The modern city of Haifa is a busy port town, but in contrast to many other towns that are centred on industry, the geography of the city, which consists of sheer cliffs that tumble down to the beach, offers it a lovely backdrop.
This is one of the top destinations to go to if you are a traveller looking for a location to stay that provides convenient access to the attractions located in the north as well as a lively city buzz with a booming café and eating scene.
The Baha'i Gardens, which are located in the heart of Haifa and dominate the landscape there, make the most of the city's hillside setting. The sloping, terraced lawns that have been meticulously maintained are the most popular tourist destination in Haifa.
Haifa is a base for visiting the sites upon Mount Carmel and is within day-trip distance of famous ruins such as Caesarea. In addition to being a centre of the Baha'i faith, which brings Baha'i pilgrims from all over the world to the city, Haifa is also a base for visiting the sites atop Mount Carmel.
Our list of the finest things to do in Haifa might help you find the best spots to go sightseeing in the city.
1. Take a stroll through the Baha'i Gardens
The spectacular Baha'i Gardens are at the top of the list of things to do in the area, and the Baha'i Shrine, with its golden dome, is the most recognisable structure in the city.
Iran is the birthplace of the Baha'i religion, which was established in 1844 by an Iranian man named Mirza Ali Mohammed, who called himself "Bab" (which means "gateway to God").
In the year 1850, he was murdered in Tabriz, and his successor, Mirza Hussein Ali, who would eventually be known as Baha'u'llah, fled to the Ottoman Empire. After making his declaration of independence as Imam in 1868, he was taken into custody in Akko and kept there until the year 1892, the year he passed away.
After the passing of Mirza Hussein Ali, adherents of the Baha'i faith clandestinely relocated the bones of Mirza Ali Mohammed, who had preceded Mirza Hussein Ali, from Iran to Haifa, where they constructed his tomb, known as the Shrine of the Bab.
The terraced gardens and shrine are now a memorial that is both exceptionally peaceful and stunning in appearance, and they serve as an exemplary piece of garden landscaping.
In recognition of both their ecological and cultural significance, UNESCO has included them on the list of World Heritage Sites. They are also considered to be key destinations for pilgrimage by followers of the Baha'i faith.
Free tours are provided continuously throughout the day in a number of different languages. Yefe Nof Street, which serves as the entry road to the entrance, features spectacular views that extend down over the garden terraces and beyond to the Mediterranean.
2. The Carmelite Monastery of Stella Maris (Stella Maris)
The current structure of the Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery was constructed in 1836, and it is famous for the elaborate frescoes that depict Saint Elijah within its walls.
In addition, the inside features murals depicting episodes from the lives of the prophets Isaiah and Ezekiel. There is also a figurine made of cedar of the Virgin Mary that is referred to as the Madonna of Mount Carmel.
In the year 1150, the hermetic Catholic cult known as the Carmelite order was established on Mount Carmel. The Carmelite monasteries were razed to the ground in 1799 as a direct result of the order's alliance with Napoleon during the latter's conflict with the Ottoman Turks. A tomb containing the remains of French troops who lost their lives during the conflict may be found in front of the structure.
After afterwards, the monastery was reconstructed, but it was once again destroyed by the pasha of Akko (Acre) in the year 1821.
People travel all the way here only to take in the sights, which include all of central Haifa below and continue all the way out to the sea.
It is thought that the grotto known as Elijah's cave was either the former dwelling place of Elijah or his grave, and there is a path that runs down from the monastery to get there.
3. Take a ride on the cable car in Haifa
The Haifa cable car is not only the most enjoyable but also the easiest and quickest means to ascend the steep hill leading to the Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery.
As one climbs higher and higher, one is treated to increasingly breathtaking panoramas that look out over the city and all of its most important attractions; hence, this is a fantastic pastime for photographers.
Note that it is a very short ride, and even if you aren't interested in visiting the monastery itself, the views from the lookout point at the top of the hill, across the sprawl of Haifa, and out to the Mediterranean are usually judged to be well worth taking the cable car for if you don't fancy the walk. This is true even if you aren't interested in visiting the monastery itself.
At the very top, there is a quaint little cafe that serves refreshments.
4. Elijah's Cave
A route that goes down to Elijah's Cave at the base of the cape can be found just across from the Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery. The entrance to the cave can be found off of Allenby Street for visitors who do not feel like making the walk down the hill.
Believers maintain that the Prophet Elijah fled to this location after he had slaughtered the priests of Baal.
It is a site of significance for pilgrimage for Jews, Muslims, and Christians alike, as Elijah is held in high regard by all three faiths.
It is important to remember to dress modestly if you are planning to visit in order to show respect to the pilgrims who may also be at the place at the same time.
Up to the year 1948, this location housed a mosque.
5. A Visit to Caesarea for the Day
Caesarea, located roughly in the middle of the coast, between Haifa and Tel Aviv, is the location of one of the most remarkable ancient sites in Israel.
