It might seem strange to equate Israel, the home of the Holy Land and some of the most devout religious groups in the world, with a vibrant and hospitable environment for gays to enjoy. That is, however, the reality. Israel is home to many of the most historical and culturally rich cities and towns in the world, each of which have grown increasingly tolerant of the gay scene in recent decades. Beginning in Tel Aviv, gays will find this city to be a popular and up and coming gay destination for travelers throughout the region and beyond. The city has sunny beaches to enjoy by day, and parties and gay cruising areas to visit by night. For the cultural tourist, there are plenty of museum and ancient archaeological sites to explore all over the country. The weather is fantastic year round, gays from all over the world regularly visit the country, so there is plenty for everyone to take part in and enjoy. Major cities that are known to be most accommodating to the gay scene are Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa.
Gay rights in Israel - Visit countries that support the gay community
| Same-sex sexual activity legal | Yes |
| Equal age of consent | Yes |
| Anti-discrimination laws in employment | Yes |
| Anti-discrimination laws in the provision of goods and services | Yes |
| Anti-discrimination laws in all other areas | Yes |
| Same-sex marriage | No |
| Recognition of same-sex couples | Yes |
| Stepchild adoption by same-sex couples | Yes |
| Joint adoption by same-sex couples | Yes |
| Gays, lesbians and bisexuals allowed to serve in the military | Yes |
| Transgender allowed to serve in the military | Yes |
| Right to change legal gender | Yes |
| Commercial surrogacy for gay male couples | Yes |