Located on Israel's coastal plain, this modern city of 225,000 residents has thriving commerce and cultural venues, with numerous parks and a significant Russian-speaking community.
Founded in 1882 by Russian Jewish pioneers, Rishon LeZion holds a unique place in Israel’s history as one of the first Zionist settlements. Walk through the Rishon Le-Zion Open-Air Museum to see where the national anthem Hatikvah was first performed, or ride roller coasters at Superland amusement park. The city combines its agricultural beginnings with contemporary city life, from vineyards established by Baron Edmond de Rothschild to a beachfront dotted with cafes. Located just 20 minutes south of Tel Aviv, it functions as both a historical landmark and a busy commercial center with over 260,000 residents. Plan your visit around the annual wine festival or concerts by international artists at the Live Park Amphitheatre.
Early Settlement History and Cultural Impact
Ten settlers bought 835 acres of land in 1882 with help from British vice consul Ḥayyim Amzalak. Financial difficulties almost halted their efforts until Baron Edmond de Rothschild supported grape-growing projects, turning the region into a major wine producer. The city became the birthplace of modern Hebrew education, launching the first Hebrew kindergarten and elementary school during the 1880s. Walk through the restored buildings of the original settlement to discover where poet Naftali Hertz Imber finalized Hatikvah, which later became Israel’s national anthem. Look for the bronze statue of Shmuel Cohen near the Great Synagogue—he created the anthem’s melody from a Romanian folk tune.
Key Places to Explore
Begin at the Rishon Le-Zion Open-Air Museum, where hands-on displays explain how early settlers built irrigation systems and fought droughts. Superland has two roller coasters and high-speed rides that attract thrill-seekers from Tel Aviv and nearby cities. Travel west to Palmachim Beach National Park to see kurkar ridges protecting rare plants and nesting areas for loggerhead sea turtles. The Yaacov Agam Museum of Art displays moving installations that change patterns as you walk around them, and the Hai Kef Zoo lets you experience close-up views of lemurs and tropical birds. After sunset, head to HaRova for bars with local craft beers and stages hosting indie bands.
Festivals and Recent Projects
July brings the Rishon LeZion Wine Festival, where local wineries pour samples against a backdrop of jazz and rock performances. Major acts like Sting and Metallica perform at the Live Park Amphitheatre, particularly during national holidays such as Yom HaAtzmaut. In 2024, Hazahav Mall will open the Rubik’s Cube Exhibition with hands-on puzzle stations and timelines detailing the toy’s global influence. New developments near the coast include the SEA ONE complex, which adds high-end retail stores and seafood restaurants to the area. Free events like the Rishon LeZion Festival in October fill parks with music stages and food stalls.
Getting Around the City
Ben Gurion International Airport lies 15 minutes northeast, with direct trains to Rishon LeZion’s HaRishonim Railway Station. Buses 19, 74, and 190 run from Tel Aviv’s central station, taking 30 minutes during non-peak hours. Major highways link the city to Jerusalem and Rehovot, while local buses connect key areas like Rothschild Mall and Cinema City. Limited bike lanes make cycling challenging, but ride-sharing services work well for short trips. Arrive early to secure parking at Superland or Cinema City on Saturdays and holidays.
Helpful Advice for Your Trip
April through October brings warm beach days, though Passover (April 13–19) and Yom HaAtzmaut (May 1) draw larger crowds. Most signs include English text, and many residents speak basic English. Consider staying in Tel Aviv or Bat Yam for more hotel choices, as Rishon LeZion focuses on residential housing. For meals, Rothschild Boulevard serves sushi, grilled meats, and Mediterranean small plates, while Golden Mall’s food court has shawarma stands and pizza counters. Keep small bills handy for purchasing fresh produce at neighborhood markets.
