Part of the Haifa District, Zichron Ya'akov is a characterful town set in the foothills of Mount Carmel. Thanks to its elevated location, it boasts sweeping views over Israel's Coastal Plain and the Mediterranean Sea.
Things to do in Zikhron Ya‘aqov
While Zichron Ya'akov is considered a modern settlement, it's still brimming with history. It was founded in 1882 by a band of Jewish pioneers returning to their homeland from Europe. The First Aliyah Museum recounts the fascinating story of the pioneers using video, clay dioramas and Hebrew newspapers cuttings.
Zichron Ya'akov is anchored by Hameyasdim Street, a bustling thoroughfare lined with leafy palm trees and historic buildings. Today the shopfronts house a mix of sun-dappled cafes, boutique bakeries, sidewalk bistros and colourful artisan stores.
Wine lovers will jump at the chance to visit Carmel Winery, one of Israel’s top vineyards. Just a few years after Zichron Ya'akov was founded, a local winemaker found that the rich soils of Mount Carmel were ideal for grape growing. Today Carmel Winery is the world's largest producer of kosher wine. Visit the tasting room to sip on the estate's wines, brandies and grape juices.
Just outside the town is Ramat HaNadiv, a lush memorial garden dedicated to Baron Edmond de Rothschild. He was one of Zichron Ya'akov's founding fathers and the creator of Carmel Winery. You can stroll around the formal gardens, visit the on-site cafe and take in stunning vistas of the Mediterranean.
Getting around Zikhron Ya‘aqov
The best way to explore Zichron Ya'akov is on foot, thanks to numerous pedestrianised thoroughfares. A handful of local buses also run around the town. Zichron Ya'akov is located 35 kilometres south of Haifa and 70 kilometres north of Tel Aviv.