Nestled between the clear Mediterranean and the slopes of Mount Camel sits the manicured port city of Haifa.

The city sweeps down into the ocean and produces an uncharacteristically colonial setting, worlds removed from the ancient roots of most of Israel.

On a Haifa day trip from Jerusalem you'll visit its 19th-century architecture and German influences and, get immerse into this melting pot oasis on the north coast of Israel.

Here's all you need to know about Haifa, one of the most exciting day trips from Jerusalem.

How to get to Haifa from Jerusalem?

Haifa is conveniently located on the north coast of Israel, just north of Tel Aviv.

From Jerusalem to Haifa by car

The drive from Jerusalem to Haifa takes just under 2 hours and you will cover 150 kilometres. Simply follow Route 1 out of Jerusalem and veer onto Route 6 in a northern direction.

Before Mount Carmel National Park you will drive northeast on Route 70 into Haifa.

You can also take Route 2 for a more scenic coastal drive but the route is 20 minutes longer.

From Jerusalem to Haifa by train

There are several trains a day running between the two cities. It is a comfortable 2-hour journey and you will arrive at one of three stations in Haifa: Center HaShmona, Bat Galim, or Hof HaCarmel.

Guided tour to Haifa from Jerusalem

A guided tour to Haifa is the best way to experience the marvellous north coast of Israel. You will visit multiple amazing locations along the way and enjoy the expertise of a local guide to keep you informed.

What is the typical itinerary?

A day tour to Haifa leaves Jerusalem around 6 AM and heads northeast towards the ancient Roman capital of Caesarea.

Explore the fascinating archaeological sites and learn about the grand and powerful port city that stood for centuries. A magnificent amphitheatre and impressive aqueduct are only some of the treasures in the citadel.

After an immersive step back in time you will venture to Israel’s third city, Haifa. Here you will visit the top of Mount Carmel to gaze upon the magnificent Baha’i Gardens.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also known as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa and the manicured terraces deliver dazzling views of the Mediterranean sea.

The day has only just begun and there are still several fabulous stops along the way. The chalk cliffs and grottoes of Rosh Hanikra and the ancient city walls of Acre will fill the second half of your day before returning along the coast to Jerusalem.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Haifa?

Choose to join a group, stay overnight or embark on a private excursion to Haifa with this comprehensive list of tour options:

Day tour to Haifa plus Caesarea and Rosh Hanikra from Jerusalem

A guided tour to Haifa and numerous other spots along the coast is a convenient and affordable way to discover northern Israel.

Enjoy comfortable transport and hotel pickup and visit magnificent destinations like the Hanging Gardens of Haifa, the ancient city of Caesarea and the dazzling grottoes of Rosh Hanikra during a 10-hour group tour.

Private tour to Haifa from Jerusalem

A day tour to Haifa includes multiple stops and a private tour is an excellent way to enjoy these sights at your own pace. You will have the luxury of a private driver and car and the itinerary is fully flexible according to your needs.

The guide will cater to your personal interests and you can add optional extra stops if there is time. Places like the archaeological site of Megiddo and the ancient city of Akko can also be seen. You will also stop for a delectable lunch and there is time for frequent photo opportunities.

2-Day tour to Haifa from Jerusalem

A one-day tour to Haifa is an exhausting yet gratifying experience with 10 hours of sightseeing. Stretch this over a 2-day tour and enjoy a more relaxed pace and a few extra things to see.

This overnight tour to Haifa includes a stay at a traditional kibbutz and a tour through the holy city of Nazareth.

How much does a day trip to Haifa from Jerusalem cost?

A basic day tour to Haifa and surrounding attractions costs around US$120 per person.

The group tour costs US$430 for a group of up to 15 people but this does not include any entrance fees or food.

An overnight tour to Haifa costs US$340 per person and includes breakfast, accommodation and entrance fees.

What will you see and do?

The main attraction on a day trip to Haifa is a visit to Baha’i Gardens. The Hanging Gardens of Haifa is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited attractions in Israel.

From the top of the verdant terraces, you will have a panoramic view of the city and the sparkling Mediterranean in the distance. The gardens are one of the newer attractions in the region but the 1,500-stair, 19-terrace spectacle is a wonder to behold.

These day tours to Haifa also include a captivating venture to Caesarea, an impressive ancient Roman city. You will also visit the fantastic grottoes of Rosh Hanika and explore the multiple historic landmarks in Acre.

When is the best time to visit Haifa?

Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons in Haifa. Summer can be unbearably hot and there is a higher chance of rain in the winter.

Are there any tours to Haifa from other cities in Israel?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Israel:

Day Trips to Haifa from Tel Aviv

Travel tips

Wear modest clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
Bring water and snacks.
Wear comfortable shoes that allow you to climb steps easily.
Bring a hat and wear sunscreen.

Haifa: Day Trips and Tours from Jerusalem