Tiberias sits in a deep valley well below sea level, giving it a climate that diverges from the rest of Israel. Summers (June–September) are extremely hot and humid — consistently above 35°C — and the heat makes sightseeing uncomfortable in the middle of the day. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times, with temperatures in the mid-20s and reliable sunshine.
Winter (December–February) is mild by Israeli standards — rarely cold enough for frost — and the lake is popular for swimming. The Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) water level is at its highest in late winter and spring after the rains, which affects the appearance of the shoreline dramatically. Passover brings large numbers of Israeli visitors; Lag BaOmer draws particular crowds to the tomb sites.