Haifa Walking Tours - Tuesday, September 9, 16:30 - 19:30
1. Sacred Heights: From Stella Maris to Elijah’s Cave
Haifa’s past also carries sanctity. A cave on the slope of Mount Carmel is traditionally seen by Jews as Elijah’s refuge after fleeing Ahab, and by Muslims and Druze as linked to the mysterious Al-Khadir. Above it stands the Stella Maris Monastery, home to the Carmelite Order founded nearby in the 12th century. This tour traces the monastery and its order’s history, then descends a scenic footpath to Elijah’s Cave, exploring beliefs about the prophet across religions from the Hellenistic era to today.
Led by Dotan Brom, licensed tour guide and PhD candidate at Tel Aviv University.
2. Haifa from Above: Views, Colonies, and Carmel Charms
Enjoy a bus tour with viewpoints overlooking Haifa's central locations, including the German Colony, the stunning Bahá'i Gardens, the historic Stella Maris Monastery, and the scenice Louis Promenade. The tour ends at Merkaz HaCarmel, where there are plenty of places for dinner. Its an easy and enjoyable way to learn about the city and its history, with minimal walking required as most of the tour is a bus ride.
3. Stairways and Stories: An Urban Descent into Haifa
Embark on a challenging and rewarding urban hike through the layers of Haifa’s history, architecture, and diversity—perfect for experienced walkers. Starting at Merkaz HaCarmel, we’ll descend the city’s iconic stairways through Upper Hadar, with a stop on Masada Street, home to vibrant street art, cafés, and a bohemian spirit. From there, we continue down through Wadi Salib and into Haifa’s downtown, finishing in the historic port area—where old warehouses, modern culture, and sea breezes meet. A tour that works the legs and opens the eyes.
Accompanied by Dr. Tal Elmaliach, Department of Jewish Studies, University of Haifa
4. Haifa of Many Voices: A Walk Through Coexistence
Explore the vibrant mosaic of cultures, faiths, and communities that define Haifa on this powerful walking tour of coexistence. Guided by Beit HaGefen – the Arab-Jewish Cultural Center, we’ll begin in the heart of the center, stroll through the colorful alleys of Wadi Nisnas, and continue along Ben-Gurion Boulevard, framed by the majestic Baha’i Gardens. Through art, architecture, and local stories, this tour reveals how diversity shapes everyday life in downtown Haifa.
Accompanied by Prof. Moshe Naor and Dr. Elia Etkin, Department of Israel Studies, University of Haifa
5. Urban Echoes: From Wadi Salib to Talpiot Market
Discover the hidden heart of Haifa through a walking tour of the Hadar neighborhood and the iconic Talpiot Market. We’ll begin at the tranquil Memorial Garden and continue along Sirkin Street, exploring local architecture, urban renewal projects, and the vibrant flavors of the market. The tour includes a short break, a walk through historic Wadi Salib, and ends with a visit to a contemporary art gallery in a restored building on Sirkin Street. A unique chance to experience Haifa’s cultural layers up close.
Accompanied Dr. Nir Ratzkovsky, MA Program for Culture Studies, University of Haifa