A Tourist's Guide to Shopping in Israel: Best Souvenirs and Breezy Collectibles

When you think of visiting Israel, one of the top things you might look forward to is shopping for unique and meaningful souvenirs. Whether it's for yourself or as a gift, this vibrant country has a wealth of options to choose from. In this guide, we'll explore the best things to buy in Israel as a tourist.

What Should You Buy in Israel as a Tourist?

When visiting Israel, you should buy whatever you can afford and that truly speaks to you as a meaningful memento of your trip. Whatever that may be is very personal. It's customary to pick up something that symbolizes your own faith tradition and is crafted in Israel. With a variety of popular and traditional items, there's something for every traveler.

Traditional and Symbolic Souvenirs

Some traditional items you might consider purchasing include:

Carved Olive Wood Trinkets: These items are quite popular and often feature religious themes. They make great souvenirs for both personal collection and gift-giving. Hamsas: A symbol of protection, Hamsas are inexpensive yet meaningful. They make excellent gifts and are beautifully ornate, perfect for adding a touch of Middle Eastern decor to your home. Hanukkiah: For those celebrating Hanukkah, a new and larger Hanukkiah can serve as a special addition to your home. Antiquities: For history buffs, certified antiquities can be quite expensive but are fascinating. Consider acquiring something you genuinely love. Jewelry: Israel is renowned for its stunning jewelry, offering pieces that are both elegant and culturally significant. Trivets: Whether cooking or simply decorating, trivets make perfect home accessories. You can find them in various styles and at different price points. Art: Explore Israel's vibrant art scene and find pieces that capture your interest. Prices vary, making it easy to find the perfect item.

Personal Favorites from Recent Trips

On my last trip to Israel, I picked up several items that resonated with me:

A T-shirt in Hebrew: While overpriced, it was a fun souvenir. Hamsas: Inexpensive and perfect for friends and home decor. A new and more expensive Hanukkiah for the mantle: A lovely addition to my home. Antiquities: Some expensive but cherished finds. Bracha Lavee Art Prints: Beautiful and affordable prints by a local artist. A glass 'defeat the evil eye' bead: Common in Middle Eastern countries and easy to find. A bumper sticker: A polite reminder to not tailgate in Hebrew. Refrigerator Magnets: These are a fun collectible for yours truly. A Hat: Found at Beth She'an National Archeological Park, a stunning site not to miss.

Where to Shop in Israel

Israel offers a variety of shopping destinations where you can find these items:

Tel Aviv Museum of Modern Art: Here, you can find unique trivets and other home accessories. Small Souvenir Stores: Netanya and other cities have charming stores where you can find affordable Hamsas and other gifts. Daliat el-Karmel: Known for its vibrant Druze culture, this area offers colorful and locally made fabrics and textiles.

Throw in a Beach Towel for Good Measure

While a beach towel might not be a traditional souvenir, it can be a practical addition to your purchases. During my recent trip, I bought a beach towel because I didn't bring one. Although I don't consider it a souvenir, it's a useful travel accessory.

Ultimately, consider what you want to own or have in your home that would represent a meaningful token of your trip to Israel. Whether it's a cultural item or a personal memento, buying what resonates with you makes for the most fulfilling and cherished souvenirs.

Related Keywords

When planning your trip, keep these keywords in mind:

souvenirs in israel israeli crafts israeli gifts hamsas antiquities jewelry trivets Daliat el-Karmel Tel Aviv Museum of Modern Art