The Old City. Jewish Quarter. Countless songs, prayers, dreams, and hopes are buried in its stones, engraved into its pillars, Read more
25 Ideas for Amazing Day Trips from Tel Aviv | Escape the City
Despite its tiny size, Israel is an incredibly diverse country. From green, tree-covered mountains in the north to majestic desserts in the south to historical wonders in the center, Israel has a little bit of everything. Any time you are looking to escape the city and enjoy some of the beautiful nature that Israel has to offer, the options are endless. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a change of scenery and a little repose from the humdrum of city life?
Regions of Israel – What Are You Looking For?
Israel has a lot to offer for such a small country (it’s only about the size of the state of New Jersey), so make sure you know what you’re interested in when choosing the perfect day trip outside of Tel Aviv. If you prefer a specific region, just click on it below to jump to its particular section in the blog post.
Go North – Explore the beautiful greenery, forests, mountains, streams, waterfalls, and rustic beaches
Go to theCenter– Explore the stunning valleys, relaxing beaches, wineries, and history-rich locations
Go South– Explore the desert with its magical history and hidden oases.
Yalla, let’s go!
The North of Israel
The North of Israel
The northern part of Israel is a magical place with everything from secluded beaches to stunning forests to beautiful little rivers. As Israel is a relatively small country, it takes only a few hours to get to vastly diverse and unique locations. Whether you are looking for historical sites, nature, or just a city view other than Tel Aviv, this list has a little bit of it all. The list is arranged by the distance from Tel Aviv (closest to farthest).
1. Caesarea
By far one of the best places in Israel for history lovers, Caesarea does not disappoint. This port city dating back to 30 BCE is best known for Caesarea National Park which boasts a Roman amphitheater, ancient sculptures, a hippodrome (chariot/horse racing stadium), mosaic floors, and the ruins of a palace.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 45 mins (55 km)
2. Kibbutz Maagan Michael
Known in Israel as one of the most beautiful and exclusive places to visit in Israel, Kibbutz Maagan Michael is a fun place just an hour outside of Tel Aviv. A private beach, the famous heart rock overlooking the sea, fish ponds with rare fish, a cactus garden, banana plantations, and so much more, this kibbutz is a lovely place to spend the day. During the weekend you might have to park your car outside of the kibbutz gates and walk around 10 minutes to the beach… but it will be worth it.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour (65 km)
If you are looking for some of the most beautiful beaches that Israel has to offer, look no further. Rocky and sandy at the same time, you can find beach caves, “mushroom” rocks to jump into pools of water, private little lagoons, and so much more. If you’re feeling up to it you can also hike between the two beaches as it is only about an hour’s walk.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour (70 km)
Nahal Taninim, or directly translated…Crocodile Stream is a nature reserve in Israel’s north. It’s just a short detour off of one of Israel’s main highways, Route 4, a perfect place for picnic goers, history lovers, or discoverers of unique locations. A beautiful little off-the-beaten-path location. Great for a picnic or just a little stroll. A place with amazing history and wonderful views that is usually pretty quiet.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour (70 km)
Although perhaps not the most related things, Amphorae Winery and Beit Shearim park make a wonderful day trip combination. Amphorae Winery is one of Israel’s best and most beloved wineries offering high-quality and delicious wines in a beautiful atmosphere. Consider taking a tour of the winery as well! If you’re feeling ambitious, take a short stop at Beit Shearim National Park nearby to explore an amazing historical place complete with multiple impressive caves (you may want to start at the Beit Shearim as the wine in Amphorae is very tasty).
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: A little over 1 hour (75 km)
6. Ein Hod
Have you ever heard of an Artist Village? Ein Hod is situated at the foot of Mount Carmel overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Imagine beautiful nature views and a village of artists. Countless galleries, art workshops, live music concerts, and cute cafes and restaurants combine with beautiful architecture and quaint vibes to make this place truly unique.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: A little over 1 hour (80 km)
7. Carmel Mountains – Little Switzerland
If you are looking for the greenest part of Israel, covered in trees and vast areas of foliage, the Carmel mountains and specifically a place called Little Switzerland is just for you. Called Little Switzerland due to its resemblance to the lush, green landscapes of Switzerland this area is great for hiking, picnicking, and seeing unique geological wonders.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour 15 minutes (95 km)
One of Israel’s most underrated cities, Haifa (Israel’s third-largest city) has no end of amazing things to do. Although it is technically escaping the city to go to another city, Haifa boasts beautiful flea markets, incredible food, world-famous Bahai Gardens, and so much more.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour 30 minutes (100 km)
Nahal Tavor (Tavor Stream) is perhaps one of the most magical places in all of Israel. Lusciously green hills surround a beautiful stream with small waterfalls, making for the perfect day hike. If you are lucky enough to go in the spring you may even catch a glimpse of stunning lupines all over the hills.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour 45 mins (115 km)
What is better than the rumored original site of the Garden of Eden and one of the oldest cities in Israel? Visiting Beit Shean’s National Park after spending the morning at Gan HaShlosha (Sachne) is the definition of a perfect day. Gan HaShlosha is considered a big contender for the original site of the Garden of Eden due to its turquoise oasis-like pools of water, waterfalls, and elegant shading palm trees.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour and 45 minutes (115 km)
11. Akko
Perhaps one of Israel’s most underrated tourist destinations, the port city of Akko is a true delight. Abounding in history, bedecked in authentic architecture, and boasting a stunning view of the Mediterranean. It is an experience not to be missed. You can enjoy a speed boat ride for $5, explore an underground crusader and Templar city, see one of Israel’s most ethnically and religiously diverse cities, and wander through an impressive outdoor marketplace.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour and 45 minutes (120 km)
The Sea of Galilee (known as the Kinneret in Hebrew) offers countless amazing things to do. Whether you are looking to swim on the lake’s beaches, enjoy the countless water sports available, discover hidden waterfalls leading into the lake, or hike at Mount Arbel nearby, the Sea of Galilee has so much to offer. you can even consider going to Yardenit, the location where the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River merge.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour and 45 minutes (130 km) (Depending on exact location)
13. Rosh HaNikra
Right on the border between Lebanon and Israel lies the city of Rosh HaNikra. Although famous for its northern location and proximity to Israel’s neighbors, it is mostly famous for its grottos. These sea caves are so stunningly beautiful that they have even built a cable car to help the many tourists enjoy this natural wonder.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 2 hours (140 km)
The center of israel
The Center of Israel
The central region of Israel has a lot to offer. Besides the capital city of Jerusalem which is full of religious and cultural history, there are beautiful beaches, historical sites, forests, wineries, and more. The list is arranged by the distance from Tel Aviv (closest to farthest).
14. Apollonia National Park
This beautiful national park overlooking the Mediterranean Sea offers both beautiful beaches nearby and also incredible history featuring remains of a Roman villa, a fortress, and Byzantine glass kilns.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 30 mins (15 km)
15. Palmachim Beach
Known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Israel, Palmachim is located just thirty minutes south of Tel Aviv, making it perfect for a little day trip escaping the city. Surrounded by cliffs and offering lifeguards and some sunbeds and shade, it is a popular getaway.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 30 mins (25 km)
16. Ben Shemen Forest – Tel Hadid
If you’re looking for a forest right outside of Tel Aviv, Ben Shemen has you covered. A huge place with options for camping, bonfires, ATVing, and so much more, you can frolic through the hills and scenery, relax under the foliage, or explore the archeological sites dappled throughout.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 30 mins (25 km)
17. Yarkon National Park – Tel Afek
