Cafe Georgia, below south eastern end of Louis Promenade
1 / 10

Carmelit Haifa

4.5
·15 reviews·Haifa, Israel

Haifa's unique underground funicular, the world's shortest subway, offering a quick and nostalgic ride up Mount Carmel.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings/afternoons

Fewer crowds, smoother rides

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Cafe Georgia, below south eastern end of Louis Promenade

Carmelit Haifa

Best Time

Weekday mornings/afternoons

Fewer crowds, smoother rides

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Haifa's unique underground funicular, the world's shortest subway, offering a quick and nostalgic ride up Mount Carmel.

4.5
(15 reviews)

"It is very convenient and fast to get from the lower city of Haifa to the very top of the central Carmel - in about 10 minutes."

Vertical photo
TIP

Shortest Subway Experience

Ride the Carmelit, the world's shortest subway, for a quick and unique journey up Mount Carmel! :train2:

Great Views from the Top

Exit at the Carmel Center for stunning panoramic views of Haifa Bay and the city. :cityscape:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The World's Shortest Subway

The World's Shortest Subway

Entire line

Experience the unique charm of the Carmelit, a funicular subway connecting Haifa's lower city to Mount Carmel.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Carmel Center Station

Step out at the top for breathtaking views of Haifa Bay, the Baháʼí Gardens, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Nostalgic Underground Journey

Nostalgic Underground Journey

Throughout the tunnel

Enjoy a quick, nostalgic ride through tunnels carved into Mount Carmel, a truly unique urban transit experience.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds on the Carmelit

The Carmelit, Haifa's unique underground funicular, is a quick way to ascend Mount Carmel. To avoid the busiest times, aim for weekdays outside of peak commuting hours. Weekends can be more crowded with tourists and locals alike.

Understand the Carmelit's Scope

While often called a subway, the Carmelit is actually the world's shortest subway line with only six stations. It's a funicular designed for efficient vertical transport, connecting the lower city to the Carmel Center. Plan your journey accordingly, as it's not an extensive network.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings/afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, smoother rides
Crowd
Low
When
Friday evenings
Why
Post-Shabbat buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

اكيييد ودكم بحلا سهل وسريع ينقذكم بجمعاتكم🤔 عشاااان كذاا اكيد بنضبطكم بهالحلا اللذيذ😎 المكرملة سهل وسريع وماياخذ وقت لازم تجربونه 👌🏻 _________________________________ . ❤️ حلا المكرملة (السميد المكرمش ) ❤️ . للعجينة 🌺 ١ كوب سميد ١كوب دقيق + رشة ملح ١ملعقة كبيرة سكر ١ ملعقة صغيرة خميرة ١/٢ ملعقة صغيرة باكينج باودر ١/٤ كوب زيت ١٦٠مل حليب أو ماء = ٢/٣ كوب . الطريقة 🌺 ١- نخلط المقادير معاً ونعج...
@15smeals
85.6K likes • 3.4M views

Shortest Subway Experience

Ride the Carmelit, the world's shortest subway, for a quick and unique journey up Mount Carmel! :train2: TikTok

Great Views from the Top

Exit at the Carmel Center for stunning panoramic views of Haifa Bay and the city. :cityscape: Instagram

Bahai gardens - Haifa 🥰
@check.your2
39.1K likes • 330.3K views
El Carmelit- Hasta ahora el único metro en Israel. Uno de mis Recomendados al ir a Haifa es subirlo, puedes bajar en el carmel center y disfrutar del mirador en el Paseo Marítimo Louis y disfrutar de una panorámica de la ciudad viendo el mar, los jardines...todo una postal. Conoce más del Carmelit y cosas por hacer en Haifa en el video del canal. LINK EN MI BIO. Descubre Israel En Israel con G...
ginigomez
32 likes • 658 views

Connects Lower & Upper City

Efficiently travel between Haifa's lower areas and the Carmel Center in just minutes. :rocket: Reddit

