First time Jerusalem: top tips for your first visit to the Holy City

Aug 4, 2015 • 6 min read

the jerusalem trip

Jerusalem seen from the Mount of Olives after Sunset

Sacred to Jews, Christians and Muslims, Jerusalem’s Old City is one of the world’s foremost pilgrimage destinations. It’s also one of the most magical – and disputed – places in the Middle East. If the description ‘living history’ truly applies anywhere in the world, it applies here.

But the Old City isn’t the only attraction in town. In the modern part of Jerusalem are museums, memorials and markets to visit, as well as a thriving cafe, bar and restaurant scene to investigate . Together, the city’s old and new sections offer an irresistible destination for travellers.

Jerusalem seen from the Mount of Olives after sunset © Daniel Frauchiger / Getty Images

Temple Mount/Al Haram Ash Sharif

Few places on earth are as religiously significant as Temple Mount/Al Haram Ash Sharif . Located on the southeastern edge of the Old City, this elevated cypress-planted plaza is revered by Jews as the location of the First and Second Temples, and is also home to two of Islam’s most sacred buildings: Al Aqsa Mosque and the shrine known as the Dome of the Rock . Security officers ensure that entry to the mosque is for Muslims only, but all visitors can wander around the plaza and admire the perfect proportions, tile-encrusted exterior walls and glittering gold roof of the shrine.

Top tip: A rrive early (the site opens at 7.30am in the summer and 8.30am in the winter) to be sure of getting in, dress modestly (no shorts) and bring your passport for the security check.

People inside Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the place where according Christian tradition Jesus Christ was crucified, buried and resurrected. © Rostislav Glinsky / Shutterstock

Christian Quarter

There haven’t been too many changes in this ancient part of the city since Helena, mother of Roman Emperor Constantine, came to Jerusalem in 326 CE, looking for Christ’s crucifixion site. The signature sound of the narrow streets, home to 4500 residents drawn from 20 different Christian denominations, is still the sonorous chime of church bells; the defining smell is the heady whiff of incense crossed with the mustiness of millennia. The quarter’s greatest attraction is Christendom’s most holy structure, the  Church of the Holy Sepulchre , built at Helena’s behest to sanctify the place where she – and subsequently billions of Christians – believed Christ was crucified and entombed.

Top tip:  Visit just after opening (5am summer, 4am winter) or in the hour before closing (8-9pm summer, 7pm winter) to avoid the crowds.

Man praying at the Western Wall in Jerusalem © mimmopellicola.com / Getty Images

Jewish Quarter

The massive stone blocks of the  Western Wall are Judaism’s most holy prayer site and an important place of worship – Jews believe the wall once supported the Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. Nearby, the  Jerusalem Archaeological Park & Davidson Centre offers a fascinating peek into the area's history.

Top tip:  Photography is forbidden in the Western Wall plaza itself, but you can take photographs from the viewing platforms in the alleys between the plaza and Hurva Sq.

Market stalls line the narrow streets and alleys of Jerusalem's Muslim Quarter © FredFroese / Getty Images

Muslim Quarter

A microcosm of the Middle East, this colourful quarter starts at bustling  Damascus Gate on the edge of Arab East Jerusalem and is centred along the narrow mercantile strips of Al Wad Rd and Souq Khan Al Zeit St. Purchase aromatic spices, sample delectable Arabic sweets and admire the handsome, though sadly deteriorating, facades of palaces, tombs and caravanserais (ancient inns for travellers) built by the Mamluk rulers of the city between the 13th and 16th centuries.

Top tip:  If you are here around lunchtime, head to Jerusalem’s best loved hummus joint,  Abu Shukri , for a bowl of tangy tahini-laden hummus accompanied by crispy falafel. Follow it with a tea or coffee at the beloved Abu Musa's Cafe .

Pilgrims inside of the St James Cathedral with hundreds of oil lamps, wooden carved altar, covered with gold © efesenko / Getty Images

Armenian Quarter

The Armenian Quarter’s 1500 residents are the only remaining representatives of a community that has been in Jerusalem for nearly two millennia. Visitors can join them for a service in the 12th-century  St James’ Cathedral   and afterwards head to the  Citadel  at Jaffa Gate, which is now home to the impressive Museum of the History of Jerusalem.

Top tip:  If you liked the cathedral’s tiles and would like to purchase something similar to take home, head to the  Sandrouni Armenian Art Centre  in the neighbouring Christian Quarter.

People shopping at Mahane Yehuda, famous market in Jerusalem © Alexey Stiop / Shutterstock

Mahane Yehuda Market

Crammed with fresh fruit, olives, nuts and vegetables, open-air Mahane Yehuda Market is a foodie's paradise . Come here to source spices, tea, cheese, dried fruit, tahini, bread and pastries or watch the daytime action from one of the cafes  and return after sunset when the market is the centre of Jerusalem's hipster bar scene.

Top tip:  Two exciting restaurants in the market precinct are  Yudale  and  Machneyuda . Arrive early (6.30pm) to score a bar stool at Yudale or book well in advance for a table at Machneyuda.

Israel Museum

You’ll need to devote at least half a day to exploring the magnificent  Israel Museum . Marvel at the treasures in the Archaeology wing, be fascinated by the displays in the Jewish Art & Life wing, wander past sculptures in the art garden designed by American-Japanese artist Isamu Noguchi and come face to face with the Dead Sea Scrolls in the purpose-built Shrine of the Book pavilion.

Top tip: Take advantage of the complimentary audioguide, and consider lunch in the museum’s excellent restaurant,  Modern .

The Yad Vashem memorial displays the names and details of millions of Holocaust victims © Alison Wright / Getty Images

Spread over 16 pine-scented hectares of the Jerusalem forest on the western edge of city,  Yad Vashem is a moving and powerful memorial to the six million Jews killed in the Holocaust. Yad Vashem means ‘A Memorial and a Name’ and one of the most heart-wrenching exhibits here is the Hall of Names, where the personal details of millions of victims are recorded. Another poignant section is the Children’s Memorial, a dimly lit underground cavern containing a solitary flame reflected infinitely by hundreds of mirrors.

Top tip: The memorial is easily reached on the Jerusalem Light Rail (JLR); alight at the Mt Herzl stop.

What to pack

  • Good non-slip walking shoes – the Old City can only be explored on foot, and many of its paving stones are worn and slippery.
  • Headscarf or shawl – in some religious buildings, women are required to cover their heads.
  • Long trousers or skirts – shorts and miniskirts are not acceptable attire in many mosques, churches and synagogues, or at Temple Mount/Al Haram Ash Sharif.

Where to stay

Those seeking atmospheric lodgings should consider staying in one of the religious guesthouses in the Old City or East Jerusalem. The best of these are  Christ Church Guesthouse ,  Austrian Hospice ,  Lutheran Guest House ,  Ecce Homo Pilgrim House and  St George’s Guesthouse . For more comfortable options, stay downtown, where the majority of Jerusalem’s cafes, restaurants and bars are located. Atlas Hotels  offers good midrange boutique choices.

Jerusalem Light Rail service © Leonid Andronov / Getty Images

Getting around

To take advantage of Jerusalem’s bus and light rail network, purchase an ‘anonymous’ Rav-Kav smart card for 5NIS from the Egged public ticketing office at the Central Bus Station or from any bus driver. Load it with a certain number of rides (6.90NIS each, or 10 rides for 55.20NIS). Download the Moovit app for help with navigating public transportation.

Getting to Jerusalem from Ben Gurion Airport

From Ben Gurion International Airport , sheruts (shared taxis) can take you to any location in Jerusalem, and they operate 24 hours a day, charging 64NIS per passenger. Look out for them in the rank in front of the international arrivals hall. An hourly bus also goes back and forth from Ben Gurion to Jerusalem Central Bus Station for 16NIS. To book a sherut to the airport, call Nesher Service Taxis . The bus cannot be booked in advance. If you’re going to the airport on a Friday, make sure to book with Nesher in advance.

Last updated August 2018

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Jerusalem   Travel Guide

the jerusalem trip

Courtesy of Yulia_Malinovskaya | Getty Images

the jerusalem trip

Why Go To Jerusalem

Jerusalem is suspended between many different crosshairs. First and foremost, it serves as the Holy City for the three primary western religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. The narrow streets and alleyways that make up the labyrinth-like Old City reverberate with the sounds of spirituality. Whispered Hebrew prayers uttered by tefillin -clad Jews at the Western Wall mingle with the hauntingly beautiful Muslim call-to-prayer sounding from Temple Mount . The voices from the Jewish and Muslim quarters are then accompanied by melodic bells sounding from the Christian Church of the Holy Sepulchre . For many visitors, the rumor of a constant Almighty presence suddenly becomes very real; even the most adamant non-believer will find it hard to deny that there's something ethereal about Jerusalem.

While the image of ancient Jerusalem—a city still ruled by King David and his followers—is what most travelers expect, you'll find instead a destination in flux. Beyond the historic walls of the Old City lies a buzzing metropolis where traditional lifestyles collide with cosmopolitan developments. West Jerusalem is littered with trendy restaurants and bars, while East Jerusalem resonates with the cries of market vendors. The city's diverse offerings have transformed Jerusalem from a pilgrimage spot to a well-rounded vacation destination. So whatever your reason for visiting, you can be sure that this is a city you’ll never forget.

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Best of Jerusalem

Best hotels in jerusalem.

  • in American Colony Hotel The Leading Hotels of the World
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  • in Leonardo Plaza Hotel Jerusalem

American Colony Hotel The Leading Hotels of the World

Best Things to Do in Jerusalem

  • # 1 in Old City
  • # 2 in Western Wall (Wailing Wall)
  • # 3 in Israel Museum

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Jerusalem Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Jerusalem are April through May and October through November, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thin. However, make sure to cross-check your travel dates with major Jewish celebrations such as the High Holy Days, Sukkot, and Passover. A strong surge of visitor traffic drives hotel prices up during these holidays. Summer is Jerusalem's peak tourism season, despite sweltering daytime temps. Winters boast good deals on hotels, but the weather remains fickle: One day can be sunny and fairly warm, while the next can be rainy and chilly.

Weather in Jerusalem

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

  • You're safe in tourist areas In Jerusalem, differing ideological views regularly spur heated religious and political debates, which have occasionally led to violent outbursts in the past. But aggressive instances are rare and do not take place in tourist areas.
  • Be respectful This city is considered holy by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, meaning you should be considerate of traditions and conform to the more conservative dress code. Save your shorts and tank tops for Tel Aviv .
  • Stock up for the weekend Many of Jerusalem's businesses and restaurants (Christian, Jewish, and Muslim) close for the Sabbath. Make sure to buy all food or other need-to-have items by Friday afternoon.

How to Save Money in Jerusalem

  • Avoid major holidays Jerusalem's prices skyrocket during major Jewish festivals, especially Passover (March or April), Sukkot (September or October), and the High Holy Days ( fall). You'll find better deals if you avoid these holidays.
  • Don't stay in West Jerusalem Hotels in West Jerusalem are more modern and more expensive. You'll find better rates within the Old City , but be prepared for possible nighttime curfews. East Jerusalem also has affordable lodging, but try to stay close to Damascus or Herod's Gate for convenience's sake.
  • Rely on street eats Jerusalem has its fair share of swanky restaurants, but you can save some shekels by relying on food carts and markets for a good meal. Vendors throughout the city sell everything from bagels to falafel at a reasonable price, while the Mahane Yehuda market in West Jerusalem is a go-to spot for fresh produce.

Culture & Customs

Jerusalem acts as the Holy City by the three major Abrahamic religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. This mingling of spirituality has led to a mélange of culture. For example, you’ll hear a multi-lingual soundtrack on a stroll through the Old City ; Hebrew and Arabic are the dominant languages, but you'll also catch whispers of Yiddish and other languages. Many Israelis, especially those working in the food and hospitality industries, also speak English.

Many Jerusalem residents still fervently following guidelines listed in their bible. You will witness some of these customs during your visit. For example, Jews and Muslims do not eat pork; therefore, if you get a craving for ham and cheese, you'll be out of luck. Many restaurants throughout Jerusalem, particularly in Jewish neighborhoods, maintain a kosher menu, meaning they observe strict religious rules about food consumption and preparation. But chances are that you won't give this a second thought as you thumb through a menu. Also, many businesses (especially in the Old City) close during the weekend to honor the various sabbaths. Jewish establishments close their doors on Friday afternoon and don't open again until Saturday night or Sunday morning. Many Christian businesses are closed on Sundays. All of these businesses—no matter their affiliation—accept Shekels (ILS), Israel's official currency.

You'll also encounter a variety of clothing styles, from the heavy black attire and wide-brimmed hats worn of Haredi Jews to the lighter, more casual tunics sported of Arab merchants. Keep in mind you should dress more conservatively in Jerusalem. Avoid wearing anything too revealing, especially if you plan to visit the city's religious sites. Note that the ultra-Orthodox neighborhood of Me'a She'arim (just northwest of the Old City) requires extremely conservative attire, such as long sleeves, ankle-length skirts, and covered heads, as well as very modest behavior.

In the decades of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, contention over the city’s ownership has resulted in violent outbursts, most notably riots. That said, visitors should not feel threatened, as these incidents usually do not take place in tourist areas. You will likely come across a large number of Israeli soldiers, but don't let that alarm you: Many of these soldiers are tourists, just like you. You may also encounter armed guards performing security screenings at the Old City gates at night.

Getting Around Jerusalem

The best ways to get around Jerusalem are on foot or by taxi. Many of the city's top attractions are within walking distance of one another inside or just beyond the Old City walls. When you're looking to expand your stomping grounds, taxis are extremely convenient (albeit a little pricey). The transportation company, Egged, provides public bus service within the city and many points around the country. Egged also services Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), about 38 miles northwest of Jerusalem on the outskirts of Tel Aviv . However, the bus system isn't intuitive for foreign visitors. Travelers usually will have better luck with the new light rail system, which opened in 2011.

Entry & Exit Requirements

The Israeli government does not require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your arrival, but many airlines do. You will also need to show a return or onward ticket and sufficient proof of funds to enter the country. Expect heightened security screenings at the airport; the Israeli government has been known to deny travelers entry based on background checks. The government will also deny entry to anyone looking to travel to the West Bank or Gaza. You can learn more by visiting the U.S. State Department website .

This stunning domed shrine resides on Temple Mount .

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Western Wall (Wailing Wall)

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The Top 25 Things to Do in Jerusalem

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the jerusalem trip

Jerusalem is the political capital of Israel , the epicenter of religious pilgrimage for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, a treat for history buffs, and a land that’s consistently fraught with tension.

It’s impossible not to feel a powerful stirring inside of you as you walk through the tiny streets of the Old City, or pray at a 2,000-year-old wall, or stand on soil that means so much to millions of people.

Whether you’re looking for spiritual growth, an impassioned political discourse, a tasty meal, or a fun party, here are the top 25 must-have experiences in Jerusalem. 

Pilgrimage to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher

The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is one of the holiest sights in the world for Christians, as it contains both the site of Jesus’ crucifixion and his empty tomb, where Christians believe he was buried and then resurrected. You’ll also find the Chapel of Mary Magdalene, the Greek Chapel of St. Longinus, and even the place believed to be where the True Cross was found. Note that wait times to get into the church and Edicule can be nuts, so plan accordingly. 

Leave a Prayer at the Western Wall

Located on the Temple Mount, the Western Wall is what remains of the ancient Jewish temple built over 2,000 years ago. The temple was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE when the Jews were exiled from Jerusalem, and today, the wall remnant is considered the holiest and most important religious site in the world for Jews. At this open air synagogue, you’ll find people praying, crying, and reading scripture and on Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath),and you’ll see hundreds of Jews gathering to sing and dance. It’s also customary to write a note or prayer and leave it in crevices of the wall. Note: It’s open 24/7, and be sure to dress appropriately (shoulders and knees covered for women and heads covered for men).

Vendor Hop at the Mahane Yehuda Market

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

The Mahane Yehuda Market (also known as the Shuk) is in the heart of Jerusalem. By day, you can elbow your way through various shops selling pastries, breads, teas, spices, meats, vegetables, and more. Stop into any number of market restaurants (they feel somewhat like feeding “stations”) to feast on delectable treats like shakshuka, burgers, juices, and pastas. By night, you’ll find this food market transformed into a full-fledged bar crawl. Bars, pubs, loud music, mini-clubs—it’s total chaos and incredibly electric. 

See the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum

Ranked one of the world’s leading art and archaeology museums, this museum houses the most extensive collection of biblical archaeology in the world. You’ll find exhibitions, art galleries, and special events, as well as have the opportunity to see the Dead Sea Scrolls, the oldest biblical manuscripts in existence that represents almost the entire Hebrew Bible. Upwards of 2,000 years old, these texts were originally discovered by Bedouins in the caves of Qumran (what is now the West Bank) in 1947. They even include a guide to hidden treasure around Israel. 

Peruse the Art at Ticho House

After your tour of the Israel Museum, be sure to head to Ticho House, a serene oasis that’s known as a cultural hub of Jerusalem The ground floor of the house acts as an art gallery featuring the works of Anna Ticho, a beloved Israeli painter, as well as exhibiting other artists’ works. Upstairs is the delicious Anna Italian Cafe decorated with gorgeous ceiling paintings and a beautiful view. 

Tisch Family Zoological Gardens

Located in the neighborhood of Malha in Southwest Jerusalem, this impressive and expansive non-profit zoo attracts over 750,000 visitors every year to its scenic location. While they host many creatures from all over the world, the zoo does emphasize animals mentioned in the Bible (this is Jerusalem, after all). The zoo is also dedicated to conservation, partnering with many local initiatives to better preserve nature and wildlife in Israel. There’s often exhibits, events, and workshops to attend, so plan your trip accordingly.

Practice Your Haggling in the Old City

Although the shops of the Old City are pricier and more touristy than other shopping districts, wandering around, exploring, and souvenir shopping in the Old City is a hectic and amusing experience worth the slightly higher prices. As you make your way through the tiny, narrow streets, admire the many beautiful scarves, clothes, artifacts, trinkets, and jewelry, and practice the art of bargaining. Some great shops in particular are George and Dorin Sandrouni Armenian Ceramics, opposite the cathedral in the Christian Quarter and the Shorashim Biblical Gift Shop in the Jewish Quarter on Tiferet Israel street.

Eat Hummus at Abu Shukri

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention at least one incredible hummus experience during your stay in Jerusalem. One of the best places to try hummus is Abu Shukri, a family-owned, cramped, and chaotic restaurant in the Muslim quarter of the Old City. There’s no menus here, but the standard plate includes a bowl of creamy hummus topped with either fava beans (fuul), chickpeas, or pine nuts with a side of pita and vegetables. Ask them to bring you some falafel to go with your hummus, which are deliciously crispy and spiced to perfection. Tip: they don’t take cards, so bring cash. 

Get Artsy at Bezalel Street Fair

Similar to the Nachalat Binyamin fair in Tel Aviv, you'll find over 150 stalls of authentic crafts, art, toys, clothing, jewelry, ceramics, live music, and more every Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the pedestrian area of Bezalel Street. The fair is colorful, vibrant, and diverse, reflective of the Jerusalem culture and mix of Israel as a whole. It’s free to attend and the perfect spot to find unique and original souvenirs. 

Take in Sweeping Views at Mount of Olives

For those who chase an impressive view, the Mount of Olives is for you. In the old days, it separated the city from the Judean desert, representing the eastern border of Ancient Jerusalem. Here, you’ll overlook the Old City of Jerusalem as well as a large Jewish cemetery that makes this site a place of pilgrimage for Jews. This cemetery is significant as it’s believed that when the Messiah comes, the Jews in this location will be the first to be resurrected, so you can imagine those are some pretty coveted slots. 

See Some of the Oldest Olive Trees in the World at Garden of Gethsemane

Located at the foot of Mount of Olives sits the Garden of Gethsemane, the sight Jesus prayed in when he was betrayed by Judas and was subsequently arrested the night before his crucifixion. With some as old as around 800 years, the eight ancient olive trees here are some of the oldest in the world and have spiritual significance as the descendants of the very olive trees that stood during this important Biblical moment. 

Visit the Tomb of the Virgin Mary

Luckily for Christian tourists, many of Christianity’s most sacred pilgrimage sites are conveniently clustered together. Also located at the foot of Mount of Olives is the tomb of the Virgin Mary, which rests in a church inside a cave fortress. The way to access it? Down a 12th-century carved out staircase, chipped from the rock. The cavern is dimly lit with candles that visitors can light to pray and worship the holy site. 

Visit King David’s Tomb

Located just past the Zion Gate in Mount Zion (west of the Mount of Olives) and just past the Room of the Last Supper lays the tomb of King David, erected by Crusaders 2,000 years after his death. Though the Old Testament states he was buried someplace else, this holy site is still special for Muslims, Christians, and Jews as he was a celebrated warrior king of the Old Testament responsible for composing many biblical psalms. Note: You’ll find the prayer hall separated for men and women, and there is a strict no cell phone policy. 

Get Your Pride on at Video

It’s all smiles and positive vibes at Video! A hidden gem, this friendly gay bar is the go-to spot for LGBTQ tourists and locals to turn up to the likes of Britney, Madonna, Rihanna, and Beyonce. This spot is great for groups, but don’t fret if you’re flying solo—you’re sure to meet interesting, warm, and welcoming people at this good-feels bar. Be sure to check their website for cool upcoming events and theme nights. 

Go Full Hipster at Cassette Bar

You’ll feel like you’re in an entirely different city as you enter through a door covered in cassette tapes and into a tiny, hipster-chic bar. With somewhat of a lower east side Manhattan feel, the crowd has a too-cool-for-school vibe, but the offbeat playlist and flowing drinks makes this a worthwhile alternative experience for your stay in the holy city. 

Party with Locals at Cactus 9

If you’re looking to party with the locals, Cactus 9 is a great electronic music bar with yummy drinks and cool vibes. It’s a nice change of pace from the slower, more historical and religious atmospheres of Jerusalem. On the weekends, this place turns into a full-fledged hot spot, so wear comfy shoes and get ready to get your groove on.

Take a Free Tour of the Knesset (Israel’s Parliament)

Jerusalem is not only the religious center of Israel, it’s also the political capital. And with a country that evokes such fierce political debate in the media, you might be interested to see where many of these tough conversations are held. Take a free guided tour on Sundays and Thursdays to learn about how policy is made and see some incredible art, tapestries, and sculptures by renowned artists such as Marc Chagall. Tours are available in English, Hebrew, Arabic, Amharic, French, Russian, Spanish, and German. 

Try Kurdish Food at Ishtabach

For foodies, this little Kosher Kurdish hot spot is an absolute must. Just outside the Shuk, this renowned restaurant is most known for Shamburak, a savory, crunchy pastry served with meats, potatoes, caramelized onions, peppers, and chimichurri. (The best one is the cheek meat Shamburak, in my humble yet totally right opinion). The meat pastry usually comes with three side salads, based on whatever’s the freshest ingredients of the week. 

Have Shabbat Dinner with Shabbat of a Lifetime

Shabbat is the Jewish Sabbath, or day of rest. From Friday night to Saturday night, you’ll find much of Jerusalem is shut down (public transportation stops running, shops are closed, and the streets feel pretty bare). Shabbat dinner is a very special time to come together, unplug from technology, and share a meal with loved ones. The organization Shabbat of a Lifetime allows tourists to partake in this ritual, pairing you with a Jewish family in Jerusalem who will treat you to a traditional five course Shabbat meal. 

Admire the Dome of the Rock

If you’ve ever seen a little gold ball in the background of Jerusalem photos, you were looking at one of the oldest and most revered examples of Islamic architecture. Located in the Old City on the Temple Mount, the Dome of the Rock is believed to be where Mohammed ascended to heaven, which makes it the third holiest site for Muslims. Non-Muslim visitors can admire the Dome of the Rock from the outside so long as they are dressed modestly (only Muslims are allowed inside the Dome), and no sacred Jewish objects may be brought in. 

Try Jerusalem Mixed Grill at Sima’s

You can’t leave Jerusalem without sampling their most infamous dish: me’orav Yerushalmi, or Jerusalem mixed grill. It’s comprised of lamb, chicken, and organ meats, and it’s to die for. You’ll find one of the best examples of this dish at Sima’s, a blue collar, down to earth restaurant that’s been around since 1969. A haven for hardcore carnivores, you’ll also find kebabs, meat dumplings, entrecôte, and more. 

Drink Beers at BeerBazaar Jerusalem

Located inside of the Shuk, you’ll find this hip, kosher, and super local craft beer haven with over 100 Israeli beers to choose from. Snack on their selection of seasonal salads, sandwiches, and cheap eats while you sip your way through their hearty and tasty beers. The ambiance is cool and relaxed, a nice retreat from the chaos of the market. Don’t miss Thursday nights (the Israeli Saturday night) where you can see this bazaar in full swing and even catch a live show put on by the staff. 

Check out the Music at Freddy Lemmon

Another gem of the Shuk is this artsy bar that’s all about the good vibes. Freddy Lemon hosts small concerts, poetry slams, and other musical performances once the fruit and vegetable vendors close shop for the day. You’ll love sitting around the outdoor patio, sipping a beer on tap, and soaking in the live music among your fellow music-loving crowd. 

Drink Hot Wine at Hashchena

If you’re looking for a slower pace and an intimate setting, check out Haschena Wine Bar (Hebrew for neighborhood) located inside the Shuk. Sit outside or in, people watch, and choose from an extensive list of beers, cocktails, and hot wines to match the warm atmosphere. Be sure to peep the live music shows on Friday afternoons before Shabbat. 

Pay Homage to Holocaust Victims at Yad Vashem

This 45-acre campus of indoor and outdoor museums, sculptures, gardens, exhibitions, and research centers was created to honor the victims of the Holocaust. An absolutely raw and intense experience, be sure to especially brace yourself for the children’s memorial, a hallowed out cavern lit only with memorial candles “creating the impression of millions of stars shining in the firmament” while the names of the deceased children are heard in the background. It is heartbreaking, yes, but it is a highly moving experience you’ll carry with you for years to come. 

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Best Things to Do in Jerusalem (Local Travel Tips)

Updated on November 6th, 2023

A street in Jerusalem, Israel, adorned with numerous signs.

Looking for how to visit Jerusalem for the first time? Check out this travel guide for our best non-religious things to do in Jerusalem, for any culture-savvy traveler.