Since the 4th century BCE, when the Phoenicians exploited it as a vital port, this location has been continuously inhabited. However, Herod I (also known as Herod the Great), in 22 BCE, was the one who went on to create the harbour city here, complete with temples, a theatre, and a hippodrome. Caesarea was the name he gave the town in honour of Augustus, who was the Emperor.
Among the main activities of my recent trips to Israel and Italy were visits to important religious sites and places of worship in Jerusalem, Haifa and Vatican City, with the aim of communicating to the public and to religious and political leaders that, from thousands of years… pic.twitter.com/bcbeZQroqc
— Reza Pahlavi (@PahlaviReza) April 28, 2023
The city was at its peak from the 1st century CE to the 6th century CE, first as the capital of the Roman province of Judea, which later became the Roman province of Syria Palaestina, and later as a significant centre of early Christianity. The city's heydey lasted from the 1st century CE to the 6th century CE. Both Saint Paul and Saint Peter are known to have resided in this area.
During the time of the Byzantines, it continued to serve as a provincial capital up until the year 637 CE, when it was conquered by the Arabs. After that, it did not disappear entirely but gradually lost its significance. It wasn't until the time of the Crusaders that the site's strategic location prompted a rush of building activities, including the addition of further defences.
The site is still the subject of ongoing archaeological research, and a number of significant artefacts discovered there, such as a statue of Artemis dating back to the third century BCE and an important Byzantine mosaic, can currently be seen on display at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem.
The Crusader-era city remains, the Roman theatre, and the magnificently melancholic remnant of the ancient aqueduct, which was part of the city's Herodian period, are the three highlights of a visit to this location. Both the Roman theatre and the remnant of the ancient aqueduct may be found within the archaeological park itself.
6. Take a stroll in the downtown area of Haifa.
Ben-Gurion thoroughfare was the original major thoroughfare of the German Protestant colony that was established in this location in 1868 by members of the Society of the Temple. These individuals were under the impression that relocating to Palestine would hasten the arrival of the Messiah. The society maintained its existence right up until the start of the Second World War.
The older homes have all been brought back to their former glory, and the tiled roofs that adorned them are quite evocative of the era in which they were built. The Boulevard is now home to some of the finest dining and retail establishments in all of Haifa.
The cemetery of these zealot settlers may be found to the north-west, near 150 Jaffa Street. It is located right next to a British military cemetery that dates back to the First World War.
7. Embark on an Adventure to Mount Carmel's Attractions Via Automobile
A trek up the slopes of Mount Carmel provides for a wonderful day trip from Haifa, provided that you have access to your own vehicles and are able to make the journey.
The Carmelite Monastery of St. Elijah is the most important historic site to visit in this area. According to local legend, Elijah erected an altar there during his struggle with the priests of Baal.
The little hamlets that dot the slopes of the mountain are, if anything, even more interesting than the church that sits at the summit of the mountain.
Be sure to make a detour to the artist community of Ein Hod, which is filled with various galleries. The remains of the "Carmel Man," a Palaeolithic skeleton discovered in caves six kilometres west of the real hamlet, were discovered in the area known as Bet Oren, which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain. The remains, along with the other discoveries made at the site, are presently housed in the Rockefeller Museum in Jerusalem.
8. Spend Time on One of Haifa's Beautiful Beaches
Visitors who want to combine their time in Haifa with some sand and water can choose from one of the city's three primary beaches.
The northernmost part of the city is home to Bat Galim Beach, which is a popular destination for locals who enjoy participating in water sports. On clear, windless days, kiteboarders and windsurfers go to the water, and you can find businesses in this area that rent out equipment and offer tuition for various water sports.
Carmel Beach, located on Haifa's western shoreline, is a popular destination for local families on sunny weekends since it is more conducive to relaxing activities such as sunbathing and general lounging.
Dado Beach is a popular destination for surfers and is located directly to the south of Carmel Beach.
The amenities at all three of these beaches are first-rate, including restaurants and bars that run down the water's edge, as well as sun umbrellas and lounge chairs that can be rented.
9. Take a stroll across the Nesher Park
Suspension BridgesNesher Park's lush evergreen forest is a nice area to visit for a brief stroll if you need to get away from the city. The park is located in Nesher, which is immediately at the southern edge of Haifa on the northern slope of Mount Carmel.
The trail that loops around this area is most well-known for the two steel cable suspension bridges that span a deep valley and are each 70 metres in length. These bridges provide excellent opportunities for taking photographs of the surrounding landscape.
In addition, the trail features a number of different panoramic viewpoint locations at which hikers can get other perspectives of the verdant area.
The easiest and shortest path is a stroll that does not require a lot of effort, and it is good for youngsters because it is less than two kilometres in length. Those hikers who are afraid of heights might have trouble crossing the suspension bridges, but other than that, the trail is completely safe.
At the beginning of the hiking trail is a picnic area that, on weekends when the weather is nice, is frequented by local families who are taking a break to enjoy the outdoors.
