Things To Do
in Afula

Eggs poached in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce; common breakfast or late brunch item found in cafés and small eateries.

Must-Try!

Spiced mix of chicken hearts, liver and bits of meat served in pita — available at grill shops and some casual restaurants.

Creamy strained yogurt and a variety of salads made from valley-grown vegetables, served as mezze in many local restaurants.

Sweet cheese pastry soaked in syrup, widely found in bakeries and dessert shops across the region.

Small but lively market with fresh produce, cheese, spices and bread; great to sample seasonal fruit, local olives and labneh.

Scattered around town and near bus stations; try local falafel, shawarma and grilled kebabs for quick, affordable meals.

Friday sundown to Saturday sundown is Shabbat — many businesses and public transport services reduce hours or close. Be respectful around synagogues and religious neighborhoods; dress modestly in such areas.

A friendly 'Shalom' (hello/peace) goes a long way. Israelis are direct; a warm but straightforward manner is typical.

Many places keep kosher; avoid bringing non-kosher food into strictly observant homes or events unless invited to do so.

Avoid making assumptions about politics or religion; while locals can be open to discussion, these topics can be sensitive.

In restaurants a 10–15% tip is common if service is not included; small change for café orders or takeout is appreciated. Taxis often expect rounding up or a small tip; hotel porters and bellhops typically receive a small tip for assistance.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; cash (Israeli shekels, ILS) is useful for markets, small vendors and some taxis. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common.

March–May brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers across the valley; excellent for hiking and photography. Expect occasional rain early in the season; bring a light jacket for cooler mornings.

June–August is hot and dry with daytime highs often in the high 20s–30s °C (80s–90s °F); plan outdoor activities for mornings/evenings and carry sun protection and water.

September–November offers warm days and cooler nights with fewer crowds; a good time for outdoor exploration and local festivals.

December–February is cooler and wetter; temperatures can be chilly at night and occasional storms occur. Snow is rare in the valley but possible on nearby high peaks (Mount Gilboa/Tabor).

The majority of Afula’s population is Jewish Israeli, including secular, traditional and religious families.

Notable communities from the former Soviet Union and Ethiopia contribute to the cultural mix and local economy.

The surrounding region includes Arab towns and villages; visitors will encounter a mix of cultures in the broader Jezreel Valley area.

Many residents are families tied to local agriculture and service industries that support the valley’s farming economy.

Local and regional leagues are popular; pickup games and youth teams are common across town.

Played at community centers and school gyms; local clubs engage youth and amateur players.

Road cycling in the valley and trail running on nearby hills like Mount Gilboa are popular recreational activities.

Horseback riding is available on nearby stables and is a favored outdoor pastime for visitors and locals.

Vegetarian options are plentiful — hummus, falafel, salads, shakshuka and grilled vegetable platters are widely available.

Vegan choices exist but check for dairy (cheese, labneh); many salads, hummus, falafel and grilled vegetables are naturally vegan or easily adapted.

Some restaurants and cafes are kosher or kosher-friendly; in mixed venues ask staff about kosher certification if this is important to you.

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, but always alert staff to cross-contamination risks in bakeries and shared kitchens.