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Posted in Israel

Table of contents

  • Abraham Hostel Jerusalem
  • Tmol Shilshom
  • Aricha Sabich
  • Marzipan Bakery and Pastry
  • Dwiny Pita Bar
  • Cafe Yehoshua
  • Sushi Rehavia
  • Jerusalem Steakhouse
  • Pasta Basta
  • The Coffee Mill
  • Freddy Lemon
  • Gatsby Cocktail Room
  • Biratenu - Jerusalem Beer Center
  • Rooftop” (rooftop bar in Jerusalem)
  • Beer Bazaar
  • Mahane Yehuda Market
  • Ben Yehuda Street
  • Temple Mount
  • Dome of the Rock
  • Wilson’s Arch
  • Jewish Quarter (Rova Yehudi)
  • Western Wall
  • Mount Herzl (Har Herzl)
  • Arab Quarter
  • Armenian Quarter
  • Hebrew Music Museum
  • Jerusalem public bus
  • Taxis in Jerusalem
  • Jerusalem Central Bus Station
  • Jerusalem light rail
  • Tel Aviv-Jerusalem speed train
  • Take a day trip tour to the Dead Sea

As per a Travel Advisory update posted by the US Department of State on October 14, 2023, Israel has been marked a Level 3 Country: “Reconsider travel” due to the ongoing armed conflict, civil unrest and terrorism from “Hamas, a U.S. government-designated foreign terrorist organization.” Please visit the travel.state.gov page for Israel to learn more and stay informed.

Jerusalem is a magical city for so many reasons. It’s historic, it’s full of culture, it’s surprising to most, and what we like about it from our most recent visit is that Jerusalem has lots of personalities.

At the mention of “Jerusalem,” you may think of the Western Wall, lots of religions in one spot and a city from your history book, but maybe that’s because you haven’t seen the murals of the Mahane Yehuda Shuk during its nightlife hours, the hidden speakeasies that only locals know and the best spots for hummus.

No trip to Israel is complete without a few days or even a week, spent in Jerusalem, after you see sights in Tel Aviv and Haifa, and nature at Masada and the Dead Sea.

If you came to our Jerusalem to learn about famous spots from the Bible, politics or history, that’s great, and you’re sure to have an excellent time. Conversely, if you plan to visit Jerusalem to see what’s under the dusty artifacts and stone walls, come with us, as we show you local tips and the best things to see for the fun-loving traveler.

Retro Bahaus architecture in tan and white stone against a blue sky

Did you know that Jerusalem, and Israel as a country, is one of the best countries for gluten-free travel ? You’ll see why.

What to know before visiting Jerusalem (for non-religious trips)

Most people think of Jerusalem and think of a highly-religious city full of places of worship, dusty layers of history and maybe some conflict.

Okay, ready? Brush all of that aside and wipe your slate clean. Jerusalem is a vibrant city with a fascinating mix of cultures and people, and cool surprises around every bend.

For example, the city’s central market turns into the center of nightlife after dark, and it’s where you’ll find poetry slams, beer bars, late-night eats, colorful murals and music. Say what!

Is Jerusalem safe to visit?

Yes, totally. We didn’t experience any crime while traveling in Jerusalem. Israel presents low crime rates for tourists and locals are friendly.

The biggest threat you’d face is potentially getting ripped off in a taxi or in a market. As goes for traveling anywhere away from home, watch your bag, especially in markets and in the Jerusalem Old City (it can be crowded in the narrow alleys) and watch your pockets.

There are on and off periods of tension in Israel overall between various parties, but as a tourist, if you stick to popular attractions and the things in this guide/other blogs, you will likely not get into any type of trouble.

What’s a good packing list for traveling to Israel?

We recommend several packing lists for you to go by, and in addition, we’ll make a few recommendations below.

  • Best travel accessories
  • Which shoes to pack, for women
  • Minimalist packing tips
  • Best accessories for long flights

For Israel additionally, we recommend a few things…

  • Bathing suit! For swimming in the Dead Sea.
  • A travel lock , for using at a rental locker (maybe at the Dead Sea)
  • A scarf or shawl, for women, to use when visiting religious sites where shoulders must be covered (synagogues, Dome of the Rock, mosques, churches, memorial sites)
  • One pair of travel pants for men and travel pants for women , as shorts are also not allowed at major religious sites, memorials and some national monuments
  • If you are Jewish and own your own kippah (skullcap), we also suggest bringing it so that you do not have to borrow or buy one when visiting the Western Wall and other sites of worship
  • Women may also benefit from packing one skirt or maxi dress for the same reasons above

Do I need a visa to travel to Israel?

You probably don’t need a visa to travel to Israel.

Passport holders of 99 major countries do not require travel visas to enter Israel, so if you are reading this and you’re not from Indonesia, Malaysia or a list of Middle-Eastern countries, you do not need a confirmation of a visa.

Should I worry about things being closed on the Sabbath (Shabbat) in Jerusalem?

Shabbat, which is Hebrew for the Sabbath, or day of rest, takes place every Friday evening at sundown until Saturday also at sundown. Shabbat is a peaceful time for Jewish Israelis who observe this day of rest, and so many businesses will be closed.

You’ll notice that Tel Aviv overall observes less of the Shabbat tradition of closing stores, but in Jerusalem it’s a different story. Things like trains will not run, the average business will be closed for the day on Saturday and will close Friday afternoon and many people will attend religious services.

Don’t be scared! As a traveler in Israel on Shabbat, you’ll have heaps to do.

A local tip is that the “monit sherut” (small buss) from the Central Bus Station in Tel Aviv runs to Jerusalem, on a somewhat limited schedule. So, ask your hotel or hostel in Tel Aviv about it, and you can make your way to Jerusalem even while other forms of transit are on their day off.

Download Moovit, as it’s a really helpful travel app and it’ll really help you with transportation specifically in Israel.

General first-time travel tips for Jerusalem

Here are a few helpful things to know about Jerusalem, to prepare you for your visit:

“Do”s and “Don’t”s in Israel

  • Try all the amazing food: falafel, shawarma (with toppings), shakshuka, sabich, Turkish coffee, arak, local craft beer
  • Go exploring: in the Old City, around Nachlaot, in the Mahane Yehuda Market (Shuk)
  • Take a tour, in order to learn more in-depth about where you are. You can book some tours or day outings with hostels like Abraham Hostel or with operators like Tourist Israel.
  • Be respectful: of various religions, ethnicities, customs, cultures and languages. Israel has a very diverse array of people, and everyone has a story. Try not to judge, and instead, choose to learn.
  • Do not go unprepared to holy sites like the Western Wall, famous synagogues or mosques, the Temple Mount (see below for our guide) or national monuments and cemeteries. Most will have a modest dress code.
  • Do not get frustrated when someone does not speak any English. Israeli people speak a multitude of languages, from Russian to French to Arabic to Hebrew, and learning English has come as a second thought, for some.
  • Do not expect everything to be open on Friday nights and Saturdays, and do be patient about it. It’s incredible to see a country that comes to ‘full stop’ for one day a week, so appreciate it!
  • Do not leave Israel without learning a few helpful phrases like ‘todah rabah’ (thank you), ‘shalom’ (hi/peace) and, ‘ayfo ha sherutim?’ (where’s the bathroom?).

Old City tourist pricing

Avoid getting your falafel and hummus inside the old city (especially the Jewish Quarter). It’s overpriced and not as good as it’ll be in the more local areas (try the market).

Jerusalem signage and languages

Signs in Jerusalem are usually in three languages: Hebrew, English and Arabic. You’ll also find taxi drivers who speak Russian, shop-owners who speak French, restaurant servers who speak Amharic (from Ethiopia) and expats who speak Spanish. There’s a bit of everyone here.

Learn some Hebrew with our travel language-learning tips !

Taking a Jerusalem city tour can be helpful

Taking a tour around Jerusalem can be helpful, as it’s really easy to get lost — much more so than in the city of Tel Aviv. The streets wind around a lot because the city is so hilly. The bright side of this is that there are lots of viewpoints to see!

Try the Jerusalem public bus system

Jerusalem’s buses run very regularly during the week (aside from Friday evenings and Saturdays during the day) and are a great way to get from neighborhood to neighborhood. Rides are rarely long and they’re pretty affordable. Our tip is to always have change, in Shekels.

White Jerusalem stone arches in a narrow alleyway

Where to stay in Jerusalem, for backpackers

Abraham hostel jerusalem.

Abraham Hostel Jerusalem is a great downtown hostel for travelers of all types, especially backpackers! Given that Israel is so (relatively) expensive for many travelers, with the exchange rate to the USD and other currencies, you may be looking into budget accommodation during your trip.

There’s an Abraham Hostel in Tel Aviv as well, and we equally enjoyed our stay there (it was awesome). Abraham Hostels really have the traveler experience down to a science.

Starting with the common area, there’s a bar, where you can grab happy hour and get to meet other travelers. The demographic here is pretty wide, from college students to travelers in groups in the 50-60 age range from Europe. Seriously, no one stands out here and everyone is welcome.

Red, yellow and green beer names in Hebrew at a bar counter

The hostel has a variety of different rooms, ranging from dorms to privates! The dorm rooms are great for those looking to try solo travel and are a nice way to be social.

In the morning, there’s a big spread of Israeli breakfast, included, so you definitely won’t go hungry and can start your day off with the delicious fresh foods that are part of the Israeli diet — vegetables, fruits and more. We love Israeli breakfasts for staying healthy during travel .

Two women taking bread and Israeli salads at a table with a red and white checked tablecloth

What we like most about Abraham Hostels both in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is that they offer so many events, every day of the week. Literally every day, there is something going on, whether you’re looking for an open mic night, a performance from a local band, a hummus-making class or a city tour you can join. They also offer Abraham Tours to other parts of Israel, like Eilat, Haifa and Bethlehem.

Did you know that staying in a hostel is one of the best ways to save money during a trip? See why!

Where to eat in Jerusalem (local spots)

Tmol shilshom.

Tmol Shilshom is a great place for starting your Jerusalem journey, as it’s a popular place for young people and cultured travelers who want to eat fresh Mediterranean food in a beautiful old alley of a quiet neighborhood. It’s a bookstore-cafe in an old garden, where you can combine food with culture. Have some Israeli wine and try the shakshuka or salmon fillet. End with cheesecake.

Aricha Sabich

Hailed as some of the best sabich, and some of the best food, in all of Jerusalem, Aricha Sabich will not leave you disappointed. Not sure what sabich is? Add this to your vocabulary fast, as sabich is an Iraqi and now Israeli breakfast dish that you can eat any time of day. It consists of eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, tahini sauce and salads, all crammed into fresh pita bread.

Marzipan Bakery and Pastry

Marzipan Bakery is a popular spot for rugelach cookies (drool!), donuts, decorated cakes and chocolate pastries. You might go twice.

Dwiny Pita Bar

This little pita bar is only two minutes away from the Mahane Yehuda Market (the Shuk) and it’ll be great for anyone looking for some of the best vegetarian options, along with creative pita fillings that amount to some “gorgeous vegetarian food” and a hip crowd.

Cafe Yehoshua

Cafe Yehoshua, located at Azza St 17, is highly-rated for healthy breakfast options and a nice Mediterranean cuisine menu. Bonus: grilled cheese sandwiches.

Sushi Rehavia

With four locations in Jerusalem, this is a great option if you want some high-quality kosher sushi. It’s well-known throughout town, and while it’s more than what you’d pay to fill up your stomach than having a falafel pita, for example, it’s delicious.

Jerusalem Steakhouse

Not to be confused with an actual steakhouse (it’s not), nor the Brooklyn joint of exactly the same name (ha), this fast casual restaurant is located at 101 Agripas and is good for a ‘real authentic loud Israel experience.’ It’s not too expensive, and it is super crazy delicious for shawarma and falafel.

Cafe Rimon is a local chain with four locations in Jerusalem and is popular for “dairy” and fish. It’s vegetarian- and vegan-friendly, and also has an assortment of gluten-free options. If you go with a group, you can order family-style.

Pasta Basta

Located in Mahane Yehuda Market, AKA “The Shuk,” Pasta Basta is not only fun to say, but has delicious pasta and is relatively inexpensive, considering the cost of many other things in Israel. Travelers say it is worth the wait (there may be one), but a good deal and highly recommended.

If you’re down on Emek Refaim, the main thoroughfare of the “German Colony” neighborhood, Bagel Cafe is your stop for an “American-style bagel” and a coffee. Takeaway is fine here, if not expected and there’s also a catering menu in case you need food for … a ton of people. Kosher.

Located at David Remez St 4, Station 9 is one of Jerusalem’s best Asian fusion restaurants for when you want to get fancy and treat yourself. The eclectic menu mixes flavors from China, Vietnam and more, all under kosher supervision.

Where to grab coffee, Israel-style

Israelis love coffee, and if you’re like us, hunting down cafes wherever you go (and how to take photos of it), you’ll want to know where locals get their coffee in Jerusalem.

Aroma is a coffee shop and cafe now found in many places in Israel, in addition to places like NYC and LA. The first one opened up in Jerusalem in 2006, and now it’s synonymous with starting your morning.

In addition to having your coffee, you can get fresh and healthy items like sandwiches, beads, pastries, vegan breakfast, gluten-free staples like shakshuka, a complete Israeli breakfast and more. Needless to say, you’ll probably go to Aroma a whole bunch during your stay in Israel.

The Coffee Mill

The Coffee Mill is a hidden gem of a cafe, owned by two Americans who created its unique atmosphere. They have coffee from all over the world, and there’s breakfast, lunch and dinner as well.

Cafe Nadi, at Hillel St 39, is one of the most well-known spots for morning coffee and breakfast in Jerusalem. It’s cozy and charming, known for excellent fresh food and outdoor seating.

Coolest local trendy bars in Jerusalem

We know what you’re thinking: cool bars? In Jerusalem? Yes, it’s true. Jerusalem has its own bar and night scene, and it’s exactly where you wouldn’t expect it to be.

