Hanukkah in Eilat in a Vacation Apartment: How to Plan a Family Getaway Without Fighting Over the Breakfast Line
In Tel Aviv it's raining, the kids have been stuck at home for three days and everyone's patience is running out. And you? You're sitting in Eilat in a T-shirt, coffee in hand, deciding whether to hit the beach first or have a doughnut first.
In short: Hanukkah in Eilat works well for families, because winter here is comfortable for outings and walking. A vacation apartment gives you a kitchenette, room to spread out and the freedom to set your own schedule. Plan it right, and you'll get a relaxed getaway even when the whole city is full.
Why Hanukkah in Eilat Is a Good Idea
Eilat is known for its mild winters and sunshine on most days. During the day it's pleasant to be outdoors, and in the evening it gets cooler, so you'll want an extra layer. The sea is colder in winter than in summer, but the promenade, the parks and the mountains are all open to you and easy to enjoy.
There's another advantage: you don't have to fight the heat. You can head out in the morning, come back to rest at noon and go out again in the afternoon, without escaping to the air conditioning every ten minutes.
Why a Vacation Apartment Suits Hanukkah
A Hanukkah break is a few days with kids, which means gear, snacks and a rhythm of your own. In an apartment, all of that is simpler.
Kitchenette: A fridge, stovetop or hot plate, kettle, microwave and kitchenware. Enough for a homestyle breakfast, coffee and a light meal for the kids.
Space: A room with a double bed, and in some apartments a sofa bed as well. Check our apartments page to see what fits your group size.
Flexibility: No fixed mealtimes. A child who wakes up late doesn't miss anything.
Basic comfort: Air conditioning, TV, Wi-Fi, bed linens and towels are already waiting for you.
Our apartments are in the area behind the Club Hotel, a 5 to 10 minute walk from the promenade and the mall by the sea. That way you can head out for the evening without taking the car out of its parking spot.
Sample Plan: Four Days at Hanukkah
This is a flexible framework, not a military schedule. Adjust it to your kids' ages and moods.
Arrival day: Check-in from 3:00 PM. A personal door code is sent on the morning of your arrival day, so there's no need to wait for a key. After dropping off the bags, head to the promenade for sunset and dinner.
Second day: A relaxed morning in the apartment, then a water attraction or sea life activity. In the evening, come back to light the candles.
Third day: A hike in the Eilat Mountains or a short trail for kids, with plenty of water and a blanket for a picnic. Rest in the afternoon.
Departure day: Check-out by 11:00 AM. Pack your things the night before, enjoy a last breakfast and head out unhurried.
Local tip: At Hanukkah the city is busy, so book a restaurant for the evening in advance, and check our food and drink page for inspiration. The longest lines are between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
Candles, Doughnuts and Atmosphere in the Apartment
You can't skip this moment, so it's worth preparing for it ahead of time. Bring a small menorah and candles from home, or an electric menorah if that suits you. Before lighting any flame in the apartment, please check with us on WhatsApp, and be careful around children and fabrics.
Doughnuts are easiest to buy on the way. The apartment gives you a place to sit around the table, play cards and dreidel, without worrying about a crowded restaurant.
What to Pack for Hanukkah in Eilat
The list is shorter than for summer, but there are a few things you shouldn't forget. You'll find an extended list in our packing guide.
Layers: a T-shirt for the day, a sweatshirt or light jacket for the evening.
Swimsuit and beach towel if you plan on a dip, even a short one.
Comfortable walking shoes for hiking in the mountains.
A menorah, candles and dreidels.
Board games and snacks for the kids.
A portable charger and a water bottle for outings.
Save money: Booking directly on cityeilat.com gives you an automatic 5% discount. Demand rises at Hanukkah, so it's worth booking early and checking availability before you settle plans with the whole family.
A Few Rules Worth Knowing
The apartments are non-smoking. Smoking is allowed only on the balcony or terrace, where available.
Barbecues are not allowed in the apartments.
Early check-in or late check-out is possible subject to availability and for a fee.
A baby crib is available for an extra fee, subject to availability. It's best to request it in advance.
More questions? We have an FAQ page, and you're also welcome to contact us directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it warm enough in Eilat for the sea at Hanukkah?
Winter in Eilat is mild and the days are usually sunny, but the sea is colder than in summer. Some families take a short dip, while others prefer walking, hiking and attractions. Plan according to the weather on the day itself.
How do we get into the apartment if we arrive before 3:00 PM?
Check-in starts at 3:00 PM. Early entry is possible subject to availability and for a fee, so it's worth asking us ahead of time. In the meantime, you can stroll along the promenade or have lunch.
What do we do if the door code doesn't work?
The personal code is sent on the morning of your arrival day. If it fails twice, call or send a WhatsApp message to 08-6338361.
Is an apartment better than a hotel for a family at Hanukkah?
It depends on your style. If you want a kitchenette, flexible hours and room to spread out, an apartment is very convenient. If you prefer full service and organized activities, a hotel will suit you better.
Do we need to book in advance for Hanukkah?
Yes, it's recommended. Hanukkah is a high-demand period, and the choice of apartments narrows as the date approaches.
Want a relaxed Hanukkah in Eilat, with sunshine by day and candles by night? Book directly at cityeilat.com and get an automatic 5% discount. We've been operating since 2013, and we have over 4,500 guest reviews across our properties.
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