In Haifa, Israel, there are plenty of exciting things to do. This is one of the most fascinating cities in the country, and it would be a shame not to visit while in the country.
Haifa, Israel's third-largest city and ostensibly its technology capital, is located on the coast and the hills — Carmel Mountain abuts it. While the ancient town is lovely, the beaches are among the best in Israel. They are bustling with activity at any time of year, with people exercising, strolling their dogs, children playing, and various wonderful restaurants.
Bahai Gardens
The Gardens of Haifa are a national treasure of Israel, perched at the top of Mount Carmel and overlooking the beautiful beaches below. To see the spectacular gardens you will have to walk up over 1,500 steps that ascend through 19 terraces to the mountain. The gardens are modern and were completed in 2001 to present as a Shrine of the Ancient Báb. This lush patch of paradise is one of the most iconic places in the country and a must for anyone who plans to travel to Haifa.
Beaches of Hof Hacarmel
Hof HaCarmel is a beachfront neighborhood on Haifa's western side. In Summertime, the Dado and Zamir Beaches are teeming with sunbathers, swimmers, and those lazing in the Mediterranean sun. Off the shore, fishing from rocky outcrops, watersports such as surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and extreme water activities such as parasailing are also possible.
The beaches are mainly deserted throughout the winter months, except for joggers and sightseers and elderly guys playing dominoes and backgammon. With its abundance of cafés and restaurants along the beach strip, the boardwalk is the ideal location to watch the sunset during supper.
The beaches are available 24 hours a day and are entirely free to the public. Throughout the summer season, lifeguards are on duty at specified times.
German Colony
German Colony is one of Haifa's most attractive districts, perfectly situated at the foot of the Baha'i Gardens. With a history extending to 1868, this community was the first in the second wave of German Templar communities. While many residences remain, this area is now home to a slew of cafes, restaurants, and famous art galleries.
Unlike similar contemporary metropolitan districts, the German Colony is distinctively bordered on one side by the lovely Baha'i Gardens and the other by the glittering sea. It's also a trendy place during the Christmas season when it's lit up and decorated quite wonderfully!
Monastery of Stella Maris
The Stella Maris Monastery, located high above Haifa, is one of the world's oldest monasteries, dating back to 1291AD. The Monastery's history is lengthy and complicated (the Bible states that Elijah fought the prophets of Baal atop Mount Carmel). Still, the breathtaking views of the bay below are breathtaking. The Monastery is accessible via cable car from the Bat Galim Promenade.
Experiment with all the Street Food
Wadi Nisnas is an excellent location in Haifa to sample falafel. However, feel free to sample the rest of the street food. Emil is the greatest place to try shawarma, and if you're in the mood for bread, head to Houri for a pita filled to the brim with your choice of toppings (I recommend pouring copious doses of tahini over anything). Ha'agala is the place to go for bourekas.
Comments