To set the scene, picture a big Israeli-style market, lined with vendors selling pomegranates, vegetables, spices, teas and nuts every day (except Shabbat), mixed in with eateries and other market stalls. Now picture the time dinner time rolls around, and the vendors start packing up and leaving.

And the market turns into Jerusalem’s best bar scene.

Now you see why everyone talks about the reinvented “shuk” scene going on at night in Jerusalem, most days of the week. It’s here that you can have craft beer, a cocktail, delicious food and see a Hebrew poetry slam, all while admiring the hand-painted wall murals of famous faces colored across closed stall grates. Don’t forget your camera!

Freddy Lemon

One of the coolest bars in the Mahane Yehuda Shuk, Freddy Lemon is the spot where you’ll see indie musicians take the stage. Happy hour is til 9:30 pm and there’s outdoor (patio) seating. It’s open til 5 am.

Yudale is a tapas bar with a cool and energetic atmosphere. It’s also a two-minute walk from the Shuk, with great drinks, so you can go in the beginning or at the end of your evening out in Jeru.

HaTaklit is a divey bar with some outdoor seating on a quiet uphill street. Happy hour lasts for five hours, staff is friendly and helpful and there’s a performance space. HaTaklit means “the record” (the music kind), and you’ll see why our next listing is its neighbor.

Video Pub, or simply, “Video,” is the official gay bar of Jerusalem. It’s quirky and casual and welcomes everyone. Video is open til 3 am.

Gatsby Cocktail Room

Gatsby Cocktail Room is where you may want to get a bit more dressed up, as opposed to shuffling in from your day in your regular walking shoes and hoodie or tank top. One of Jerusalem’s best speakeasies, it does not disappoint. The menu is grand, with photos and descriptions, all in art deco style and flavor. Note: it’s not cheap, but a special experience like this comes with a special price tag.

Located at Dorot Rishonim St 8, Birma is a laid-back piano bar where you can appreciate some jazz. There’s Middle-Eastern bar food (delicious) and a lovely array of drinks.

Biratenu - Jerusalem Beer Center

Visiting Biratenu is a unique thing to do when you visit Jerusalem. Based in Hillel St 6, you can see hundreds of Israeli craft beers here and speak with the owner, who is very passionate about his work. Beer-lovers, beware! You might want to stay a while here.

Rooftop” (rooftop bar in Jerusalem)

It’s rare to find a rooftop bar in Jerusalem, but if you visit Rooftop, at Shlomo ha-Melekh St 11, it’s a great way to appreciate the city a bit from above, especially when it is warm out.

Beer Bazaar

Beer Bazaar will be your craft beer spot in Israel if you want to “finally get something other than Goldstar or Maccabi beer,” according to our friend Allie. Located in the Mahane Yehuda Market, you’ll see heaps of beers lining the walls and you can speak with knowledgeable and expert beer store staff.

Historic and interesting places to see in Jerusalem

We’re not experts in Jerusalem’s history by any means, but we do appreciate all the unique things you can see that exist nowhere else in the world. For example, where can you see the mix of cultures that takes place in the Old City, in such close proximity?

Mahane Yehuda Market

This is one of our favorite Israeli markets. Debatably the most famous in Israel, you’ll see why, once you get semi-lost among the vendors and travelers from every corner of the Earth who come here to shop and see what’s up.

Blackboard sign in Hebrew writing placed among mangos and dragon fruits in an Israeli market

Once a historic neighborhood, Nachlaot has turned kind of hipster. Lose the map, as it’s not worth bringing one — Nachlaot’s white stone alleys will charm you and you’ll wind up walking in circles no matter what you do.

The neighborhood has rather short buildings, which adds to its charm. Among them, you’ll see galleries, flowers peeking out of gardens, courtyards and centuries-old synagogues with fading signs.

Cameras are welcome!

Bright blue painted door with rusted vertical mailboxes next to a white wall

Ben Yehuda Street

Ben Yehuda Street is a major street and more or less a Jerusalem landmark when it comes to saying, Meet me at Ben Yehuda. This street is closed off for pedestrians, and it’s here that you’ll find stores that cater to tourists, but you may see street performers, groups of off-duty Israeli soldiers and travelers stopping at cafes. This is also where things happen on fun holidays like Purim and Simchat Torah.

Temple Mount

The Temple Mount is a hill in the Jerusalem Old City that is sacred to several religions. It is now part of the “Muslim part,” so it’s where you will find the Dome of the Rock and famous mosques.

A young boy playing ball in an empty plaza at Dome of the Rock

Dome of the Rock

The Dome of the Rock is one of the most holy places in the Muslim religion and it’s a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. We went there to see the architecture. It truly is beautiful. The catch is that it is a tough place in terms of being a tourist — well, not for everyone, but there are a bunch of rules to go by in order to prepare for your visit.

See our complete Dome of the Rock visit guide .

Two women wearing burkas walk by white and blue stone Dome of the Rock

One more thing: Non-Muslims can’t go into the Dome of the Rock itself. So, you have to walk around and quietly appreciate your surroundings without going into any of the buildings.

Wilson’s Arch

If you’re really into history and architecture, check out Wilson’s Arch, which was named for the explorer who ‘found’ (re-found) it in the 1800s. It’s near the Western Wall.

Jewish Quarter (Rova Yehudi)

The Jewish Quarter is one of the four ‘quarters’ (they’re not exactly all the same size) in Jerusalem’s Old City. Again, without touching too much on religion, this is the Jewish cultural section where you’ll find the Western Wall at its border, lots of shops, market stalls, religious (okay, we touched on religion) sites and even people who call this neighborhood home.

It’s totally safe, so there’s no need to worry about safety. If you love feeling like an explorer, you’ll enjoy the stone alleys, old stairwells, accessible rooftops (keep wandering!) and underground labyrinths.

Two men walk on a stone rooftop in Jerusalem Old City

Western Wall

This wall (it’s massive) is one of the most holy places in the Jewish religion and it is called “The Kotel” (Ha Kotel) in Hebrew. Note: to visit — well, to get close to it — women must cover their shoulders and be wearing a skirt or bottoms that fall below the knee, and men must wear the traditional skullcap called a ‘kippah.’

If you’d like to engage in going up close to it, note that most visitors take their visit very seriously, even by backing away from it without turning their back to the wall, and will stick a note of prayer or hope into the cracks of the massive white stones.

Note, again, that to get your note in, you’ll have to cram it in among the thousands (millions?) of notes that have been left there since the beginning of time (or so it seems). A lot of them fall to the ground. To be respectful, avoid touching any note that is not your own.

View of the parking lot outside the Western Wall in Jerusalem Old City on a clear day

Yad Vashem is The World Holocaust Remembrance Center in Jerusalem. It is an incredible and moving testament to the Jews who perished in the Holocaust and also the Gentiles who helped save them and risked their lives doing so.

It is customary to act very respectful here, as the topics are very heavy. The museum is incredibly well-done and it is worth a visit for everyone who goes there.

We recommend avoiding taking photos. It is also customary to not talk much while visiting in order to maintain respect and remembrance.

Mount Herzl (Har Herzl)

Rather than being an actual mountain, Mount Herzl (Har Herzl in Hebrew) is actually the Mount Herzl National Cemetery. It’s here that major Israeli figures are buried, like Yitzhak Rabin and Golda Meir.

The Herzl Museum, which is also on-site, has a movie about the life of Theodore Herzl, the founder of modern Zionims. Also here is the cemetery with the final resting places of fallen soldiers throughout Israel’s various wars.

Please maintain utmost respect when visiting.

If you want to find Mount Herzl, the address is, fittingly, “Mount Herzl, Jerusalem.”

Arab Quarter

The Arab, or Muslim Quarter, is one of the quadrants of Jerusalem’s Old City within the old city walls. The main point of entry is Damascus Gate, which is a landmark on any map.

The main market is the cotton market, and it is in the style of a shuk, where you can buy all the things you need (rather than souvenirs).

Armenian Quarter

The Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem’s Old City is the smallest ‘quarter’ (again, they’re not perfect quarters). Between one and two thousands Armenians live in this region.

You can enter through Zion Gate and Jaffa Gate, so look for those gates on your map. Things to do in the Armenian quarter include having coffee, visit Armenian ceramic and pottery shops and trying Armenian food at the Armenian restaurants. There are a few religious sites as well (remember, we’re not experts on religion during this article, so we’re not going to mention much more detail because we don’t feel qualified to do so!).

White stone pointed top of a church in the Armenian old quarter of Jerusalem old city

Hebrew Music Museum

Visitors say this Jerusalem museum is a real gem, and that’s because in addition to musical instruments, the museum helps depict the periods of time that shaped music in Israel and how music is intertwined with culture.

There are interactive exhibits all around, and it’s recommended to take a guided tour in order to not miss anything crucial. This is a great museum for music lovers, music fans, musicians or anyone who wants to learn something completely new while discovering Israel.

If you’re into unique and off-the-beaten-track museums, you’ll want to say you’ve been to the Jerusalem Tax Museum.

This museum exists to show people the importance of tax collection! We could use a few pointers about that every year!

Even more than exhibiting tax in Israel, the museum demonstrates how tax is collected all over the world. Worth a visit, if you’re a CPA, accounting or finance student, or if you want to learn a ton of new things!

Transit options in Jerusalem (how to get around Jerusalem)

Most of Jerusalem is walkable, as it’s not a big city, compared with other major cities in the world. While Jerusalem is not actually big, it’s very hilly and therefore, lots of streets wind around hills. There’s no real city grid, and lots of streets turn into others and are windy. There are a few transit options to help you out.

Jerusalem public bus

For getting around on a day to day, taking the public bus is very helpful. You’ll see people lining up to get on buses, especially at rush hour in the morning and later in the day. Within our week in Jerusalem, we got pretty familiar with the buses that stopped at our hostel and the other places we went. We rarely took taxis!

Taxis in Jerusalem

You can take taxis in Jerusalem, but note that the drivers sometimes don’t speak English (most will speak Hebrew, Russian or maybe Arabic a bit). Also, you will probably wind up paying a lot for a taxi as a non-Hebrew speaker. This can get frustrating. We advise taking a taxi if you can’t figure out the bus or light rail route to get to your destination.

Jerusalem Central Bus Station

As Israel is a compact country, the best way to get around is by bus, if you’re not renting a car. We got around between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and back again, via public bus. Buses to lots of major cities leave very often, and you’ll rarely have to wait.

Around the bus station, everyone is pretty helpful, especially if you’re going somewhere major (Tel Aviv, Haifa, Beersheva, Eilat).

In Jerusalem, the bus station is a pretty popular place, and people on the light rail or on the street will be hopefully pretty helpful in getting you there. The light rail (details below) has a stop at the bus station. Leave some time when taking the light rail in case there’s any sort of delay.

A good thing to know is that buses to Tel Aviv run every 15-20 minutes.

Be aware of Shabbat (Friday night into Saturday) service for all transportation options. Things tend to stop and get slower a few hours before Shabbat begins (it depends on the time of year). Ask your hotel or hostel staff for the most up-to-date details on when Shabbat starts and how it will affect transport options in Jerusalem.

Jerusalem light rail

Jerusalem has a fairly new system that’s reminiscent of a small above-ground metro, and it is called Harakevet Hakala. It mostly connects the main thoroughfares of the city (which is not huge) and can take you from the Central Bus Station to places like the square outside Abraham Hostel Jerusalem.

Tel Aviv-Jerusalem speed train

The “Tel Aviv–Jerusalem railway,” also referred to as the “high-speed railway to Jerusalem,” is Israel’s newest hi-tech transport option.

During our last trip to Israel, this speed train was not even finished yet, but everyone was very excited about its completion.

With this rail line now done, you can reach the Tel Aviv International Airport (Ben Gurion Airport) in around 25 minutes from Jerusalem city. That’s incredible!

Tickets are around 10 USD and you can pay for them at a machine with cash or credit. The trains are like European-style railway trains.

Taking the high-speed rail is a great new way to have a mass transit option in getting from the airport to Jerusalem and avoiding (sorry, taxi drivers) the high prices that taxis usually cost in getting anywhere from city to city.

Day trip ideas out of Jerusalem

Israel is a relatively compact country (many say it’s the size of the US state of New Jersey), so taking a day trip is never a huge schlep, so to speak.

Many tour operators like Tourist Israel can help you take all sorts of day trips to Masada, Ein Gedi, Caesarea and the Dead Sea. Check out how we took a Tourist Israel trip to the Dead Sea, as follows.

Take a day trip tour to the Dead Sea

Dan and I both took trips to the Dead Sea when we went on Birthright Israel trips in our late teens-early twenties (separately) and were excited to go back. Due to the heaviest rains in years during our most recent trip to Israel, we went to a different part of the Dead Sea than previous times.

This was interesting because it was not as we had remembered, and it was good for us to see another “Dead Sea region.” Our trip with Tourist Israel took an alternate route because the Dead Sea resorts near Ein Gedi, the most famous and most beautiful Dead Sea location, was closed due to mudslides the day we went.

Instead, we had an interesting time visiting Qasr el Yahud, or, the spot where Jesus was baptized. We probably would not have made our way here otherwise, so it was a kind of once-in-a-lifetime experience for us to see a famous Christian site in Israel, whereas we typically visit Jewish ones.

Leaving Jerusalem and going through the desert is a quintessential Israeli experience that everyone should have. Hopefully your tour will stop at a monument to Sea Level, as it all goes downhill from there… so to speak (ha).

