+ 1h

Jerusalem (Yerushalayim)

Hebrew and Arabic

• 230 volts
• A travel plug adapter for Type C and H sockets is required.

Banks

8.30 a.m.–12.00 noon and 4.00 p.m.–10.00 a.m. (Sun, Tue, Thu)
8.30 a.m.–12.00 noon (Sun–Fri)

Shops

9.00 a.m.–6.00 p.m. (Sun–Thu)
9.00 a.m.–2.00/3.00 p.m. (Fri)

• Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah): marks the beginning of the Jewish year and is observed with prayer and reflection.
• Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur): the holiest day in Judaism, observed with fasting, prayer and repentance.
• Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot): a harvest festival commemorating the Israelites’ journey through the desert, celebrated in temporary shelters.
• Simchat Torah: the festival of rejoicing in the Torah, marking the completion and renewal of the annual Torah reading cycle.
• Festival of Lights (Hanukkah): celebrated for eight days, commemorating the rededication of the Temple and the miracle of the oil.
• New Year of the Trees (Tu BiShvat): celebrates nature and the planting of trees.
• Purim: commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people in ancient Persia and is celebrated with costumes and festivities.
• Passover (Pesach): celebrated for eight days, commemorating the Exodus from Egypt and marked by the Seder meal and matzah.
• Independence Day (Yom Ha'atzmaut): celebrates Israel’s declaration of independence in 1948.
• Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers (Yom HaZikaron): a day of remembrance for fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism.
• Lag BaOmer: celebrates the 33rd day of the Counting of the Omer, traditionally marked by bonfires.
• Shavuot, the Feast of Weeks: celebrated seven weeks after Pesach, commemorating the giving of the Torah and also observed as a harvest festival.
• Ninth of Av (Tisha B’Av): a day of mourning and fasting commemorating the destruction of the Temples in Jerusalem.
• Sabbath (Shabbat): the weekly day of rest from Friday evening to Saturday evening, observed with prayers and festive meals.

These holidays follow the Jewish calendar and therefore fall on different dates in the Gregorian calendar each year.

The following documents are required to enter Israel:

• A Swiss passport valid for at least six months after arrival.
• No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
• Israel has introduced a fee-based electronic travel authorisation system known as ETA-IL. Since 1 January 2025, nationals of visa-exempt countries, including Swiss citizens, may enter only with prior electronic authorisation or a visa. Travellers are advised to apply at least 72 hours before departure. The ETA authorisation is valid for up to two years, provided the same passport is used.
• Travellers must present a return ticket and proof of sufficient financial means.
• Upon entry, a confirmation is issued. It must be retained until departure and presented at checkpoints.
• Minors: a travel consent form is recommended for minors travelling alone, with only one parent or without their parents.

As of: June 2024

• Coastal region, for example Tel Aviv and Haifa: a mild Mediterranean climate with hot, humid summers and mild, rainy winters. This region forms part of the coastal plain and is characterised by typically hot and humid summers and mild winters with substantial rainfall.
• Central region, for example Jerusalem: a temperate climate with warm, dry summers and cooler, rainy winters. The mountainous areas, including Jerusalem, have warm, dry summers and cold winters.
• Southern region, for example Eilat and the Negev Desert: a desert climate with very hot, dry summers and mild winters. This region experiences hot, arid summers and mild winters.
• Northern region, for example Galilee and the Golan Heights: a Mediterranean to alpine climate with warm summers and cool, rainy winters.
• The ideal time to visit Israel:
• Beach holidays:
• Mediterranean coast, for example Tel Aviv and Haifa: from May to October, during the warm and sunny months. Temperatures range between 25°C and 35°C.
• Red Sea, Eilat: ideal throughout the year, particularly from October to April, when the weather is pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C.
• City breaks:
• Jerusalem and Tel Aviv: spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, are ideal, as temperatures are pleasant and typically range between 18°C and 25°C.
• Nature and ecotourism:
• Spring, from March to May: ideal for hiking and exploring the national parks. Temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C in lower-lying areas and between 15°C and 25°C at higher elevations.
• Autumn, from September to November: ideal for enjoying nature, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
• Desert adventures:
• Negev Desert: from October to April, when temperatures are milder, ranging between 15°C and 25°C, and ideal for exploring and outdoor activities.
• Summer, from June to August: suitable for experienced adventurers despite high temperatures of up to 40°C.

• Using a mobile phone in Israel incurs roaming charges. It is advisable to check the applicable roaming fees before travelling and, if necessary, purchase a special roaming package to reduce costs.
• Free Wi-Fi is available in cafés, hotels, public places and on public transport.

• Western Wall (Jerusalem): a sacred site for the Jewish people and an important spiritual centre.
• Dome of the Rock (Jerusalem): an impressive Islamic shrine with a golden dome, located on the Temple Mount.
• Masada (Dead Sea): an ancient fortress situated on a plateau, offering breathtaking views and a rich historical background.
• Bahá’í Gardens (Haifa): beautifully designed terraced gardens and a Bahá’í shrine, renowned for their splendour.
• Old City of Jaffa (Tel Aviv): a picturesque historic port town with winding lanes and a rich history.
• Sea of Galilee (Galilee): a biblical lake surrounded by historical and religious sites and offering various recreational activities.
• Caesarea National Park: an impressive Roman ruined city on the Mediterranean coast, featuring a well-preserved amphitheatre and aqueduct.
• Ein Gedi (Dead Sea): a lush nature reserve with waterfalls, hiking trails and abundant wildlife.
• Mount of Beatitudes (Galilee): a spiritual site with magnificent views, where Jesus is believed to have delivered the Sermon on the Mount.
• Yad Vashem (Jerusalem): the world’s most important Holocaust memorial, featuring museums and commemorative monuments.
• Underwater Observatory (Eilat): a fascinating marine research centre and aquarium on the Red Sea.
• Church of the Nativity (Bethlehem): one of the oldest continuously used churches, marking the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
• Al-Jazzar Mosque (Acre): a historically and architecturally significant mosque in the Old City of Acre.
• Timna Park (Eilat): a geological and archaeological wonderland with impressive rock formations and ancient copper mines.
• Hanging Gardens of Haifa: part of the Bahá’í Gardens, which are among the most beautiful and frequently photographed sites in Israel.

Israel is known for its rich and diverse cuisine, which reflects a deep appreciation for fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Influenced by the Mediterranean climate and a blend of culinary traditions from the Jewish diaspora, Israeli cuisine offers a wide variety of authentic flavours, ranging from traditional dishes to modern culinary creations.

• Falafel: fried balls made from chickpeas or broad beans, often served in pita bread with salad, tahini and hot sauce. They are a popular street food and a staple of Israeli cuisine.
• Hummus: a creamy spread made from puréed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice and garlic. Often garnished with olive oil and paprika, it is served as a starter or side dish.
• Shakshuka: a hearty dish of poached eggs cooked in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce. It is often served for breakfast or brunch.
• Sabich: a pita sandwich filled with fried aubergine, hard-boiled eggs, tahini, hummus and Israeli salad. It is a popular street food, particularly in Tel Aviv.
• Borekas: puff-pastry parcels filled with cheese, potatoes, spinach or meat. They are a popular snack and are often served with hard-boiled eggs and pickles.
• Jachnun: a traditional Yemeni dish made from rolled dough that is slowly baked overnight. It is eaten for breakfast with grated tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs and hot sauce.
• Labneh: a thick, salted yoghurt used as a dip or spread. It is often garnished with olive oil and za’atar, a spice blend.
• Israeli salads: fresh salads made from finely chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and herbs, usually dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. They are a staple of many meals.
• Pita: soft flatbread served alongside many dishes or used as the base for sandwiches.
• Desserts: baklava, made from crisp layers of pastry with nuts and honey, and knafeh, a dessert made with cheese and sugar syrup, are popular sweet treats.
• Coffee: Israeli coffee, known as “botz” or mud coffee, is served strong and often sweet and is an integral part of Israeli culture.
• Spices: za’atar, a mixture of dried thyme, sesame seeds and sumac, and baharat, a versatile spice blend, are widely used in Israeli cuisine and give many dishes their characteristic flavour.

• Greeting: in Israel, it is customary to shake hands when greeting someone. Hugs and kisses on the cheek are also common among close friends and relatives. It is polite to say “Shalom”, which means “peace” and is used both as “hello” and “goodbye”.
• Saying please and thank you: politeness is important. “Bevakasha” means “please” and “Toda” means “thank you”. The expression “Toda raba”, meaning “thank you very much”, is also widely used.
• Clothing: clothing in Israel is generally casual, particularly in cities and at beaches. Appropriate clothing should, however, be worn when visiting religious sites, with shoulders and knees covered. Modest clothing is also advisable in Orthodox Jewish neighbourhoods.
• Dining etiquette: meals in Israel are often sociable and leisurely. It is common to share several small dishes, known as mezze. A blessing is often recited before eating. Kosher restaurants do not serve pork, and dairy products are not combined with meat dishes. It is polite to try at least a small portion of everything offered.
• Smoking: smoking is prohibited in many public areas, including restaurants and on public transport. It is polite to ask whether smoking is permitted, particularly when other people are present.
• Tipping: tipping is customary in Israel, but it is not compulsory. In restaurants, a tip of 10–15% of the bill is usual unless a service charge is already included. Taxi drivers do not generally expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is common. Hotel porters and housekeeping staff appreciate a small tip.

• Tap water: tap water in Israel is safe to drink and meets international standards. However, bottled mineral water is commonly consumed in tourist areas and restaurants. In rural areas, it may be advisable to choose bottled water.
• Vaccinations: no specific vaccinations are required to enter Israel. However, travellers are advised to ensure that routine vaccinations, including tetanus, diphtheria, poliomyelitis and hepatitis A and B, are up to date.
• It is also advisable to consult a doctor or travel medicine clinic before departure, particularly if you plan to visit rural areas or have specific health requirements.

