The best museums in Israel

Arguably Israel’s most magnificent cultural asset, the Israel Museum is consistently ranked among the world’s leading art and archaeology museums. Housing encyclopedic collections with works dating from prehistory to the present day in archaeology, fine art, and Jewish art, this is the place to get schooled on Israel’s 5,000-year history.

Meticulously curated exhibits display the utmost of thoughtful and esteemed contemporary works. Famed architect Ron Arad's winding spiral of modernity encompasses one of Israel’s most stand-out venues for progressive art and design. A short drive from downtown Tel Aviv, it's definitely worth the visit. 

Unique for a number of reasons, the Eretz Israel Museum is especially unusual because its grounds encompass the archeological site of Tel Qasile, dating back to the 12th century B.C.E. The museum houses impressive, permanent collections of coins, mosaics, and Jewish folkloric objects from various periods and regions.

Yad Vashem’s 45-acre campus comprises indoor museums and outdoor monuments, exhibitions, memorial sites, gardens, sculptures, and world-class research and education centers – all devoted to preserving the memory of the Holocaust. The hallowed out cavern with a single candle reflected by a series mirrors commemorates the 1.5 million children killed. 

Have you ever wondered about the history of Israel's natural wonders? If you venture over to Tel Aviv University’s campus, you will have the opportunity to explore just that. The Steinhardt Museum of Natural History is a museum that is home to collections depicting the natural history of Israel.

Haifa Museum is located in an historic 1930s building at the axis connecting Haifa’s Muslim, Christian, and Jewish neighborhoods. Three floors display works by artists from Israel and the world, including Daumier, Chagall, Chana Orloff, and Andre Masson as well as temporary exhibitions and video installations.

A revamped version of the Beit Hatfutsot museum long situated on the Tel Aviv University campus, the family-friendly ANU tells a complete story of the Jewish people from historic Judaica to Jewish humor. Here you’ll find a range of multimedia and interactive displays, even a replica of Jerry’s living room in the hit comedy series, Seinfeld. After walking through the galleries don’t miss trekking up to the museum roof which offers a full ocean view.

Now, it traces the history of the Jewish resistance fighters who were imprisoned or executed in this very spot. Run by the Ministry of Defense, the museum features an interactive display with original and reconstructed exhibits, a tour of the prison cells and an account of the prison’s rich history. Learn about those who fought to establish a national home in the state of Israel, the circumstances of their imprisonment and the fascinating story behind the 1947 Akko Prison break. 

Jerusalem's Citadels, known locally as the "Tower of David," is a magnificently restored archaeological structure that bears witness to thousands of years of history. Inside the ancient guard rooms is a museum that houses permanent exhibitions telling the story of Jerusalem through specialized cultural events, activities, tours and temporary exhibitions. From the top of King Herod's tower, there are breathtaking 360 degree views of the city, both new and old. Don't miss the Night Spectacular: an outdoor sound and light show projected onto its stone walls telling the rich story of Jerusalem.

Purpose-built for kids, this museum offers a range of activities for kids aged 2-12. Unlike conventional museums, children are encouraged to touch all of the displays, and even play a role in the exhibits. Not-to-be-missed are the famous 'Dialogue in the Dark' and 'Invitation to Silence' exhibits, two experiences that provide emotional and telling insight into the worlds of blind and deaf people.

The Herzliya Museum of Contemporary Art addresses a multitude of genres, including painting, photography and architecture with a special emphasis on installation and digital media. Four exhibitions are held each year, comprising 50 solos showcasing the work of veteran and up-and-coming artists and their relation to current events.