Winding highway road through yellow desert hills in Israel

At the Dead Sea itself, you have to prepare to get very salty. The water in the Dead Sea is like nothing you’ve ever floated in — it’s basically hard to sink!

Bathing in water in such a high concentration of salt will leave your skin smooth and can be pretty therapeutic. Be sure to rub the mineral-rich mud all over yourself, and of course, all over your friends.

White stone and red and gray mosaic design against a blue sky

One thing to remember is to be careful of if you have any open cuts (even a paper cut), because the high salt content of the Dead Sea water can magnify the stinging feeling.

Ready to explore more of Israel? Explore Tel Aviv and the Dead Sea with us!

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A Solo Traveller's Guide to Jerusalem

Jerusalem has one of the planets most recognisable city skylines

Three of the world’s key faiths meet in Jerusalem, one of the oldest cities in the world. Yet there is more to the city than Jewish, Muslim and Christian holy sites. Beyond the millennia-old maze of lanes and the bustle of the Old City’s souqs, you can explore the contemporary art galleries and buzzy dining scene of Downtown, as well as world-class attractions such as Yad Vashem further afield, while East Jerusalem shines a spotlight on the future of the region.

What’s the vibe.

Clamorous, gritty and a profound assault on all the senses (in a good way), Jerusalem is a joy to explore if you’re a solo traveller. Whether you’re perusing the city’s ancient and holy sights, bargaining for traditional Palestinian embroidery, Dead Sea products of Bedouin-woven rugs at the markets, people-watching over a beer at the Mahane Yehuda Market or taking a sobering tour of Yad Vashem, the city will suck you in.

A Jerusalem solo trip overview

Allow at least four days to make the most of your solo trip to Jerusalem. You’ll need at least a day to explore the maze-like Old City, the Temple Mount and other highlights; another day to explore East Jerusalem’s spread-out Palestinian and other cultural attractions; ample time to eat your way around Downtown’s Mahane Yehuda Market and check out the ‘hood’s art galleries, and at least half a day to take in the Holocaust memorial museum of Yad Vashem . The best times of year to visit Jerusalem are April to May and September to November, when the weather is mild and the city is relatively crowd-free. Check when various religious festivals are happening, in case you want to attend/avoid them.

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Where to stay in Jerusalem as a solo traveller

Jerusalem is a patchwork of lively neighbourhoods, each with a distinctive character. Those of particular interest to visitors range from the bustling Palestinian Muslim communities in the east half of the city and the millennia-old lanes of the Old City to the contemporary, multilingual German Colony and Downtown Jerusalem with its galleries, markets and cafes.

Tourists stand outside the Dome of the Rock in the Old City of Jerusalem

Surrounded by mighty stone walls, this is the millennia-old heart of the city, where life in the warren-like lanes seems removed from the very modern traffic snarls outside its gates. Compact and a joy to wander around, the Old City is divided into Jewish, Muslim, Christian and Armenian quarters, and is home to some of the world’s most iconic religious sights: the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (where Jesus is believed to have been crucified), the Western Wall (Judaism’s holiest site), and the Temple Mount’s Al-Aqsa Mosque (3rd-holiest site in Islam). Besides bargaining at the souks and eating some of the world’s best hummus at Abu Shukri, it’s well worth overnighting in one of the handful of hotels and guesthouses here for a particularly atmospheric stay.

Downtown Jerusalem

The Dome of the Rock and the Western Wall become even more impressive at sunset

A short walk from the Old City, and composed of car-free streets branching off the main Ben Yehuda drag, Downtown Jerusalem is all sun-bleached plazas and courtyard cafes. Alleyways are dotted with art studios, jewellery shops, bars and independent boutiques, and there’s ample accommodation for all budgets. The Mahane Yehuda Market is a must for those travelling alone in Israel and wanting to experience the epitome of Jerusalem’s casual dining scene. Yalla Basta and Joel Haber offer excellent food tours centred on the famous market.

East Jerusalem

The Church of Mary Magdalene on Mount of Olives is one of the most distinctive in Jerusalem

According to the faithful, when the Messiah returns on Judgement Day, the redemption of the dead will begin on the Mount of Olives, where tens of thousands are seeing out eternity. Several significant tombs and churches flanking the Mount are part of the attraction of this spread-out, hilly neighbourhood that’s largely composed of Palestinian Muslim communities. Delve into Palestinian culture at the Palestinian Heritage Museum and don’t miss the politically edgy contemporary art at the Museum on the Seam (‘seam’ being the border between East and West Jerusalem).

German Colony & around

Old houses and cobbled streets dot the Yemin Moshe district of Jerusalem

If you’re doing Jerusalem solo and would like a respite from the buzz of Downtown and the Old City, this tree-lined, upscale and cosmopolitan ‘hood is just the ticket, provided your budget stretches to the city’s upscale hotels. There’s a distinctly European vibe to the multilingual German Colony, settled by the German Templer Society in the mid-19th century. Since the sights – from the LA Mayer Museum for Islamic Art to Mishkenot Sha’anim, with its wonderful views of the Old City – are rather spread out, put your best walking shoes on or be prepared to take taxis.

What to do in Jerusalem as a solo traveller

Temple Mount/ Al-Haram Ash Sharif

Our Lady of the Spasm Armenian Catholic Church and the Dome of the Rock in the Old City of Jerusalem

The Old City’s (and Jerusalem’s) holiest site is also the most contentious. Palm- and cypress-studded Temple Mount is accessed via an entrance near the Western Wall (where you’ll see religious Jews at prayer), and is centred on the wonderfully photogenic, gold-cupola-topped Dome of the Rock. Non-Muslims may not enter, but there’s nothing to stop you from admiring its graceful archways and striking blue mosaics. Nearby is the Mamluk-era Al Aqsa Mosque (also off-limits to Muslims), allegedly visited by the Prophet Mohammed on his way to heaven.

Yad Vashem offer a disturbing yet poignant look at the Holocaust

This poignant memorial to the six million Jews who died in the Holocaust is well worth the light-rail trip from Downtown Jerusalem. Inside a striking, prism-shaped concrete bunker, powerful multimedia presentations (including survivor testimonials) tell the story of European Jewry. Behind the Hall of Remembrance , where an eternal flame watches over the final resting place of death-camp victims, there’s the hope-inducing Garden of the Righteous Among Nations that honours those who risked their lives to save Jews in WWII.

Mahane Yehuda Market

Mahane Yehuda is renowned for first-class fruits and vegetables

Take your taste buds on a whirlwind round-the-world tour at Jerusalem’s most famous market in Downtown. Made up of a grid of narrow streets, the market is lined with speciality shops, stalls and restaurants, where you can feast on anything from Yemenite remedy drinks and Iraqi stuffed vine leaves to sushi, sublime hummus and other Middle Eastern classics. Join a local food tour, or take your time wandering around so as not to miss out on foodie highlights, such as shamburak (Kurdish pastries) at Ishtabach, Persian- and Moroccan-style soups at Ochlim B’shuk, 100 varieties of tahini-based sweets at Kingdom of Halva, and sugarcane and citron juice served by Etrog Man.

Palestinian Heritage Museum & Museum on the Seam (MOIS)

The Museum on the Seam is a socio-political contemporary art museum located in a neo-classical building in the home of the family of its original architect, Andoni Baramki

Located within the American Colony complex in the predominantly Palestinian East Jerusalem, the Palestinian Heritage Museum lets you delve into ancient and contemporary Palestinian culture; you’ll also learn about the 1948 Deir Yassin massacre and the historic displacement of formerly Arab villages. While you’re here, head for the ‘seam’: the boundary between East and West Jerusalem since the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. MOIS, an edgy Palestinian art gallery, explores the themes of identity, faith and conflict through paintings, multi-media installations and more.

Eating and drinking in Jerusalem

Traditional Arabic sweets are on sale throughout the markets of Jerusalem

Jerusalem’s dining scene, scattered across its most popular neighbourhoods, runs the gamut from street stalls serving falafel, sabich (pita bread stuffed with fried aubergine and tahini), shawarma and bourekas (baked stuffed pastries) and hole-in-the-wall joints cooking up in hummus and other traditional Middle Eastern staples to restaurants with globe-spanning menus, influenced by migration to Israel from all over the world, as well as cutting-edge fine dining and fusion cuisine. Some restaurants are kosher (and therefore closed on Shabbat and Jewish holidays).

With the exception of the Old City, which is as dry as a desert, and East Jerusalem, where you’re limited to hotel bars, the city is no slouch when it comes to nightlife, either, with craft beer, cocktail and even dedicated whisky bars clustered around the Mahane Yehuda Market area in Downtown.

Stay safe, stay happy

While shopping at any of Jerusalem’s markets, bargaining is a must. Decide how much you’re willing to spend on a souvenir, keep your cool and play the game with a smile. Although taxis are metered, taxi drivers have been known to rip off tourists. Steer clear of demonstrations, and be aware that tensions over access to the holy sites in Old Jerusalem occasionally spill over into riots.

Getting around in Jerusalem as a solo traveller

Ancient meets modern throughout Jerusalem’s neighbourhoods

Jerusalem’s Old City is wonderfully walkable, while the outlying neighbourhoods are well-covered with a network of trams and buses. Buy a reusable Rav-Kav card from any bus driver and recharge the card at ticket machines by tram stops. Metered taxis fill any gaps.

Cultural need-to-knows

A veiled woman looking at the male section of the Western Wall

Israelis will tell you that if you get two locals in a room, you get 10 different opinions. Israeli politics is a minefield, so unless you’re good friends with the person, or are actively encouraged to express your views, it’s best to steer clear of opinions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Dressing modestly is an absolute must at all religious sites, as well as in ultra-Orthodox Jewish neighbourhoods such as Me’a She’arim, and the Arab neighbourhoods of east Jerusalem. Shoulders and knees must be covered; if you’re a female traveller, long trousers are okay in Christian and Muslim areas, but in ultra-Orthodox Jewish neighbourhoods, only a long skirt will do. Avoid driving into ultra-Orthodox parts of Jerusalem on Shabbat (from sunset on Friday to nightfall on Saturday). During the month of Ramadan, don’t eat or drink in Muslim neighbourhoods during daylight hours.

Travelling alone in Israel doesn’t mean you have to be lonely. Join Culture Trip’s seven-day Israel adventure to experience Jerusalem from the perspective of Jewish and Arab locals and other country highlights as part of a small group of culturally curious, like-minded travellers.

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Borders Of Adventure

Borders Of Adventure

Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

Visiting Temple Mount in Jerusalem

Israel , Misunderstood Destinations

Travel to Jerusalem Guide – What it Means to Visit the Holy Land

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You don’t have to be a religious pilgrim to travel to Jerusalem. Here is where to feel its magnetism in the holy old and the new.

The desire to travel to Jerusalem may not appear to be the usual city of choice for a traveller with no religious calling, yet it is a city whose cultural rejuvenation is attracting those wanting to look beyond its theological persona. The city is cryptic yet captivating, firmly cementing itself as a contemporary space whilst retaining the ancient, spiritual hold that it’s mostly known for.

Israel-Gaza war: Traveling here is not possible now, but staying informed is a choice, including the live news feeds from various sources, including BBC, CNN and AlJazeera.  

Why Travel to Jerusalem?

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While everyone knows about Jerusalem in some form, you can’t really understand its meaning as the spiritual centre of the world until you stand within it, transfixed and transported in time, before landing with a bump to the vivacity of its modern-day culture.

Like most travellers going to Jerusalem, the Old City’s history and architecture were top of mind, and when there, it was a place with such magnetism that I often found myself heading back over and over with no aim except to lose myself within it. Yet, my nights spent dining in the old market, wandering amongst the local neighbourhoods and frequenting the entertainment area of the New City soon confirmed that you must look outside of the old Jerusalem to experience the city in its entirety.

 A single visit doesn’t warrant enough time to grasp its beauty and mystery completely.

People gather in the Western Wall Plaza in Jerusalem, surrounded by light orange stone walls beneath the golden dome of Temple Mount and a minaret.

Travel to Jerusalem – The Holy Land Old and New City Capital of Israel

Before You Go to Jerusalem

Jerusalem is often in the media spotlight, especially when tensions flare between Israel and Palestine, which has for centuries been a distinctly controversial subject and for which there is no easy resolution. With various fractions, options, tensions, groups, call to arms, forms of Apartheid and the continuing illegal building of settlements, this region remains one of the most divisive in the world. 

However, day-to-day life continues, and Jerusalem tourism thrives as many seek out the sites and stories of one of the most historic cities on earth. While I do not support the actions of the Israeli government and the brutal overstep of military power, I do not believe in boycotting local businesses and people who remain independent of these decisions. Aside from the extremist factions, many ordinary people want peace. 

Generally, it is safe to visit Jerusalem, and you will see there are extra security measures in place in the centre of the city, and more so around the Old City of Jerusalem, where people of different faiths live together, despite it remaining a contested area in light of internal politics.

As is the region of East Jerusalem, viewed by Palestinians as the capital of Palestine and often at the heart of the Jerusalem skirmishing you hear about in the news. 

Like anywhere, exercise caution and be aware of any political changes where it would be wise to stay away from demonstrations and be informed of any changes to travel, such as road and airport closures. 

For example, when President Trump’s announced recognising Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in December 2017, the British Foreign Office (FCO) advised against all travel to the Old City of Jerusalem over a three-day period due to the call for mass protests across the West Bank and including East Jerusalem. 

