+962 7 9635 8199
[email protected]
It’s located in northwestern Palestine. The principal port of the country lies along the Bay overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. It is first mentioned in the Talmud (c. 1st–4th century CE). Eusebius, the early Christian theologian, and biblical topographer referred to it as Sykaminos.
The town was conquered in 1100 by the Crusaders, who called it Caiphas. In later times it was taken by Napoleon in 1799. Ibrāhīm Pasha, the Egyptian general, and viceroy captured in 1839 but was compelled to surrender it to Turkey in 1840 under the pressure of the fleets of the European powers, led by Britain. In 1918 British forces occupied the town, and it subsequently (1922) became part of mandated Palestine.
It is the third largest city in Palestine. It sits on the slopes of Mount Carmel facing the Mediterranean Sea. Some call it ‘San Francisco’. Although traditionally a working city, there are several great things to do. Be sure to do them on your trip bucket list. These include the Bahai Gardens and German Colony. It also houses several top museums.
History
Haifa is described in Talmudic literature as a well-established Jewish settlement despite not being mentioned in the Bible. There are steps leading to Elijah’s Cave on Allenby Road, across from the National Maritime Museum. This is where Elijah the Prophet hid to escape King Ahab’s fury, according to a Byzantine story. Along with Jews, the place is treasured by Christians and Muslims. Oriental Jews read Isaiah 40 on the first Sunday following Tisha B’Av and beg the prophet to bless their children, heal their sicknesses, and make their lives better.
From the Stone Age through the Ottoman era, artifacts have been discovered inside the municipal borders. The Jewish community in Haifa expanded during the Middle Ages and became a major shipping center.
The Crusaders took control of the city in 1099 and massacred all of the Jews who lived there. Elijah’s Cave hosted the establishment of the Carmelite Order in 1156. Haifa was conquered by the Mamlukes in 1265 and by the Bedouin Dahar al-Omar in 1750. He demolished it, then rebuilt and fortified it. Haifa was ruled by the Turks from 1775 to World War I, with two interruptions: Napoleon’s conquest in 1799 and Egyptian sovereignty from 1831 to 1840. Napoleon left his injured men in the Carmelite hospital at Stella Maris as he withdrew from Palestine. The Muslim residents of the area assassinated the Frenchmen the emperor left behind as soon as he was gone.
Even under the British Mandate, there was a sizable Arab community, and relations between them and Jews were generally excellent. The Arab resolve to forcibly block the foundation of a Jewish state after partition, however, led to the expulsion of a large portion of the Arab population in April 1948, when the Haganah assumed control of the city.
What can you visit in Haifa ?
Explore the Bahai Gardens
This is the most well-known landmark in Haifa. This well maintained park, which is situated on hills and has 19 terraces, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highest one offers breathtaking views of Haifa, including the bay, an
The gardens are open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and the shrine can be visited from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm every day.d the gardens below. The Baha’i shrine and a wide variety of flora may both be found inside the grounds.
Walk around the German Colony
There is virtually no way to visit Haifa and ignore the German Colony. It is located just beneath Bahai Gardens, therefore it is likely that you may pass by it your route there. This is the most attractive area in Haifa, and it was first developed in 1868 when a second wave of colonists struck the Holy Land. Many of the structures are still in excellent condition; some of them are private houses, while others have been transformed into cafés, bars, and restaurants.
Discover Wadi Nisnas
The Arab district of Wadi Nisnas, a labyrinth of winding lanes and white stone homes, is just next to the German Colony and a great site to sample some of the greatest street cuisine in Haifa. These are the falafels you get if you want the best. There is also a market worth going to.
Try all the street food
As I just mentioned, an excellent place to sample falafel in Haifa is Wadi Nisnas. However, feel free to sample all the other street fare. The finest place to try shawarma is Emil, and if you’re in the mood for bread, head to Houri for a pita that’s loaded with the toppings of your choosing .
