Haifa Port Guide

The number one attraction in Haifa is the breathtaking Baha'i Gardens and Golden Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring nineteen terraces cascading down the slope of Mount Carmel. It's an unforgettable sight visible from the port.

At the base of the gardens lies the charming German Colony, with its restored Templer-era stone buildings now housing trendy restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.

A popular shore excursion is a short 30-minute trip north to the ancient Crusader city of Acre (Akko). This historic walled port city offers a journey back in time with its incredible underground Knights' Halls, vibrant souk, and picturesque harbor.

For panoramic views of the city and bay, a visit to the Stella Maris Monastery at the top of Mount Carmel is highly recommended.

Many cruise passengers use Haifa as a base to explore the Galilee region. The city of Nazareth, the childhood home of Jesus, is approximately a one-hour drive away and is a major center for Christian pilgrimage.

Further afield, a day trip to the Sea of Galilee (about 90 minutes by car) allows visits to significant biblical sites such as Capernaum, the Mount of Beatitudes, and Tiberias.

South of Haifa, the impressive Roman ruins at Caesarea National Park are another fantastic option, located about 45 minutes from the port and featuring a restored amphitheater and ancient harbor.

The Haifa Port Cruise Terminal is conveniently located right in the downtown area of the city, making it one of the most accessible ports in the Mediterranean. Cruise ships dock directly at the pier, so no tendering is required.

From the terminal, it's a short walk to the main train station and the lower entrance of the famous Baha'i Gardens via the German Colony. Taxis and tour buses are readily available just outside the terminal for passengers wishing to travel further into the city or on shore excursions.

The official currency of Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (ILS). While credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, it's always a good idea to carry some local currency for smaller purchases, markets, or tips.

ATMs are readily available throughout the city, including near the port area. While some vendors in highly touristed areas might accept US Dollars or Euros, the exchange rate will not be favorable. Exchanging a small amount of money or withdrawing from an ATM is the recommended approach.

Haifa is considered a very safe city for tourists, known for its peaceful coexistence among its diverse communities. Standard safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and safeguarding your valuables, are always recommended, as in any major city.

It is generally safe to explore the main tourist areas independently. For destinations further afield like Jerusalem or the Sea of Galilee, booking a guided shore excursion through your cruise line or a reputable local operator is often more practical and efficient due to the distances involved.

Haifa enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with long, hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The main cruise season in spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) offers the most pleasant weather, with warm, sunny days and comfortable temperatures perfect for sightseeing.

Summers (July-August) can be very hot and humid, so lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat are essential. Winters are cooler and can be wet, so a jacket and umbrella are advisable. The region is not prone to hurricanes.

Getting around Haifa is straightforward. Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal, and it's advisable to ensure the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand. Ride-sharing apps like Gett are also popular.

The city has an excellent public bus system. For a unique experience, you can ride the Carmelit, Israel's only subway, which is an underground funicular railway that ascends Mount Carmel.

The Haifa Center HaShmona railway station is just a short walk from the port, offering convenient train services to other cities like Acre (Akko) and Tel Aviv.

For unique shopping, head to the German Colony, where you'll find art galleries and charming boutiques. The Wadi Nisnas neighborhood offers a more authentic experience with its bustling market selling spices, pastries, and local crafts.

For a more conventional shopping trip, the Grand Canyon Mall offers a wide range of international and Israeli brands. Popular souvenirs include Dead Sea cosmetic products, local olive oil, Israeli wine, and religious handicrafts. Haggling is common in markets but not in established stores.