Located on Israel's Mediterranean coast, Haifa is the nation's third largest city and a significant seaport known for its mesmerizing beauty and unique blend of modern lifestyle and ancient history. The city's heart is adorned with the majestic Bahá'í Gardens, while the trendy neighborhoods such as German Colony offers great gastronomical experiences.
Getting to Haifa
Haifa is well connected and easily accessible. The Haifa Airport serves domestic flights while international travelers often arrive via Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, which is around an hour's drive from Haifa. Trains and buses are other viable options, though renting a car will allow you the most autonomy and flexibility.
Renting a Car in Haifa
Car Class Recommendations
Depending on your party size and preferences, compact or mid-size cars are great for navigating through Haifa's city traffic. If you fancy exploring the enchanting outdoors, an SUV could be the perfect choice.
Parking and Traffic Rules
Haifa has ample parking, both street and garage. However, be sure to familiarize yourself with the city's parking rules to avoid fines. Speed limits on highways range from 80-100 km/h and 50 km/h in urban areas.
Exploring Haifa and Neighboring Cities
With a rented car, you can explore at your leisure. Consider driving routes that take you past attractions like the Stella Maris Monastery or the Hecht Museum. The seaside cities of Acre and Nahariya are just a short drive away and perfect for a day trip.
Hitting the Beach
Boost your vacation with a trip to Haifa’s local beaches such as Dado Zamir Beach or Bat Galim Beach. Please note, most of these beaches have parking lots but check for the charges and rush hours.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Haifa provides a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, rainy winters. The best time to visit is in spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is usually pleasant.
Currency and Payments
The currency of Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, so there's no need to carry large amounts of cash.
Seasonal Events
Haifa is known for its festivals, the most famous being the International Film Festival in October and the Holiday of Holidays in December, celebrating Jewish, Christian, and Muslim traditions in unity.
We hope this guide makes your trip to Haifa exciting and memorable. Have a safe journey!
