Apollonia National Park
Explore ancient Crusader fortress ruins and Roman villa remnants perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning sunsets
Apollonia National Park
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning sunsets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient Crusader fortress ruins and Roman villa remnants perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
"One of the most beautiful places in Israel, a short 20 minutes drive from Tel Aviv."
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Catch the magical Mediterranean sunset from the clifftops for unforgettable views.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the ancient ruins and walking paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crusader Fortress Ruins
The main citadel area
Explore the remnants of the 13th-century fortress, a strategic stronghold with a rich history.

Mediterranean Sea Vistas
Clifftop viewpoints
Enjoy panoramic, breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for photography.

Roman Villa & Byzantine Kilns
Lower sections of the park
Discover ancient Roman villa remains and remnants of Byzantine glass kilns, showcasing earlier settlements.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Views & Fewer Crowds
Accessibility & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Catch the magical Mediterranean sunset from the clifftops for unforgettable views.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the ancient ruins and walking paths.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Shaded picnic spots are available.
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
The park is a short drive from Tel Aviv with convenient, shaded parking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Catch the magical Mediterranean sunset from the clifftops for unforgettable views.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the ancient ruins and walking paths.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Shaded picnic spots are available.
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
The park is a short drive from Tel Aviv with convenient, shaded parking.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
This spot is a photographer's dream with stunning coastal backdrops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Apollonia National Park's stunning Mediterranean views and rich historical significance, calling it a must-see attraction near Tel Aviv. The park is praised for its accessibility, reasonable entrance fee, and family-friendly atmosphere, with many highlighting the beautiful sunsets and well-maintained grounds. Some minor drawbacks include limited vegan food options and a less imaginative gift shop.
"One of the most beautiful places in Israel, a short 20 minutes drive from Tel Aviv. Easy had shaded parking, cheap entrance ticket, and accessibility impeccable. The kids loved it, it was not packed with tourists (we were there on Saturday) , and the view... Not enough words to describe it. I have lived in Israel for 14+ years and was stunned."
Elke A.
"Definitely a must-see attraction in the Herzliya area. Plenty of ancient history, beautiful views from the top, woven in some fun activities for the kids but enjoyable for adults too. Catapult demonstration is kind of interesting. Lots of different walking paths to spend time on different paths. Plenty of shaded spots with tables for picnics, water fountains, and restrooms as well. Entrance fee is reasonable and the sunsets are amazing. Access via foot path is not bad, walked up from the city center (Acadia beach) via the trail/community roads along the coastline."
Victor Wang
"Great view to the sea. Perfect photo spot. Wheelchair accessible. Picknick tables available. Clean and well kept.
This is both a Crusader city (ruined) and castle with ongoing archaeological excavations built upon earlier Roman, Byzantine and Islamic structures. Great for kids and adults alike."
Martin Telinius
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Apollonia National Park is conveniently located about 15-20 minutes north of Tel Aviv by car. There is ample shaded parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so driving or taking a taxi is recommended.
While direct public transport to the park entrance is not common, you can take a bus towards Herzliya and then a short taxi ride. Some visitors have walked from nearby beaches like Acadia Beach via coastal trails.
From Tel Aviv, take Highway 2 North and exit towards Herzliya. Follow signs for Apollonia National Park (also known as Arsuf). The park is well-signposted.
Yes, there is plenty of shaded parking available at the park entrance, which is a significant plus for visitors arriving by car.
While some visitors have mentioned walking from nearby areas like Acadia Beach via coastal trails, it's generally recommended to reach the park by vehicle due to its location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is quite reasonable, around 22 ILS per adult, making it an affordable historical site to visit.
The park is generally open daily, but it's always a good idea to check the official Israel Nature and Parks Authority website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for seasonal changes.
Advance booking is usually not required for Apollonia National Park, but it's advisable to check their official website during peak seasons or holidays.
Yes, guided tours are often offered, typically around 11:30 AM. It's recommended to inquire about the schedule upon arrival or check the park's information beforehand.
Absolutely! Children often love exploring the ancient ruins and imagining life in the fortress. There are also some fun activities like catapult demonstrations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the well-preserved ruins of a Crusader fortress, remnants of a Roman villa, Byzantine glass kilns, and enjoy stunning Mediterranean Sea views. There are also walking paths and picnic areas.
Yes, the park is largely wheelchair accessible with paved paths, making it enjoyable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Yes, there are plenty of shaded spots with tables available for picnics, making it a great place to spend a few hours.
The site has a long history, dating back to the Persian period, with subsequent periods of Roman, Byzantine, Crusader, and Mamluk rule. It was known as Arsuf during the Crusader era.
The park offers engaging elements for children, including historical reenactments and sometimes catapult demonstrations, making history come alive.
📸 📸 Photography
The clifftop viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean Sea offer spectacular photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. The ancient ruins themselves also make for dramatic shots.
Yes, it's considered a perfect photo spot due to the combination of historical ruins and the stunning coastal scenery.
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provide the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow on the ruins and sea.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with the park authorities or the Israel Nature and Parks Authority for current rules regarding drone operation within national parks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea views and ruins. A telephoto lens can be useful for details within the fortress. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the sea.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for any special events or demonstrations, like catapult displays, which can add an extra layer of excitement for younger visitors. The proximity to the beach also means you can combine a historical exploration with some seaside fun.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Consider visiting in the late afternoon to witness a spectacular sunset over the sea, creating a romantic or contemplative atmosphere. The park is also a great spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture unique historical and natural landscapes.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to explore the different sections, including the Roman villa and Byzantine kilns, and imagine the lives of those who inhabited this strategic coastal location. The ongoing archaeological work suggests there are still many stories waiting to be uncovered.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of Apollonia
The park showcases remnants of a Roman villa, offering a glimpse into domestic life from antiquity. You can also explore the foundations of a Byzantine-era glass kiln, highlighting ancient craftsmanship. The well-preserved Crusader fortress, with its imposing walls and strategic layout, is a testament to medieval military architecture. Ongoing archaeological excavations continue to uncover more secrets of this ancient settlement.
Walking through Apollonia is like stepping back in time. The blend of different historical periods, from ancient to medieval, provides a rich and immersive experience. The site's dramatic location on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea adds to its allure, making it a significant historical and scenic destination.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography at Apollonia
When exploring the ruins, experiment with different angles to capture the grandeur of the Crusader fortress and the intricate details of the Roman villa. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for encompassing the expansive landscapes, while telephoto lenses can be used to focus on specific architectural elements or distant sea views. Consider using a polarizing filter to deepen the blue of the sky and sea, and to reduce glare on wet surfaces after rain.
Beyond the main historical sites, the park's natural beauty, including the rugged coastline and occasional wildflowers, offers additional photographic opportunities. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking to discover all the best vantage points.
A Family Adventure: Exploring Apollonia with Kids
Interactive elements, such as occasional catapult demonstrations or historical reenactments, can further captivate young minds. The park's accessibility, with paved paths and shaded picnic areas, ensures a comfortable experience for families. Bringing along snacks and drinks is a good idea, and the nearby beach offers a fun way to cool off after exploring the historical site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit