The beautiful country of Israel is a holy place for people from three different faiths. The ancient cities of Jaffa, Jerusalem, and Haifa make it a must-visit place for history and culture buffs. On the other hand, its valleys, seas, mountains, and desert make it a must for nature lovers as well.There is so much diversity to witness and enjoy in this beautiful place and its various facades. Winters is the off-season in Israel, which means traveling to Israel in January 2025 is extremely economical. There is, however, still plenty to do while you visit the country in the colder months.
Israel Weather In January 2025
The weather in Israel is varied throughout during January. On one hand, you have the northern part, which sees colder temperature and snowfall. The port cities including the lower Galilee area usually stay pleasant and bearably cold. You might encounter heavy rains in some places like Tel Aviv. While visiting the Dead Sea and the desert area along with Eilat in the southern part, you will find the temperature mild. All in all, the weather in Israel in January can go anywhere from 2-5 C to 15-20 C, depending on the place you are in and the rains.
Also Read: Hostels In Israel
Places To Visit In Israel In January
Read on to know more about Israel in January and where all you can go as a part of your tour while you are there:
- Haifa: A Fabulous Port City
- Jerusalem: The Ancient Place
- Eilat: Famous Beach Town
- Hula Valley: Most Wonderful Place
- Akko: The City With A History
1. Haifa: A Fabulous Port City
Image Credit: Ldorfman for Wikipedia
The temperature dabbled in the colder side when it comes to Haifa in January. You can visit the port city to have a taste of Northern Israel. Looking out to the Mediterranean sea, the city is home to the world-famous Bahai Centre. You can also visit the port and the German colony which sheds some more light on the mixed history of the country. Full of sandy beaches, the city is also surrounded by hills, the most famous being Mount Carmel.
Location: Israel’s Mediterranean coast, about 80 kilometers north of Tel Aviv
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
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2. Jerusalem: The Ancient Place
Visit Jerusalem in winters if you are fine with colder temperatures. The month of January usually brings about a snowfall or two in the city, which is a sight to behold. If you are a fan of the cold temperature (from five to ten degree Celsius), you should definitely visit the city in January. The crowds are lesser and the place looks even more beautiful. You can go to all the popular religious sites like Mount Zion, Tower of David, the Western Wall, etc. without much hassle. You can also visit the Israel Museum, Jaffa Gate, Damascus Gate and other places of historic importance easily as most tourists visit the city during April to May or September to November.
Location: central Israel, about 60 kilometers east of Tel Aviv
Timings: Western wall is open 24/7 but dome of the rock is open between 7:30 am to 11:00 am and 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm
Related Post: Festivals In Israel
3. Eilat: Famous Beach Town
Image Credit: israeltourism for Wikimedia Commons
This beach town in Southern Israel is one of the warmest places in the country, which means that during January, coming here is probably the wisest. You can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and surfing as the sea temperature usually does not get below seventeen degrees. Moreover, a hike in the Red Canyon during winters make complete sense as the sun is not that scorching hot. You can also visit Timna Park, the amazing underwater marine observatory or embark on a trip to Petra, Jordan.
Location: central Israel, about 60 kilometers east of Tel Aviv
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
4. Hula Valley: Most Wonderful Place
Image Credit: Meaghan O’Neill for Wikimedia Commons
One of the most beautiful places in Israel, this valley is a must if you are a nature lover. Perfect for bird watching, Hula Valley forms a part of the northern Great Rift Valley, which is spread up to Africa. With species like pelicans, cranes and storks, finding refuge in the wilderness here, the valley is a must while visiting Israel in January. The whole area is one of the greenest places in the country and is full of springs and three different rivers.
Location: northern Israel, near the town of Kiryat Shmona
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Related Post: Things To Do In Israel
5. Akko: The City With A History
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old city of Akko is the one place you definitely should come to while visiting Israel in January. Ruled by everyone from the Romans, British, Crusaders to Ottomans and Byzantines, the city of Akko is full of baths, mosques, citadels, and ports. Over the past ten years, the city has been excavated and rebuilt during the complex history of the place. An ancient port city, Akko is a welcome change from typical port cities like Jaffa.
Location: northern Mediterranean coast of Israel, about 25 kilometers north of Haifa
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Things To Do In Israel In January
There’s a lot to experience and engage in during your trip to Israel in the winter months that you’ll surely be spoilt for choice. You ask yourself: is January a good time to visit Israel? Well, if you want to find out then scroll down:
- Sea Of Galilee Marathon: Race Your Way
- Skiing At Mount Hermon: An Adventure Ride
- Golan Heights: Where A Long Hike Awaits
- Beit She’an: Discover An Ancient Civilization
- Feelin’ Blues: Feel The Music
1. Sea Of Galilee Marathon: Race Your Way
Image Credit: Félix Bonfils for Wikimedia Commons
One of the most popular international marathons in the world, this over 42 kilometers race has become quite a sensation over the past few years. Also called the Tiberias International Marathon, it starts in Tiberias, covering Kinneret, Ein Gev and ends back in Tiberias. Last year, a 21 kilometers option was added to the race, apart from a more traditional 10 kilometers long version. The marathon is going to be held on 4th January, and if you are someone who enjoys running or loves being part of adventures, you should definitely attend it. So remember your shoes while packing for Israel in January.