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10. Visit Beit Shearim to learn about Jewish history.
This intriguing archaeological site was just been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The spectacular catacombs that were excavated by B. Mazar in 1936 and later by N. Avigad are the primary reason why this site has garnered so much attention.
In spite of the fact that the site has been dated back to the Iron Age, the majority of the remains that can be seen today originate from the 2nd century CE, which was the time when the town experienced its heydey as a prominent rabbinical metropolis.
An enjoyable excursion for history and archaeology fans, this Jewish necropolis is located about 20 km south-east of Haifa and makes for an interesting half-day excursion from the city.
11. Make a trip to the Atlit Immigration Camp.
Two historical sites may be found at Atlit, which is situated 20 km south of Haifa.
In the year 1200, the structure that is now known as Atlit Crusader Castle was referred to as Castrum Peregrinorum or Chateau des Pelerins (Castle of the Pilgrims). Unfortunately, due to the fact that it is located on military grounds, it is not possible to enter it at this time; nonetheless, you may get a good view of the remains from Atlit Beach.
Atlit was the location where Jewish immigrants from Europe were held when they first arrived in British-mandated Palestine after the end of World War II. This happened much more recently.
They were detained at the British-constructed Atlit Immigration Camp, which is now open to the public as a museum and offers visitors the opportunity to take part in high-quality guided tours.
12. Mane Katz Museum
Any person who has even a passing interest in art should make the effort to visit this outstanding museum. The prominent Jewish artist Mane Katz, who worked in the 20th century, contributed both paintings and sculptures to this collection.
Katz was a renowned collector, and pieces from his personal collection of antique furniture and Judaica can be seen here. His work as an expressionist painter is also on display here.
The on-site café provides guests with wonderful views of Haifa.
The Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art is located at 89 Hanassi Avenue and offers displays of Japanese artwork dating all the way back to the 14th century up until the present day.
13. Ursula Malbin Sculpture Park
After a busy morning of sight-seeing, come to this charming public park to relax in one of the many stunning bronze sculptures that are scattered throughout the grounds.
All of the statues were created by the artist Ursula Malbin, who was born in Germany but currently resides in Israel for part of the year.
If you are taking a trip with your kids, they will have a great time wandering through the park on the pathways that are kept in good condition and looking at the unique monuments.
It is an excellent place to do some people watching and to get a feel for how people live in the area because in the early evening, a large number of individuals who live in Haifa come here for a stroll.
14. Hecht Museum
If you are interested in ancient history, the vast university complex in Haifa, which is located 2.5 kilometres south of the central city, is home to the Hecht Museum, which is well worth the short hop from the inner city to get.
The personal collection of Dr. Reuben Hecht, which he later donated to the university, forms the foundation of the Hecht Museum's collection. It begins in the Chalcolithic period and extends all the way through the Byzantine period.
The wreck of the Ma'agan Mikhail Ancient Ship, which sank in the 5th century BCE and was found in 1985, is the most well-known artefact that can be seen here.
There are other displays on the history and culture of Phoenician seafaring, Jewish currency, seals from the Biblical era, and ancient crafts such as mosaic and glasswork. These exhibits are carefully presented and organised around themes.
15. Keeping the Children Entertaining at Madatech
If you are travelling with children, you should make a beeline for this interactive science museum. It is designed to keep children of all ages, from the very young to the very old, completely captivated and amazed.
The imposing structure that now houses the museum was initially constructed in 1913 and served as the headquarters for Israel's Institute of Technology.
There is a wide variety of science-related displays available inside, ranging from crazy and colourful chemistry displays to displays discussing aviation and renewable energy. It's a fantastic illustration of how to make science interesting and approachable for people of all ages.
16. Get Some Beach Time in Dor
One of the most stunning beaches in the region can be found in Dor, which makes it a popular weekend destination for city dwellers looking to escape the stress of Haifa. Because it is located only 29 kilometres to the south of the city, it is convenient to travel to for a day trip.
Dor has a long and famous history, despite the fact that most visitors come here now for the joys of sunbathing, beachcombing, and swimming in the ocean.
The ruins of the old harbour, a fortress from the time of the Crusaders, and a Byzantine church dating back to the 6th century have been uncovered as a result of excavations conducted immediately to the north of the current town. If you can tear yourself away from the beach long enough, the ruins are definitely something you should check out.
17. The National Maritime Museum, Washington, D.C.
The history of seafaring in the Mediterranean region is depicted through a collection of model ships, maps, and charts that are held in the collection of the National Maritime Museum.
Visits are fun for people who are enthusiastic about maritime history and the pivotal part that the Mediterranean played in determining the course of human history in this part of the world over the course of many centuries.
The Clandestine Immigration and Naval Museum may be found just down the road from where you are currently standing. This museum chronicles the efforts made by the Zionist movement during the time of the British Mandate to bring Jewish refugees into Palestine.