Israel is a destination rich in history, religion, culture, and innovation — from the streets of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv’s night-life to the Dead Sea and Galilee landscapes.
However, the tourism sector has been hit hard by the war beginning October 2023 and subsequent security issues.
In 2024, inbound tourists fell to around ≈961,300, down ~68% from the previous year. In the first half of 2025, arrivals showed some improvement (≈610,900 in H1 2025) but remain far below pre-conflict levels.
Key stats: Israel Tourism
- About 3 million international visitors in 2023 – Israel’s inbound tourism is recovering, but still well below its 2019 peak.
- Tourist spending at ~US$3.96 billion in 2023 – a significant decline from pre-pandemic highs, reflecting disrupted travel patterns.
- Visitor numbers plunged in 2024 – only ~885,000 arrivals in first 11 months and forecast ~952,000 by year-end.
- March 2025 saw ~100,700 tourists, compared to ~206,700 a year earlier – showing a fragile rebound.
- In June 2025 arrivals fell ~42% year-on-year to ~55,300 – underlining how conflict still severely impacts tourism.
- Average stay ~10 nights in 2023 – showing tourists still opt for deeper trips when they visit.
- 73% of visitors in 2023 were independent travellers, only 27% came in group tours – showing changing travel preferences.
- Average spend ~ILS 6,005 (~US$1,600) per tourist in 2023 (excluding flights) – underlining strong per-visitor value even in difficult times.
- Monthly growth signals but low base – e.g., a 30.7% month-on-month rise in February 2025, yet still far from previous peaks.
- Pre-pandemic benchmark: 2019 saw ~4.55 million visitors and ~US$8.46 billion receipts – showing how far Israel has to go to fully recover.
How Many Tourists Visit Israel Each Year?
In 2024 inbound tourist arrivals were ~961,300, a drop of about 68% compared to 2023.
- 2019 (pre-crisis): ~4.55 million visitors
- 2023: ~3.01 million visitors
- 2024: ~0.96 million visitors
- H1 2025: ~610,900 visitors (Jan-June) — up 23.4% year-on-year, but far below 2023’s half-year number.
How Many Tourists Visit Israel Each Day?
Based on ~961,000 annual visitors in 2024, that corresponds to ~2,630 tourists per day on average — though many days see far fewer due to travel disruptions and security measures.
How Much Do Visitors Spend in Israel Every Year?
International tourism revenue in Israel in 2023 was about US$5.95 billion.
- 2019 tourist spend: ~US$8.46 billion
- The decline in arrivals is mirrored by revenue drop.
- Data for 2024 spend are limited and probably show further declines due to the security situation.
Which Countries Visit Israel the Most?
In 2023, the United States was the top source market, followed by France, UK and Germany.
| Country | Visitors (2023 est.) | Share / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 United States | ~853,300 | ~28% market share |
| 🇫🇷 France | ~216,700 | Significant European segment |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | ~185,500 | ~6% of visitors |
| 🇷🇺 Russia | — | Russian arrivals had previously been large pre-conflict |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | — | Sustained but reduced visits |
What Are the Most Visited Attractions in Israel?
Israel offers a mix of religious-heritage sites, modern cities and desert nature.
| Attraction | Annual Visitors (pre-crisis est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jerusalem Old City & Western Wall | ~1.5-2 m+ | Key pilgrimage site |
| Tel Aviv Beach & City Life | ~1 m+ | Leisure-city mixture |
| Dead Sea Region | ~0.8-1 m | Unique natural attraction |
| Masada National Park | ~840,000 in 2019 | Heritage + desert |
| Sea of Galilee / Nazareth | ~700-800k | Religious + nature |
| Ramat Gan Safari / Biblical Zoo | ~500-700k | Family-friendly |
| Eilat & Red Sea Coast | ~500k+ | Resort seaside |
| Yad Vashem / Holocaust Museum | ~300-400k | World-class memorial |
| Negev Desert & Bedouin Experiences | ~200-300k | Niche adventure |
| Caesarea National Park & Roman Ruins | ~200-300k | Heritage day-trip |
Note: Recent visitor counts for 2024-25 are significantly lower than pre-crisis figures.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Israel?
Israel’s tourism is somewhat year-round, but seasons, events and security conditions influence flows.
| Season | Trend | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | High | Mild weather, festivals, pilgrimage period |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Moderate | Hot climate, some holiday leisure travel |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | High | Festivals, cultural calendar, cooler weather |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Moderate | Religious tourism peaks, cooler sites (Dead Sea) |
What Are the Biggest Events Attracting Tourists to Israel?
Major religious holidays, cultural festivals and pilgrimage season drive tourism.
| Event | Time of Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jewish High Holy Days (Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur) | Sep/Oct | Significant arrivals |
| Easter & Christian pilgrimage period | Mar/Apr | Religious & heritage travel |
| Jerusalem Light Festival | Feb | Cultural draw |
| Tel Aviv Pride | June | Urban leisure travel |
| Jewish festivals (Passover etc.) | Spring | Visiting-family tourism |
How Much Money Does Israel Make From Tourism?
Pre-crisis, tourism generated ~US$8.46 billion in 2019; in 2023 it was ~US$5.95 billion.
- Tourism contribution to GDP has fallen significantly due to sharp drop in arrivals and revenue.
- The industry is navigating a recovery under difficult conditions.
Which Areas in Israel Are Most Popular With Tourists?
Tourists frequent the following key regions.
- Jerusalem – heritage, religion, UNESCO sites
- Tel Aviv / Jaffa – modern city, nightlife, beach
- Dead Sea & Ein Gedi – wellness & nature
- Galilee / Nazareth – religious heritage + nature
- Eilat & Red Sea Coast – resort seaside
- Masada & Negev Desert – heritage + adventure
- Haifa & the North – quieter, nature-oriented
- Cities of the Center (Herzliya, Netanya) – business + leisure mix
FAQ – Israel Tourism Insights
How many tourists visit Israel yearly?
Around ~961,300 in 2024 (international arrivals) — a steep drop from ~3.01 million in 2023.
What is Israel most known for as a tourist destination?
Religious-heritage sites (Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth), historic ruins, Mediterranean and Red Sea beaches, culture and innovation.
When is the best time to visit Israel?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild weather and high cultural/pilgrimage tone.
Is Israel expensive?
Costs vary; major cities (Jerusalem, Tel Aviv) and key sites can be higher priced; local and boutique options exist.
Is Israel safe for tourists?
Safety conditions are impacted by regional conflict. Some areas remain stable, but travel advisories and security context should be checked.
Which area is best to stay in?
Jerusalem for heritage & religion
Tel Aviv for city + beach
Dead Sea & Eilat for resort-relaxation
Galilee/Negev for nature & off-beat experiences
How badly is tourism impacted by current conflict?
Significantly — arrivals are down ~68% in 2024 compared to 2023, with ongoing challenges affecting recovery.
Sources
- Xinhua News — Tourist visits to Israel drop by 68.1% in 2024
- Xinhua News — Israel sees 23.4% rise in H1 tourist arrivals (2025)
- RoadGenius — Israel Tourism Statistics – Visitor Spending & Arrivals 2023
- TradingEconomics — Israel Tourist Arrivals Monthly Data
- UNWTO — Global and Regional Tourism Trends (Middle East)
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