Haifa is the third biggest city of Israel and the economic powerhouse of the country. As the people in Haifa say: Jerusalem is for praying, Tel Aviv for partying, Haifa for working.
The first impression of the city is not always a positive one; this city IS about working. It's not designed for tourists. But if you look a bit closer you will find a fascinating place a multicultural melting pot, where Arab and East European influence blend together. Traditional, contemporary, sophisticated, relaxed, Haifa combines it all. And with many theaters, museums, cinemas, hotels and air-conditioned shopping malls there is plenty to do. And there are some pretty good beaches close to the city.
One of the main attractions is the Carmel mountain, which offers a rich variety of breathtaking panoramas. On the mountain you find the Bahá'í Gardens — a UNESCO World Heritage site centred on the Shrine of the Báb — along with the Gan Ha'em park and a zoo. Another attraction is Kababir, a village integrated in the city of Haifa, populated by Muslim inhabitants belonging to the Ahmadiyya sect. Opposed to all forms of coercion, aggression or violence, they believe that Islam should be spread by information and by persuasion.
A daytrip can be made to the medieval walled fortress city of Acre Directly north you find the heights of Rosh Hanikra, the majestic white cliff, checkpoint on the Israel - Lebanon border. Further east towers the snow capped peak of Mount Hermon.