nativity – built over the birthplace of Jesus – is regarded as the oldest church in the world, while the nearby Milk Grotto is where the Holy Family took refuge during their flight to Egypt.

 

A desert city in southern Israel, Beersheba is home to the highly regarded Ben-Gurion University and is gaining a reputation as a centre for high-tech research. The town boasts several interesting museums, a World Heritage­–listed archaeological park, and the Biblical site of Abraham’s Well.