Just a 30-minute drive from Tel Aviv, you will find the Yarkon National Park. With beautiful walking trails, a peaceful lake, an ancient fortress, and a stunning view of the area, what more could you ask for? If you’re looking for a little something to eat after your explorations (and you didn’t pack a picnic to enjoy at the park) consider stopping by the nearby city of Rosh HaAyin.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 30 mins (30 km)
18. Visit a Winery
The central part of Israel, between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, offers countless options for amazing wineries. Consider visiting Kadma Winery for beautiful views and amazingly close proximity to some lovely nature hikes and walks nearby.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 30 mins (30 km)
19. Valley of Elah
Have you ever heard of David and Goliath? There are probably only a few people who aren’t familiar with the famous Biblical story of David slaying the enemy giant Goliath with one smooth slingshot stone to the head. The Valley of Elah is not only full of beautiful green fields and perfect picnic spots but also overflowing with history.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 45 mins (60 km)
Jerusalem, the holiest city in the world to Jews and one of the holiest to Christians and Muslims. There is no end to amazing things to do in the unique city that is meshed with ancient and modern. Explore the Old City with its religious and historical sites, wander through the famous Mahane Yehuda outdoor marketplace, enjoy lunch at a trendy cafe, or learn at one of their famous museums, your options are limitless.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour (70 km)
21. Wadi Kelt (Ein Prat)
Known both as Wadi Kelt and Ein Prat, this nature reserve is debatably one of the most stunning places in Israel. Set on the backdrop of majestic Judean desert mountains, you’re in for the surprise of your life with the countless, refreshingly cold pool of freshwaters throughout the reserve. With beautiful scenery, amazing history, breathtaking geology, and even multiple monasteries, you could spend days exploring this remarkable place.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour 15 mins (75 km)
H
The South of Israel
There is nothing quite as majestic as the desert with its barren mountains and rocky, sandy terrain. Israel’s entire southern region is in an enormous desert, known primarily as the Negev Desert. Although there are countless amazing things to do and places to visit in the desert, most of them are a bit too far for a simple day trip. These are the closest day trip possibilities, each about a 2-hour drive from Tel Aviv.
22. Dead Sea
One of Israel’s most famous natural wonders, the Dead Sea draws people in from all around the world to experience its wonders. Besides being the lowest place on earth, the Salt Sea (as it is often called in Hebrew) offers you the chance to float naturally on top of the salty, mineral-rich waters. Don’t forget to cover yourself in the healing muds of the Dead Sea before you go!
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 1 hour 30 mins – 2 hours (100 km+) Depending on location in the Dead Sea
With a history dating back to Biblical times (and even long before), Ein Gedi is the definition of the perfect oasis. Located right in the Negev Desert, Ein Gedi is truly a little heaven on earth with waterfalls, pools of cool, refreshing waters, and stunning plants and wildlife.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 2 hours (145 km)
Masada is an ancient fortress in the south of Israel, built on an isolated rock plateau overlooking the Dead Sea. It has a tragic yet heroic history. The stony compound boasts remains of palaces, bathhouses, extensive mosaics, and the remains of the daily life of the Jewish rebel soldiers who barricaded themselves here as the Romans sieged the fortress in 74 CE. Masada is Israel’s most popular tourist site with almost 1 million visitors per year. It is a symbol of defiance and hope.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 2 hours (160 km)
If you’re looking for a nice hike in the south of Israel, look no further than Ein Avdat. This beautiful canyon located right near Sde Boker is stunning. With simple and more difficult hiking path options, Ein Avdat has something for every type of nature goer. Springs and waterfalls abound in this desert oasis.
Driving Distance from Tel Aviv: About 2 hours (170 km)
Israel has so much to offer and this is really just the tip of the iceberg! Stay tuned for more posts on full-day itineraries and full things to do all throughout the country!
Lots of Love and Safe Travels,
Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters
5 Best Places to See Spectacular Wildflowers & Fields of Flowers in Israel
Who doesn’t love flowers? Little bursts of happiness emerging from the earth, bright and colorful gems of beauty. Despite usually being thought of as a desert, Israel is no stranger to endless fields of beautiful wildflowers. Before I came to Israel for the first time, I can honestly say that bountiful fields of blooming flowers were the last thing that I pictured in my mind. The first images that ran through my head were of the history, the cities, the religious sites, the coastline. No one warned me of the spectacular sight of the desert blossoming into a colorful array of delightful blooms.
