Considered off-season, March is a great time to visit Israel and explore its bucket list of biblical sites and lively coastal towns without the crowds. Mount Hermon, in northern Israel, will still have a dusting of snow, while Eilat, in southern Israel, will see temperatures in the 70s (Fahrenheit), perfect for long days at the beach. However, as Easter draws near, Christians from around the world flock to the country, and once-quiet churches and biblical landmarks will be busy.
## Israel in March: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
March in **Israel** marks the welcome transition from winter to spring, a period of renewal and burgeoning life that makes it an ideal time for exploration and discovery. The weather becomes increasingly inviting, rainfall diminishes, and the landscapes burst forth with vibrant wildflowers, painting a picturesque backdrop for your journey. However, the weather conditions differ throughout the country, so planning based on your desired experiences is essential.
**Weather in March: A Tale of Contrasting Climates**
The southern reaches of Israel, particularly in **Eilat**, bask in the warmth of the approaching summer. Expect delightfully high average temperatures of around 79ºF (26ºC), perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities that this Red Sea resort town has to offer. Nighttime temperatures are mild, rarely dipping below 55ºF (13ºC), making for comfortable evenings. Rainfall in Eilat during March is minimal, averaging only 0.1 inches (3 mm) for the entire month, practically guaranteeing sunshine-filled days.
Contrast this with the climate in **Jerusalem**, which, while also experiencing a warming trend, remains significantly cooler and wetter. Temperatures in Jerusalem typically range from 47ºF (9ºC) to 59ºF (15ºC), requiring layers and perhaps a light jacket, especially in the evenings. March in Jerusalem sees a considerably higher amount of rainfall, averaging around 3.6 inches (91 mm), so packing a raincoat or umbrella is advisable. Despite the potential for rain, the city’s ancient beauty and spiritual significance make it a compelling destination year-round.
For those seeking a final taste of winter, a trip to **Mount Hermon** in the **Golan Heights** might be in order. The higher elevations here retain the remnants of the winter snow, offering a last chance to enjoy skiing and snowboarding before the season officially ends. Be prepared for significantly colder temperatures than in other parts of the country, and check conditions beforehand to ensure the ski slopes are still open.
**Navigating Crowds and Costs in March**
March in Israel presents a unique balance between affordability and accessibility. Compared to the peak tourist season, which typically runs from April to September, visitor numbers are generally lower, resulting in more reasonable prices for accommodations and flights. However, it’s crucial to understand that March is effectively split into two distinct periods concerning crowds and costs.
The first half of March often offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with fewer crowds and lower prices. This is an excellent time to explore the vibrant city of **Tel Aviv** and the historical and spiritual heart of Jerusalem without battling throngs of tourists. Iconic sites like the **Via Dolorosa**, the path believed to have been walked by Jesus on his way to crucifixion, and the profoundly moving **Museum Yad Vashem** (World Holocaust Remembrance Center) can be experienced with greater ease and reflection during this period. You will find that you can spend more time at the individual exhibits and really get a lot from your visit.
As March progresses, and especially as Easter approaches, the landscape begins to change. Eilat, with its enticing spring weather, becomes increasingly popular, drawing domestic travelers and European visitors eager to escape the lingering cold of their home countries. Consequently, prices in this bustling resort town tend to rise as demand for accommodations and activities increases.
Furthermore, the lead-up to Easter sees a significant influx of Christian pilgrims from all corners of the globe, all drawn to Israel to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This influx is particularly noticeable in Jerusalem, especially at the **Church of the Holy Sepulchre**, one of the holiest sites in Christianity. Expect higher prices for lodging and meals, as well as larger crowds at religious sites throughout the country, during this period.
**Exploring Israel: Where to Go in March**
The pleasant temperatures and diminishing rainfall of March make it an excellent time to explore a diverse range of destinations across Israel, from bustling cities to ancient biblical sites and breathtaking natural landscapes. The country is your oyster, and the possibilities are truly endless.
