Flights to Israel

The only country in the world where Jews make up the majority population, Israel is located in the Middle East, on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, with access to the Red Sea and the Dead Sea. Its ancient history is partially known from biblical writings, with these lands being under Assyrian, Babylonian, Persian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Muslim rule throughout the centuries. From the 16th century until the early 20th century, Israel was under Ottoman domination. Its recent history has also been turbulent, marked by numerous conflicts between Israelis and Arabs. Recognized as an independent state in 1948 by the UN, Israel remains a point of controversy, with some Arab states still refusing to acknowledge its independence.

Tourism in Israel focuses on historical monuments and biblical sites, especially the Holy City of Jerusalem. Must-see attractions include the ancient city of Acre/Akko, the largest city on the shores of the Haifa Bay, surrounded by impressive walls. Other highlights are the beaches of the Dead Sea, known for its extremely salty waters; the resort city of Eilat, said to enjoy perpetual sunshine; Haifa, nestled on and around Mount Carmel; Tiberias, famed since Roman times for its spa resorts; Jerusalem, home to the Western Wall, the Biblical Zoo, and the Shrine of the Book; the Sea of Galilee, near which lies Tabgha, believed to be the site where Jesus fed 5,000 people with five loaves and two fish; Migdal, the town of Mary Magdalene; and Nazareth, with its many Christian pilgrimage sites in the Holy Land.

Each year, Israel hosts numerous festivals and events, including the Shalom Jerusalem Festival, the Jerusalem Light Festival, the Jerusalem Film Festival, the Balabusta Festival at Shuk, the Jerusalem Theatre End of Summer Festival, and the International Puppet Festival.

If you plan to visit Israel, flying is the easiest way to get there. Airlines that operate flights to Israel include Pegasus Airlines, EL AL Israel Airlines, Wizz Air, Vueling Airlines, KLM, and Israir.