Wildflower Season in Israel
Wildflower season in Israel is something unlike anything I have seen in the world. A partially desert climate, the country has a few months of “rainy season”. The more rain we get, the better the wildflowers will be. It’s incredible to watch the desert turn into a green, flowering oasis. But, there is a risk. The summer heat comes quickly (Israel hardly has spring), and with the heat, comes the dryness. The flowers have a life span of just a few weeks before the harsh sun dries them out to withering mementos of past glory. That leaves us with only a few short weeks to appreciate and relish in their beauty.
1. Almond Blossoms
The first blossoms to appear after a rainy and dreary winter, the almond blossoms are always a popular sight to see. Although not technically wildflowers (the most stunning assortment are usually on almond orchards), the dreamy pink and white blossoms are a true delight. Whether you’re looking for a romantic place to have a picnic, to take some beautiful photos, or just to roam in the wonderland, Israel has no shortage of lovely almond trees.
When Are the Almond Blossoms in Bloom?
Almond blossom season is generally late winter/early spring, from around January until March. It varies a bit from year to year depending on how much it rains and when the rain stops, also the geographical location of the trees.
Where to Find Almond Blossoms
1.Latrun – This is where we went! There were beautiful fields ad very lush and beautiful! The biggest downside is that it is also one of the most popular locations and it can get quite busy. Although we arrived early in the morning, there were so many people picnicking and taking photos by the time we left in the afternoon.
2. Midrach Oz – If you’re visiting the north of Israel, this place is remarkable! Seemingly endless beautiful fields and not usually that crowded!
3. Lachish – Specifically in Yaar Hamelachim there are many beautiful trees.
4. Park Canada – If you’re looking for more of a rustic, in the nature type scene, this is the place for you!
5. Tal Shahar -Another beautiful location to scout some beautiful blossoms
Fragile red bursts of beauty exploding into an oasis of glory, Israel’s poppies are certainly a sight to behold. Known as a kalanit in Hebrew (technically a poppy anemone), these red flowers are so loved that they are actually the National Flower of Israel. Countless songs have been written about their beauty and the direct translation of the name Kalanit in Hebrew means bride. Israelis love these flowers so much they are considered to be as beautiful as a bride on her wedding day.
When Are the Poppies in Bloom?
Poppy season in Israel depends greatly on the geographical location. It can start as early as January and go until April (or even sometimes May), depending on the rains. They bloom earliest in the South and there is even an entire festival called Darom Adom in honor of the spectacular sight of thousands of red poppies dotting the otherwise barren desert-like hills. Even if you happen to miss the southern festival (like we did), don’t worry…the poppies bloom later in other parts of the country, so you will still have a chance to catch a few glimpses around Jerusalem or other more northern areas. However, remember that once the flowers blossom, they only stay alive for about one week!
Where to Find Poppies
The Negev Desert is by far the most popular place to spot the poppies, marked by the famous festival Darom Adom, made just to enjoy the yearly wonder of the arid south becoming covered in a carpet of red wildflowers. In the south they can be found at the Shokda Forest, Be’eri Forest, Kibbutz Dvir, and more. Check out Darom Adom for more details during each year.
Jerusalem and the surrounding hilltops also flaunt an impressive array of blossoms, peaking a bit later than the south.
3. Mustard Fields, Chrysanthemum, and Purple Wildflowers
Who knew that mustard flowers were so dreamy? Waving gracefully in the breeze, these yellow blooms can be found for long periods of time throughout the country, on green hilltops, in abandoned construction sites, and simply on the side of the road. Tall, elegant, and abundant they are quite a delight.
The purple flowers are a bit harder to come by and were quite a challenge to identify. Perched on the hilltops in the Jordan Valley, we found these stunning and delicate wonders growing in harmony with the delightful yellow chrysanthemums. Poised against a backdrop of sloping mountain ridges, the overall landscape is among the most stunning. Eventually we found out that they are called לשון-פר in Hebrew and Anchusa in English.
When Are they in Bloom?
Mustard blooms for the longest time out of all the flowers. A hearty plant, almost weed-like in its prevalence, they are first spotted early spring, continuing until early summer.
The chrysanthemum and purple flowers (Anchusa) bloom in mid/late spring. We captured their beauty late March, at the end of their season.
