Top Affordable Weekend Getaways In Israel

Traveling can be costly, especially when you have to consider transportation, food, and fun. If you are a university student or a young couple on a tight budget, these affordable, off-the-beaten path destinations can satiate your thirst for a weekend in Israel without breaking your bank account.

1. Ascent of Tzfat

Hostel

Tzfat’s Artist colony with galleries and work on show on cobbled streets

If you have ever spent a gap year in Israel, you have at least heard of Ascent. It is right in the middle of the old city of Tzfat, overlooks a gorgeous, mountainous view, and has the best all-inclusive student and couples’ prices in Israel. Once a month, they also hold special-themed weekend retreats that include relevant programming and Shabbat meals at people’s homes. The stay includes meals, meditation sessions, tours of the city, and more. It is an unforgettable, spiritually awakening experience that shows you all that Tzfat has to offer. Tzfat is known for its mystical teachings and its artist’s colony. It is a great trip to take with friends when you want to escape the crowded city or get out of your university bubble, and of course, it is reasonably priced.

Camping on the Sea of Galilee

Close your eyes and remember those warm summer evenings you spent at camp, sitting around a bonfire, roasting marshmallows and singing along to a guitar. Now add some watermelon, Gold Star and a beach, and you have a memorable night under the stars on the Galilee. This is the perfect getaway for when you want to escape the rush that is 2016. Turn off your phone and enjoy what’s around you. If you are willing to put down some extra money, lots of beaches provide water activities. There are a few lovely beaches that are recommended for camping.

Camping on the Sea of Galilee, Israel

Beersheba Sightseeing

Little did you know, this growing desert city has quite a few attractions. If you want to explore a part of Israel that is often missed by tourists, a weekend in Beersheba will provide you with a different experience. There are several museums, such as the Israeli Airforce Museum and Negev Museum of Art, as well as historical monuments, such as Abraham’s Well and the Tel Be’ersheba National Park. This is a nice option for history buffs and museum connoisseurs. Beit Yatziv is a highly recommended and affordable accommodation, with prices between 300-400 shekels per night.

Sightseeing in Beersheba, Israel

2. Akko

Hostel, Hotel

Turkish Bazaar in Akko with arches, wooden doors and cafes

For over 4,000 years, a variety of civilizations occupied the city, adding to its vibrant history. Today, Akko is known as Israel’s most successful coexistent community, with Christians, Muslims, and Jews living side by side. Take a walk through the dazzling old city and explore ancient sites, learn their stories and take a stroll down the port. This weekend getaway is a change of pace from Jerusalem’s old city, but if you love Jerusalem, you will enjoy Akko as well. Recommended place to stay is the Akko Gate Hostel. Prices start at 84 shekels per night, and breakfast is only 25 shekels.

3. Tiberias

Hostel

Tiberias Water Show alight with Israeli flag decoration at night

Tiberias is another northern gem you should check out. Whether you want to have a nice evening out on the promenade or visit historical holy sites, this biblical city has what you are looking for. There are a lot of fun things to do for free. Tiberias Hostel is a great and affordable place to stay the night. It claims to be very central, a mere five-minute walk from the center of town.

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