5 Must See Places in Israel

The title of this article is misleading as to the point of being almost criminal. Yes, you will read about the “5 Must Sees in Israel,” however this is such a subjective analysis as there is so much to see and do in Israel as to render the list as perhaps just a starting point. Given the difficulty of the task and with its inherent limitations, I will try my best to come up with the top 5 places to see when in Israel, and don’t be surprised if I cheat just a little…

Western Wall – located in the Old City of Jerusalem and also known as the Kotel or Wailing Wall for all the tears that have been shed in supplication at this site, this is the outer western wall of the Second Temple of the Jews that was destroyed by the . It is the holiest site for the Jewish people (excluding the actual Temple Mount which religious Jews will not visit) and the most popular tourist attraction in Israel. Irrespective of your religion, a visit to the Western Wall is a must. If possible, visit on a Friday evening when the Jewish Sabbath begins for a truly spiritual experience. Feel free to offer your own prayer or perhaps place a small piece of paper with your wishes in the cracks.

Mahane Yehuda Market – also known as the Shuk (pronounced Shook). If you are someone who wants to really experience the real Israel then you will find no better place that Mahane Yehuda Market. Located approximately 15 minutes walk from the Western Wall, the shuk offers a microcosm of all the hustle and bustle of Israeli life in one location. Foods of all kinds, fruit and vegetables, spices, clothing, incredible restaurants; the shuk has it all. Friday is when the shuk is at its best as people do their pre-Sabbath shopping. There may be people who say the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv is better but I tend to disagree.

The Dead Sea – less than an hour’s drive from Jerusalem is the Dead Sea. You may not be able to walk on water as Jesus was reputed to have done on the Sea of Galilee in Israel’s north but you will be able to float on water without a buoyancy device. Try doing that at your local beach or swimming pool. The Dead Sea mud is said to have great health benefits, so go for a float, wrap yourself in mud, and enjoy the experience.

Church of the Holy Sepulcher – scene of Jesus’ crucifixion and the place where he is now buried, this is one of Christianity’s holiest sites. A magnificent building and scene of the final 5 of the 14 "Stations of the Cross" visited by pilgrims during Easter, the church is a place of beauty, holiness, and wonderment irrespective of religion.

Tel Aviv (OK, this is really cheating ) – in case anyone thinks I have paid too much attention to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv may be only 32 square miles (52 km²) but sure has a lot going for it. The beaches, Bauhaus architecture, energy, street culture, some of the best Israel luxury real estate; Night life like no other, Delicious food; Tel Aviv has got it all.