Israel officially became an independent country in 1948, but the land itself is about as ancient as it gets. Israel is the only Jewish democratic state in the world and is the sacred home of Judaism as well as Christianity and Islam. The country’s religious and political significance, however, is not all that Israel has to offer. From busting festivals and vibrant cities to breath-taking natural scenery and sun-kissed Mediterranean beaches, this cultural gem is one of the best-kept secrets of the tourism industry. Israel is a small country (around 11 times smaller than the United Kingdom), so it is perfect for travelers who like to immerse themselves in a destination and take in everything it has to offer.

If you are considering potential destinations for your next holiday, here are just four amazing reasons to visit the country of Israel.

Israel is a place of huge religious significance

The country’s capital city, Jerusalem, is the holy city of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, and as such it is home to some of the most important places of pilgrimage in the world including the Western Wall, Dome of the Rock, Temple Mount, Aqsa Mosque, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. There is also the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial and Safed (the cradle of Jewish mysticism) to visit, and if you want to you can walk along the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Whether you are a religious person or not, visiting these sites and experiencing the spiritual energy that emanates from them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

It is a cultural and historical treasure trove

What it lacks in size, Israel more than makes up for in cultural and historical significance with a heritage that spans back to pre-biblical times. To name just a few, Masada (which sits at the edge of the Judean desert) is the mountainous stronghold where Jews defended the country from the ancient Romans. The Caesarea Roman ruins can be seen above ground and via an underwater tour, and you can’t miss Akko’s Crusader ramparts in Akko, the Western Wall in Jerusalem, or St. Mary’s Well in Nazareth. To ensure that you see all the major sights and attractions and make the most of your holiday, you should contact an Israel tour operator.

The vibrant city of Tel Aviv

Despite its history, Israel has its own modern cities and towns that offer vibrant nightlife, excellent shopping, contemporary architecture, and delicious cuisine. Tel Aviv is the center of urban life in Israel with beaches that run the entire length of the city as well as sky-high towers and Bauhaus architecture from the 1930s. Click here for things to do in Tel Aviv.

Israel is full of natural beauty

Israel boasts a Mediterranean coast with beautiful beaches not far from the cities, but the rest of the landscape is surprisingly varied. The Negev Desert is a fantastic place not just to see, but to experience thanks to the camel rides, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling trails and more. There are also plenty of inns, cabins, and spas to enjoy after a day of exploring the desert. Other natural attractions include the Dead Sea, the lush green valleys of the Galilee region and the Israeli wine country. In addition, with a Mediterranean climate of around 70-90ºF and year-round sunshine, there is no bad time to enjoy Israel’s natural wonders.