Now that Google Street View is alive and kicking in Israel, you can check out some of Israel’s must see attractions before you even think about buying a ticket to the Holy Land!
We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 things to see in Israel on Google Street View, the places and sites we feel will give you a real taste of what Israel is all about. The list is a little different to our guide to the best things to see and do in Israel, because Google Street View doesn’t currently cover Israel completely (for example, the amazing Masada fortress and the stunning views of the Ramon Crater were probably a bit too tricky for the Google map-mobile).
And if this little lot don’t convince you to go buy that ticket, nothing will!
*** Depending on your Internet connection, the views below might take a few seconds to load.
UPDATE April 2013: Google Maps now offers an option to work out bus routes between destinations on its maps! When accessing Google Maps, click Get Directions, click the Bus icon, and then enter your A to B points.
The Western “Wailing” Wall (HaKotel)
The legendary Western “Wailing” Wall, in the Old City of Jerusalem is a must-see and one of those sites that will stay in the memory banks forever…read more about the Western Wall here.
Tel Aviv beach front
Check out those amazing sandy beaches of Tel Aviv (to your left)!
Baha’i Gardens, Haifa
The Baha’i Gardens are one of northern Israel’s treasures, and highly recommended. You can’t actually access them in Google Street View, but you can get a glimpse of them and the surrounding area.
View of the Old City from the Mount of Olives
This is one of the most amazing views of the Old City and Dome of the Rock you can experience…
HaYarkon Park, Tel Aviv
HaYarkon Park is an amazing green lung in the heart of Tel Aviv. Have a stroll through the park, check out the HaYarkon River, and watch out for the mums with prams!
Sea of Galilee
The amazing Sea of Galilee is the lowest freshwater lake in the world, and an excellent place to base yourself when exploring the north of Israel! Take a ride along the beautiful coastal road (the eastern side of the lake hasn’t been covered by Google for some reason) and wander round the streets of Israel’s 4th biggest city, Tiberias.
Tel Aviv Port
Another of Tel Aviv’s most popular attractions, full of things to see and do…for all the family!
Via Dolorosa, Old City, Jerusalem
Stroll down the legendary Via Dolorosa – but watch out for the hordes of tourists!
Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv
One of Tel Aviv’s most charming and most photographed neighborhoods!
The Dead Sea
Take a peek at the Dead Sea, the hotels aligned along the Dead Sea coast, and the amazing scenery as you drive down Road 90. It’s great to have a look, but nothing quite like floating in that Dead Sea for a once in a lifetime experience!