Known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife and cosy culinary hotspots, Israel is the must-go Valentine’s Day destination for a romantic getaway.
Whether you and your loved one want to spend the weekend taking in the historic landscapes of Jerusalem or you want to treat your favourite person to a luxurious Tel Aviv spa weekend, Israel is the place to be this February 14th.
Only a short flight away, escape the UK and immerse yourself in an entirely new culture with a bounty of things to do, see, taste, and explore. From hiking to the top of Masada at sunrise to snuggling up by the fire at Jerusalem’s stunning Mona restaurant, Israel is the perfect destination to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime Valentine’s Day!
A Weekend in Israel – WHERE TO STAY
If you’re looking for a luxurious Tel Aviv weekend The Drisco is a chic hotel perfectly suited for couples. Set in two adjacent historical buildings, The Drisco offers a bit of everything, from the wellness centre to the fine Israeli contemporary cuisine. Kick start the most romantic night of the year with dinner at The George and John restaurant, voted one of the best restaurants in the Middle East and North Africa. Where you can dine against a stunning backdrop making for the perfect Instagram post and feast on its unrivalled à la carte menu.
Cuddle your days away in the beautiful Villa Brown Hotel, a restored 19th-century villa in Jerusalem, which boasts a rooftop spa, garden café, and a hip underground Cave bar – perfect if you don’t want to leave for the hotel. In this luxurious boutique destination, you’re guaranteed to bag serious partner points by making this your Valentine’s retreat!
A Weekend in Israel – WHERE TO EAT
If fine dining is a must-have for your valentine, Mona is one of the must-go restaurants nestled in the heart of Jerusalem. Picturesque and effortlessly upscale with a blend of rustic charm this is the ideal spot for a truly memorable Valentine’s dinner. For the ultimate romantic experience enjoy a candlelit dinner in front of the fire or if you want an excuse to cuddle up then opt for alfresco dining on the stunning terrace and soak up the city view.
If you’re caught hungry in the middle of a lovers’ stroll then make sure to pop into bustling eatery Machneyuda, situated next to Jerusalem’s Machane Yehuda Market. Drawing diners in from across the world with fresh ingredients sourced directly from the market and run by a trio of Israeli chefs, the concept has since grown into a multinational hospitality group where diners watch the preparation of artful, produce-led dishes.
A Weekend in Israel – WHERE TO DRINK
Bicicletta, situated near to the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv, is a popular romantic backyard bar for both locals and tourists to grab an evening cocktail. An idyllic spot for an intimate date, what better way to spend your Valentine’s Day than cosied up in a hidden gem of Israel.
For a truly extraordinary cocktail, Concierge in Tel Aviv has something on offer for everyone. Get daring with your date and try something completely out their comfort zone with their extensive cocktail menu. Choose a fruity ‘Melon Tini’ or go bold with a ‘Back to Black’.
A Weekend in Israel – WHAT TO DO
If you are looking for a romantic activity for two, take part in a ‘Walking with Wine’ tour, starting in the heart of Tel Aviv. Led by passionate guides who are experts on Israeli wine production this is the perfect way to drink in the city. Alternatively, go for a romantic adventure by leaving the city and experience the less trodden boutique wineries. Under an hour from Tel Aviv, the wineries of Judean Hills or The Carmel Hills offer a brilliant selection of Israeli wines to sample, with views of the vines to match. Cheers!
If you’re a couple that like to get into the great outdoors then a hike to the top of Masada at sunrise will make for a truly special Valentine’s morning. Sit and watch the sun come up together over the Negev Desert and then cool off after the physical activity with a dip in the Dead Sea for a peaceful post-hike float.
