Things To Do
in Ẕefat
Ẕefat is a historic hill town in the Galilee, perched above the Lower Galilee with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. It is renowned for its mystic heritage, Kabbalistic history, and a well-preserved medieval core of white-washed stone houses and winding alleyways. The old city hums with galleries, studios, and markets where artisans sell ceramics, glassware, and crafts.
By day and night, Ẕefat blends contemplative heritage with a vibrant arts scene, offering sunset vistas, museums, and intimate cafés.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by wandering the cobbled streets of Ẕefat's Old City, immersing yourself in the rich history and mysticism that permeates the air. Visit the ancient synagogues, distinguished by their exquisite architecture and vibrant colors. Take a moment to absorb the stunning views of Mount Meron and the surrounding hills.
In the afternoon, indulge in a local art tour, discovering the works of various artists who capture the spirit of the city through their canvases. Stop at a quaint café to enjoy a traditional Israeli lunch, sampling local flavors like fresh falafel and hummus. Continue your exploration by visiting the artists' quarter, where you can speak with the creators about their inspirations.
As dusk envelops the city, find a scenic spot to watch the sunset over the hills, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a rooftop restaurant, relishing local cuisine while overlooking the beautiful landscape. Wrap up your day with a stroll through the market, soaking in the evening ambiance and perhaps picking up unique handcrafted souvenirs.
Begin your day by visiting the renowned Kabbalistic centers, where you can delve into the world of Jewish mysticism and spirituality. Participate in a guided meditation or a workshop to gain insights into this ancient tradition. The serene atmosphere provides a perfect backdrop for reflection and personal growth.
Spend the afternoon at the nearby Kabbalah Center, engaging in insightful discussions about the teachings of Kabbalah with knowledgeable instructors. Take time to explore the beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the center, offering a peaceful retreat. Sample some local pastries and coffee at a nearby café after your visit.
In the evening, attend a lecture or seminar on spiritual growth held at one of the local centers, surrounded by fellow seekers of knowledge. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a cozy eatery, reflecting on the day's lessons and experiences. Cap off the night by gazing at the stars from a tranquil viewpoint, pondering the mysteries of the universe.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 in mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨3-star hotel per night | $90-180 |
| 🚎Taxi starting price | $4-8 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich mystic and architectural heritage with a thriving arts scene
- Pleasant climate for a hill town and stunning Galilee views
- Nightlife is low-key compared with bigger cities
- Some sights require uphill walking on cobbled streets
- "Shalom" - Hello / Peace
- "Toda raba" - Thank you very much
- "Bevakasha" - Please / You're welcome
- "Eifo ha-sherutim?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Ẕefat
Visit one of these nice places.
The white stone and blue accents catch warm light as the sun sets, making for striking religious-architecture photography.
Winding alleys, terraced rooftops, and intricate staircases provide intimate, high-contrast compositions of Safed’s stone geometry.
A historic home with a tranquil courtyard, offering soft afternoon light and architectural details ideal for framing human-scale scenes.
Sweeping views toward the Galilee valleys and distant mountains, especially dramatic at sunrise or dusk.
Food in Ẕefat
Ẕefat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Eggs poached in a spiced tomato and pepper sauce, usually finished with feta; best found at hillside cafés and in the Old City, often served with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
Creamy strained yogurt spread, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with za’atar; a common mezze item in cafes and homes alike, perfect with warm pita.
A sweet cheese pastry soaked with rosewater syrup and pistachios; widely available in bakeries and dessert shops around the Old City.
A sesame-based confection often enjoyed with coffee or tea, available in sweet shops and markets throughout Safed.
Freshly caught fish prepared simply to let the flavors shine, commonly found at seaside-adjacent eateries and some Galilean restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A maze of lanes offering olives, spices, baked goods, herbs, and handmade sweets; a great place to sample street bites and pick up picnic supplies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple Shalom; address elders with polite respect; be mindful during prayers and at religious sites.
Dress modestly when visiting synagogues or holy places; remove shoes where required and ask staff about modesty rules if unsure.
Direct but courteous conversation is common; Israelis often speak plainly and with humor, but tone matters in sensitive contexts.
Safety
Tipping in Ẕefat
Ensure a smooth experience
In Israel, a tip of 10-15% in restaurants is common if not included in the bill; round up taxi fares and tip hotel staff when service stands out.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for markets and small cafés; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; great for walking tours and outdoor photography; carry light layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
Warm to hot days; afternoons can be very sunny. Seek shade and terraces; evenings are pleasant for strolls and rooftop dining.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; ideal for outdoor hikes, markets, and long strolls through the Old City.
Cool and occasionally rainy with the possibility of light snow on higher elevations. Pack a warm, waterproof layer and plan indoor activities for rain days.
Ẕefat at Night
Hiking in Ẕefat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-covered slopes with scenic overlooks and moderate trails suitable for a half-day hike.
A longer day hike option with dramatic gorges, streams, and viewpoints; a popular trip from Safed for nature lovers.
Rugged river canyon paths offering shaded sections and viewpoints to the north of Safed.
Seasonal hiking routes that offer high-elevation views and cooler air, especially appealing in spring and autumn.
Airports
How to reach Ẕefat by plane.
Israel’s main international gateway, approximately 120-150 minutes by road from Safed, with frequent domestic connections and international flights.
A smaller airport serving domestic and limited international flights; convenient for northern travel, roughly a 1.5–2 hour drive to Safed depending on traffic.
A nearby small airfield used mainly for private flights and charter planes, useful for quick access for specific itineraries and pilots.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of secular, traditional, and religious families contributing to Safed’s cultural and religious life.
Integral to the Galilee region’s cultural mosaic, with traditions influencing local markets and cuisine.
A longstanding presence in Safed’s Artist Quarter, shaping the town’s creative and nightlife vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport across Israel, with local clubs and informal games often organized in public fields.
Popular in schools and community centers; pickup games and local leagues can be found in towns around the Galilee.
Israel’s northern ski area near Mount Hermon offers winter sports with a unique high-elevation experience for skiing and snowboarding.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ẕefat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer vegetarian mezze and egg-based dishes; communicate dairy or egg preferences; many places use olive oil and seasonal produce.
Ask for gluten-free bread options and avoid cross-contact in shared kitchens; many cafés can accommodate with salads and grilled vegetables.
Some venues are kosher, especially in more religious areas; look for a kosher symbol (hechsher) and consult staff about preparation and utensils.