Before I share my insights about Israel’s romantic appeal, you need to know the current security situation. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) no longer advises against all travel to some areas of Israel and the West Bank, but continues to advise against all travel or all but essential travel to other areas of Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Currently, the FCDO specifically warns against travel to:
- Gaza and areas near the Gaza border
- Areas within 4km of the Lebanese and Syrian borders
- Large portions of the West Bank
- Certain settlements and outposts as per the image
Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. The security situation remains unpredictable, with risks including rocket fire, terrorist attacks, and civil unrest that can occur with little warning.
If you’re planning a trip, check the latest FCDO travel advice before making any bookings. This guide is intended for future reference when travel conditions improve.
Let’s start!
When I first considered Israel in 2018, as a romantic getaway destination, I’ll admit I was sceptical. Like many Brits, I initially thought of it purely in terms of history and pilgrimage sites. However, after spending a magical week there with my partner last spring, I can confidently say that Israel offers some of the most enchanting romantic experiences I’ve encountered anywhere in the Mediterranean.
From intimate boutique hotels overlooking the azure waters of Tel Aviv to historic Jerusalem properties steeped in ancient charm, Israel surprised me at every turn. Here’s my guide to the most romantic hotels I discovered, complete with practical tips for fellow UK travellers.
Why Israel Captivated British Hearts – The Numbers Tell the Story
Before the current conflict, Israel was a surprisingly popular destination for British couples. In 2023, the UK was Israel’s third-largest source of tourists, with 185,500 British visitors making the journey. That’s roughly 6% of all international visitors to Israel.
To put this in perspective, more Britons visited Israel than many traditional European destinations. Among British tourists, 31% came for touring and sightseeing, while 26% visited purely for holidays. What struck me during my research was that 11% made the journey specifically for religious pilgrimage – showing Israel’s deep spiritual significance for many UK travellers.
European visitors altogether represented a massive portion of Israel’s tourism market. Before October 2023, Israel welcomed nearly 3 million international visitors annually, with Europeans making up roughly 40% of that number. The tourism industry was worth over $5.95 billion to Israel’s economy in 2023.
Unfortunately, the current conflict has reduced tourism by over 75% since late 2023. But this gives us hope – when peace returns, pent-up demand suggests tourism will rebound strongly.
Top 5 Romantic Hotels in Israel: My Personal Recommendations
1. The Norman Tel Aviv (Tel Aviv)
Location: King David Boulevard, Tel Aviv
Average Price: £200 to £350 per night
Why I Loved It: This art deco masterpiece completely won me over with its sophisticated blend of 1920s glamour and modern luxury. Located just minutes from the beach but tucked away on a quieter street, it offers the perfect balance of accessibility and tranquillity.
The rooftop restaurant provides stunning Mediterranean views, and I’ll never forget our sunset dinner there. The rooms feature original terrazzo floors and custom furnishings that create an intimate, residential feel rather than corporate hotel sterility.
Tip: Book directly through their website for complimentary airport transfers – a godsend after that long flight from Heathrow.
2. Mamilla Hotel (Jerusalem)
Location: King Solomon Street, Jerusalem (opposite Jaffa Gate)
Average Price: £220-300 per night
Why It’s Special: Staying here felt like being at the crossroads of ancient and modern Jerusalem. The hotel’s contemporary design contrasts beautifully with the Old City walls visible from your window. What struck me most was the rooftop terrace overlooking the Tower of David – absolutely magical at sunset.
The spa treatments using local Dead Sea minerals were incredibly relaxing after long days exploring Jerusalem’s historic sites.
Tip: Request a room facing the Old City for the best views, and don’t miss the hotel’s wine cellar dinner experience.
3. The Setai Tel Aviv (Tel Aviv)
Location: David InterContinental Plaza, Tel Aviv
Average Price: £320-450 per night
Why It Made My List: This is pure luxury with an intimate feel. The infinity pool overlooking the Mediterranean created some of our most romantic moments, especially during the evening when Tel Aviv’s skyline lights up.
Each suite feels like a private residence, and the personalised butler service meant we never had to worry about planning – they arranged everything from beach picnics to surprise room decorations.
Tip: The hotel offers direct beach access, but the real gem is their private cabanas – worth the extra £50 per day for complete privacy. This truly epitomises what you’d expect from a luxury beachfront hotel Tel Aviv.
4. Villa Brown Jerusalem (Jerusalem)
Location: King David Street, Jerusalem
Average Price: £180-250 per night
Why I Recommend It: This boutique hotel captures Jerusalem’s soul perfectly. Housed in a restored 1920s building, every corner tells a story. The Library Bar became our evening retreat, with its vintage books and craft cocktails creating the perfect ambience for intimate conversations.
The location is superb – walking distance to both the Old City and modern Jerusalem’s restaurants and cafés.
Tip: Ask for Room 301 if available – it has the most romantic balcony overlooking the city, and the staff told me it’s a favourite for marriage proposals.
5. Carmel Forest Spa Resort (Haifa)
Location: Carmel Forest, near Haifa
Average Price: £200-280 per night
Why It’s Perfect for Couples: Sometimes romance means escaping the hustle entirely. This mountain retreat in the Carmel Forest provided the perfect sanctuary. The couple’s spa treatments in private woodland pavilions were unforgettable, and waking up to forest views felt like being in a fairytale.
The infinity pool floats among the treetops, and the organic restaurant sources its ingredients from its gardens.
Tip: This is about 40 minutes from Haifa, so consider it for a 2-3 night retreat rather than a base for sightseeing. The hotel provides complimentary shuttles to nearby attractions.
Why Couples Fall in Love with Israel
I’ve spoken to dozens of couples who’ve visited Israel, and they all mention the same thing: nowhere else combines ancient history, modern luxury, and spiritual depth quite like this.
Israel offers romantic experiences you simply can’t find elsewhere. Picture watching the sunrise over the Sea of Galilee from your hotel balcony, floating together in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, or strolling through Jerusalem’s illuminated Old City at night. The country packs incredible diversity into a space smaller than Wales.
The infrastructure caters brilliantly to couples. Israeli hotels have mastered the art of romance – from boutique properties in Tel Aviv’s trendy neighbourhoods to luxury resorts overlooking the Mediterranean. Many offer couple’s spa treatments using Dead Sea minerals, private beach access, and rooftop dining with views you’ll never forget.
What makes Israel special for couples is how it combines relaxation with adventure. You can spend the morning exploring 2,000-year-old ruins, the afternoon at a world-class spa, and the evening dining on exceptional cuisine in a coastal restaurant. Few destinations offer this range without requiring internal flights or long drives.
What Makes a Hotel Truly Romantic?
When I first considered Israel as a romantic getaway destination, I’ll admit I was sceptical. Like many Brits, I initially thought of it purely in terms of history and pilgrimage sites. However, after spending a magical week there with my partner, I can confidently say that Israel offers some of the most enchanting romantic experiences I’ve encountered anywhere in the Mediterranean. From intimate boutique hotels overlooking the azure waters of Tel Aviv to historic Jerusalem properties steeped in ancient charm, Israel surprised me at every turn.
Essential Tips for UK Travellers
Here’s my guide to the most romantic hotels in Israel I discovered, complete with practical tips for fellow UK travellers.
Currency and Budgeting
Don’t stress about getting Israeli Shekels (ILS) before you travel. Israel’s payment infrastructure is remarkably modern – contactless cards work everywhere, from Jerusalem’s markets to Eilat’s beach bars.
I recommend keeping a small amount of GBP or EUR cash for emergencies, but plan to use cards for 90% of purchases. ATMs are plentiful and offer competitive exchange rates. Many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators accept USD, but you’ll get better value paying in Shekels.
Pro tip: Notify your bank before travelling. Some UK banks flag Israeli transactions as potentially fraudulent, which could leave you stranded without card access.
Weather Windows for Romance
Israel’s Mediterranean climate creates distinct romantic seasons. Spring (March-May) offers perfect weather – warm days, cool evenings, and wildflowers blooming across the countryside. This is peak season for outdoor dining and exploring. I visited in May and found the weather perfect – warm but not scorching, with pleasant evenings ideal for rooftop dining.
Avoid July-August when temperatures soar; Peak Summer (June-August) brings intense heat, especially inland. Coastal areas like Tel Aviv remain pleasant due to sea breezes, but Jerusalem and the Dead Sea can reach 35°C+. If you visit in summer, plan indoor activities during midday heat.
Autumn (September-November) provides another romantic window. The weather cools, crowds thin out, and hotel prices drop.
Winter (December-February) is mild by British standards but can bring rain. So December-February can be chilly, especially in Jerusalem
Religious and Cultural Celebrations for Christian Couples
Israel offers unique opportunities for Christian couples to connect with their faith. Easter in Jerusalem provides an unforgettable experience – walking the Via Dolorosa, visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and attending services where Christianity began.
Christmas in Bethlehem draws couples from worldwide. Midnight Mass at the Church of the Nativity, just 30 minutes from Jerusalem, creates memories that last lifetimes. The Christmas markets and festivities throughout December add festive romance.
Other significant dates include Palm Sunday processions, Pentecost celebrations, and various Orthodox calendar events. Many hotels offer special packages around these holidays.
Experiences for Muslim Couples and Interfaith Relationships
Muslim couples find Israel deeply meaningful, particularly visiting Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem’s Old City – the third holiest site in Islam. The experience of praying where Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven holds profound significance.
Ramadan in Jerusalem creates a special atmosphere. The Old City comes alive after sunset, with street food, socialising, and spiritual reflection. Many hotels offer Iftar dining experiences.
For interfaith couples, Israel provides unique opportunities to explore shared heritage. You can visit sites significant to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam within walking distance of each other. This creates powerful conversations and shared understanding.
Creating Unforgettable Romantic Moments
The most magical experiences during our trip weren’t always the most expensive. Watching sunrise over the Dead Sea, sharing mezze at a tiny Jaffa restaurant, or simply walking hand-in-hand through Jerusalem’s ancient streets created memories that luxury amenities alone couldn’t match.
However, the right hotel absolutely enhanced these experiences. Having a beautiful room to return to, staff who anticipated our needs, and settings that encouraged intimate moments made our Israeli adventure truly special.
Whether you choose the cosmopolitan energy of Tel Aviv or the timeless allure of Jerusalem, Israel offers romantic experiences that will surprise and delight. The key is selecting accommodation that matches your vision of romance – whether that’s modern luxury with sea views or historic charm with ancient stone walls.
Israel proved to be one of our most romantic destinations, combining cultural richness with genuine hospitality and stunning natural beauty. For UK couples seeking something different from the usual European city breaks, I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Tel Aviv’s boutique hotels provide urban romance – rooftop pools overlooking the Mediterranean, trendy bars, and walking distance to beaches. Jerusalem offers properties where ancient meets modern, with stunning views of the Old City and world-class spas.