Charges: $55-$80 USD
Top Spots: Tiberias, Capernaum, Mount of Beatitudes, Yarmuk River
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2. Skiing At Mount Hermon: An Adventure Ride
Image Credit: Israel Defense Forces for Wikimedia Commons
What can be better than skiing in Israel? During winters, the country sees a lot of snowfall in the northern region, so much so that the famous Mount Hermon is covered in white. And this is when you should head to Mount Hermon Ski Resort, which is one of the only places in Israel you can ski at. The resort is located at about 5300 feet and goes up to 6800 feet, which means you get a lot of ground to play around in. They also have a ski school in case you are uninitiated. You can also enjoy other activities like sledding with your family over here.
Charges: $40-$65
Top Spots: Hermon Ski Resort, Bantus Valley, The Summit Viewpoint, Snow Park
3. Golan Heights: Where A Long Hike Awaits
This 125 kilometers long hike covers everything from the tallest peak in Israel to the lowest freshwater lake of the entire world. Starting from near Mount Hermon in the Golan Heights, the trail goes on through Gambela National Park crossing different villages and communities and ends near Sea of Galilee. You can gaze over the landscape of Syria and Israel both while hiking around here. Do remember to layer well while wondering what to wear in Israel in January as the temperatures drop a lot here in winters. The trail is well marked, and sticking to the map is advised.
Charges: $8-$100
Top Spots: Nimrod Fortress, Banias Waterfall, Gamla, Lake of Galilee’s Northern Shore, Mount Bental
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4. Beit She’an: Discover An Ancient Civilization
Image Credit: AVRAHAM GRAICER for Wikimedia Commons
One of the hottest places in the world, the temperature here goes up to fifty degrees in summers. Which is why it is highly recommended to visit this place during winter. A center of civilization, this place was left in ruins due to an earthquake, dating back to 749 CE. You will find baths, shrines and a theatre among other things which date back to over a thousand years. You can also catch a multimedia, multi sensory show at night, which is a popular feature over here. The cold, balmy Israel weather in January makes this place an absolute delight!
Charges: $8-$10 USD
Top Spots: The Roman Theater, Beit She’an National Park, The Cardo (Roman Street), Tel Beit She’an
5. Feelin’ Blues: Feel The Music
Image Credit: Euku for Wikipedia
This dance and music festival is the perfect place to dance all night away in Tel Aviv. Only four years old, the festival conducts dance workshops, DJ nights, parties and a lot of things to get you in the groove over a period of three days. The festival this year will start on 22nd January. Live music, different competitions, and local and international music make the place a must-visit while you are in Israel in January.
Charges: $25-$75
Top Spots: Eilat Blues Festival, Tel Aviv Blues Festival, Zappa Live Clubs, The Dancing Camel Brewery (Tel Aviv)
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Tips To Keep In Mind
- Don’t forget to carry warm clothes.
- Stick to the dress code as people in Israel are quite strict about their rules and beliefs.
- Cover up when visiting religious sites.
- Try not wear Keffiyeh In Jewish Areas.
You May Also Like To Read: Best Places To Visit In Israel
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Cover Image Credit: Pikiwikisrael for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Israel In January
What is the best time to visit Israel?
It is best to visit the country in the months of April to May or September to October. During both spring and autumn, the temperature here is mild and stable throughout the country. Otherwise, it gets too hot or too cold in one or the other place. It is also the peak season, so be ready to encounter larger crowds in cities like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
What should I take care of, while packing for Israel in January?
Traveling in Israel in winters can be tricky, so it is best if you keep a number of layering items with you. Carry jackets, fleece, and warm socks. While visiting the warmer areas, you can take off your warm layering and in the northern, colder areas, you can put it all back again, making yourself comfortable. What to wear in Israel in January can change as the location changes, so make sure you pack accordingly!
Is January a good time to visit Israel?
Israel is quite beautiful in the months of January-April. The country goes through winter rains during the time. The weather is also pretty good in the winter months.
What should tourists wear in Jerusalem?
Men are allowed to wear long pants or at least long shorts, and they should wear sleeveless tops. Women are allowed to wear tops that cover the collar bone on down with sleeves to the elbow and long skirts.
Is it enjoyable to visit Israel?
Yes, Israel is enjoyable to visit and have fun with your family, friends or loved ones.
What is the weather like in Israel in January?
Israel experiences mid-winter weather conditions in January. But the temperatures are up as compared to the standard winter temperatures in other places. There are also high chances of rainfall throughout this month.
What do female tourists wear in Israel?
Female travelers are suggested to cover their shoulders, chest and knees. Make sure you wear something that is comfortable. Light fabrics like light pants and sleeved-tops or maxi dresses and scarves.
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