For centuries, Jewish communities have thrived across Europe, contributing richly to the continent’s cultural mosaic. Yet the experience of Jewish travelers in Europe has never been uniform. For some, the continent’s ancient synagogues and bustling kosher eateries evoke a sense of belonging and continuity. For others, the same cities can feel precarious, shaped by rising antisemitism, shifting political climates, and anxieties about safety. As the world looks toward 2025 and beyond, understanding the complex landscape for Jewish travel in Europe is essential. This guide examines the latest data on antisemitism, the political forces shaping public sentiment, the practical realities of traveling while Jewish, and the ways resilient travelers can continue to experience Europe’s rich Jewish heritage.
Rising Antisemitism and Safety Concerns
The last decade has seen worrying increases in antisemitic incidents across Europe. According to data compiled by the J7 task force on antisemitism report – a coalition of major Jewish organizations – the number of violent incidents in key European countries rose dramatically between 2021 and 2023. Germany saw a 75 percent increase in violent incidents, France recorded a 185 percent jump, and the United Kingdom documented an 82 percent rise. These numbers are not abstract statistics; they translate into attacks on synagogues, harassment of visibly Jewish individuals, and vandalism of Jewish-owned businesses. Following the 7 October 2023 attack by Hamas in Israel, antisemitic attacks and hate speech surged even further. A Guardian survey of European Jews released in July 2024 found that 96 percent of respondents experienced antisemitism in the past year, and 84 percent said antisemitism is a very big problem. Several organizations reported a 400 percent increase in antisemitic attacks since October 2023.
This reality means that Jewish travelers must remain vigilant. Incidents range from verbal harassment to physical assault. Jewish schools, synagogues, and community centers across the continent have increased security, often working with local authorities. These measures, while necessary, can be unsettling for travelers expecting a carefree holiday. Moreover, the normalization of antisemitism across the political spectrum has made it difficult to predict where trouble may arise. What was once relegated to fringe groups now appears in mainstream discourse, from far-right rallies to leftist protests where anti-Israel rhetoric easily crosses into antisemitism.
In mid-2025, antisemitic incidents spilled into tourism itself. In July 2025, the King David Burger kosher eatery in Athens was defaced with red graffiti reading “No Zionist is safe here” and flyers were thrown at diners; Greek authorities are investigating it as a hate crime. On 22 August 2025, two Israeli tourists were violently assaulted at Center Parcs De Kempervennen holiday park in North Brabant, Netherlands. Local residents attacked them and both were hospitalized; the Dutch watchdog CIDI confirmed the attack. These targeted assaults show how antisemitism has moved from rhetoric to direct attacks against Jewish travelers and businesses.
In September 2024, a 19 year old British Orthodox Jew was attacked in Davos, Switzerland, by two men who spat on him, knocked off his kippah and shouted “Free Palestine.” Swiss authorities arrested the suspects but quickly released them; officials emphasized that Switzerland does not tolerate attacks based on religion or skin color. Similarly, public spaces have seen antisemitic vandalism and harassment across Europe, including “Free Palestine” graffiti on Jewish institutions and intimidation outside kosher restaurants. Such incidents underscore how precarious Jewish travel in Europe has become by 2025.
Political Climate and Societal Challenges
The rise in antisemitism cannot be divorced from Europe’s broader political climate. Populist and far-right parties have gained ground in several countries by exploiting economic anxieties and nationalist sentiments. In Germany, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party’s gains have emboldened extremists who view Jewish communities as outsiders or scapegoats. France’s political sphere has long struggled with antisemitic currents, whether from far-right factions or certain corners of the far left. The result is a normalization of antisemitic narratives that seep into public discourse. Even in countries with strong democratic traditions, such as the Netherlands or Sweden, populist rhetoric can create a climate where minorities feel less protected.
Societal challenges go beyond politics. Economic uncertainty, cultural divides, and the proliferation of online hate speech all contribute to a climate of unease. Social media platforms amplify conspiracy theories and recycled tropes about Jewish control, while mainstream influencers sometimes indulge in coded antisemitism. In some European cities, Jewish travelers report being advised by local communities to avoid wearing visible religious symbols – such as kippahs or Star of David necklaces – in certain neighborhoods. These advisories, though pragmatic, are painful reminders that intolerance persists.
Travel Advisories and Regulations
Governments have responded to rising tensions with updated travel advisories. Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs regularly issues bulletins about safety conditions for Israelis and Jews abroad. The U.S. State Department also provides country-specific advisories, noting increased risks in certain European countries. Travelers should check both official government advisories and local Jewish community bulletins before planning a trip. Many countries now require pre-registration for visitors to synagogues or Jewish museums, a measure designed to ensure security. In France, for example, visiting the Grande Synagogue of Paris or the Marais district’s Jewish heritage sites often involves bag checks and sometimes requires pre-booked tickets. Synagogues in smaller cities might only be accessible via guided tours arranged through local Jewish organizations, partly due to security protocols.