Pop into Haifa Museum of Art
Since its opening in 1951, the Haifa Museum of Art has grown to become one of the largest in the nation. Contemporary art is the major focus in this area near Wadi Nisnas, with an emphasis on both Israeli and foreign artists. Keep an eye out for special exhibits and activities on the museum’s website.
Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm; Thursday, till 6:00 pm; and Friday, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm are the museum’s regular business hours.
Visit Madatech Science and Technology Museum
Located on 25 Shmaryahu Levin Street inside the Technion University grounds, this museum is enjoyable for both adults and children to visit. It has exhibits celebrating scientists like Da Vinci and Einstein as well as a fascinating display with unique insights into green energy. Aside from Friday and Sunday, the museum is open every day. Opening hours are always at 10:00 am, although weekday closing times might change.
What To Do
Eat, eat, and eat!
Haifa is a culinary paradise. There are several eateries all across downtown that serve anything from cheap meals to fine dining. I suggest visiting some of the eateries in and around Wadi Nisnas.
Go on a free tour of the Bahai Gardens
The most recognizable landmark in Haifa is the Bahai Gardens. They are OUTSTANDINGLY BEAUTIFUL and are situated on Mount Carmel’s slope. The Shrine, where the founders of the Bahai faith are interred, is the largest structure in the grounds. Free guided tours of the gardens are provided by the Bahais and are conducted by volunteers.
Try the Carmelit
The Carmelit is a subterranean funicular that runs from Downtown Haifa to Mount Carmel’s higher elevations. Even if it’s not really a subway, you can still call it one of the world’s shortest. You may take a ride for amusement or utilize it to get to the Louis Promenade and the top gate of the Baha’i Garden.
Where To Eat
Haifa has one port, four different religions, and the greatest Israeli street cuisine. With seasoned culinary establishments, some of which have been there for more than 30 years, the city is a miniature of Israel. There are two marketplaces in the city where you may get the greatest food: Wadi Nisnas and Talpiot Market.
find out more
Where To Stay
Where should I stay in Haifa? The Mediterranean Sea borders Haifa, the third-largest city in Israel, on three sides. The Mount Carmel slopes are located on the fourth level. The city has been inhabited for almost 3,000 years and has grown a distinctive variety of communities. You’ll quickly find that each has appeals of its own.
Weather and Climate in haifa
The winters in Haifa are mild, moist, and mainly clear, while the summers there are hot, humid, arid, and clear. The average annual temperature ranges between 50°F and 87°F, seldom falling below 44°F or rising over 90°F.
Summers are long, lasting from May to September, with July and August being the hottest months. Temperatures range between 23-36° C (75-96° F) and you can expect 50-90% humidity. The good news is that there is air-conditioning almost everywhere you go, from buses and taxis to malls and hotels. However, it is really important to prepare for these temperatures, especially when spending time outdoors. Buy good sun protection, wear long but cool clothes and make sure to drink plenty of water.
Autumn is, for the most part, a continuation of the summer weather. It does get a little cooler and the humidity drops, so it is more comfortable. The season starts in September and at the end of November it starts getting cooler and we might see a little rain, but not too much. September is usually as warm as summer, but the temperatures in autumn are similar to those of spring and range between 16-24° C (60-75° F).
Depending where you come from you might not even consider the city weather “real winter weather”. This is the wettest time of the year and temperatures range between 6-15° C (42-60° F). Israeli schools have a winter break for Channukah during December, this usually doesn’t affect accommodation but activities tend to get crowded. Also, tourists from nearby countries use their winter breaks to enjoy the warmer temperatures in this city.
Spring is between March and May and this is the ideal time to visit this city. You usually won’t see much rain and the temperatures are mild, ranging between 16-24° C (60-75° F), although the nights might still be chilly. Passover falls in April so if you are planning on visiting during this time keep in mind that prices of flights and accommodation will rise and tend to get booked early.