Coastal city on Mount Carmel's slopes, home to the Bahá'í World Centre and gardens. German Colony area features period architecture and narrow streets.
Haifa, Israel's third-largest city, extends from the slopes of Mount Carmel to the Mediterranean coast. The city is known for the Baháʼí Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has several museums, beaches, and historical neighborhoods. In Haifa, you can experience Israel's cultural diversity while taking in views of the sea and surrounding landscape.
Visiting the Baháʼí World Centre and Gardens
The Baháʼí Gardens are a prominent landmark in Haifa. These carefully maintained terraces cover the northern slope of Mount Carmel. At the center of the gardens, you'll find the golden-domed Shrine of the Báb, an important site for followers of the Baháʼí Faith. You can take free guided tours throughout the day to learn about the gardens' importance and see Haifa Bay from various vantage points.
Enjoying Haifa's Beaches
Haifa's coastline has several beaches for swimming and sunbathing. You'll find the most frequented beaches near the Hof HaCarmel neighborhood, which you can reach easily by public transportation. Dado Beach and Carmel Beach have clean sand and Mediterranean waters, with promenades lined by cafes and restaurants. For a less crowded option, try Bat Galim Beach, where you might see local surfers catching waves.
Discovering Haifa's Museums
Haifa has several museums that cater to different interests. At the Israel National Museum of Science, Technology, and Space, housed in the historic Technion building, you can engage with hands-on exhibits covering various scientific topics. If you're interested in art, visit the Haifa Museum of Art, which displays both modern and classical works. To learn about the region's past, head to the Hecht Museum at the University of Haifa, where you can see archaeological artifacts found in the area.