Nostalgic Ride

Enjoy a charming, nostalgic experience on this historic funicular subway. :heart: Reddit

Carmelit 🚇❤️ יש משו קסום בכרמלית, נסעתי בלא מעט רכבות ומטרו בעולם ועדיין היא האהובה עלי. . . . #subway #carmelit #haifa #haifaholics #haifacity #כרמלית #חיפה #ilovehaifa #subwaytrain
annabunnylev
100 likes • 3.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Shortest Subway Experience

Ride the Carmelit, the world's shortest subway, for a quick and unique journey up Mount Carmel! :train2: TikTok

Great Views from the Top

Exit at the Carmel Center for stunning panoramic views of Haifa Bay and the city. :cityscape: Instagram

Connects Lower & Upper City

Efficiently travel between Haifa's lower areas and the Carmel Center in just minutes. :rocket: Reddit

Nostalgic Ride

Enjoy a charming, nostalgic experience on this historic funicular subway. :heart: Reddit

Limited Stations

Remember, it only has six stations, so plan your stops carefully! :station: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(15 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Travelers praise the Carmelit for its convenience and efficiency in connecting Haifa's lower and upper sections, often calling the ride nostalgic and a time-saver. While its unique funicular design is a highlight, some wish for more stations and consistent weekend availability.

"A convenient and efficient way to get from one area to another within Haifa"

Assaf Golany

"It is very convenient and fast to get from the lower city of Haifa to the very top of the central Carmel - in about 10 minutes. By bus 35-40 minutes. By the way, there is a video on my YouTube channel, the name of the channel is the same."

Irina LIV ISRAEL

"A nostalgic experience.....
Excellent, good that it has reopened"

Anton Said

What People Like

Convenient and fast travel
Nostalgic experience
Great city views

What People Dislike

Limited stations
Weekend availability issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Carmelit has six stations connecting the lower city to the Mount Carmel area. You can access it from various points in Haifa, with key stations like HaNeviim and Carmel Center. It's a great way to navigate the city's inclines. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the stations are generally well-marked. The most prominent access points are in the lower city and at the Carmel Center. Look for signs indicating the Carmelit subway. Instagram

Absolutely! Haifa has a robust bus system that can take you to various Carmelit stations. It's a convenient way to combine different modes of transport. Reddit

Ride it from a lower station to the Carmel Center for incredible views, then explore the area. You can also use it to hop between different neighborhoods on Mount Carmel. Instagram

Historically, there have been limitations on weekend service. It's best to check the latest operating hours before your visit, as availability can vary. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Fares are typically very affordable, similar to a standard bus ride in Haifa. You can usually purchase tickets at the station or use a rechargeable travel card. Instagram

Tickets can be purchased at the ticket machines located within the Carmelit stations. Some stations may also have staff available. Instagram

While specific Carmelit passes might not be common, your Haifa public transport card (like Rav-Kav) is usually valid for use on the Carmelit, offering convenience if you're using other public transport. Instagram

Operating hours can vary, especially on weekends and holidays. It's recommended to check the official Carmelit website or local transport apps for the most up-to-date schedule. Reddit

No, there is no separate entrance fee to access the Carmelit stations. You only pay for your ride once you board the funicular. Instagram

🎫 🚊 Onsite Experience

The Carmelit is famous for being the world's shortest subway line and operates as an underground funicular with a single carriage on a single track. TikTokInstagram

A full journey from the bottom to the top of Mount Carmel typically takes around 10 minutes, making it a very efficient way to travel. Reddit

While the ride itself is mostly through tunnels, exiting at the Carmel Center station offers spectacular panoramic views of Haifa Bay and the surrounding areas. Instagram

Accessibility can be a challenge due to its unique funicular design and older infrastructure. It's advisable to check with the Carmelit operator for specific accessibility information for each station. Instagram

