Only about the size of New Jersey, Israel is a fascinating and dynamic country. As a major historic, religious, cultural, and business center, it’s also a popular spot for leisure and business travel. The spectacular geography and unique sites can make running in Israel a real treat.
Our approach when developing our Israel running guide is to recommend the top routes in some of the major centers and visitor destinations. We have comprehensive coverage of the best places to run in the cities of Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa, as well as popular spots such as Tiberias and the Sea of Galilee, Nahariya and Acre, the famous Masada/Dead Sea/Ein Gedi area, and the southern resort town of Eilat, where nearby there is also unique running in the Negev desert at Timna National Park.
A couple of notes about running in Israel: be aware of historical sites and cultural sensitivities — ask before you run. Also, many of the main secondary roads are very traffickey and don’t have sidewalks, so use caution. And although Israel’s climate is among its attractions, summers are very hot — dangerously so in the desert.
v has a combination Mediterranean and desert climate. Summers are hot and humid, with high temperatures averaging 90F+ (32C), and hardly any rainfall between May and October. Winters can be rainier, with average high temperatures in January around 60F. Nighttime temperatures in winter can be cool, but rarely below freezing. Generally the weather is good all year for running but be aware of the summer hear and humidity.
Jerusalem has a Mediterranean climate, but moderated by its altitude. It’s pleasant nearly year-round for running. Summers are warm to hot, with high temps 80–85F (26–29C). Winters can be cool, with average highs in January around 54F (12C), and chilly evenings, around 4C. Temps occasionally go below freezing. Snow is rare. Winters can be rainy. Summers are very dry with virtually no rain between May and October. Jerusalem’s weather is much more pleasant than Tel Aviv’s in the summer.