Where to Find Mustard, Chrysanthemum, and Purple (Anchusa)
Mustard- The tall, abundant yellow mustard flowers can honestly be found throughout the country. So worry not, they are in abundance and easily found waving in dreamy unison on green hilltops and roadsides throughout the country.
Purple+Chrysanthemum- These purple flowers (Anchusa) are a bit harder to come by. The yellow flowers here are chrysanthemum and they often grow together with the purple, creating this beautiful, colorful palette. We found these beauties in the Jordan Valley, on a small Moshav called Hamra.
Although not technically wildflowers, who wants to miss out on a stunning field of sunflowers in full bloom? Sturdy stems that reach to the sky and shockingly enormous blooms, the sunny sunflowers are always a beloved favorite. The sunflowers are the only ones on this list that do not bloom in late winter or early spring, but rather much later (they’re not dependent on the winter rains like all the others).
When Are the Sunflowers in Bloom?
The sunflowers are in their prime bloom in May-June. As they are not dependent on the yearly rains, their season flucuates less than the other wildflowers on this list.
Where to Find Sunflowers
Sunflowers fields can be found across the country, from north to south. Afula, Haifa, and Kibbutz Hulda being some of the most popular destinations. We visited Kibbutz Hulda and found beautiful, extensive fields.
Dream a little dream of LUPINES! Honestly when I first saw pictures of this magical place I was sure it was somewhere in the mountains of Switzerland or Austria. Lo and behold, it was just a few hours ride north of Tel Aviv! A fairy tale of flowers and blue skies and rolling green hills, the purple/blue lupines are among Israel’s finest!
When Are the Lupines in Bloom?
The Lupines bloom in early spring. Depending on the seasonal rains that can range from March to April normally.
Where to Find Lupines
Nachal Tavor (Tavor Stream) is by far the best place to find the Lupines in all of Israel. It’s a little bit of a hike (8km loop trail) also full of waterfalls, some poppies, and rolling green hills, but well worth it for these dreamland views and heavenly scents.
Looking for more amazing things to do in Israel? Check out our Israel Travel page!
Lots of Love and Safe Travels,
Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters
Dreamy Photoshoot Inspired by Van Gogh’s Almond Blossoms Paintings | Art & Design
Who doesn’t love almond blossoms? One of the first flowers to appear after a long winter, the delicate white blossoms are a welcome sight after many months of cold and endless dreary days. Almond blossoms have inspired artists since the beginning of time and they continue to until today. From Van Gogh’s incredible almond blossom series of paintings to our photoshoot based off their dreamy wonder, the almond blossom is an inspiration for everyone.
Almond Blossoms – Symbol of Spring, Hope, and Beauty
There is hardly a culture in the world (that was graced with the almond blossom’s beauty) that did not revere its uniqueness and appreciate its wonder. Almond blossoms are symbolic of so many positive things; spring, new life, hope, and beauty. Usually, the very first flowers to appear after a long winter, they are always a welcome sight. Is there anyone who is not excited to catch a glimpse of the season’s first blossoms?
Almond trees, which originated in the Middle East and have since spread to similar climates around the world, have made their way and shown their importance in countless cultures and religions. In Greek mythology, they are considered a symbol of pure, eternal love. In Judaism, they represent hope and renewal and are usually used in the Tu Bishvat celebrations.
Van Gogh’s “Almond Blossoms”
One of the world’s most famous representations of the lovely almond blossom was painted by Vincent Van Gogh in the late 1880s. A stunning depiction of the beauty of spring, this painting has always inspired us with its simple beauty. Although Van Gogh had a whole series of almond blossom paintings (and blossoming trees in general) “Almond Blossoms” is his most famous. The pinkish-white blossoms against the blue sky provide a dreamy, impressionist image of the flowers that inspired us to recreate their delicate grace in a real-life photoshoot.
