Hanukkah abroad: 5 nearby destinations your kids will fall in love with

Hanukkah is approaching, and Israeli families are starting to plan vacations abroad. After a long period of uncertainty, the ceasefire and return to routine have sparked a wave of bookings — and this time, families are planning ahead like in the past.

Data from the travel company "Gulliver" shows a significant increase in bookings for Eastern European destinations ahead of Hanukkah. Tamar Garzon, the company's CEO, explains: "This is practically the first holiday we have since the war ended, and many are choosing to take advantage of it to spend time together, enjoy themselves, and recharge — mainly families with children."

So why Eastern Europe? Because these destinations are relatively close, affordable, and the atmosphere is perceived as friendly and safer for Israeli tourists. In addition, the return of foreign airlines to operate in Israel has had a positive effect — there is more supply, more competition, and accordingly, better prices.

And here’s the best part: Hanukkah vacations abroad allow you to enjoy a unique Christmas atmosphere, which takes place just a few days after Hanukkah and brings a magical, wintry, festive mood.

Budapest is an ideal destination for a Hanukkah vacation with children. The city offers a perfect combination of urban experiences and nature within walking distance. The city zoo is considered one of the largest and most impressive in Europe. Margaret Island offers a large green space with playgrounds, family bikes, and even water shows. The "Tropicarium" is one of the most impressive aquariums, with a beautiful tropical area. In addition, the city has a wide variety of museums, markets, and activities suitable for all ages.

Flight with Israir from 13.12–17.12 costs $522 per person.

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is becoming an increasingly preferred destination for families with children. The city science museum offers interactive exhibitions that children love. Nearby, there is an adventure park with rope courses, trampolines, and climbing challenges.

On the outskirts of the city? Accessible hiking trails in nature, with winter landscapes and springs, allow families to combine a day trip outside the city as part of the vacation.

Flight with Israir from 14.12–18.12 costs $383 per person.

Prague is a particularly beloved destination with steady demand among families. You can explore the grand Prague Castle, enjoy a river cruise, visit the city's large zoo, or go to an indoor play complex suitable even for cold days.

Of course, the Christmas atmosphere is especially festive here, and children can enjoy the holiday’s magic during Hanukkah as well, with traditional sweets, street performances, and festive vibes.

Flight with Smartwings from 13.12–18.12 costs $542 per person.

Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, offers a mix of nature and city experiences. The amusement park on Mount Mtatsminda is a real treat for children, with rides, a Ferris wheel, stalls, and scenic views. Within the city, there are parks with well-maintained playgrounds.

The interactive science museum Experimentorium is very popular. A cable car ride up the mountain is an enjoyable experience for the whole family, allowing a view of the surroundings as weather permits.

Flight with Arkia from 19.12–24.12 costs $243 per person.

Krakow offers a unique but equally enjoyable family experience. The nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the most fascinating tourist sites for children — descending dozens of meters underground, with wide paths and impressive displays of sculptures and underground halls.

The Krakow Arcade Museum houses dozens of classic games from the past, like pinball or Pac-Man. Within the city itself, there are small trains, carriage tours, and even the "Dragon’s Den" — a lair inhabited by a fearsome dragon (according to the famous legend), accompanied by an impressive dragon sculpture breathing fire.

Flight with El Al including luggage from 17.12–23.12 costs $652 per person.