Most Popular Tourist Destinations in the Holy Land of Israel

Considering the religious significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, Israel is slowly growing as a tourist-cum-pilgrimage center. Vacayholics takes you down the lane of a country replete with religious, cultural, and historical significance.
Cheryl Mascarenhas
Last Updated: Aug 12, 2017
Did You Know?
The Dead Sea is the lowest point on land on Earth. In fact, it is 850 feet lower than the next lowest place-Lake Assal, in Djibouti.
Israel is a land that offers a plethora of historical and religious sites, apart from the regular beach resorts and ecotourism that most people prefer. Israel, with its archaeological and heritage sites, has on offer, everything a tourist would want. There's history and geography, along with philosophy and religion, and there's also culture and tradition, not to forget Israeli cuisine. You would benefit if you kept aside the Israel-Palestinian conflict while planning a trip to this country, that is gaining significance for religious tourism.
In recent years, Israel has seen a steady influx of tourists from all over the world, thanks to the overwhelming response to the Holy Land packages that are on offer. Places like Jerusalem, Nazareth, and Caesarea, have turned into tourist hotspots in the recent past. There is lots to do, learn, and take back with you from a trip to Israel, and I am sure no one would like to just sit back and relax. Let's make a quick tour of this little country.
In recent years, Israel has seen a steady influx of tourists from all over the world, thanks to the overwhelming response to the Holy Land packages that are on offer. Places like Jerusalem, Nazareth, and Caesarea, have turned into tourist hotspots in the recent past. There is lots to do, learn, and take back with you from a trip to Israel, and I am sure no one would like to just sit back and relax. Let's make a quick tour of this little country.
Jerusalem
Via Dolorosa
Christianity, Judaism, and Islam come together in the state capital, which is known for its religious tolerance. Known for its historical, archaeological, and religious attractions, Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world. A visit to the Old City of Jerusalem in the east is a must. The city that is divided into four quarters: Armenian Quarter, Christian Quarter, Muslim Quarter, and Jewish Quarter, is home to several sites of religious importance for the Jews, Christians, and Muslims.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Regarded to be the most important Christian site in Jerusalem, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is believed to be the place where Jesus was crucified. The church forms the 14th post on the Via Dolorosa, and is lined with many smaller chapels belonging exclusively to specific denominations.
Dome of the Rock
Located on the Temple Mount in the old City of Jerusalem is the Dome of the Rock, also known as Qubbat As-Sakhrah. The Muslims believe it to be the site of the Islamic miracle of the Isra and Miraj. Patterned after the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Dome of the Rock is supposed to be the first great work of Islamic architecture. The Foundation Stone has its significance for the Jews, Christians, and Muslims.
Mount of Olives
Located on the eastern slopes of Jerusalem's mountains, and running adjacent to the Old City, is Mount of Olives. Used as a Jewish burial site, it houses an estimated 150,000 graves on the mount. At the foot of the mount lies the Garden of Gethsemane, featuring trees that are over 2,000 years old.
Akko/Acre
Galilee
Galilee is a large region in northern Israel, and is associated for the serene mountain scenery and the Sea of Galilee. Inextricably linked with the life of Jesus Christ, it is also home to two of Judaism's holy cities. Galilee is a popular tourist destination, especially among Christians, as many of the miracles of Jesus occurred here.
Roman Remnants At Tiberias
Located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee is one of the Four Holy Cities of Judaism. Visit the Hammat Tiberias Synagogue, a 4th century synagogue which contains the Torah shrine. Tiberias is supposedly the final resting place of many prominent Jewish rabbis and thinkers. Visit the 2,000-year-old Roman theater that was unearthed near Mount Bernike in the Tiberias hills. Brimming with history, this place attracts scores of travelers each year.
Haifa
Mount Carmel
The largest city in northern Israel is located on the northern slope of Mount Carmel. Haifa is home to the Bahá'í World Center, and Matam, one of the oldest and largest high-tech parks in the country. A major seaport located on the Mediterranean coast, it is the major regional center of northern Israel.
Hadera
Ruins at Caesarea
Located near the city of Hadera is the town of Caesarea. The town served as a major social, political, and commercial center for the Romans. It is an extensive archaeological site visited by many tourists yearly. Visit the Caesarea National Park that preserves the Roman aqueduct, and standing Crusader balustrades and towers.
Tel Aviv
Masada
Eilat
That pretty much sums up a tour of Israel. Most of the places are tourist hotspots, due to the emergence of Holy Land tours that are conducted the world over. Make the most of your trip to this land of the world's largest religions.