When is the best time to visit Israel?
When is the best time to visit Israel?
When is the best time to visit Israel?
Good timing combined with a great destination makes for a perfect and memorable
trip. Composed of various landscapes such as deserts, beaches, mountains and
lowlands, Israel offers a wide variety of climates.
The two main seasons in Israel are the hot and dry summer and the cool and rainy
winter months. Autumn and Spring can be sensed for short periods of time but are
very easy to miss.
Table of Contents
Summer - June through September
Despite the average temperature of 29 degrees celsius and no rain in sight,
summer is a high season for tourists. The temperatures in Eilat or the dead sea
region can easily go over 40 degrees celsius bringing the dead sea water
temperature around 30 degrees celsius. The coastal cities and the area of the sea of
Galilee tend to be very humid but Jerusalem stays dry and can even feel cool at
night.
If spending your days at the beach is what you are looking for, summer is the perfect
time for a holiday in Israel. However the popularity will make the trip more expensive
and it is important to book well in advance. August is the busiest month of the year
since most Israelis are also on holiday.
Autumn - October
Autumn is a fleeting season in Israel with pleasant temperatures ranging around 20
degrees celsius. This is usually when the first rain drops announcing the winter start
coming down. If you are lucky to make it just on time for the fall season you will not
regret it. There usually are many Jewish festivals around this time making it a festive
and joyful season.
Although the water might be cooler it is a great time to combine beach time with
exploring and historical tours.
Winter - November through March
You can never know what to expect in the winter in Israel. Some winters are mild and
sunny while others are cold and rainy. The average temperature will be between 5 to
10 degrees celsius and it will be colder in the mountainous regions like Jerusalem
or the Golan heights. The scenery is definitely greener and it is a great occasion to
spend time in the desert.
It is also the best time to go hiking and explore the fauna with flowers blooming
everywhere towards the end of the winter. In February the blossoming of the almond
trees can be seen almost everywhere in Israel.
Spring - April and May
The second busiest tourist season with an average temperature of 20 degrees
celsius and the start of longer days. The moderate temperatures make it a great time
to visit the ancient sites, go on hikes and enjoy a dip in the dead sea.
Spring is the time of the celebration of the jewish holiday of Passover and is also a high season for tourists. If you are planning to visit in the spring try to come before or
after the festival to avoid traffic and crammed places.
Conclusion
The best time to travel will depend on what your interests are. If hiking is at the
center of your trip the end of the winter and beginning of the spring are ideal times,
however if you are looking at a beach holiday the hot and fun summers will not
disappoint. Last but not least, if you are a history fan, or you enjoy wandering around
you may want to avoid the months with highest (July- August) or lowest (December –
January) peaks in temperature.
