Israel

Visa requirements for Israel depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.

March–May is ideal — warm, green, and Jerusalem is spectacular. October–November is warm and quieter after the Jewish holiday season. Summer (June–September) is hot and crowded. Eilat and the Negev are pleasant October–April.

• Modest dress at all religious sites — the Western Wall requires covered shoulders and knees; shawls are provided at the entrance
• Women must cover hair at the Western Wall prayer area
• The Church of the Holy Sepulchre and Al-Aqsa Mosque have strict dress requirements
• Tel Aviv beach culture is very relaxed
• Remove shoes when entering mosques and some synagogues

• Israel is diverse — customs vary sharply between secular Tel Aviv and religious Jerusalem
• Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday nightfall) is observed in Jerusalem — many businesses close, no public transport
• In ultra-Orthodox neighbourhoods, dress very conservatively and do not photograph residents
• The Israeli greeting 'Shalom' means hello, goodbye, and peace
• Direct communication is the norm — Israelis can seem blunt but mean no offence

• Strict security at airports — expect detailed questioning on arrival and departure. Answer calmly and honestly
• Photographing military installations, soldiers, and checkpoints is prohibited
• Visiting certain Palestinian territories may complicate entry to some neighbouring Arab countries
• Cannabis is decriminalised for small amounts but not fully legal
• All tourists may be randomly stopped at checkpoints in the West Bank — carry your passport