Eilat

Planning to visit Eilat during your stay in Israel and wondering what to do in this vibrant city? You’ve come to the right place! This detailed travel guide will help you discover everything you need to know about Eilat: from the best things to do and explore in the city and its surroundings, to the perfect places to stay, where to eat, and some useful tips and recommendations to make the most of your trip.

Ready to dive into the wonders of Eilat? Let’s go!

What to do in Eilat and around :

Hiking In Eilat

> Enjoy the Red Sea in Eilat:

The Red Sea is the number 1 attraction for tourism in Eilat. Here are all the options it offers.

>> Swimming on one of Eilat’s beaches

Eilat Beach

>> Snorkeling around Eilat

Snorkelling In Eilat

>> Scuba Diving in Eilat

Scuba Diving In Eilat

Photo credit: Elche74 / Tripadvisor

>> Observe the underwater fauna in the Underwater Observatory Park

Photo credit: CoralWorld.co.il

Octopus At The Underwater Observatory Park In Eilat

>> Swimming with dolphins in Eilat

Swimming With Dolphins In Eilat

Photo credit: Dolphinreef.co.il

> What to do around Eilat if you love nature

The city of Eilat is the largest seaside resort in Israel, and at first glance, you might think that it is a place made only for those who like to lounge on the beach, down mojitos, and listen to trendy music. But Eilat has much more to offer than that: the exceptional nature that surrounds the Israeli city offers many possibilities for those of you who prefer to spend an active holiday. Here are some suggestions to fill your stay there if you love nature.

>> Explore the Red Canyon

Red Canyon Eilat

Photo credit: SummitPost.org

>> Climb Mount Har Cfachot and admire the view

Mount Har Cfahot Eilat

>> Hiking around Eilat on the Israel National Trail

 Hiking Around Eilat On The Israel National Trail

Tip: Use the online Israel hiking map (though it’s all in Hebrew) along with Google Maps and Google Translate to help you navigate.

>> Mountain biking

Mountain Biking In Eilat

>> Explore the desert on camelback

 Camel Ranch Eilat

If hiking isn’t your thing or you’re in the mood for a unique desert adventure, then a visit to Camel Ranch for a camel ride might be just what you’re looking for!

They offer a variety of outings:

Pro Tip: It’s recommended to buy your tickets a day or two in advance since spots fill up quickly, and the schedule can vary depending on the weather. However, tickets are only available up to a week before your visit.

To get there:

For more details or to book your tickets, check out their website (available in English, Hebrew, or Russian). Enjoy your desert adventure!

>> Explore the desert by jeep

Jeep Tour Desert  Eilat

> Other things to do in southern Israel near Eilat

If you still have time and energy, here are some suggestions for things to do easily from Eilat and in southern Israel during your stay there.

>> See Timna Park and its geological curiosities

Timna Park Eilat

Photo credit: parktimna.co.il

Practical Info: You can visit the official Timna Park website, available in English, and purchase your entrance ticket for 49 shekels (about €14). They also offer a shuttle service from Eilat for an extra 90 shekels per person (€25), but at that price, renting a car might be a better option!

>> Visit the Yotvata Hai-Bar Natural Reserve

Yotvata Hai-Bar Natural Reserve Eilat

>> Bathing in the Dead Sea

Dead Sea Eilat

Swimming in the Dead Sea is an absolute must during any trip to Israel. Even though I went in torrential rain (rare for this region), I couldn’t miss the chance to experience the world’s unique floating sensation. Trust me, it’s something you have to try! You don’t swim so much as float effortlessly in the dense, mineral-rich waters.

To get there, you’ve got a few options:

Important: Whether you’re taking the bus or booking a tour, make sure to reserve your spot in advance. The route to the Dead Sea is always busy, and last-minute plans won’t work well—plan a few days ahead to guarantee your spot!

