Summer has arrived in Israel in June, and with it, high temperatures in the 80s and 90s (Fahrenheit), plus long days of sunshine. Pack plenty of sunscreen, and it's the perfect month to spend your days in the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea in Tel Aviv and Haifa. Or, head to Jerusalem and explore the Old City and biblical sites in the cooler mornings and evenings while escaping the midday sun in world-class museums.

Weather

June marks the beginning of summer and the start of soaring temperatures and dry, sunshine-filled days. Eilat, with temperatures ranging from 73°F (23ºC) to 100°F (38ºC), and Jerusalem, which sees temperatures between 64ºF (18ºC) and 81ºF (27ºC), particularly experience the heat. In contrast, the coastal towns of Tel Aviv and Haifa will have slightly cooler temperatures, perfect for spending time at the beach and sightseeing. June is also the driest month in Israel, so you can leave your rain gear at home and pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and shawls instead.

Crowds & Costs

With Northern Hemisphere school holidays in full swing and many visitors looking to arrive before the sweltering summer temperatures set in, June is a popular time to visit Israel. Expect longer lines at the main tourist destinations, including the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the fortress of Masada, and higher accommodation prices in Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem. Eilat, however, begins to see declining numbers due to its plentiful hot days. Toward the end of June, you'll also run into long lines at popular museums, with visitors looking to escape the midday heat. 

Where to Go

Take advantage of June's endless sunny days and stick close to the water or in Israel's mountainous region. Tel Aviv is particularly fascinating to visit in June, especially during Pride Week, when the city is filled with bright colors and welcoming vibes. By day, you can soak up the sun next to the Mediterranean Sea or visit the city's many museums, then take advantage of the bustling nightlife along Rothschild Boulevard and Allenby Street once the sun sets.

Haifa is another great city to visit in June, which also sits on the Mediterranean Coast. Wake up early to wander the Persian Hanging Gardens of Baháʼí, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, before the crowds and heat arrive, then head to Stella Marris Monastery to check out the Cave of Elijah. From Haifa, you can transfer inland to the mountainous and cooler region of Golan Heights, stopping at the Kuneitra Lookout and the Roaring Lion Monument.

If you don't mind a bit of heat, June is a good time to float in the Dead Sea. Water temperatures reach 97ºF (26ºC), which will feel like a warm bath. Then, escape the sun and head to the Qumran Caves, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Eilat will be drenched in sun and heat at the other end of the country, making sunbathing almost unbearable. However, if you're interested in the underwater world, June is a great time to don snorkel or scuba gear and explore Coral Beach Nature Reserve.

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What to Do

Even with the rising temperatures, June is a great time to visit Israel's many biblical sites and unique landscapes. Plan your day around the midday heat, and in return, you can tour fascinating ancient landmarks in the morning and evening and spend your afternoons near the water or inside air-conditioned museums. In Jerusalem, opt for a morning tour of Old City, walking along the Via Dolorosa, believed to be the same path Jesus walked on his way to his crucifixion, and check out the impressive golden domes of Temple Mount. Then, switch gears and head to the Museum Yad Vashem (World Holocaust Remembrance Center) and the Israel Museum.

Making your way north, Tiberias is the ideal place to base yourself to explore the nearby ancient sites of Nazareth, the Church of the Wedding Miracle, and the Church of the Multiplication. Then, cool off in the afternoon with a kayak down the Jordan River or a cruise on the Sea of Galilee. If you opt for a family adventure in Israel, June is a great time to chase waterfalls in the Ein Gedi Nature Park and explore the impressive wind-swept caves of the Rosh Hanikrah Grottoes.

If you're after a relaxing vacation, stick to Tel Aviv and Eilat, where sunbathing chairs line the beaches, and beach bars are never far away. Cool off with an exciting jet ski ride, or spend your afternoon learning about the underwater world of the Red Sea at the Underwater Observatory Marine Park. Eilat is also right on the border of Jordan, making it easy to explore Petra and Wadi Rum on an Israel and Jordan adventure.

Events in June

Tel Aviv Gay Pride Week, Tel Aviv. Numerous parties, events, and celebrations are held throughout decorated Tel Aviv, and tourists and locals arrive to participate in the week of fun and good vibes.

Shavuot, nationwide. Known as the "feast of weeks," Shavuot celebrates the revelation of the Torah on Mt. Sinai. Musical festivals and fun outdoor activities take place throughout the country, and participants indulge in dairy foods and fruit. Shavuot can fall in May or June.

Traveling to Israel in June? Check out these great itineraries

Explore Israel & Petra - 6 Days. Discover King David's tomb in Jerusalem, tour the ancient fortress of Masada, and float in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea before visiting Jordan's mighty stone city of Petra. 

Essential Israel: Tel Aviv, Jerusalem & Tiberias - 9 Days. Immerse yourself in Israel's history and biblical stories on this well-rounded itinerary, perfect for first-time travelers. Based in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Tiberias, you'll have time to soak up the unique culture and fascinating landmarks dotted across northern Israel.

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