Handmade Almond Blossom Dresses
Israel’s rainy season was coming to an end. The spring was in sight. We were beyond excited. Wildflower season in Israel is something, unlike anything I have seen in the world. A partially desert climate, the country has a few months of “rainy season”. The more rain we get, the better the wildflowers will be. It’s incredible to watch the desert turn into a green, flowering oasis. But, there is a risk. The summer heat comes quickly (Israel hardly has spring), and with the heat, comes the dryness. The flowers have a life span of just a few weeks. Only a few short weeks to appreciate their beauty. The almond blossoms were the first to bloom. We were going to be ready. Pink beautiful dresses to compliment the delicate blossoms. It was time to create.
The Design
Deciding to use some of the fabrics from our collection, we rummaged through the piles of textures and prints until we found this stunning pink satin-like material. Given to us from an estate sale at least three years ago, it seemed like this fabric’s time would finally come. We had yards and yards of a dark pink satin and a few yards of a baby pink textured fabric. We decided to use both of the fabrics to exemplify the nuances of the pinks and white in the actual blossoms themselves.
The Creation
Satin always brings back memories of the stunning gowns of the 1930s. The evening dresses were simply unmatched in their graceful and flattering lines. Searching for some inspiration online, I finally found a few dresses that would make a good prototype or inspiration for the first dress- a combination of a slip dress and an evening gown. We designed it to be floor length, with unique, twisted straps that extend into trailing ribbons of material at the back.
Brooke’s dress proved to be a bit more of a challenge. We picked a pattern, cut it out, and sewed it all together only to find that it was a stiff and horrible choice. The fabric was not the best quality and far too rigid for the look we were aspiring to. We tried to come up with solutions to alter it somehow to make it wearable but to no avail. We realized the best thing to do was just to start over. Using the leftover fabric from my dress, we created a simple and chic slip dress to replace the original. Together, they were perfect.
The Photoshoot
Remember how I mentioned that there is only a very short time frame to catch the almond blossoms in their full glory? Well…we almost missed it. By the time we finished the dresses and found a day to go out to do a photoshoot, the season was almost over. Driving to multiple different areas, we were devastated to see that all the stunning locations had already shed most of their beautiful blossoms. Only after about an hour of driving around and searching did we come across this beautiful orchard that was still remarkably in bloom.
Where to Find the Best Almond Blossoms in Israel
1. Latrun – This is where we went! There were beautiful fields ad very lush and beautiful! The biggest downside is that it is also one of the most popular locations and it can get quite busy. Although we arrived early in the morning, there were so many people picnicking and taking photos by the time we left in the afternoon.
2. Midrach Oz – If you’re visiting the north of Israel, this place is remarkable! Seemingly endless beautiful fields and not usually that crowded!
3. Lachish – Specifically in Yaar Hamelachim there are many beautiful trees.
4. Park Canada – If you’re looking for more of a rustic, in the nature type scene, this is the place for you!
5. Tal Shahar -Another beautiful location to scout some beautiful blossoms
For more specifics on locations, check out this link (in Hebrew but can be translated to English).
Fun Facts About Almond Blossoms
They are EDIBLE! Did you know that you can actually eat almond blossoms?? I can’t vouch for their taste, having only learned about this recently!
Sweet, gentle scent. Not only are the blossoms themselves delicate and beautiful, but so is their smell. They are not overwhelming at all, you probably won’t even smell them if you’re just walking through the orchard. However, if you hold one close, you’ll smell a bit of heaven
In Hebrew the word for Almond is shaked which is also a very common baby name in Israel
The edible part of the almond that we all call a “nut” is actually a seed
Stay tuned for many more posts about the wildflowers in Israel!
Lots of Love,
Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters
Visiting the Holy City of Jerusalem | Travel Journal
Jerusalem, Israel
Some of Jerusalem’s neighborhoods are so quaint and colorful you feel like you are walking through a dream.
Pink and green treasures
Found along the way
Sometimes hidden and hard to find
Other times just missed in the hurry of the day
Take a short moment
To appreciate them all
From the flowers on the windowsill
To the pink stucco wall
For if you don’t take a moment
To just look and see
You will soon find
You missed all of life’s beauty
Visiting Shuk Machneh Yehudah | Jerusalem
Jerusalem, Israel
It’s our first time in Machane Yehudah, also called the Shuk, the most famous outdoor market in Israel. The sky is a beautiful blue. The Jerusalem streets are sunny and bright. We enter the sea of bustling feet passing locals, travelers, and an endless array of diverse faces.