Overall, I never once felt unsafe in Jerusalem, and I travelled from one end of Israel to the other, leaving and entering the city many times over. Jerusalem safety tips mostly come down to being prepared for any changes and opening your mind to a way of travelling that may way change your preconceived notions.

  • Local people are welcoming and always willing to help.
  • Be sensitive to your environment when and if you talk about politics. It’s difficult to understand and easy to offend.  
  • Armed members of the Israel Defense Forces in Jerusalem city are predominantly young people on National Service, and while it can feel intimidating at first glance, you will soon see it is a normal part of everyday life here. 
  • Use Google Translate or the Morfix Hebrew translation app if you need further help, or even just to practice a few Hebrew phrases. In Hebrew, “Thank you” is “Toda” and it goes a long way.

Things to Do in Jerusalem in the New City

The New City of Jerusalem (West Jerusalem) is easily navigable, with plenty of small suburbs to wander and a city centre full of life. My base was the bustling traveller hub of the Abraham Hostel , located right in the heart of town next to the Davidka Square stop of the Jerusalem Light Rail (tram). It meant staying in the city’s modern side while being within easy walking distance to the Old City for the perfect sightseeing combination. 

What to see in Jerusalem depends on your interests, whether visiting historic sites or indulging in the culinary food scene. So, while the catalogue of activities in new Jerusalem includes a bar crawl, cooking class and Friday night Shabbat dinner that is showcasing a vibrant side for travellers and locals alike, I put together this list of local spots and neighbourhoods for those wanting to uncover more of daily life in the city’s modern fringes. 

A man in dark clothing walks on the right side of the street, next to tram tracks in the road. To the left of him is a wall built with sandy coloured round stones and ahead, a cluster of buildings with orange roofs - the contemporary side of Jerusalem city

West Jerusalem – The New City

When I first arrived, my bus driver insisted on telling me about the Maheneh Yehuda Market on  Agripas Street with great enthusiasm, and locals never lie about great food. By day, the atmosphere is electric as you wander through stalls of sweets, fresh fruit and vegetables, fresh loaves of bread, nuts, pastries, meats, and so much more.

You swerve to dodge the trays, the carts and the locals whose hands are full of bags teeming with local produce. Your head turns at the sound of every market vendor call, the banter of a hasty transaction, and the lure of fresh juice bars and snack shops before you emerge into the light and calm of the residential streets surrounding it, your purse a few shekels lighter. It’s no wonder it is one of the main attractions in Jerusalem and a beautiful window into local living. 

At night, the market is a hip hangout. Vendor stalls are turned into seating areas, chairs and tables are laid out, and restaurants, pop-up shops and bars come into full force. This might well be a place you spend a lot of time in.

People walking. through the Jerusalem Mahaneh Yehuda Market, lined ether side with fresh fruits and vegetables and hanging plastic bags. The ceiling is covered, but lets in light.

One of the best things to see in Jerusalem is the Mahaneh Yehuda Market

A man at a stand filled with bread in yellow bags, touches the arm of the male vendor affectionately. The door behind them in mint green and part of an old stone wall.

Mahaneh Yehuda Secular Jewish Neighbourhood

While there is nothing much to see in Jerusalem’s Mahaneh Yehuda neighbourhood, you can see houses built in Jerusalem stone and have some downtime in quiet spaces. Even when I was caught out by a local who asked me that busted tourist line: “Are you lost? Where do you want to go?” I liked it. It meant there was more chance of engaging in conversation.

A worn Jerusalem stone building, with five windows (the bottom right one bricked up), and a grubby white metal door.

Mea She-arim Orthodox Jewish Neighbourhood 

Adjacent to Mahaneh Yehuda, the Orthodox Jewish neighbourhood of Mea She-arim is one of the oldest Jewish neighbourhoods in Jerusalem city. This is where the majority of the Hasidic community lives, whose very traditional ultra-orthodox Jewish values are closed and seen as an ultra-religious culture. A microcosm of Jerusalem, this neighbourhood has a different atmosphere. 

Full of narrow alleyways, quiet streets, and religious institutional buildings, it’s here where you will see the 18th-century dress code that was customary in Eastern Europe but which remains to this day. You will see the bearded men dressed in their black coats and hats, standing on the street doing nothing much except chatting to each other since the majority do not work, instead days are spent in prayer reading the Torah. You will rarely see the women, and if you do, you will see them dressed in their conservative wigs, headscarves, black skirts and dresses, pushing strollers and doing their daily shop.

It is also where you can find the largest Synagogue in Jerusalem, although you cannot enter. 

In reality, the Orthodox Jewish community does not really want you hanging around. Signs in the neighbourhood dictate not to come here in big groups, as well as outlining how you should dress and behave conservatively. An Israeli friend told me that I might be spat at, pushed and have things thrown at me, although this never happened. I did get stared at an awful lot and felt uncomfortable on my own, which is why I decided to leave.

A sign in an Orthadox Jewish neighbourhood in Jerusalem stating "Please do not pass through our neighbourhood in Immodest Clothes" and other statements in Hebrew

Sign in Jerusalem’s Mea She-arim Orthodox Jewish Neighbourhood

Nahla’ot Neighbourhood

The Nahla’ot neighbourhood is the other side of Mahaneh Yehuda Market, and using the main road of Agrippas as my marker to find my way out, I ventured into the narrow and winding streets here that make up this really pretty neighbourhood of neat buildings, stone archways, gated courtyards and tiny stairwells. 

Jaffa Road runs through the New City, connecting everything. Part picturesque and arty, it is great to stroll down and cut off into the shopping and dining areas hidden behind it. In the evening, the streets around Zion Square sound with the buzz of bars and local hangouts, where you can sip on local Goldstar beer, and people-watch for hours.

A honey coloured stone building, with terracota roof tiles and a open store front on Jaffa Road in Jerusalem city

Visit Jaffa Road in Jerusalem city

A small group of people walked past a caramel coloured low rise building in Jerusalem with the word "Hostel" over the arched doorway and a shop called Josep to the right. Behind it are two higher apartment buildings.

What to Do in Jerusalem in the Old City

Of all the places to visit in Jerusalem, the Old City is at its core. Seen as holding the history of the world, it has been fought over and conquered by various groups of people for thousands of years and is as admired as it is contested for being the holy centre to all three monotheistic faiths of Christianity, Islam and Judaism.

Despite its complexities, this one-square-kilometre walled area bestows an air of ancient lure, and the labyrinth layout is just how you always imagined.

A man dressed in black sits on a bench in front of the glowing yellow of the Jerusalem Old City Walls that looks fortress like. A black bird flies towards the building.

Jerusalem Old City walls

A walled city of stone structures, flanked in the sun’s golden hues, make up a maze of pathways that cut this ancient stronghold into the Muslim, Christian, Armenian and Jewish quarters, and knowledge of the complex and delicate history is not always necessary to appreciate the architecture, ancient relics and charged atmospheres here.

The worn old stone walls in Jerusalem's Old City covered with small scrolls of graffiti tags and religious symbols. A street name sign is next to the archway, on both sides of it.

Whether you watch the Jews praying at the Western (Wailing) Wall or singing in the cause of a celebration, silently observe Christians in prayer at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre while standing amidst the clang of the church bells, or look on as Muslims make their way to the Mosque as the call to prayer reverberates around you, you don’t have to be spiritual to be moved and taken in by the religious spectacles that blend in this small space, whilst simmering in division beneath the surface.

A large group of Jewish men dressed in black prayed against the the golden stone Western Wall in Jerusalem, Israel

The Western Wall in Jerusalem’s Old City

A disputed holy site, where once sat a Jewish temple thousands of years ago and is now a mosque, Temple Mount is an unmissable part of your exploration of the Old City.

Only open for a small window each day for non-muslims (at the gate to the right as you face the Western Wall between the hours of 07:30 – 10:00 and 12:30 – 13:30 in the winter and 07:30 – 11:00 + 13:30 – 14:30 in the summer) hundreds venture up here to view what has become an infamous symbol of Jerusalem – the gold dome which covers the slab of rock sacred to both the Jewish faith as the foundation stone of the world and the Muslim faith as the point where Mohammed ascended to heaven to join Allah.

People walking towards a beige building with blue and green mosaics and a gold dome - Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Remnants of snow can be seen on the ground.

Visiting Temple Mount

Four people stand outside the columned structure and green, blue mosaic design of Temple Mount in Jerusalem, Israel. The gold dome roof is most recognisable.

Jerusalem’s Old City is mesmerising as you meander through it and breathtaking when you see it from afar.

The view from the Mount of Olives is labelled as the most spectacular. The Austrian Hospice in the Muslim Quarter has one of the best rooftop lookouts, and the Armon Hanatziv Promenade close to the German Colony is more of a local spot, best viewed at sunset as the magical sounds of church bells or calls to prayer scatter across the land.

People gather in the The Western Wall Plaza in Jerusalem, surrounding by light orange-white stone walls and with a view to the golden dome of Temple Mount and a minaret.

Jerusalem Tours

No trip to Jerusalem is complete without finding ways to really understand it and know where to find its historical and cultural highlights. A great introduction to the Old City, for both the history and general navigation, is the free walking tour from Sandemans . Those with stamina can take a full-day Jerusalem tour with a local , from the old city to the new town, the mount to the hidden corners. 

I have one rule for Jerusalem’s Old City when you head back on your own: to not really plan a route. Getting lost is a good thing, and trying too hard to work your way around the labyrinth of narrow streets, hidden alleys, and bustling bazaars will frustrate you. You will always eventually come back onto one of the main streets leading to the main gates or one of the religious sites or stumble upon a direction sign.

The following experiences and cultural Jerusalem trips can be  booked via the Abraham tours website or at the travel desk inside the Abraham hostel:

  • Culinary experience tasting local foods on a Mahane Yehuda Market tour.
  • Take a Mount of Olives tour, see the major churches, the Mosque of Ascension,Mary’s Tomb and visit the world’s oldest Jewish cemetery.
  • Join the only tour which explores Jerusalem’s nightlife on a Jerusalem pub crawl .
  • Meet members of the Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community and better understand their culture.
  • Journey back in time by 4,000 years and enter the secret underground tunnel system on a City of David Tour .
  • The street-art tour in Jerusalem tells stories about the tensions between secular and religious Jews, Muslims and Christians and more.
  • Consider a sunrise biking tour around all of Jerusalem’s 8 gates and see the city from angles other transport can’t get you to.

A visit to Jerusalem is often taken as a day trip from Tel Aviv, but if you find yourself based in Jerusalem for longer, there are plenty of experiences to explore the wider city and neighbouring areas of Israel. The following are some of the best Abraham tour day trips from Jerusalem, which can be booked here .  

Masada at Sunrise, Ein Gedi & Dead Sea Tour from Jerusalem

  • READ MORE:   The Natural Wonders of Masada, Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea  – Adventure in Southern Israel

See both perspectives and narratives of the complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict on the Hebron Dual Narrative Tour

  • READ MORE:  Visit Hebron in the West Bank– The Divided City of Palestine

Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee, including Mount Tabor, the Jordan River and Capernaum 

  • READ MORE: Nazareth, Israel – Revival Beyond Biblical Reference
  • Best of the West Bank that takes you to Bethlehem, the ancient city of Jerich and the modern city of Ramallah

Looking to visit Jerusalem as part of a small group? For many, independent travel to Israel can be daunting, so I recommend the G Adventures Israel tour, which covers the country’s highlights in an 8-day trip that starts in Tel Aviv and ends in Jerusalem. That means being in the traveller hubs of the big cities on either side of your visit while enjoying everything in between, including Haifa, Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee in the north and Masada, the Dead Sea and Bethlehem, with like-minded travellers. 

You can view the itinerary for this adventure, look at G Adventures reviews from previous passengers and find all the details on how to book on the Israel trip page .

Where to Stay in Jerusalem

Budget accommodation in Israel is widespread, most notably via a Hostel network with around 40 quality-assured independent hostels across the country, many of those in Jerusalem.

I’ve known and worked with Abraham Hostels for many years and highly recommend them. The Abraham Jerusalem hostel has 40 dorm rooms and 40 private rooms, a beautiful large common room with lounge space, a huge guest kitchen, a bar and other facilities such as great internet and laundry. 

Not only that, but it is a hub where people from the city come in to enjoy the events on offer such as Live Music, Quiz Night and a Pub Crawl, Shabbat Dinner, weekly travel lectures, language lessons and the extensive daily tour offering of Abraham Tours throughout Israel, Jordan and Egypt.

Book your stay at Abraham Hostel in Jerusalem here . 

There is no airport in Jerusalem, and instead, travellers to Israel will enter via Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. From here, you can transfer to Jerusalem in around one hour. 

  • For transfers from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem, the 485 shuttle bus takes you from the airport to various stops in Jerusalem city centre, including the Jerusalem Central Bus Station. These buses run every day except on Shabbat (Saturday).
  • Many accommodations may have shuttle options that arrange drop-off and pick-up at accommodations in the city, which can be one of the most cost-effective options for getting between the airport and the city.
  • If staying at Abraham Hostel, a shuttle service is available as part of your booking for a small extra cost. 
  • The Lonely Planet Israel & the Palestinian Territories Travel Guide is a great resource to plan your trip.
  • For further information on where to go in Jerusalem and other highlights, check out the dedicated online Tourist Israel guide – which I partnered with during my time in the city to help produce this Jerusalem travel blog.
  • A recommended book on the history of Israel and the modern-day conflict is A Line in the Sand , which details the struggles between Europe, Britain and France for power in the Middle East and what events led to the modern-day conflict and division. 

