Things to Do in Israel in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Israel
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect hiking weather with temperatures 9-18°C (48-64°F) - ideal for Judean Desert trails and Galilee walks without summer's brutal heat
- Almond blossoms bloom throughout the country creating stunning white and pink landscapes, especially in the Golan Heights and Jerusalem hills
- Shoulder season pricing saves 30-40% on accommodations compared to March-April peak, with hotels averaging ₪400-600 vs ₪700-900
- Minimal crowds at major sites - you can photograph the Western Wall and Dome of the Rock without fighting tourist masses
Considerations
- Unpredictable rain showers (10 rainy days) can disrupt outdoor plans - the weather shifts quickly from sunny to stormy
- Mediterranean beaches are too cold for swimming at 16°C (61°F) water temperature - you'll need indoor alternatives
- Short daylight hours (10.5 hours) limit sightseeing time, with sunset around 5:30 PM cutting afternoon activities short
Best Activities in February
Jerusalem Old City Walking Tours
February's cool temperatures 9-18°C (48-64°F) make walking the cobblestone streets comfortable without summer's exhausting heat. Rain adds dramatic atmosphere to ancient stones, and smaller crowds mean better access to holy sites. The covered bazaars provide perfect shelter during showers.
Dead Sea Float and Spa Treatments
February offers the perfect balance - warm enough for comfortable floating at 22°C (72°F) air temperature, but not the scorching heat that makes summer visits unbearable. The mineral-rich mud treatments feel luxurious in cooler weather, and you can stay in the healing waters longer.
Galilee Hiking and Nature Tours
Cool February weather transforms hiking from an endurance test into pure pleasure. The Sea of Galilee region bursts with green vegetation after winter rains, and wildflowers begin blooming. Trails like Mount Arbel offer stunning views without summer's haze and heat exhaustion risk.
Negev Desert Jeep Expeditions
February transforms the harsh Negev into an accessible adventure playground. Daytime temperatures reach perfect 18°C (64°F) for exploration, while cool nights around 9°C (48°F) make desert camping comfortable. Ramon Crater visits are spectacular with clear air and dramatic lighting.
Tel Aviv Cultural District Tours
February's mild weather makes walking Tel Aviv's neighborhoods ideal - from Bauhaus architecture tours to Carmel Market exploration. The city's covered cultural venues like museums and galleries provide perfect rainy day alternatives, while outdoor cafés remain comfortable with light jackets.
Golan Heights Wine Country Tours
February wine tours offer cozy tasting rooms with fireplaces and spectacular views of snow-capped Mount Hermon. The pruning season provides insight into winemaking processes, and fewer tourists mean more personal attention from vintners. Cool weather enhances wine appreciation.
February Events & Festivals
Tu BiShvat (New Year of the Trees)
This ecological holiday celebrates Israel's connection to the land with tree planting ceremonies and fruit tastings. Experience authentic Israeli environmental consciousness through community events in parks and forests nationwide.
Almond Blossom Festival
The Golan Heights and Jerusalem hills explode with pink and white almond blossoms, creating a spectacular natural display. Local communities organize blossom viewing tours and photography workshops in orchards and nature reserves.