Tzfat
A Guide for New Olim
Tzfat (Safed), one of Judaism’s four holy cities, is world-renowned for its mystical heritage, artistic energy, and breathtaking mountaintop views. Located in the Upper Galilee, it blends spirituality, creativity, and community life in a slower-paced setting. For Olim, it offers affordable housing, a welcoming community, and a unique cultural experience.
Location
Mountainous Setting: Perched high in the Galilee, overlooking the Golan Heights, Hula Valley, and Sea of Galilee.
Climate Advantage: Cool, dry summers and crisp winters, often with refreshing breezes and occasional snowfall.
Accessibility: ~60 km from Haifa, ~30 km from the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee), ~2.5 hours from Tel Aviv & Ben Gurion Airport.

Spiritual & Mystical Atmosphere: Known as the capital of Kabbalah (Jewish mysticism), attracting spiritual seekers worldwide.
Artist Colony: Famous for its galleries, workshops, and art festivals, many blending Jewish heritage with modern creativity.
Diverse Residents: Mix of religious, traditional, and secular Jews; strong presence of Anglos, French, and other Olim.
Small-Town Feel: Tight-knit, neighborly, with a slower pace than Israel’s coastal cities.

By Car: Route 89 links Tzfat to the Galilee and Haifa. Driving is the most convenient option.
Public Transport: Regular buses to Haifa, Tiberias, Karmiel, and Tel Aviv (though travel times are long).
Airports: ~1 hour to Haifa Airport (regional); ~2.5 hours to Ben Gurion Airport.
Why Olim Choose Tzfat
Affordable housing compared to central Israel.
Spiritual & artistic community — perfect for seekers of meaning, tradition, or creativity.
Tight-knit kehilla (community) with warm Anglo support.
Natural beauty & clean air in a cooler mountain climate.
Peaceful pace of life while still offering cultural richness and tourism opportunities.
Tzfat is ideal for Olim who want affordable living, spiritual depth, and artistic culture — all in a small-town environment with a mystical soul.
Transportation
By Car: Route 89 links Tzfat to the Galilee and Haifa. Driving is the most convenient option.
Public Transport: Regular buses to Haifa, Tiberias, Karmiel, and Tel Aviv (though travel times are long).
Airports: ~1 hour to Haifa Airport (regional); ~2.5 hours to Ben Gurion Airport.




