Eilat

Eilat is the only Israeli city on the Red Sea, isolated by the Negev desert and sandwiched between Egypt and Jordan. It's a resort town devoted to sun, fun, diving, partying, and desert activities. The government subsidizes flights and the border crossings are easy, making it a convenient access point to Egypt and Jordan.

Ramon International Airport (IATA: ETM) opened in 2019, 20 km north of Eilat, with flights from Ben Gurion Airport, Haifa, and direct charters from Europe via Wizz Air and Ryanair. A shuttle bus runs every 30 min to downtown (₪4.20), taxi ₪100. The Rabin (Arava) border crossing to Jordan (Aqaba) is 5 km north, and the Menachem Begin-Taba crossing to Egypt is 9 km south. Exit fees apply.

The city is compact and walkable along the promenade. Bus line 15 connects the central bus station with the southern beaches and attractions. Taxis are plentiful; a ride from the airport to downtown costs about ₪100.

Eilat has a desert climate with hot summers (up to 41°C) and mild winters (around 20°C). Red Sea water temperatures range from 20°C in winter to 26°C in summer. The best time for European sun-seekers is winter, while summer attracts divers and water sports enthusiasts despite the heat.

Top attractions include the Underwater Observatory, Dolphin Reef, and Coral Beach Nature Reserve for snorkeling and diving. The Red Sea Jazz Festival takes place in late August. For desert adventures, try hiking with SPNI's Eilat Field School or stargazing at 'What's Up' observatory. Kite surfing and scuba diving are popular; a no-experience dive is ₪180.

The main promenade has stylish restaurants, but cheaper options are found on Shderot HaTmarim. Try falafel at Falafel Avshi, shawarma at Itzik Shawarma, or a hearty meal at the University Campus Cafeteria (₪43 per person, Su-Th lunch). For nightlife, Three Monkeys Pub and Bears Pub are popular.

Budget accommodations cluster around the central bus station, with hostels like Shelter Hostel (dorm ₪40), Arava (dorm ₪70), and Corinne Hostel (dorm ₪90). The SPNI Eilat Field School offers eco-friendly rooms with a campsite. Mid-range and luxury hotels line the north beach.

Eilat is a duty-free zone with no VAT, so many shops offer tax-free prices. Main shopping malls include Mall HaYam, Ice Mall (with an ice rink), and Big Center outlet mall. International brands are available.

Eilat is relatively close to Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, which has seen terrorist activity. Israel built a steel barrier with cameras and sensors on the border. The sun is very intense; wear sunscreen and stay hydrated. For emergencies, the Eilat hospital serves the southern Negev.

Direct bus connections to Jerusalem, Masada, and the Dead Sea. The Aqaba border crossing in Jordan leads to Aqaba, Wadi Rum, and Petra. The Taba crossing in Egypt gives access to Sinai, St. Catherine's Monastery, and Mount Sinai. Nearby Kibbutzim like Yotvata offer desert accommodation.