Fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures make September one of the best times to visit Israel. Wander the country's many museums and biblical sites at your own pace, swim or snorkel in the warm Mediterranean waters, and take advantage of cheaper flights and accommodations. Plan your trip around the Jewish New Year, when many businesses are closed, and you can pack in plenty of sightseeing and adventuring in a one to two-week trip.

Weather

Although September marks the beginning of the fall season in Israel, you can still look forward to endless sunny days and hot temperatures perfect for the beach. Average highs range from 97ºF (36ºC) in Eilat to 85ºF (28ºC) in Tel Aviv, and even lows in Jerusalem rarely go below 65ºF (19ºC). With less than 1 inch (25 mm) of rain predicted throughout the month, you can leave your rain gear home and pack plenty of sunscreen instead. The Meditteranean Sea is also near its warmest, sitting at 84ºF (29ºC), while the Dead Sea will be at the spa-like temperature of 96.8ºF (36ºC).

Cost & Crowds

With summer school holidays ending and the peak tourist months of July and August in the rearview mirror, September is a great time to visit Israel's highlights and national parks without the crowds. Prices for flights and accommodations begin to drop, and travelers who are flexible with their dates can score great deals. Museums and restaurants are also less crowded, and unlike the previous two months, you won't need to book ahead at most restaurants. Plus, as shoulder season hasn't arrived, shops in smaller villages are still open, and Tel Aviv's vibrant nightlife is still going strong.

Where to Go

September is one of the best times to hit the road and explore Israel's many biblical sites, museums, and natural wonders. Starting in Tel Aviv, you can get your first taste of the beautiful Mediterranean Coast at the ancient port of Jaffa or take a deep dive into Israel's harrowing past at Beit Hatfutsot (the Museum of the Jewish People). Then, continue to Jerusalem, where the pleasant morning temperatures are ideal for roaming the ancient Old City and the Mount of Olives, while the hot afternoons are perfect for checking out the city's museums.

If you continue north up Israel's Meditteranean Coast, you'll soon reach the quieter beach town of Haifa. While known for its magnificent Hanging Gardens of Haifa (considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World), which are well worth exploring, many visitors are surprised by the town's beautiful Haifa Bay and impressive Stella Maris Monastery. Then a short drive away is the seaside village of Caesarea, home to a massive Roman amphitheater that continues to put on shows today. 

It's also worth spending a few days in Tiberias, where you can embark on day trips to Cana, Nazareth, and Tabgha to see where Jesus Christ turned water into wine. Then continue north to Safed to visit the synagogues of Joseph Caro and Ha'Ar and the storied hills of Golan Heights. Or, if you have more time up your sleeve, opt for a two-week itinerary of Israel and Jordan, and add trips to Petra and Wadi Rum to your adventure.

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What to Do

If you're coming to Israel for a religious experience, September is a great month to divide your time between Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Tiberias on an essential Israel itinerary. Walk in the same footsteps as Jesus Christ on his way to his crucifixion on the Via Dolorosa, stopping by the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Wailing Wall. Explore the birthplace of Jesus in Nazareth and take in the nearby Basilica of Annunciation, then hop in a Jeep and tour the historic hills of the Golan Heights.

When you're ready to escape the midday heat, September, with its fewer visitors, is also a great time to wander Israel's many museums. Go at your own pace and spend an afternoon at the Museum Yad Vashem (World Holocaust Remembrance Center) and the Israel Museum, which is also the home of the Shrine of the Book and the Dead Sea Scrolls. And in Tel Aviv, lose track of time as you split your day between the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, the Bialik House, and the Eretz Israel Museum.

For those looking to explore Israel's unique landscapes, you'll love the quieter trails and national parks that September brings. Head to Caesarea National Park to marvel at a massive ancient amphitheater, chase waterfalls in Ein Gedi Reserve, and take in expansive views of the Dead Sea in Masada National Park. Or, opt to explore the underwater world and head down to Eilat to snorkel in Eilat Coral Beach Nature Reserve, located within the Red Sea.

Events in September

Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year), nationwide. Marking the first and second days of the Jewish year, Rosh Hashanah is a time for prayers, services, and time with family–and most businesses are closed.

Sacred Music Festival, Jerusalem. Also known as Mekudeshet Festival, this event welcomes unique and culturally rich acts to Jerusalem for a month of art, music, and learning.

Traveling to Israel in September? Check out these great itineraries

History & Religion in Israel - 9 Days. Take a step back in time on this history and religion packed-itinerary as you explore the famous biblical sites of Jerusalem and Lavi.

Discover Israel & Jordan: Jerusalem, Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum & Tel Aviv - 14 Days. Ponder Israel and Jordan's ancient sites and natural wonders on this well-rounded two-week itinerary.

More Helpful Information

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Best Time of Year to Visit Israel
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