Arad Travel Guide

Today in Israel: Seventh day of Passover (29 Apr) More

Seventh day of Passover (Shvi'i shel Pesach) is celebrated on both the seventh and eighth days of Passover. This holiday commemorates the day the Children of Israel reached the Red Sea and witnessed both the miraculous "Splitting of the Sea", the drowning of all the Egyptian chariots, horses and soldiers that pursued them, and the Passage of the Red Sea. According to the Midrash, only the Pharaoh was spared to give testimony to the miracle that occurred.

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located in the southern part of Israel's HaDarom region, Arad is a city that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and vibrant local culture. With its strategic position between the Judean Desert and the Negev Desert, Arad attracts visitors from all over the world, seeking an authentic Israeli experience.

One of the main attractions in Arad is Tel Arad, an ancient archaeological site that dates back to the Canaanite period. Here, visitors can explore the ruins of a fortress and a well-preserved temple, providing insight into the region's rich history. The site also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.

For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Masada National Park is a must-visit destination. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its dramatic cliff-top fortress, offering stunning vistas of the Dead Sea and the desert. Visitors can hike up the Snake Path or take a cable car to the top, where they can explore the ancient ruins and learn about the heroic story of the Jewish rebels who defended Masada against Roman conquest.

Arad is also known for its vibrant arts scene. The Arad Center of Arts and Culture hosts various exhibitions, performances, and workshops throughout the year, showcasing the talents of local artists and musicians. Additionally, the annual Arad Festival brings together artists from across Israel and the world, offering a diverse range of music, dance, theater, and visual arts.

After a day of exploring, visitors can indulge in the local cuisine. Arad is home to several restaurants and cafes that serve delicious traditional Israeli dishes, as well as international cuisine. Whether it's falafel, hummus, or freshly baked pastries, food enthusiasts will find a wide range of options to satisfy their taste buds.

Local name: ערד Founded: 1962 (62 years ago)Population: 23.7 thous. (2020)Area: 35.96 mi²Elevation: 2014 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 31°15'42"N, 35°12'51"E

Location

HaDaromIsrael

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Arad Top Attractions

Arad Attractions - What to See and Explore

Arad offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Tel Arad National Park, Glass Art Museum, Arad Museum, Southern Fortress. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

City • Ruins • Universities and schools
Tel Arad National Park
Tel Arad is an archaeological tel, or mound, located west of the Dead Sea, about 10 kilometres west of the modern Israeli city of Arad in an area surrounded by mountain ridges which is known as the Arad Plain.
31°14'54"N • 35°11'38"E
Glass Art Museum
Specialty museum • Museum
31°15'31"N • 35°12'33"E
Arad Museum
Museum

31°18'46"N • 35°21'10"E
Southern Fortress
View point
31°14'51"N • 35°11'40"E
"Eshet Lot" – The artists' quarter
Art gallery • Shopping • Museum
31°15'18"N • 35°12'32"E
Psl hbwlbwsym
Monuments and statues
31°15'25"N • 35°12'39"E
Oron
Concerts and shows • Theater
31°15'18"N • 35°12'32"E
Ndrt lnwplym bmlhmt sst hymym
Memorial

Day trips

Arad – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Arad, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Ben Yehuda Street (Jerusalem), Western Wall (Jerusalem), Yad Vashem (Jerusalem).

36 milesN
Street, Shopping district, Shopping
Ben Yehuda Street, Jerusalem
Ben Yehuda Street, nestled in the heart of Jerusalem, Israel, is a vibrant shopping district that pulses with the city's unique blend of ancient tradition and contemporary culture. Known locally as the "Midrachov," this pedestrian mall is a lively hub where locals...
36 milesN
Ancient sacred site for Jewish prayer
Western Wall, Jerusalem
The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, is a place of profound historical and spiritual significance located in the Old City of Jerusalem, Israel. This ancient limestone wall is a remnant of the Second Jewish Temple, which was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE.
35 milesN
Holocaust memorial and education center
Yad Vashem, Jerusalem
Yad Vashem, located in the western region of Jerusalem, Israel, is a poignant testament to the Holocaust, serving as the world's primary memorial to the six million Jews who perished during World War II. Established in 1953, this museum complex is dedicated...
36 milesN
Hilltop compound of religious sites
Temple Mount, Jerusalem
The Temple Mount, a site of profound historical and religious significance, stands prominently in the Old City of Jerusalem, Israel. This ancient elevated platform, revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, has been a focal point of worship and conflict for...
36 milesN
Islamic shrine housing Foundation Stone
Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem
The Dome of the Rock, an iconic shrine located in the heart of Jerusalem, is a revered landmark that holds profound significance for both the city and the world. This stunning piece of architecture, completed in 691 CE, is not only one of the oldest Islamic structures...