Beersheba

Beersheba is the final city before the vast Negev Desert, which swallows up half of Israel. Spend a pleasant few days getting to know the city, exploring its markets and the crumbling Turkish Town (Old City), and enjoying some traditional Bedouin foods.

Abraham and Isaac, two important figures in the Bible, are believed to have dug their well in Beersheba. Visit Abraham’s Well archaeological site to see a 12th-century well and learn more about the city’s biblical history.

The old city dates from the beginning of the 20th century and was built by the Turks in a grid pattern. Amble along the streets to see impressive Ottoman buildings. There are excellent restaurants nestled within the neighborhood. In one of the Ottoman buildings, which once acted as the city’s town hall, is the Negev Museum of Art. See a range of changing exhibitions including contemporary and early Israeli art.

A short distance from the old city is the Beersheba War Cemetery where British, Australian and New Zealand World War I soldiers who died battling the Turks were laid to rest. A little further outside of the city is the open-air Air Force Museum. Get a fascinating glimpse into the Israel Defence Force’s (IDF) aviation history as you get up close with air force jets and helicopters.

Among Beersheba’s biggest treats are its markets. Amble through the town market and sample some of the traditional baked goods, cheeses, vegetables or freshly prepared street food such as the famous falafel or hummus.

Beersheba is easily accessible by public bus from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and is also on the train line. Rent a car, however, if you want to venture into the desert beyond. Getting around the city itself is easy on foot or by bus or taxi. Join the Beersheba University students at one of the city’s hip nightlife venues for a truly local night out.