Resources
Discover the Holy Land from Home
Would you like to learn more about the Holy Land and sacred history from home?
Whether you have already traveled there or hope to do so someday, here you will find digital resources to help you prepare for your journey or revisit the places you explored.
Plan your trip before flying
Book your flight at least 4 hours in advance at the airport due to the strict security checks, and bear in mind Shabbat (when transport and shops are closed from Friday evening until Saturday night)
Security and Border Controls
Airport Questionnaire: on arrival at and departure from Ben Gurion Airport, you will be asked detailed questions about your itinerary and accommodation; answer calmly and honestly, and have your booking confirmations to hand.
No stamps: passports are no longer stamped; you will be given a separate blue card (known as a Border Pass). Keep it safely inside your passport until you leave the country.
Weather
Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild with short but heavy rains. In the spring and autumn times, temperatures tend to be hot during the day and cool off by sundown. When the weather is hot, it is very important to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen, hats and sunglasses.
Pilgrim mindset ON
We suggest a bit of research and reading about the Holy Land before coming. In the footprints of our faith and the videos on our YouTube channel are a good place to start, but you can find many other resources online. Though challenging, try to find time to meditate during your trip. It can be helpful to carry a pocket Bible or one of the many bible apps for your phone.
Emergency numbers in Israel
Museums → enhance your experience
Language
The more common languages are Hebrew and Arabic. However, many people also speak English. Signs, receipts or menus in tourist areas are easily found in English as well.
Clothing
Wear comfortable shoes, as you will find yourself walking most of the time. Both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees to enter the holy sites.
Visas
From 1 January 2025, travellers to Israel must hold a valid visa or ETA-IL approval before starting their journey. Please check the information on the official website.
Required documents:
A passport valid for 6 months after your departure from Israel.
Please remember to take out travel medical insurance.
Currency
The local currency is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS). Euros, US dollars, and most credit cards are usually accepted in tourist areas.It is advisable to carry a small amount of cash for minor expenses, tips or small shops.
Public transport
👉 Israel Railways – Schedules & Tickets
👉 For train and public transport timetables, please visit the official Israel Railways website. You’ll need to buy a travel card to use public transport.
Download Moovit for real-time transport routes and Gett to book safe taxis.
Plan for Shabbat: Israeli public transport comes to a complete standstill over the Jewish weekend; use these days to explore the Old City on foot or travel to Arab areas such as Bethlehem or Nazareth, where transport continues to run.
Crossing into Palestine: You can travel to Bethlehem or Jericho by Arab bus (lines 231 or 234 from Damascus Gate in Jerusalem). All you need is your passport with the blue entry card issued to you at the airport.
