Apollonia National Park - a group of trees in a grassy field
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Apollonia National Park

4.6
·6k reviews·Herzliya, Israel

Explore ancient Crusader fortress ruins and Roman villa remnants perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning sunsets

CrowdMedium
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Apollonia National Park - a group of trees in a grassy field

Apollonia National Park

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning sunsets

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore ancient Crusader fortress ruins and Roman villa remnants perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

4.6
(6k reviews)

"One of the most beautiful places in Israel, a short 20 minutes drive from Tel Aviv."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crusader Fortress Ruins

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

Mediterranean Sea Vistas

Clifftop viewpoints

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

Roman Villa & Byzantine Kilns

Roman Villa & Byzantine Kilns

Lower sections of the park

Discover ancient Roman villa remains and remnants of Byzantine glass kilns, showcasing earlier settlements.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Views & Fewer Crowds

Visit during the golden hours for breathtaking Mediterranean sunsets or early mornings to avoid the midday sun and larger groups. Weekends can get busy, so weekdays offer a more serene experience.

Accessibility & What to Bring

Apollonia National Park is largely wheelchair accessible with paved paths. Bring comfortable shoes, water, and snacks for picnics. Consider swimwear if you plan to visit the nearby beach.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for stunning sunsets
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

inside one of the most famous bakeries of france known for their sourdough breads @Apollonia Poilâne 🍞🍞 i have been going here since i moved to paris 10 years ago. nothing makes me feel like i’ve stepped back into time like the poilâne bakery on rue du cherche-midj in the 6eme. a must visit if you haven’t been #bread #sourdoughbread #paris #parisfrance #parisbakery #paristips #parisfood #poilane
@preetigills
56.8K likes • 548.4K views

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Catch the magical Mediterranean sunset from the clifftops for unforgettable views. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the ancient ruins and walking paths. Reddit

Apollonia National Park is a stunning 13th-century fortress site that offers a rare glimpse into one of the world's oldest crusader castles. Located just 15 minutes away from Tel-Aviv, it provides breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The park features well-preserved ruins of the fortress, as well as remnants of a Roman villa and the Sidni Ali Mosque. With hiking trails, picnic areas, and i...
x_anderlex
47 likes • 405 views
"Apollonia National Park: Israel's Crusader Fortress" 🏰🌊 Perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the ruins of Apollonia National Park offer a breathtaking glimpse into Israel's rich and turbulent past. Known to the Crusaders as Arsuf, this once-mighty fortress was a strategic stronghold, guarding the coastline and serving as a key battleground during the Crusades. Today, vis...
israelwithaviel
1 likes • 192 views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Shaded picnic spots are available. Reddit

🚗 Easy Access & Parking

The park is a short drive from Tel Aviv with convenient, shaded parking. Reddit

Apollonia National Park is one of my favorite places in Israel☀️🇮🇱 When I was living here, before I was a mother, I used to come here to refuel my soul on tough days🙏🏻Embracing all the peace and quiet from above the cliffs 😎 It is the place of both seaside beauty and a Crusader Fortress 🏞️ Here you’ll see the remains of the former Apollonia fortress 🏰 The site offers a look at one of the most ...
jessicalederman
0 likes • 583 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Catch the magical Mediterranean sunset from the clifftops for unforgettable views. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the ancient ruins and walking paths. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Shaded picnic spots are available. Reddit

🚗 Easy Access & Parking

The park is a short drive from Tel Aviv with convenient, shaded parking. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

This spot is a photographer's dream with stunning coastal backdrops. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(6k reviews)

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

Breathtaking sea views
Rich historical ruins
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited food options
Unimaginative gift shop

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Yes, there is plenty of shaded parking available at the park entrance, which is a significant plus for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is quite reasonable, around 22 ILS per adult, making it an affordable historical site to visit. Reddit

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. Reddit

Advance booking is usually not required for Apollonia National Park, but it's advisable to check their official website during peak seasons or holidays. Reddit

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. Reddit

Absolutely! Children often love exploring the ancient ruins and imagining life in the fortress. There are also some fun activities like catapult demonstrations. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, the park is largely wheelchair accessible with paved paths, making it enjoyable for visitors with mobility challenges. Reddit

Yes, there are plenty of shaded spots with tables available for picnics, making it a great place to spend a few hours. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

The park offers engaging elements for children, including historical reenactments and sometimes catapult demonstrations, making history come alive. Reddit

📸 📸 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. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's considered a perfect photo spot due to the combination of historical ruins and the stunning coastal scenery. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Apollonia National Park is a fantastic spot for families. The ancient ruins are like a real-life history book, and kids often enjoy imagining themselves as knights or ancient inhabitants. The park is largely accessible, making it easy to navigate with strollers, and there are plenty of shaded areas perfect for a family picnic. Reddit

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers and couples, Apollonia offers a serene escape with stunning views and rich history. It's a perfect place for a reflective walk, enjoying the Mediterranean breeze and the dramatic coastal scenery. The relatively low crowds on weekdays make it ideal for a peaceful exploration. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will be captivated by the layered past of Apollonia National Park. From its origins in the Persian period through Roman, Byzantine, Crusader, and Mamluk eras, the site offers a tangible connection to millennia of human activity. The well-preserved Crusader fortress, Arsuf, is a particular highlight, showcasing medieval military architecture. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Time: The History of Apollonia

Apollonia National Park is a treasure trove of history, with layers of civilization evident throughout the site. Originally founded during the Persian period, the city later flourished under Greek and Roman rule, eventually being named Apollonia in honor of the Greek god. The most prominent structures visible today are from the Crusader period, when it was known as Arsuf and served as a vital coastal fortress. This strategic stronghold changed hands multiple times, eventually falling to the Mamluks. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

Capturing the Beauty: Photography at Apollonia

Apollonia National Park is a dream destination for photographers, offering a stunning combination of historical ruins and breathtaking coastal scenery. The clifftop viewpoints provide panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, especially captivating during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. These times offer soft, warm light that enhances the textures of the ancient stones and the vastness of the ocean. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

A Family Adventure: Exploring Apollonia with Kids

Apollonia National Park is an excellent destination for families looking for an engaging and educational outing. The ancient ruins spark the imagination, allowing children to envision knights and ancient civilizations. The open spaces and varied terrain provide opportunities for exploration and physical activity, making it more than just a history lesson. Reddit

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. Reddit

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