> Visit Petra from Eilat:

Petra

Photo credit: Azurfrog / Wikimedia Commons

>Where to stay in Eilat

>>If you want to enjoy the Red Sea:

Hotel In Eilat

For those primarily visiting Eilat to enjoy the Red Sea, staying near the western beaches (towards Egypt) is your best option. This area is quieter than the city center, and you’ll have access to the best, least crowded beaches. Plus, you’ll be near all the main attractions like the Underwater Observatory, Dolphin Reef, and top snorkeling and diving spots.

>>If you want to enjoy the mountains:

Hotel In Eilat

For those like me, who want to enjoy both the mountains and the sea, look for accommodation halfway between the two. However, keep in mind the distance—it can be about a 20-minute walk to the beaches and mountains. This area is quieter, and the rates are more affordable, but it’s better suited for those who don’t mind walking or cycling.

>>If you want to enjoy the city’s entertainment:

Eilat, like Tel Aviv, is known for its nightlife. The beachfront is where all the action happens, with beach bars and DJs keeping the energy alive until the early morning. If you’re keen to stay close to the party scene, there are plenty of accommodation options nearby.

>>If you want to stay away from hustle and bustle, but in the city:

Hotel In Eilat

If you’re looking for a quiet retreat but still want to be within walking distance of the beach and the city’s amenities, I recommend staying in a residential area just outside the city center. It’s peaceful, yet close enough to everything.

>Going out in Eilat: eating and drinking

Below are my suggestions for restaurants and bars in Eilat .

>>Where to Eat in Eilat

Restaurant In Eilat

>>Where to Have a Drink in Eilat

Drink In Eilat Bar

How to get to Eilat

Road In Eilat

Eilat is the southernmost city in Israel . Here’s how to get there.

> From Tel Aviv

There is no rail connection to Eilat (the Israeli train system doesn’t extend further south than Beersheba), but you can easily travel from Tel Aviv to Eilat by bus or internal flight.

>>By Bus:

>>By Plane:

> From Jerusalem

> How to get around in Eilat

However, Eilat does not have its own local bus system. Instead, you’ll need to rely on the Egged buses, which typically serve the country’s larger cities.

For most of your travels in and around Eilat, you’ll likely use these two lines:

> Things to Know Before Visiting Eilat and Israel

Eilat Israel

If you’re planning a trip to Eilat or Israel in general, here are a few important things to consider before you go:

>>Security in Israel and Eilat

Israel’s political situation is tense now, but life in Eilat goes on as normal. Eilat, as a holiday destination, is more relaxed and peaceful compared to other parts of Israel. Crime is rare, and I felt completely safe there. The only caution would be to keep an eye on your belongings, especially on the beach, and avoid discussing sensitive political issues.

>> Visa Requirements

For many European tourists, you don’t need a visa to visit Israel for stays less than 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date. Be prepared for a thorough interrogation at the border, which is common practice.

>> Where to Shop

You’ll find convenience stores all over Eilat, even in the residential areas. However, keep in mind that during Shabbat (Friday 4 PM to Saturday 6 PM), most stores are closed. Plan your shopping to avoid any inconvenience during this time.

>>Cost of Living

Israel, including Eilat, has a high cost of living. An orange juice could set you back €5, a beer around €8, and a basic restaurant meal starts at €15-18 per person. If you’re on a budget, consider staying with locals and cooking your own meals by shopping at supermarkets.

>>Tourist Information Office

Eilat’s tourist office is tucked away near the marina, just after the bazaar. It might be tricky to spot, but it’s signposted. The staff is helpful and friendly, and you can book many of the activities directly through them.

>>Best Time to Visit

Eilat has great weather year-round, so you can swim and sunbathe even in January. However, summer temperatures can soar above 40°C, so it’s best to avoid staying out in the sun between 11 AM and 4 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, as the temperatures are more manageable and there’s less risk of rain.

In summary, the best time to visit Eilat is from March to June, and the hottest (and least ideal) months are July and August.