Israel experienced a boom in tourism after the Covid pandemic finally ended, attracting more than 2 million tourists in 2022. Contrary to popular belief about safety in the country, studies have shown that the Holy Land is much safer than the UK or US, making it ideal for those who want to discover its beauty and cultural heritage.
Tourism in Israel is a significant source of income for the country, significantly impacting its economy. Most of its tourists come from the US, the UK, Germany, France, Brazil, the Netherlands and Italy. Among them, Americans spend the most during their visit (around $1,042 on average), followed by Swiss tourists.
Where does tourists’ money go during their visit to Israel?
Not all Israeli tourists spend their money on the same things. For instance, Italians dedicate 34% of their budget to culinary experiences, while Indians spend a significant amount on accommodations. On the other hand, Dutch tourists spend 10% on transportation and 31% on culinary experiences.
A 7-day trip to Israel can cost around $1,990 if you travel solo, $3,066 if you go with your partner, and $3,209 for families with four members. Hotels’ prices can vary from $80 to $343 per night, while daily vacation expenses depend on the activities you’re looking forward to during your trip. How much you spend during your trip to Israel also depends on when you plan your vacation. Usually, the cheapest period is early to mid-September.
Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are top destinations in Israel among US tourists
Tourists visiting Israel spend more time in Jerusalem, the sacred city of the country (4.7 nights on average) than in Tel Aviv (3.7 nights). However, they spend more money in Tel Aviv than in Jerusalem. Americans love both cities, as they offer unique experiences: while Tel Aviv is famous for its art scene and vibrant atmosphere, Jerusalem stands out through its awe-inspiring religious sites. Tourists who want to discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Jerusalem often choose to travel with israel connection tours, a tour operator that strives to make everyone’s experience unforgettable. Customized tours are a great way to explore a destination, especially for those who find it stressful to plan all the aspects of a trip.
Visiting Jerusalem is a spiritual experience that enables tourists to discover many interesting things about its culture and history. Those interested in diving into different aspects related to Israeli culture and learning Hebrew can purchase First and Foremost book, designed for beginner-level language students. Jerusalem is filled with museums and has a thriving music scene, allowing tourists to attend local artists’ performances and enjoy uplifting music.
As for Tel Aviv, no one can doubt its charm, especially after the city has been ranked as one of the happiest in the world. With friendly locals, stunning landscapes, and a welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQ+ community, the city offers tourists an exciting – and memorable- experience.
In 2021, the number of international tourists decreased considerably in Israel due to COVID-19 restrictions. However, this is no longer an issue, and, likely, the country’s tourism will only keep flourishing in the following years.