• Israel has a high-quality healthcare system with modern hospitals and well-trained doctors. Medical care is readily accessible and of a high standard in urban areas.
• Travellers are advised to take out travel insurance covering medical expenses, as treatment and medication can be costly.
• If you depend on certain medication, bring an adequate supply with you. Please note that special regulations may apply to medicines containing controlled or psychotropic substances. Before departure, check with the relevant foreign diplomatic mission, such as the embassy or consulate.

• Before and during your trip, keep informed about the current situation through the media and remain in contact with your tour operator.
• Travel to Israel is discouraged. Despite the ceasefire agreed on 24 June 2025 between Israel and Iran, the situation remains tense and unstable and may deteriorate rapidly at any time. A state of war formally remains in effect.
• The war in the Gaza Strip between Israel and Hamas is ongoing. Tensions and violence remain high in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, while missiles are regularly launched from Yemen.
• There is an increased risk of violence throughout the country, including terrorist attacks and individual attacks involving vehicles or weapons. Israel remains a target of Islamist terrorist groups. Public transport, bus stops, checkpoints, pavement cafés, shopping centres and large gatherings are considered particularly vulnerable.
• Travellers are warned against visiting the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, with the exception of East Jerusalem.
• Travel to East Jerusalem is strongly discouraged. Violent unrest occurs there repeatedly.
• Travel to the border areas with the Gaza Strip and Lebanon is discouraged. Despite the ceasefire on the northern border, the risk of military clashes and missile attacks remains.
• The crime rate in Israel is low. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing occasionally occurs, particularly at tourist locations such as airports, railway stations and beaches.
• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

As of: October 2025

• For car rentals, a Swiss driving licence is recognised provided that, depending on the rental company, it was obtained at least one year previously.
• An international driving permit is compulsory for renting a car and is valid only when accompanied by the national driving licence.
• The minimum age for renting a car is 21, depending on the rental company.
• From November until the end of March, dipped headlights must be used during the day by all motor vehicles travelling outside built-up areas.
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.5‰; for drivers under the age of 24: 0.1‰.

• Long-distance trains: connect major cities such as Tel Aviv, Haifa and Jerusalem, offering a comfortable and fast way to travel.
• Regional trains: serve shorter routes within regions and suburban areas and are ideal for commuters. The Israel Railways website provides a useful overview of all connections and the corresponding ticket prices.
• Buses: an extensive network of urban and intercity buses is operated by several companies, including Egged and Dan.
• Underground: a system is planned for Tel Aviv. The Red Line was scheduled to open in 2023 and is intended to reduce urban traffic congestion.
• Tickets: can be purchased at railway stations, on buses and online. Discounts are available for students, senior citizens and people with disabilities. The Rav-Kav card is a rechargeable travel card that can be used on all forms of public transport. The HopOn app allows users to purchase and manage tickets in English.
• Other information: trains generally do not operate in Israel on Shabbat, and public bus services are also suspended. From Friday evening until Saturday evening, travellers are therefore advised to use sheruts. These privately operated shared taxis are an affordable alternative and run every day of the week. In major cities, they also provide a convenient night service.

• Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), Tel Aviv: the country’s largest and most important airport. Direct flights are available from Zurich with SWISS and from Basel and Geneva with easyJet.

Other important airports in Israel without direct flights from Switzerland include:

• Ramon Airport (ETM), Eilat: Israel’s second-largest airport, serving as a gateway to holiday destinations on the Red Sea.
• Haifa Airport (HFA), Haifa: a smaller airport in northern Israel, mainly serving domestic flights and some regional services. It is particularly convenient for travellers visiting the Galilee region.
• Ovda Airport (VDA), Eilat: located north of Eilat, this airport is used primarily by international charter flights during the winter season.

The main airlines operating in Israel are EL AL Israel Airlines, Arkia and Israir Airlines. They offer an extensive range of domestic flights and connect Tel Aviv with other regions of the country.

00 41 (omit the initial zero of the Swiss area code)

• Police: 100
• Ambulance: 101
• Fire brigade: 102
• Israel Defense Forces: 1207 (information on the current security situation)

228 Hayarkon Street
6340524 Tel Aviv

Tel. +972 3 546 44 55
Email: telaviv@eda.admin.ch

• In Israel, you must be able to identify yourself at all times using your passport or a photocopy of it. The original passport must always be presented at checkpoints.
• Israel is located in a seismically active region, and earthquakes may occur.
• There are thousands of sinkholes in the Dead Sea region. Within seconds, sinkholes up to 20 metres deep and 80 metres wide can form along the shoreline.
• When swimming in the sea in Tel Aviv and the surrounding area, always remain close to the beach and do not swim too far from the shore.
• Drug trafficking and smuggling are subject to severe penalties.