Why visit
Israel compresses 3,000 years into a country the size of New Jersey. Jerusalem's Old City, Tel Aviv's beach life, Masada's desert fortress, and Galilee.
Country · Asia
Israel
historybeachfoodculturecity
At a glance
Location
31.5°, 35.1°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
20,770 km²
8,019 mi²
Country population
9.8 million
470/km²
Subregion
Western Asia
Currency
Israeli new shekel (₪)
ILS
Dial
+972
Languages
Arabic, Hebrew
Demonym
Israeli
Internet
.il
UN
Member state
ISO code
IL / ISR
Where in the world
31.5° · 35.1°
Israel
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Did you know
- Tel Aviv has more vegan restaurants per capita than any other city in the world.
- The Bahá'í Gardens in Haifa are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most-visited places in Israel.
- Israel is the only country in the world with more trees at the end of the 20th century than at the beginning.
Bordering Israel
Traveler notes
- Tel Aviv–Jerusalem one-hour drive
- Dead Sea floating is unmissable
- Border sensitivities: check current advisories
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Jerusalem, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Verify swim safety, ocean conditions, and water-quality reports by month.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
Signature travel cities in Israel
Explore more
Frequently asked about Israel
What is the capital of Israel?
Jerusalem is the capital of Israel.
What currency does Israel use?
Israel uses the Israeli new shekel (₪), ISO code ILS.
What languages are spoken in Israel?
The primary languages are Arabic and Hebrew.
Is Israel landlocked?
No, Israel has a coastline.
What countries border Israel?
Israel borders Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Syria.
What is the international calling code for Israel?
The calling code is +972.
When is the best time to visit Israel?
Mar–May, Sep–Nov. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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