When you are choosing your dates, there are several elements that you should take into consideration: 1. Jewish Holidays
The prices of hotels are very high around the Jewish Festivals and it’s harder to obtain hotel rooms. In addition, there are days that sites, museums and restaurants are closed. During the Jewish Passover holiday kosher hotels, shops & restaurants do not have leavened bread.
2019
Passover April 19-27 Shavuot June 8-10 Rosh HaShanah Sept. 29-Oct.1 Yom Kippur Oct. 9 Sukkot Oct. 13-20 Simchat Torah Oct. 20-22 Hanukkah Dec. 22-30
2020
Passover Apr. 8-16 Shavuot May 28-30 Rosh Hashana Sept. 18-20 Yom Kippur Sept. 28 Sukkot Oct. 2-9 Simchat Torah Oct. 9-11 Hanukkah Dec. 10-18
2. Weather
Israel has a mild climate all year round, meaning there is not really a time to avoid visiting Israel. The summer months (July and August) are, however, generally very hot, with average temperatures over 35 o Celsius (95 o Fahrenheit). While the winter months (December, January, February) can be unpredictable, with periodic rainstorms, often lasting a few days at a time, and even snow. From some time in March there is often pleasant spring-like weather. The best months for travelling to Israel are March, April, May and October, November. The best, and most beautiful time to hike is March and April, when the country is in bloom with the rebirth of spring flowers and blossoms. To experience this time of year from up close we highly recommend the Jesus Trek: www.thejesustrek.com
3. Saturday/Shabbat
Many Jewish people observe Shabbat, starting at sunset on Friday, and ending at sunset on Saturday. Therefore nearly all shops, restaurants, museums and public transport are closing on Friday afternoon, and either re-open on Saturday night, or Sunday morning. Arab and non-kosher establishments are however open, and taxis and sheruts (shared taxis) still operate . Nature parks and most Christian ‘Holy places are open on Saturday, but some of them are closed on Sunday.
Important:
we do NOT recommend planning check-in at any hotel on Saturday, due to the Shabbat (check-in is usually very late, approximately two hours after the Shabbat ends).