Navigating Kosher Travel and Jewish Heritage Sites
Despite the challenges, Europe remains home to a vibrant network of synagogues, yeshivas, kosher restaurants, and Jewish cultural institutions. Cities such as Paris, London, Antwerp, Berlin, Rome, and Budapest boast thriving Jewish quarters where visitors can find kosher bakeries, fine dining, and Judaica shops. A new crop of kosher eateries continues to open, highlighting the creativity of Jewish chefs and the demand from locals and travelers alike. For example, the kosher dining scene in Berlin has expanded beyond traditional delis to include modern Israeli fusion cuisine, while Warsaw’s revitalized Jewish district hosts pop-ups and food festivals celebrating Ashkenazi classics and contemporary interpretations.
To make the most of a trip, travelers should research community resources. Use our YeahThatsKosherNearMe app which compiles updated lists of kosher restaurants, while local Chabad houses often provide assistance ranging from Shabbat meals to guidance on where to buy kosher groceries. When visiting Jewish heritage sites, it’s wise to book tours through established operators. Many synagogues, cemeteries, and museums are located in neighborhoods that have changed dramatically over the centuries, and expert guides can illuminate both the tragedies and triumphs of Jewish history.
Practical Safety Tips for Jewish Travelers
When traveling as a visible Jew, preparedness is key. Here are practical recommendations for Jewish travelers in Europe:
- Stay informed: Regularly check official travel advisories and local news. If visiting during a politically sensitive time – such as the anniversary of a controversial event – be aware that protests may occur, although they could occur at any time.
- Register with your embassy: Many governments offer travel registration services that allow consulates to contact you in case of an emergency. Israelis can use the “Matash” (consular services) registration, while U.S. citizens can enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Be mindful of public displays: While it is important for us to proudly celebrate our Jewish identity, consider where and when to wear visible symbols like tzizis, kippah, Magen David, and/or payos if your physical safety could be in danger. In certain areas with a history of harassment or worse, it might be prudent to cover kippahs with hats or tuck in necklaces.
- Use reliable transportation: Opt for licensed taxis or rideshares rather than unregulated services. If renting a car, note that vehicles with Israeli license plates or obvious religious decals might attract unwanted attention. Even with licensed taxis and/or Ubers, still use your best judgment.
- Have emergency contacts: Research the nearest Jewish community center or synagogue at each destination. Many communities provide contact numbers in case travelers need assistance or directions.
- Travel insurance: Ensure that your policy covers medical emergencies, theft, and cancellations. If traveling during times of heightened tension, consider policies that allow for flexibility.
Opportunities, Culture, and Resilience
While fear should not eclipse the beauty and resilience of European Jewish life, it’s important to acknowledge that many communities remain precarious. Cultural events like music festivals in Kraków or Sephardic food fairs in Paris showcase heritage and attract visitors, and Holocaust education programs invite reflection. Jewish heritage tourism can provide essential funding for restoring synagogues and supporting community projects – such as the restored synagogue in Dubrovnik, Croatia – but these communities often rely on tourists to survive. Travelers must balance the desire to support these institutions with the realities of heightened antisemitic threats; some may choose to make donations remotely or visit during safer periods rather than exposing themselves to risk.
There are also pockets of solidarity: interfaith coalitions in cities such as Berlin and Vienna have organized rallies against antisemitism, drawing participants from different religious backgrounds. Grassroots initiatives continue to connect Jewish travelers with local families for Shabbat meals, fostering personal bonds. Yet these gestures occur against a backdrop of increasing hostility; they highlight both the resilience of European Jews and the fragility of their communities.
Final Thoughts
Jewish travel to Europe in 2025 and beyond is marked more by caution than opportunity. Rising antisemitism and political polarization have created an environment where vigilance is essential. Although Europe’s Jewish heritage remains rich, many communities feel precarious, and travelers increasingly consider destinations where they can experience Jewish life without constant fear. Countries like Panama and Argentina in Latin America, Israel’s own vibrant cities, domestic destinations within the United States, and even parts of East Asia offer established Jewish communities, thriving kosher restaurant scenes and relative safety. By redirecting tourism dollars to these regions, travelers can support communities that welcome them while still honoring Jewish history through selective European visits. Ultimately, the precariousness of the present moment underscores the importance of informed choices. Through mindful travel and solidarity, Jews can keep their narratives alive – whether in Europe or beyond.
Bonus: Surprisingly Safe Space for Jews in Europe [GIBRALTAR] Go Visit!
We visited Gibraltar on a trip to Spain in January 2020 and we were so surprised to see a thriving Orthodox Jewish community, very visible in the center of the touristy area of the tiny British region on the Iberian peninsula, just off of Southern Spain.
See more about the vibrant community and shuls in Gibraltar here.
Here’s my 9-Day Itinerary of Southern Spain that includes Gibraltar – please note that safety in Spain and Gibraltar are not the same, today.