“Anavim, anavim, anavim” street vendors yell out with a deep bellowing voice. We see the grape bunches everywhere, hanging from the coverings of shops, piled high on top of each other, red ones, green ones, every type. There are fresh fruits everywhere, bright red pomegranates, and ripe figs as close as you can come to picking them off a tree. Sabras; prickly pear cactus fruit, Pitayas; a pink dragon fruit, and golden quinces.
Fresh Figs
We meander through the crowds and see rows of colorful bowls piled high with delicious smelling spices; earthy green za’atar, rich red saffron, coriander, sumac, to mention just a few. A little farther down, there are almonds, walnuts, pistachios, dates, apricots and dried fruit of every kind. We try a couple to make sure they’re the best and we point to the ones that we want as the man puts them in bags for us.
Then around the bend, there are endless types of olives and savory goat cheeses and bakeries filled with all sorts of fresh breads. We weave our way through the narrow streets and tiny alleyways walking by hundreds of vendors, savoring the sunshine and tiny samples.
Loose Leaf Teas
Loose Leaf Teas
Fresh Spices and Spice Mixes
Pita Bread with Za’atar
The Shuk is full of sweets and treats of all sorts; Rugelach, Baklava, French tarts, Morroccon cookies, Malabi; a sweet creamy milk pudding sold in tiny cups flavored with rose water topped with crushed pistachios and pomegranate seeds. So pretty. Although its hard to pick between them all, the shop filled with rows and rows of different flavors of Halva, is almost impossible to pass by. Halva is a delicious honey and sesame candy similar in renown to chocolate in Belgium, pastries in France, or fudge in America. We ask the seller which is his favorite and then leave with a box full of delicious pecan Halva.
Halva-Sweet Sesame Treat
Rugelach – Traditional Jewish Cookie
Pastries in the Shuk
We leave the Shuk with more food than it seems possible to eat. We make one last stop at a spice shop and buy some spices. As we leave we hear the shopkeeper say “you forgot something” and he gives us each a tiny dried pink rose bud.
Life is beautiful.
Jerusalem Tiles | Travel Journal
Walking thought the narrow cobblestone streets, we found a charming little ceramic shop. The small steps leading up to the shop were covered with hand painted tiles. Inside were some of the most beautiful treasures; richly painted bowls of fruit, rose covered tea sets, budding flower vases, painted songbirds…a mosaic of delicately painted tiles that looked like a garden of color.
As we continued on our way through Jerusalem, each street seemed to be a work of art, a mosaic of shops, cafes, patisseries, bistros and restaurants placed next to each other like the tiles. The doors, the shutters, everything seemed to match beautifully. Cobalt blues, royal blues, grass greens, faded pinks, each of them looking beautiful against the ancient cream stones. Jerusalem’s streets are filled with so much character . Walking through the old streets you can’t help but wonder who may have walked here before and what their stories may have been. After all, Jerusalem is one of the most ancient, still inhabited cities of the world. There are few places with more diverse of a history. We stopped to take a picture beneath a leaning tree full of blossoms.
Visiting the Old City | Jerusalem | Travel Journal
The Old City. Jewish Quarter. Countless songs, prayers, dreams, and hopes are buried in its stones, engraved into its pillars, trodden on its streets. Jewish pilgrims journeyed here from around the world through the centuries, Jewish poets sang about its walls and ramparts, Jewish pioneers and warriors fought and liberated it. The holy city. Jerusalem. There is no place in the world like it. No place is even comparable. So much has happened here, so much is happening, and so much will continue to happen. It is holy. It is the eternal city.
The alleys of the Jewish quarter are speckled with Israeli flags, beautiful against the sandy colored stone. Blue and white, the colors of the Jewish prayer shawl. The fulfillment of millions of dreams and prayers.
“The wall was before us. I trembled-there it was as I had known it-immense, mighty in all its splendor…overcome I bowed my head in silence.” General Uzi Narkiss, Head of Central Command during the Six Day War.