A view of the praying Western Wall and the golden dome roof of Temple Mount in Old Jerusalem City

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

22 June 2021 at 2:53 pm

This is a beautiful article besides the fact it mentions apartheid. Israel is by no means an apartheid state. Arabic is an official language, Israeli Arabs have the same rights as the Jewish Israelis and they also have representation in the Israeli Parliament. The health system in Israel is full with Arabic doctors, our universities are full with Israeli Arabs who can get higher education with huge discounts and in some cases even for free using a full scholarship funded by the governmet. Israeli Arabs can set foot wherever they want all across the country with no restrictions. Funnily, Jewish Israelis cannot set foot in some parts of the country as it is unsafe for Jews to be there. Correct me if I’m wrong, but an apartheid state looks nothing like this. I suggest to think hard before you wrtie such things, without knowing all the facts. I invite you not just to have a short tour or two here – try to really live here and then tell me if Israel is an apartheid state. Peace, love and truth.

22 June 2021 at 3:55 pm

As I mentioned, it is the human rights groups who have highlighted the situation as a form of/version of Apartheid giving the forms of discrimination, separation and occupation of the West Bank and Gaza. Like many of the other fragments of thought, it will always ignite discussion. I am in no position to give a definitive answer. I am highlighting all the means of discussion, controversy, and loaded opinion that make understanding this not at all easy, especially when doing prior background reading before a visit.

Your comment here is welcomed as we all try and understand each others’ viewpoints. In the same way that we all want to see peace.

28 February 2019 at 8:00 am

Hi Becki, I ‘m really curious and interested in this country. With so much culture and history to learn. Is it advisable to travel solo or much better with a tour group?

28 February 2019 at 10:23 am

It’s a personal choice about how you want to visit Israel. Some feel better in the company of a group because of pre-conceptions; because of crossing check-points; or because they simply don’t feel comfortable moving around the country on their own, and don’t know where to start with the organisation. My recommendation for a group tour would be the G Adventures Israel Explorer which is an 8-day trip that covers the highlights: https://goo.gl/vvyXLF I work with them, travel with them and can vouch for the cultural insights garnered from having a local with you all the way.

I travelled around Israel solo, using Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Nazareth and the Negev desert as bases and taking adventure and culture day trips from those. There’s even a hostel in the desert! There are options all over as it has a good traveller network set up. The Israel bus system also connects to key towns and cities nationwide, although the full-day trips get you to a lot of little corners and places you couldn’t get to easily on your own. Plus, you are in a small group scenario to go explore. It’s a win-win either way you choose 🙂

5 May 2014 at 11:36 am

I think there’s possibly more stories from Jerusalem than any other place in the world. If only walls could talk, eh?

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Jerusalem travel blog — the fullest jerusalem travel guide for first-timers.

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You don’t have to be a religious pilgrim to visit Jerusalem! The mysterious yet charming city is firmly established as a contemporary space while retaining its ancient and spiritual character. Jerusalem not only attracts believers, but its overall magnetism forms part of the attraction for any tourist, where you will soon find that a single visit is not guaranteed enough time to fully understand its history, beauty and mystery. So, is Jerusalem worth visiting, how to visit Jerusalem, what to do in Jerusalem and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Jerusalem for the first-time? Let’s check out our Jerusalem travel blog (Jerusalem blog) with the fullest Jerusalem travel guide (Jerusalem guide, Jerusalem tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and top things to do in Jerusalem to find out the answer!

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Jerusalem is a city I must visit once in my life. I’ve been so convinced for a long time, probably since I heard this place name on the news when I was a kid. Indeed the names such as Jerusalem, the Middle East, the State of Israel or Palestine has never evoked danger to me. Until, I had been read Phuong Mai’s book “Islamic Way” (a story of Middle East, Islam and Islamism), I started began to fall in love with this land full of honey, ancient and full of mysteries. In January 2020, just before the Covid-19 pandemic broke out like a storm, I was able to go to Israel to attend an international fair with the tourist company I am working for. Awesome, from then, my dream has come true. I know when I really like something, I’ll do it until the end. Here is a very detailed guide to Jerusalem for those who want to go on their own.

the jerusalem trip

Jerusalem travel blog: Overview of Jerusalem

Jerusalem is a city in the Middle East, located on a plateau in the Jewish Mountains between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and is considered extremely sacred to the three main Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam

the jerusalem trip

There are some places you visit in the world that you know right away will never compare to any other place you have been to in the past or will visit in the future. Jerusalem is definitely one of them. It is a holy city that has gone through turbulent times and is contested by three monotheistic religions – Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

Today, the city is divided into four quarters: the Jewish Quarter, the Christian Quarter, the Muslim Quarter and the Armenian Quarter. Although ostensibly peace and prosperity in present-day, the reality beneath the layers of history reveals not only the struggle of the past, but also the present, for the ancient city once considered a the center of this world.

the jerusalem trip

The layers of history are not only figurative but actually very literal, as this city has been destroyed and rebuilt more than a dozen times throughout its history. Each time the city is rebuilt, it rises higher above another layer of rubble, creating a very unique look at history through the ages. Are you planning a trip to visit Jerusalem for the first time? Check out this Jerusalem travel guide for things to do in Jerusalem, for any culture buff.

Where is Jerusalem?

the jerusalem trip

Jerusalem has a complex geographical and administrative position. This city is located in the northwestern plateau of the Arabian peninsula, more specifically on the border between Israel and the West Bank of the Jordan River – the land is under administrated by Palestine. In the most obvious terms, Jerusalem is currently the contested city of two state institutions, Israel and Palestine. However, in theory this is so, but in reality the state of Israel almost completely governs Jerusalem.

Why should you travel to Jerusalem?

the jerusalem trip

Jerusalem is the Holy Land, the birthplace of the three largest monotheistic religions in the world: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. So Jerusalem is home to many of the most important churches, monasteries, temples and religious monuments in history. If you love history and politics you must visit this city. Jerusalem also has been the center of political instability and religious strife for the past 2,000 years. But like the eye of a storm, this place is strangely peaceful and solemn. If you want to experience a new sense of travel, Jerusalem is unique enough than any city you have ever passed.

the jerusalem trip

Located at the crossroads between Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, Jerusalem is a crossroads of many cultures, both interacting and opposing. Just coming to Jerusalem you have the opportunity to see the architecture, enjoy the cuisine, experience the cultures of many world civilizations. With a history of 5,000 years and many myths and sacraments taking place here, today Jerusalem is still the most mysterious land in the history of the world. If you have religious beliefs then come here.

Is Jerusalem safe?

the jerusalem trip

This ancient city has been at the heart of military and political unrest in the Middle East for nearly a century. A lot of my friends were surprised when I traveled to Jerusalem. Almost everyone thinks there is still conflict between Israel and Palestine in this Holy Land. In fact, that was 70 years ago, and now Jerusalem is a land with the most strict security control in the world. All visitors to Jerusalem must pass through a multi-layered security check: From the bus station to the sightseeing sites. Not to mention the police with uniform and non-uniform were densely arranged in the city. People come here for pilgrimage, so any act of causing chaos is disrespectful. Moreover, after nearly a century, the Middle East Peace Process is warming up significantly under the Trump presidency. In short, Jerusalem is a safer city than usual.

the jerusalem trip

Don’t be surprised when you see armed members of the Israel Defense Forces in the city of Jerusalem and beyond. The majority of these young people are serving the Nation and as intimidating as it may seem at first glance, you’ll soon find it’s a normal part of everyday life here.

Is Jerusalem the capital of Israel or Palestine?

the jerusalem trip

Many people think that Tel Aviv is the capital and largest city of Israel, but it is not. Jerusalem is the capital by the law and also the most populous and richest city in Israel. Palestine also declares Jerusalem as its capital, but the state of Palestine has not been recognized by the United Nations. Today tourists only access the western part of Jerusalem, while the eastern part is now Palestinian territory and is quite complicated.

the jerusalem trip

Jerusalem travel blog: When to visit?

the jerusalem trip

With the Mediterranean climate, the weather here is often long summers and cold, short winters. The coldest time in Israel is in January, the temperature ranges from 5 to 12 degrees Celsius, the hottest is in August with the average temperature arounds between 18 and 38 degrees Celsius. Between November and March is the time when long and frequent rains and storms occur, and from June to September, it is dry and without rain, so it is very inconvenient for traveling to Israel. Therefore, from the end of November to early March next year and the end of March to the end of July is the “best time to travel to Israel” because the weather is cool at this time, not too hot nor too cold, very suitable. for sightseeing.

the jerusalem trip

Many people think that the Middle East must be as hot as a fire oven because of the desert climate, right? However, Jerusalem is located on a mountain 754m above sea level, so the climate here is quite cool. In January, when I came, it was cold at 7 degrees Celsius.

Jerusalem travel guide: How to get to Jerusalem?

To get to Israel you definitely have to fly to Ben Gurion airport. Jerusalem cannot be reached by land from neighboring countries because all almost Arab countries block theirs borders and flights to Israel.

the jerusalem trip

From Ben Gurion airport you take a taxi straight to Jerusalem. If you come to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv, it can take 2 hours by train and 1 hour by bus. During my trip, I choose a coach because it saves time and I don’t get car sick. You can go to Arlozorov station to take bus 408 or take bus 405 at the central station to reach Tel Aviv. If you take the train, go to Hagana station or Tel Aviv Savidor Central railway station.

Are means of transport and services in Israel operating on Saturdays?

the jerusalem trip

The answer is no. From Friday afternoon to Saturday night, all public transport activities are closed, restaurants and offices are closed. You should avoid this time if moving from one city to another. There are still taxis operating but not many and the price is also more expensive than usual. The only thing you should do on Shabbat as a tourist is to take a leisurely walk on the road and not go too far.

Jerusalem guide: How to get around Jerusalem?

the jerusalem trip

The city of Jerusalem includes the Old City and the New City. The old quarter is quite small and there is no public transport in it, so please walk. Tourists and residents mainly use trams and buses to move from the bus station to the hotel and from the new quarter and the old town. Tram is the popular and easiest means of transport to use in Jerusalem, just catch the Tram or Metro 01 running from Mount Herzl to the West Bank, you can getting to many tourist places. Most hotels or attractions are located along this metro line.

the jerusalem trip

Although Jerusalem is not really large, it is very hilly and therefore a lot of roads wind around the hills. There are no real city streets but more like an interwoven network of roads and trails. For daily commute, taking a public bus is very useful. You will see people queuing to get on the bus, especially during the morning and late rush hours.

the jerusalem trip

Where to stay?

Because it is a tourist city, the choice of hotels and B&B here is quite rich. However, because it is an old city, most of the hostels and B&Bs have small, ancient and bearing Middle Eastern style. The hostel I rent is Stay Inn Hotel Jerusalem in the New Quarter, the room is old but the hot water, kitchen and location are all very good.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

  • The American Colony Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
  • Bezalel Hotel – an Atlas Boutique Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
  • Arthur Hotel – an Atlas Boutique Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
  • Herbert Samuel Jerusalem ( Agoda , Booking )
  • King David Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
  • Orient Isrotel Exclusive Collection Jerusalem ( Agoda , Booking )
  • Mamilla Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
  • Dan Boutique Jerusalem ( Agoda , Booking )

the jerusalem trip

Check out more top and best hotels in Jerusalem on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Jerusalem tourist guide: Where to go, what to do and top things to do in Jerusalem

Most people think of Jerusalem and think of a highly religious city, rife with places of worship, layers of historical dust, and possibly some conflict. But beyond that, Jerusalem is a vibrant and bustling city with a fascinating mix of cultures and people, and pleasant surprises at every turn, nook and cranny. Jerusalem has a history spanning millennia, with so much to see and do in the city, making it not only an important place if you’re religious person but also if you’re interested in with just a little bit of history.

the jerusalem trip

Jerusalem is dense with religious, archaeological and artistic atmospheres, so many people come to this city many times in their lives to discover as much as 5,000 years of Western history encapsulated in 650 square kilometers. I spent 2 days and 1 night in Jerusalem but still haven’t visited all the famous landmarks because the city is only as small as Ba Dinh and Hoan Kiem districts while the number of monuments, relics, ruins here is denser than any other ancient city in the world. Here is the Jerusalem itinerary for 3 days 2 nights.

New Jerusalem (Downtown)

the jerusalem trip

Jerusalem appeared in our eyes under the golden sunlight and blue skies of the Middle East. Contrary to imagination, Jerusalem’s New Neighborhood is crowded, luxurious and seemingly richer than Tel Aviv. Although Tel Aviv is the financial and commercial capital, it cannot have the majesty and prosperity of Jerusalem. Along the main street of Jaffa, there are a number of brands, mansions, administrative offices, banks and restaurants. People walking on the street are mostly pilgrims, most of them wearing traditional religious costumes, the rest of the locals seem to be more relaxed than the busy atmosphere in Tel Aviv. Most of the buildings in Downtown were built during the British takeover of Jerusalem from 1917 to 1948 with a simple but elegant Bauhaus style. Downtown is not the main attraction, so the atmosphere here is quite peaceful like an early morning.

the jerusalem trip

Old City of Jerusalem – Uptown

Old quarter.

