Israelis Flock Abroad for Holidays: Top Destinations and Costs Revealed

Over 3 million passengers are expected to travel through Israeli airports during the upcoming autumn holidays, with approximately 2.5 million passing through Ben Gurion Airport. Four specific days, September 10, 17, 22, and 25, are projected to see around 100,000 passengers each day, indicating a significant surge in international travel.

The most popular destinations for Israelis are showing a predictable trend: seaside locations and short flights remain dominant. While Greece and Cyprus continue to be favorites, Italy, the UAE, Georgia, and various European capitals are increasingly sought after. The article highlights ten top destinations and provides estimated costs, noting that prices fluctuate daily, especially during the holiday period.

Greece is a primary choice for short getaways, offering numerous direct flights and warm seas in September. Islands like Rhodes, Crete, and Kos are popular for a summer-like vacation without long travel. Prices for package deals around Rosh Hashanah were around $546-$551 per person for Rhodes and Kos, and from €619 for Crete. Shorter trips for families of three to four can range from 6,000 to 10,000 shekels.

Cyprus remains an ideal, affordable option for short trips, with flights taking about an hour. Larnaca and Paphos offer beaches, dining, and accommodation for various budgets. Israelis constituted 13% of Cyprus's tourist flow in 2025. Round-trip flights could be found for as low as $85 in late August, with package deals starting from €329-€487 per person. A short trip for a couple might cost 3,500 to 6,000 shekels.

Italy is attractive in September as the heat subsides and the tourist season winds down. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice appeal to those interested in culture and dining over beach activities. Italy ranks among the top five destinations, accounting for about 6.8% of Ben Gurion's international passenger traffic in 2026. Flight prices to Sicily were around $93 round-trip, and El Al flights to Rome started at $418. A four-to-five-night trip for a couple in a major city could cost 5,000 to 9,000 shekels.

The UAE, particularly Dubai, has become a common destination for guaranteed sun, good hotels, and shopping. It ranks high in passenger traffic from Ben Gurion, holding the top spot in January 2026 statistics with 173,695 passengers. However, costs for accommodation, dining, and transport can significantly increase the budget, with a four-night trip for a couple estimated at 6,000 to 10,000 shekels, potentially exceeding 12,000 for luxury options.

The United States is chosen for longer stays, with New York, Miami, and Los Angeles being major draws. Passenger traffic between Israel and the U.S. saw a roughly 70% increase in 2026 compared to 2025. Flights alone can cost $700-$1200 or more, with a week-long trip for a couple potentially costing 12,000 to 20,000 shekels.

Georgia, with Tbilisi and Batumi, is a popular budget-friendly option due to short flights, affordable food, and accommodation. It accounted for about 5.4% of Ben Gurion's passenger traffic in the first half of 2026, with a 17% year-on-year increase. Round-trip flights to Tbilisi were around $415, and a four-to-five-day trip for a couple could cost 4,000 to 7,000 shekels.

Bulgaria, specifically Varna and Burgas, offers a seaside experience at a lower cost than Greece. September weather is still suitable for beach activities. Package deals to Burgas were around $421 per person for Rosh Hashanah, with other September options starting from €309. A short trip for a family of four might cost 5,000 to 8,000 shekels.

Hungary, with Budapest, is a favored city break destination, especially for Sukkot, offering thermal baths, restaurants, and relatively inexpensive hotels. It's considered among the top city destinations for Israelis, alongside Prague and Krakow. A package deal for a couple could be around €359 per person, with a four-day trip costing 4,500 to 7,000 shekels.

France, particularly Paris, remains a significant European destination despite higher costs, attracting those seeking urban exploration. France accounts for about 6.6% of Ben Gurion's passenger traffic, with a 40% increase year-on-year. A four-to-five-day trip for a couple in Paris is estimated at 7,000 to 11,000 shekels.

Germany, including Munich, is notable this season, ranking in the top six destinations in August. The Oktoberfest, starting September 19, 2026, significantly increases hotel costs, especially on weekends. A standard four-day trip for a couple might cost 6,000 to 9,000 shekels, rising to 10,000-13,000 or more during Oktoberfest.

The article emphasizes that Israelis are seeking both travel opportunities and value, favoring destinations with short flights and affordable accommodation. While specific dates around holidays drive up prices, the overall cost comparison shows Cyprus, Greece, Bulgaria, and Georgia as the most accessible. Mid-range European destinations like Italy, Hungary, Germany, and France require more budget, while the UAE and U.S. represent the higher end. The total cost of a trip depends not only on the flight but also on accommodation, baggage, car rentals, and transfers, with last-minute bookings being more expensive.

Beyond the financial aspect, travel is noted to improve well-being, reduce stress, and aid recovery from work. Research suggests even short trips can have a positive impact on psychological health, though the effects may diminish upon returning to work. The article concludes by advising travelers to allocate extra time for airport procedures due to expected high passenger volumes at Ben Gurion Airport.