In Tel Aviv, immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture by exploring the historic neighborhood of **Neve Tzedek**, with its charming streets, unique boutiques, and art galleries. Then, pay your respects at **Rabin Square**, a significant landmark in Israeli history. For a taste of modern Tel Aviv, take a leisurely stroll along the lively **Sheinkin** street, known for its trendy shops, cafes, and bars.
Jerusalem, with its cooler and wetter climate, may require a raincoat, but the opportunity to experience iconic sites like the **Wailing Wall** and **Temple Mount** with fewer crowds is well worth the effort. Take your time as you wander through the Old City, and allow yourself to truly imagine what it must have been like thousands of years ago.
Venturing north, consider a visit to **Tiberias**, a city steeped in history and religious significance. Along the way, stop at the small village of **Cana**, where Jesus is said to have performed his first miracle, turning water into wine, and the biblical city of **Nazareth**, the childhood home of Jesus.
For those interested in exploring holy sites, the **Church of the Multiplication**, believed to be the location where Christ fed 5,000 people with just two fish and five loaves of bread, is a must-see. A boat ride along the **Sea of Galilee** offers a unique perspective on the region and allows you to experience firsthand where the **Sermon on the Mount** is believed to have occurred.
To experience Israel’s unique and dramatic landscapes, a visit to the UNESCO-listed hilltop fortress of **Masada**, located in the heart of the **Judean Desert**, is highly recommended. Explore the ruins of this ancient fortress and learn about its pivotal role in Jewish history. Afterward, explore the **Qumran Caves**, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered, on your way to the shores of the **Dead Sea**, where you can float effortlessly in its mineral-rich waters.
At the southern end of the country, Eilat offers a different kind of experience. Soak up the sun and enjoy the warming waters of the **Red Sea**, or embark on a hike through the stunning **Red Canyon**, marveling at the geological formations and vibrant colors of the sandstone.
**A Calendar Full of Activities: What to Do in Israel in March**
Whether you are visiting for a religious pilgrimage, a relaxing vacation, or to explore Israel’s rich culture and diverse landscapes, March offers a wealth of opportunities. The month’s calendar is typically full of unique events and activities.
Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Tiberias each host marathons in March, attracting runners from around the world. **Holon** hosts a 10-day International Puppet Festival, showcasing the art of puppetry through performances and workshops. Decorations are put up throughout the country in anticipation of Easter, and biblical sites come alive with a respectful buzz of visitors.
As spring flowers begin to bloom, March is an ideal time to tour the Golan Heights and marvel at the fields of wildflowers that blanket the hillsides below the snowcapped Mount Hermon. Over in the port town of **Haifa**, be sure to visit the **Hanging Gardens of Haifa**, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, and wander through its perfectly manicured terraced gardens overlooking **Haifa Bay**.
For those interested in delving into Israel’s history and culture, the country’s many museums and churches offer a wealth of information and artifacts. Learn about the history of the Jewish people at the **Diaspora Museum**, step back in time to the Second Temple period at the **Israel Museum**, and admire the towering church of **Saint Peter at Galicantu**. Then, before heading home, consider a tour of the **Tel Aviv Diamond Exchange** and wander through the mesmerizing markets of **Acre**.
**March Events: A Taste of Israeli Culture**
* **Fattal Rock Festival, Eilat:** This festival, usually held around the first weekend of March, brings together Israel’s top rock stars for a weekend of live performances and celebration in Eilat.
* **Purim Street Parties, nationwide:** Throughout Israel, lively festivals commemorate the Jewish people’s survival during the Persian Empire. People of all ages dress up in costumes and celebrate with street dancing, drinking, and a weekend full of festive fun.
* **Easter, nationwide:** Easter sometimes falls in March, attracting Christians from around the world to Israel to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ and visit the many significant biblical sites located throughout the country.
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