5 Must Visit Places In Haifa Israel

In Israel, Tel Aviv is undoubtedly the nightlife hub. Jerusalem takes the prize for historical and spiritual convergence. But the third-largest city and technological capital is not to be overlooked. Haifa boasts what are arguably the loveliest beaches in Israel, a picturesque cityscape perched on the steep hill of the Carmel Mountain, and the nation’s high-tech brain-trust. Here the top five not-to-be-missed sites to see there.

# The Baha’i Gardens

No visit to Haifa would be complete without a tour of this majestic World Heritage Site. Meditative paths weave through the 19 immaculately landscaped terraces, and the hillside location offers visitors panoramic views of the seaside town and harbor. The continuity of the gardens and the design of the shrine reflect the central belief of the Baha’i religion in the oneness of God, of mankind, and the truthfulness of all prophets of the various faiths as messengers of God. The cultural influence of East and West is evident in the myriad plant species and landscape designs. The biological diversity and excellent guided tours will fascinate horticulturalists and religious scholars equally.

# The German Colony and Wadi Nisnas

After touring the magnificent Baha’i gardens, head down the hill to the German Colony for the city’s best pubs, restaurants and high-class shopping. The German Colony was established by newly immigrated Christian Templars in the 1860s and the remaining stone buildings are now home to art galleries and cafés. Eat your lunch looking up at the omni-present Bahai’i gardens or out onto the Mediterranean Sea.

# Madatech Science and Technology Museum

This attraction is not just for kids! The museum offers exhibits covering topics from local fauna to green energy and flight simulators, as well as installations honoring the work of Leonardo Da Vinci, Albert Einstein (who visited the museum in 1927), and Ilan Ramon.

# The Beachfront and Boardwalks

Haifa truly wins the prize for urban beaches in Israel, with plenty of beachfront cafés and bars to keep you hydrated and socializing all day long, and a range of watersports for the adrenaline junkie. Lessons in surfing, kite-surfing, wind-surfing, paddleboarding and more are available through KiteClub. Dado beach is the southern shore of Haifa and is served by the Hof HaCarmel Bus and Train stations, making it the go-to sunbathing spot for locals. From Dado, the beachfront continues south uninterrupted into the gorgeous dunes and tide pools of the Carmel Coast nature reserve.

# Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery and Elijah’s Cave

Take an exciting ride up in Haifa’s cable-cars (summer: 9am-8pm; winter: 10am-6pm) to one of the oldest monasteries in the world, which has its early roots in the 12th century and a complicated history to date. The decorations are stunning as are the panoramic views of the harbor and city. A short walk down the staircase leads to Elijah’s Cave, thought to be the abode of the prophet so important in Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths. The cave is now housed in an ornate, domed chapel. Both the monastery and the cave offer visitors guided tours and in-depth historical and biblical references.