While Haifa is not exactly a classic tourist destination like Akko or Safed, it has its own unique character that you should discover for yourself. You can find here many old buildings with unusual architecture, a wide range of restaurants and cafes, a shopping center and much more.
One of the most popular places in Haifa is the Bahai Gardens, recognized worldwide as a symbol of peace and coexistence. The city also has many museums that are worth visiting and most of them are open on Saturdays.
Bahai Gardens
The Bahai Garden in Haifa is one of the most popular sights to see in Israel. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a perfectly maintained park and offers stunning views of the city.
The garden stretches from the German Colony in the city to the top of Mount Carmel. It features 19 terraces of flowers, waterworks and small sculptures.
A tour around the Bahai Gardens is free of charge and takes about 45 minutes to complete. The lowest and uppermost terraces are open every day, but the inner garden near the shrine closes at noon.
The garden is also a sacred place for the Bahai faith, which is why it was listed as a World Heritage Site in 2008. It’s a good idea to make time for this beautiful shrine on your visit to Haifa.
German Colony
The German Colony is a historic, happening neighborhood with hotels, restaurants and bars. The area is also home to the Bahai World Centre, a temple to the founder of the Baha faith, Bahá u’ llah.
The colony's quaint old stone buildings, a mix of Swabian and Ottoman style, present a less-known yet fascinating chapter in the history of the land of Israel. Originally a settlement of the Templars, it is now a popular commercial and cultural center.
Today's German Colony features a mix of governmental and private buildings, and many of the former Templar homes are now nicely restored. Combined with trendy eateries, boutiques and hotels, it creates a lively dining and entertainment hub that reflects Haifa's multi-cultural population.
The German Colony is one of the most popular tour attractions in Haifa and a great place to spend some time on a day trip. It's also a great place to experience Haifa's nightlife with its lit up Bahai Gardens at the back of the colony.
Carmelit
If you are staying in a hotel near Mount Carmel and you want to explore the city and its surroundings, the Carmelit underground funicular railway is an excellent choice. This is the first and only underground train in Israel and it makes a fantastic tour of the city.
The journey begins at Paris Square in the Downtown area and climbs up 900 feet, stopping at key stations on Mount Carmel. You will be able to see the city below from the top of the mountain, and you will also be able to take a break at one of the museums that are located on the way.
The Carmelit offers the most convenient and speedy transport option in Haifa, both for tourists and for regular citizens. Its six stations connect between entertainment, commerce and business centers of the city.
Museums
Haifa is home to a number of museums that are well worth visiting. From a fascinating museum that bridges the gap between eastern and western cultures to a Japanese art center on Mount Carmel, there's something for everyone in this city.
The Mane Katz Museum showcases the art of Jewish artists from Eastern Europe. It's a small but interesting museum with a beautiful garden and a great view of Haifa Bay.
It's also a good place to see some modern and contemporary Jewish art, with paintings depicting Jewish ghettos from all over the world. There are also some interesting collections of Judaica and antique furniture on display.
The Israel National Museum of Science, Technology and Space is a fun-filled institution that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. There’s a wide range of interactive displays that will delight young and old. From 3D films in the 'Cinematrix' to a host of chemistry-based exhibitions, the museum is packed with illuminating exhibits.