Some stations, like HaNeviim, have been part of art festivals, featuring street art and performances, adding a cultural dimension to the transit experience. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Carmel Center station exit offers the most iconic photo opportunities with sweeping views of Haifa. The Baháʼí Gardens are also a must-see nearby. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can take photos inside the funicular and at the stations. The unique design of the train and tunnels can make for interesting shots. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always wise to be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography, especially of staff. Instagram

Capture the funicular's unique design, the underground tunnels, and the contrast between the urban transit and the stunning city views from the top. Instagram+1

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the cityscape and bay. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Carmelit offers a fun and novel experience for children, often feeling like a miniature adventure. Riding the unique funicular subway is exciting, and the quick journey means little ones won't get bored. TikTok The panoramic views from the Carmel Center station are also a big hit, providing a fantastic 'wow' moment for the whole family. Instagram

Tips for families: Ensure you check operating hours, as weekend availability can be limited. While the stations are generally accessible, the funicular itself might require some assistance with strollers. The short ride time makes it manageable, and it's a great way to avoid tired legs after exploring the city. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

The Carmelit is an incredibly budget-friendly way to experience Haifa. As a public transport system, its fares are very affordable, making it an excellent alternative to taxis or private tours for getting around the city's hilly terrain. InstagramReddit

Key benefits: You can travel from the lower city to the upper city for a minimal cost, saving money that can be spent on other experiences. The views from the top are free, offering immense value. Consider using a rechargeable public transport card for even more convenience and potential savings if you plan on using other forms of transport in Haifa. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Carmelit offers a unique blend of urban transit and stunning vistas. The funicular itself, with its underground tunnels and distinct design, provides interesting photographic subjects. Instagram The real prize, however, is the view from the Carmel Center station. Instagram

Photo opportunities: Capture the Carmelit in action, the geometric patterns of the tunnels, and the dramatic cityscape from the top. The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the best light for panoramic shots of Haifa Bay and the Baháʼí Gardens. Don't miss the chance to photograph the contrast between the modern city and the historic funicular. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Carmelit: Haifa's Unique Funicular

The Carmelit is not your typical subway system; it's a unique underground funicular railway that serves as a vital public transport link in Haifa. Famous for being the world's shortest subway line, it boasts only six stations and operates with a single carriage on a single track, carved into the side of Mount Carmel. This distinctive design makes it a fascinating piece of urban engineering and a must-try experience for visitors. TikTokInstagram

The Carmelit was originally opened in 1959 and has undergone renovations to maintain its service. Its primary function is to efficiently connect the lower parts of Haifa with the central Carmel area, saving considerable time compared to surface transportation, especially given the city's hilly terrain. The journey is quick, taking only about 10 minutes to ascend from the bottom to the top. Reddit

Riding the Carmelit offers a glimpse into Haifa's innovative approach to public transit. The experience is often described as nostalgic, with the underground tunnels and the gentle incline of the funicular creating a memorable journey. It's more than just transportation; it's a historical and engineering marvel that adds a unique character to the city. InstagramReddit

Navigating Haifa with the Carmelit

The Carmelit is an essential tool for navigating Haifa's challenging topography. It provides a swift and direct connection between the bustling lower city and the elevated Carmel Center, where many attractions and viewpoints are located. This makes it incredibly convenient for tourists looking to maximize their sightseeing time without the hassle of steep climbs or winding bus routes. Instagram

Key stations include HaNevi'im in the lower city, which is often a starting point, and Carmel Center, the uppermost station. Exiting at Carmel Center rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of Haifa Bay, the Baháʼí Gardens, and the Mediterranean Sea – a perfect spot for photography. TikTokInstagram The funicular's efficiency means you can easily access these views and then descend back down for further exploration. Reddit

While the Carmelit has limited stations, its strategic placement makes it a valuable part of the city's transport network. It's particularly useful for reaching areas around the Carmel Center, including parks, shopping districts, and access points to the famous Baháʼí Gardens. Planning your itinerary around the Carmelit's route can significantly enhance your Haifa experience. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2