Things To Do
in Haifa
Haifa sits along Israel’s northern coast, perched on rolling hills with sweeping views of the Mediterranean. Its magnet is the Bahá’í Gardens, cascading terraces that overlook the city and harbor. A vibrant blend of Jewish and Arab neighborhoods, world-class museums, and a lively port give Haifa a distinct, cosmopolitan charm.
The city’s hills, sea breezes, and varied cuisines create an inviting, walkable canvas for curious travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by strolling through the picturesque streets of the German Colony, admiring the unique architecture of the historic buildings. Visit the iconic Bahá'í Gardens, where you can enjoy the meticulously maintained terraces and breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Take some time to relax at a nearby café, sipping on a traditional Israeli coffee while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Head to the Haifa Port area, where you can explore the bustling markets and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants. Afterward, visit the Haifa Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary Israeli artworks and intriguing exhibitions. Spend your afternoon wandering the nearby Wadi Nisnas neighborhood, known for its colorful street art and charming shops.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Louis Promenade for a stunning panoramic view of Haifa and the coastline. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in Middle Eastern cuisine, savoring dishes such as falafel, shawarma, and fresh salads. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the beach promenade, where you can listen to the sound of waves lapping against the shore.
Begin your day with a refreshing swim at the popular Bat Galim Beach, known for its sandy shores and clear waters. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline, enjoying the warm sun and gentle breeze. After a few hours of fun, treat yourself to a delicious beachside breakfast at a local café, featuring fresh pastries and fruit.
Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or participating in exciting water sports like windsurfing or jet skiing, with options for both beginners and experts. Grab lunch at a nearby beach shack, where you can try local favorites like shawarma or grilled fish. Take a leisurely stroll down to the nearby Carmel Beach to enjoy more stunning views and perhaps catch a glimpse of surfers riding the waves.
As the day winds down, find a spot on the beach to watch the sunset over the Mediterranean, casting beautiful shades of orange and pink across the sky. Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and local wines. Cap off your evening with a walk along the shore, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet and enjoying the sound of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚌Public transit trip (local) | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entry | $8-15 |
| 🏨Midrange hotel per night | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning sea views and hillside gardens
- Rich cultural mix and historic neighborhoods
- Good public transport connections to major sites
- High-quality restaurants and fresh markets
- Compact city center with walkable districts
- Hilly terrain can be tiring for some visitors
- Summer heat can be intense near the coast
- Some neighborhoods have limited English signage in off-peak hours
- Parking can be challenging in central areas
- Air quality can be affected by humidity and traffic
- "שלום" - Hello / Peace
- "תודה" - Thank you
- "בבקשה" - Please / You're welcome
- "איך להגיע ל…?" - How do I get to…?
- "חשב החשבון בבקשה" - Could I have the bill, please?
Places to Visit in Haifa
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic, meticulously terraced gardens with sweeping views over Haifa and the bay; best at sunrise or late afternoon light.
Seafront promenade with panoramic harbor views and dramatic angles of the city’s coastline.
Religious site perched on Mount Carmel with striking architecture and a vantage point over the Mediterranean.
Colorful market lanes, murals, and dynamic street scenes perfect for candid photography.
Industrial harbor scenery meeting historic architecture; great for moody sunset shots.
Food in Haifa
Haifa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Israeli street sandwich with fried eggplant, hard-boiled egg, hummus, tahini, salad, and pickles in pita.
Must-Try!
Eggs poached in a spicy tomato-pepper sauce, typically enjoyed with crusty bread for breakfast or any meal.
Creamy hummus paired with falafel and warm pita; a staple in Wadi Nisnas and surrounding districts.
Sweet cheese pastry soaked in sugar syrup, a beloved dessert in markets and cafés.
Fresh catches from the Mediterranean prepared simply with herbs and lemon, common near Bat Galim and the port.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market known for Arabic-influenced mezze, spices, sweets, and casual street eats in a colorful, welcoming setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful exchange is common; use Hebrew or English greetings like Shalom; handshakes are typical in business contexts.
Dress modestly, remove hats in sacred spaces, and ask before photos in religious areas.
Some neighborhoods observe Shabbat; shops may close on Saturdays in quieter areas, while others stay lively.
Safety
Tipping in Haifa
Ensure a smooth experience
Most restaurants in Israel add service charge if applicable; if not, a 10-15% tip is customary for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is common in small venues; contactless payments are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry by day with cooling sea breezes; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and explore early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor sightseeing and hillside walks.
Mild to cool with regular rain; pack a light rain jacket and plan indoor breaks in case of showers.
Blooming hills around Mount Carmel and comfortable temperatures; perfect for hiking and photography.
Haifa at Night
Hiking in Haifa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails with forested slopes and coastal viewpoints just outside Haifa.
Forested nature reserve with scenic overlooks and family-friendly hikes near the Carmel area.
Gentle to moderate hikes that pass through artist villages and natural landscapes north of Haifa.
Airports
How to reach Haifa by plane.
Israel’s primary international gateway; about 1-2 hours by car from Haifa depending on traffic; frequent international and domestic flights.
Large, newer airport near Eilat; serves international flights but is far from Haifa; not a typical Haifa gateway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Diverse mix of secular, religious, and ultra-Orthodox communities across different neighborhoods.
Significant Arab Muslim and Christian populations concentrated in Wadi Nisnas and surrounding areas.
Druze presence in the hills and a growing international student and expat community linked to Technion and the university campus.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A major sport with local clubs and regular matches in the region’s stadiums.
Active league presence in Haifa, with local teams and arena events.
Swimming, sailing, and surfing along the Mediterranean coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haifa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Haifa has abundant vegetarian options: mezze bars, hummus spots, fresh produce markets, and labeled veggie dishes. Ask about stock and clarifications on any meat-based broths or fats.