Plan a trip to Netanya

"Netanya is the essence of Israeli existence," wrote the Israeli poet Yonatan Geffen - and he was right on the mark. 

Over the years, a large influx of immigrants from countries around the world have made the city of Netanya, perhaps our most Mediterranean city, home. As a result, there is a mix of cultures throughout its neighborhoods. Walking from the coast, through Independence Square, to the market, the atmosphere will change quickly. We will pass cafes serving fresh croissants and apple pie with whipped cream, alongside restaurants and stalls selling couscous, falafel, shawarma, Tunisian food, and Iraqi specialties. The city is popular with native vacationers as well as tourists from Europe and South America who enjoy a seaside vacation in this capital of the Sharon region.

Like many areas in Israel, Netanya was born from the vision of a small and unknown Zionist organization, "Bnei Binyamin," which enlisted support from a Jewish New Yorker, Nathan Strauss, the founder of Macy’s Department Store, after whom the city was named. It was originally intended to be an urban center providing services to the farmers of the Sharon region, but, with the outbreak of World War II and the German occupation of much of Europe, the diamond industry moved from Holland and Belgium to Netanya. For many years, Netanya had the largest concentration of diamond polishers in the world, earning it the nickname, the "Diamond City."

The city’s main attraction is its beautiful eight and a half mile- long beach, which is located under the Kurkar Ridge and separates it from the hustle and bustle of the city. In fact, Netanya was a pioneer in marketing sun and sea vacations to tourists from Central Europe, Scandinavia, and the UK, earning its place as an important vacation spot. There are eight bathing areas that offer water sports such as surfing, diving, and paragliding from the high cliffs.

The cliff along the sea has seven promenades with sports facilities and playgrounds, as well as benches where you can take in the tranquil ocean view and the pleasant sea breeze.  

Transportation from Netanya to Haifa, Acre, and Tel Aviv is convenient – there are options of a train, bus, or private taxi.

The city is home to many clothing and jewelry shops as well as excellent restaurants and cafes. Its outdoor market is one of the most beautiful and colorful in Israel, and it has managed to maintain its authenticity and appeal despite all the modern options. The market sells mainly fresh produce, though spices and condiments are also widely available, and the stall owners will gladly share the secrets of how to use them. There are tasting tours of the market available, as well. For dessert, visit the nearby French Quarter which is full of patisseries and bakeries with a French flavor. The Friday flower market is also a colorful and enjoyable visit.

Remember, Israel is not only Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, the Kinneret, and Eilat. Try Netanya – it’s also the real Israel!