What are the opening hours?

Summer: 8:00-17:00; Winter: 8:00-16:00. Last entry 1 hour before close.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, about 28 ILS for adults, 14 ILS for children. Included with Israel Nature and Parks Authority membership.

How much time should I spend?

2-3 hours to explore the main ruins and mosaics.

Are there guided tours?

Yes, audio guides available in English, Hebrew, and Arabic. Private guides can be booked in advance.

Is the site accessible for wheelchairs?

Partially accessible; some areas have uneven paths. The main mosaic floor is accessible.

Yes, picnic areas are available. There is also a small café on site.

What is the best way to get there from Tel Aviv?

Drive via Route 6 and Route 79 (about 1.5 hours). Public bus to Nazareth then taxi.

Are there accommodations nearby?

Hotels in Nazareth (10 km) or Kibbutz guesthouses in the Galilee.

Tsippori

CityIsrael, Asia

Tsippori is a CITY in Israel, Asia.

Tsippori (Sepphoris) is a captivating archaeological gem in Israel's Lower Galilee, offering a vivid journey through Jewish, Roman, and Byzantine history. Wander the restored mosaic floors of a 5th-century synagogue depicting zodiac signs, explore a Roman villa with the 'Mona Lisa of the Galilee' mosaic, and climb the ancient water system. The national park blends lush landscapes with hilltop ruins, including a Crusader fortress and a Roman theater. Ideal for history buffs and families, Tsippori provides a serene, educational escape with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Best time to visit Tsippori

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild weather (20-28°C) and blooming landscapes, ideal for exploring ruins. Summer (June-August) is hot (30-35°C) but less crowded; winter (December-February) is cool and rainy, with fewer visitors.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 20-26°C, dry

Travel notes

Crowds: High
Prices: High

Sukkot holiday crowds

Know before you go

Getting there

TLV

Ben Gurion Airport

International

110 km away

HFA

Haifa Airport

Domestic

40 km away

Getting around

"Best by rental car (parking at site). Public buses from Nazareth or Haifa to nearby towns, then a short taxi ride. Taxis are available but limited. Walking is the primary way to explore the park. Guided tours often include transport from major cities."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Free Wi-Fi at the visitor center

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Ben Gurion Airport from $5

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; petty theft rare. Scams minimal, but verify taxi fares.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; petty theft rare. Scams minimal, but verify taxi fares.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Tsippori is very safe for tourists, with low crime rates. The national park is well-maintained and patrolled. Exercise normal precautions: secure valuables, avoid isolated areas at night, and follow park rules. Road conditions are good, but watch for uneven terrain in archaeological sites."

Police

999

Ambulance

112

Entry and health

Health information

"No specific health risks; standard travel insurance recommended. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies are available in nearby Nazareth (10 km). For emergencies, contact Magen David Adom (ambulance) at 112. Carry a basic first-aid kit and stay hydrated, especially in summer."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Greet with 'Shalom' (hello/peace). Tipping 10-15% in restaurants is customary. Respect archaeological sites—do not touch mosaics or remove artifacts. Saturday (Shabbat) may affect public transport and some services."

Hebrew (official)Arabic (official)EnglishRussianFrenchHebrewArabic

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$12 | a meal at a local restaurant costs ~$12

Hotels

$80-120 | budget hotels range $80-120/night in nearby Nazareth

Local transport

$1.50 | local bus ride ~$1.50

Cost notes

Entrance fee to Tsippori National Park is about $8.

Timezone

Asia/Jerusalem
Local time 20:09

More facts

Population

972

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Cippori, Saffuri, Saffuriya, Saffurye, Saffūrye, Seffurieh, Suffuriya, Tsipori, Tsippori, Tzippori, Zippori, zpwry, zypwry, Циппори, ציפורי, צפורי, Ẕippori, تسيبوري, Cipori, Tzipori

CityHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingArchaeological