Things To Do
in Reẖovot

Reḥovot is a dynamic city in central Israel known for its strong scientific presence and family-friendly neighborhoods. It hosts the Weizmann Institute of Science and Kaplan Medical Center, giving the city a distinctly research-driven vibe. The city blends green spaces, markets, and modern amenities with easy access to Tel Aviv and the Mediterranean coast.

Visitors find a welcoming, laid-back base for exploring central Israel while enjoying cultural and educational experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the heart of Reẖovot, enjoying fresh pastries and strong Israeli coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the historic streets, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the city. Visit the Aharonson House Museum to delve deeper into the history of Reẖovot and its significance in Israel's development.

afternoon
:

Head over to the Science Park, where you can explore interactive exhibits that showcase the wonders of science and technology. After engaging with the exhibits, enjoy a picnic lunch at the nearby park, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Weizmann Institute of Science, where guided tours provide insights into groundbreaking research and innovation.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to enjoy a traditional Israeli dinner, featuring local dishes made from fresh ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the city’s vibrant streets, perhaps stopping at a local market to experience the nightlife and mingle with residents. Cap off the night with gelato from a popular ice cream shop, savoring the sweet flavors as you reflect on the day's adventures.

day 2
Nature and Parks Exploration
morning
:

Begin your morning with a refreshing hike in the nearby Yarkon Park, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area while breathing in the fresh air. Take a break along the trails to appreciate the stunning views and perhaps spot some local wildlife. After your hike, enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature, surrounded by trees and the sounds of chirping birds.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Reẖovot Botanical Garden, where you can wander through diverse plant collections and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Participate in a guided tour to learn about the various flora and their significance in the region. As you stroll through the garden, take advantage of the opportunity to snap beautiful photos of the blossoming flowers and serene landscapes.

evening
:

Return to the city for an evening of relaxation at a local spa, indulging in soothing treatments that highlight natural ingredients from the region. After unwinding, enjoy dinner at a family-run restaurant known for its warm hospitality and authentic cuisine. End the night with a visit to a local café for some live music, engaging with the vibrant arts scene of Reẖovot.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$40-60
Coffee$3-5
🛒Groceries for a week$60-120
🚕Taxi within city$5-12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Science hub and education-rich environment
  • Family-friendly with green spaces
  • Proximity to Tel Aviv and the coast
  • Reliable public transport and parks
  • Nightlife is quieter than in Tel Aviv
  • Limited high-end nightlife and big-city dining in town
  • Some areas can feel residential and spread out
  • "שלום" - Hello
  • "תודה" - Thank you
  • "בבקשה" - Please / You're welcome
  • "כמה זה?" - How much is this?
  • "איפה השירותים?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Reẖovot

Visit one of these nice places.

Clore Garden of Science

A whimsical, sculptural science garden with vibrant installations—great for colorful foregrounds and playful portraits.

Weizmann Institute Campus

Modern architecture with glass façades and palm-lined courtyards; ideal for architectural and landscape photography.

Rehovot Old Train Station Area

Historic station and nearby squares offer nostalgic urban textures and evening lighting for street photography.

Beit Avraham Park

Green spaces and city viewpoints suitable for sunset shots and candid park life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Reẖovot

Israel’s cuisine blends Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with modern influences. In Reḥovot, you’ll find fresh markets, casual street food, and welcoming cafés that showcase hearty breakfasts, shared plates, and vibrant beverages.

Reẖovot Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shakshuka

Eggs poached in a spiced tomato and pepper sauce; a popular breakfast or brunch option at many local cafés.

Must-Try!

Sabich

Pita stuffed with fried eggplant, hard-boiled egg, hummus, pickles, and tahini sauce.

Hummus with toppings

Creamy chickpea spread with olive oil, tahini, and selection of toppings; commonly served with warm pita.

Malabi

Rosewater-scented milk pudding topped with pistachios and syrup for a light dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Reḥovot Central Market

A bustling hub for fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat bites from local vendors.

Street Food Corners

Falafel, shawarma, and kebab options around the city center—great for quick, flavorful meals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Reḥovot experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, sometimes wet winters. Spring and autumn are pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities, while summer days can be very hot and require sun protection and hydration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake and eye contact are common; addressing people politely by their first name after introductions is typical.

Direct communication

Israeli culture often values direct, clear communication; be respectful and straightforward.

Shabbat and holidays

Some shops close on Friday evenings and Saturdays; plan accordingly and be mindful of religious observances.

Religious sites

Dress modestly when visiting religious spaces and ask permission before entering any sacred area.

Safety Guide

Safety

The city is generally safe for travelers; practice standard urban safety measures: keep valuables secure in crowded areas, stay aware of your surroundings at night, and use reputable transportation.

Tipping in Reẖovot

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants and cafés, a 10-15% tip is customary if service is not included. Round up for personal service in casual settings.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted; cash is common for markets and small vendors. Some establishments may add a service charge.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming trees make it ideal for outdoor markets, walks, and photography sessions.

Summer

Hot and dry; schedule outdoor activities early and seek shade or indoor venues to stay cool.

Autumn

Warm days with cooler evenings; comfortable for biking and outdoor dining.

Winter

Milder days with possible rain; layer up and enjoy indoor attractions or brief outdoor strolls.

Nightlife Guide

Reẖovot at Night

Reḥovot offers a more low-key nightlife compared with Tel Aviv, featuring cozy cafés, casual bars, and occasional live music. For a bigger nightlife scene, many residents head to nearby cities like Tel Aviv while enjoying a relaxed evening in town.

Hiking in Reẖovot

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Nahal Sorek Nature Reserve

Scenic river valley with easy to moderate trails, ideal for day hikes and birdwatching.

Beit Oren–Yad HaShmona area trails

Rolling hills and countryside within a short drive from the city.

Airports

How to reach Reẖovot by plane.

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)

Israel's main international gateway, roughly 25-40 minutes by car from Rehovot depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is walkable with compact streets and a pedestrian-friendly core; however, some neighborhoods and outskirts are car-dependent. A bike-friendly culture is growing, with several dedicated lanes and paths.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young families and students

Many residents connected to the Weizmann Institute and Kaplan Medical Center; a large student population.

Diverse immigrant communities

Includes long-term Jewish families, Russian-speaking communities, and others.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Local clubs and regional leagues; matches can be found in nearby cities.

Basketball

Popular in schools and community centers; local gyms host games and pick-up events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally manageable, with peak times around Tel Aviv corridors; train and bus networks provide alternatives; highways 3 and 4 connect Rehovot to nearby hubs.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Reẖovot.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available; look for falafel, hummus, salads, and veggie plates. When needed, ask about broths or meats in sauces to ensure vegetarian preparation.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Kaplan Medical Center in Rehovot is a major hospital serving the region; there are clinics and specialists around the city; international travelers should carry essential meds and travel insurance; emergency care is available at local hospitals.

Discover Israel

Read more in our Israel 2025 Travel Guide.

Israel Travel Guide