While Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are arguably the most popular cities to visit on an Israeli itinerary, a weekend stopover in Haifa is definitely worth the train or road trip. With absolutely stunning sites like the Baha’i Gardens, some of the best street food around, and plenty of museums and cultural destinations, this northern destination offers a whole other perspective of the country.
Haifa's sites and attractions
Talpiot Market is housed in the historic Hadar HaCarmel building, which was built in the late 1930s. Here you can find farm-to-table produce, spices, freshly baked goods, and much more, all at fair prices. There are also plenty of eateries and street-food stalls that have popped up amongst the vendors - making for great lunch breaks on your way to do your shopping.
Elad Bardicef takes the hummusia to the next level with hummus like you’ve never tasted before. Always made fresh, in small batches, and served warm as it should be, it is exceedingly rich from smooth, creamy tahini and jazzed up with elevated, yet classic toppings such as mashed broad beans, stewed chickpeas, parsley (in this case parsley-pesto) and olive oil. Also try their other Israeli dishes, such as sabich and shakshuka that are plated beautifully, and made with organic and fresh ingredients, yet are still just as affordable as the humbler versions found elsewhere in the city. Made with extra care by an attentive staff, it’s no wonder you’ll be hard pressed to find a stool here most days of the week. The Chasidic charm and cool Israeli attitude only add to the experience, making this an absolute favorite.
Bardicef’s new branch at 34 Shivat Tzion street brings their brand of heavenly hummus and other freshly prepared Israeli gourmet vegetarian delicacies to Haifa’s lower city. You’ll be blown away by their elegant take on homemade Israeli flavors that will simultaneously warm your heart and satisfy your belly.
Offering garden-view rooms with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV, the luxurious Bay Club - an Atlas Boutique Hotel is half way between Haifa Bay and the peak of Mount Carmel. The style of the property is inspired by the famous resort towns of the Mediterranean Sea.
Guests benefit from free shuttle to the Bahai Gardens tour.
Air-conditioned rooms at the Atlas Boutique include a fridge, seating area, and electric kettle with tea and coffee. The private bathroom has a bath or shower. Some rooms feature a terrace.
An Israeli breakfast is served daily in the spacious lounge which opens on the garden with pond fountain. It includes cheese, eggs, and bread, along with cold drinks. In the afternoon of weekdays you can enjoy free drinks and appetizers in the lounge.
The Israeli National Maritime Museum is 500 metres away, while Haifa Airport is 12 km from the property. In 10 minutes you can drive to the Mediterranean Sea and the Bahai Gardens.
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