The Old City of Jerusalem is 5,000 years old, but the buildings in good condition were mostly built during the Ottoman period from the 16th to 19th centuries, the rest are mostly ruins or preserved in museums. The old town is divided into 4 districts: the Jewish District, the Christian District, the Muslim District and the Armenian Christian District, with four gates named Jaffa, Damascus, Lion and Zion. From the New Quarter to the Old Town, we usually go through Jaffa Gate, from the avenue of the same name. Here are the prominent attractions in the Citadel you should visit.

the jerusalem trip

Exploring all parts of the Old City is a must when traveling to Jerusalem. A walled city of stone structures, set in the golden hues of the sun, creates a maze of paths that cut this ancient citadel into Muslim, Christian, Armenian quarters and Jewish.

the jerusalem trip

Tower of King David and Citadel Area

the jerusalem trip

This is believed to be the place where King David, who defeated the giant Goliath and ascended the throne of Israel in 970 BC, laid the foundation of the Palace. However, after many destructions, the present-day form of the Citadel was built during the Ottoman period. The most obvious sign is the prominent Islamic prayer tower. In addition, the Tower of David is a complex museum that includes rooms showing Israel through each historical period. The main courtyard was excavated so that the public could clearly see moats, the old foundation of the old imperial citadel. At night there is also an art performance recreating the history of the Jewish nation.

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

the jerusalem trip

Going further northeast, we will meet the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where the body of Jesus was buried. According to Christian belief, this is the hill of skulls, where Jesus was crucified, buried and resurrected 3 days later. During the time of Christ, this was outside the ancient city of Jerusalem. Today, the tomb is surrounded by a church that was rebuilt almost new in 1808. Today the church is always full of pilgrims.

the jerusalem trip

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is considered the holiest site in the world for Christians and is believed to have been built on the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. The building as it stands has been built and destroyed many times over thousands of years with what stands today as a rather large and impressive church. Given its great significance, prepare to line up here if you want to see most of the main attractions inside the church with some waiting for hours, especially the queue to see the tomb of God Jesus where he was resurrected.

Via Dolorosa (The Path of Sorrows)

the jerusalem trip

This is the path that Jesus suffered from the place of Roman torture to the hill of skulls to be crucified. This road I almost didn’t notice because it was a very normal looking road but each section would have a sign saying where Jesus fell, where God met his mother Mary for the last time, etc.

Wailing Wall (Western Wall)

the jerusalem trip

The Western Wall is actually the remains of an ancient Jerusalem temple and is an extremely sacred site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims. The wall was first built around 19 BC and is now one of the oldest attractions in Jerusalem. When you visit, there are separate areas for men and women with men having to cover their heads with top hats while women need to cover shoulders and legs.

the jerusalem trip

English is often written as the Western wall. This is the only surviving wall of the Jewish Temple that existed between 500 and 70 BC. Before it was destroyed by the Romans and started the wandering period of the Jewish people, this was a temple with a huge scale and extremely magnificent architecture. The center of the temple is the foundation stone on which God created the world. Today the rock is surrounded by the Al-Aqsa Mosque with a golden dome and below the mosque is the Wailing Wall. Every year the Jews flock to the foot of the wall to bow down and mourn the fate of a people that had been lost for 2,000 years.

the jerusalem trip

Temple Mount and Al-Aqsa Mosque

the jerusalem trip

There are other names like Dome of the Rock or Haram al-Sharif (Noble Sanctuary) for Muslims, this is considered the place where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to Heaven on top of a stone, and this stone coincides with the rock of Jewish as I mentioned above. Today the rock is surrounded by a gilded mosque and only Muslims are allowed to get inside, except during prayer times. To enter the mosque, you must enter from the western gate.

the jerusalem trip

Dome of the Rock is considered one of the holiest sites in Jerusalem, revered by Jews, Christians and Muslims for many reasons. It’s worth noting that it’s one of the hardest places to visit due to its great importance, makes it more devoted to prayer than anything else.

the jerusalem trip

The stunning Dome of the Rock stands proudly on this site and is the most iconic landmark in the city. The central dome of this church glistens with gold and the colorful tiled exterior walls are absolutely magnificent.

Walking around the small streets of the Old City (Jerusalem travel blog)

the jerusalem trip

Jerusalem is densely packed with alleyways, and its steep streets are still mostly intact from the Middle Ages. Along these streets are souvenir shops, stalls selling fruit, silk, fleece and religious items. Wandering in this small but solemn space, you will find yourself both small in the midst of thousands of years of history, and very proud when stepping on the stones that have been worn down by time. The scent of incense, the sound of prayers, the sound of church bells creates a thick mixture of ancient smells before your eyes.

the jerusalem trip

Machaneh Yehudah Market

Machaneh Yehudah Market on Agripas Street has a vibrant and bustling atmosphere when you wander past stalls of sweets, fresh fruit and vegetables, fresh loaves, nuts, pastries, meats and more.

the jerusalem trip

You dodge to dodge trays, carts and locals with bags full of local produce. Your head spins as you hear the calls of the market vendors, the jeering of hurried deals, and the lure of fresh juice bars and fast food joints. No wonder it is one of the main attractions of Jerusalem and a beautiful window into local life.

the jerusalem trip

At night, the market is a fun hangout for the trendy kids of the city. Vendor stalls are transformed into seating areas, tables and chairs are laid out, and restaurants, pop-up shops and bars are in full swing. This can also be where you spend a lot of time.

Jaffa Street

the jerusalem trip

Jaffa Street runs through the heart of the New City, connecting everything together. In some picturesque and quaint areas, it’s nice to stroll and take in the shopping and dining that’s hidden behind it. In the evening, the streets around Zion Square come alive with the buzz of local bars and entertainment venues, where you can sip local Goldstar beer.

the jerusalem trip

What to eat in Jerusalem?

the jerusalem trip

The first thing I have to warn you about: Jerusalem is not a foodie paradise for most people. Simply put, in a city with a strong and dense religious atmosphere, the food is also humble and ascetic. Don’t expect to have a great party experience in Jerusalem. Jerusalem is the Holy Land of three monotheistic religions, and what is clear is that all three of them ban or restrict pork. Don’t expect to find pork in Jerusalem. Jews and Muslims are extremely strict vegetarians and their signature food is Hummus, made from pureed cooked chickpeas mixed with tahini (sesame butter), olive oil, salted lemon juice and garlic.

the jerusalem trip

In Jerusalem we eat a lot of veggie bread and hummus. If you absolutely must eat meat, the new neighborhood has a number of lamb sandwiches. However, lamb has a pretty smell, so many people will not be used to it. Your only consolation in Jerusalem is fresh fruit. Israel is a country with the most advanced agriculture in the world, so pomegranates, oranges, and apples here are very sweet, big and available in many street stalls. Don’t forget to try the specialty pomegranate juice.

the jerusalem trip

Because food in Jerusalem is quite expensive, if you’re traveling on a budget, head to the local markets to find authentic dishes made with fresh ingredients, sample different cuisines from different religions, cultures and ethnicities, and make the most of the street food selling by roadside stalls to get the best food at an affordable price.

A city rich in history and home to diverse culinary traditions, Jerusalem is second to none when it comes to delicious street food. A unique balance between Eastern and Western influences, these dishes have become synonymous with the city and with Israeli culture. You can try hummus, falafel, bourekas or knafeh, shawarma, shakshuka, sabich, turkish coffee, arak, local craft beer and many other delicious dishes.

the jerusalem trip

What to buy as a gift in Jerusalem?

the jerusalem trip

Souvenirs or religious symbols are the most valuable gifts in Jerusalem. Religious followers are proud to own items with the word Jerusalem on them. In the Muslim District, you should buy candy, olive oil, and dried fruit because these are two specialties of Arab countries. In the Armenian District, buy pottery in the shape of a pomegranate as it is a typical item of Armenians who are famous for their craftsmanship. In addition, cosmetics with ingredients from dead sea minerals in the Jewish district are also valuable gifts for relatives.

the jerusalem trip

Some useful notes before you go

How to dress when coming to jerusalem.

Make sure you dress politely and discreetly. It is best whether you are a man or a woman, you should wear long pants, long sleeves and prepare a headscarf if entering a mosque. And when you get to the Wailing Wall, someone will give you a top hat if you are a man.

How to behave properly in Jerusalem?

the jerusalem trip

Be as discreet, polite and proper as possible. You absolutely avoid indiscriminate behaviors such as screaming, touching others without permission, staring at them as well as using profanity in a foreign language. Many Jewish, Muslim and Christian monks try to stay away from women and of course you should not approach them to avoid any risks. People in Jerusalem are generally not very friendly, hospitable. On the road if you need help you can ask the young people, they speak English quite well and are more open.

What to do to ensure your safety?

the jerusalem trip

Do not carry weapons or sharp objects with you because obviously if you do you will not get through the security check and believe me, Israeli police and soldiers do not look very approachable. Do not approach the Palestinian-Israeli border and temples, shrines that are closed or do not allow women to get in (signs will be posted outside).

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Jerusalem you can refer to

  • Jerusalem Day Tour
  • Jerusalem, Dead Sea Day Tour & Bethlehem from Tel Aviv
  • Jerusalem, Dead Sea and Bethlehem Day Tour
  • Jerusalem Holy City Tour
  • Dead Sea Chill Out Trip from Jerusalem
  • [Unlist] Jerusalem Hills Private Jeep Tour
  • Jerusalem Mount of Olives Tour
  • Jericho, Ramallah, and Bethlehem Day Tour from Jerusalem
  • Jerusalem Shabbat Tour
  • Masada, Ein Gedi, Dead Sea Tour
  • From Tel Aviv: Jerusalem and Bethlehem Guided Day Trip
  • From Tel Aviv/Jerusalem: Masada Sunrise, Ein Gedi & Dead Sea
  • From Jerusalem: Masada & Dead Sea Full Day Tour with Pick Up
  • From Tel Aviv: Jerusalem Old City & Dead Sea Guided Day Tour
  • From Jerusalem: Tour to Bethlehem, Jericho, and Jordan River
  • Full Day City Tour of Jerusalem
  • From Jerusalem: Nazareth and Sea of Galilee Tour
  • From Jerusalem: Full-Day Bethlehem and Dead Sea Day Tour
  • Jerusalem: Customized Tour with a Local Guide
  • From Jerusalem: Half-Day Bethlehem Guided Tour Small Group
  • From Tel Aviv: Jerusalem Old & New City Bus Tour
  • From Jerusalem: Masada, Ein Gedi, Dead Sea Guided Tour
  • Masada & Dead Sea Tour: Full-Day from Jerusalem
  • Jerusalem Half-Day Sightseeing Tour
  • Best of the West Bank Full-Day Tour from Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

Read more about Middle East guide here .

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Your Jerusalem Vacation

Lock in a Jerusalem vacation package and get ready for an awesome getaway. Famous for its diversity and rich history, there's lots to love about this interesting city. If your trip to Jerusalem includes a little sightseeing, visit popular attractions like Western Wall , Temple Mount and Dome of the Rock . Stop dreaming and start adventuring. Check out the range of options on Expedia today and put your Jerusalem vacation plans into motion!

The Latest Jerusalem Vacation Packages

Jerusalem Gold Hotel

Jerusalem Gold Hotel

Reviewed on Aug 24, 2023

The Drisco Hotel Tel Aviv- Relais & Chateaux

The Drisco Hotel Tel Aviv- Relais & Chateaux

Reviewed on Feb 24, 2024

Hotel 7 Arches Jerusalem

Hotel 7 Arches Jerusalem

Reviewed on Feb 21, 2024

Jo Hotel

Reviewed on Jul 10, 2023

Market House - An Atlas Boutique Hotel

Market House - An Atlas Boutique Hotel

Reviewed on Sep 13, 2023

Where to stay in Jerusalem

Jerusalem featuring street scenes as well as a small group of people

Jerusalem City Centre

Unique features of Jerusalem City Centre include the historic sites and museums. Make a stop by Ben Yehuda Street or Zion Square while you're exploring the area.

Old City which includes markets, food and street scenes

Walled and divided into four distinct quarters, the Old City houses key religious sites like the Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Dome of the Rock. Explore its unique atmosphere, attractions, and diverse shops and restaurants.

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If you're spending some time in Mamilla, Zion Square and Ben Yehuda Street are top sights worth seeing.

While visiting Rehavia, you might make a stop by sights like Jerusalem Great Synagogue and Ben Yehuda Street.

Emek Refaim

If you're spending some time in Emek Refaim, Hansen House - Design, Media and Technology Center and Museum of Natural History Jerusalem are top sights worth seeing.

Jerusalem Essential Information

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Orient by Isrotel exclusive

Reviewed on Feb 23, 2024

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Adventure Vacations

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in jerusalem, al-aqsa mosque.

Part of the sacred Temple Mount site, this lead-domed structure is a fully functioning mosque. It is among the holiest sites in the Islamic world.

Western Wall

This 2,000-year-old structure is one of the world’s holiest sites, where hundreds of praying worshippers make for a stirring sight.

Machane Yehuda Market

Get a taste of Jerusalem’s everyday life at this bustling market, home to little stores and stalls by day and restaurants and bars by night.

What to do in Jerusalem

Travel from jerusalem to bethlehem and dead sea - daily group west bank tour, travel to bethlehem half day guided tour from jerusalem & telaviv, travel to bethlehem, jericho & jordan river - group guided tour from jerusalem, other vacations you might like.

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Jerusalem Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Jerusalem. We've got 505 adventures going to Jerusalem, starting from just 2 days in length, and the longest tour is 50 days. The most popular month to go is October, which has the largest number of tour departures.

250+ Jerusalem tour packages with 1,554 reviews

Jewish Tour, 3 Days Tour

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Sightseeing
  • Christmas & New Year

Jewish Tour, 3 Days

Informative on the tour we enjoyed the guides. They were knowledgeable of the sites we visited and would recommend the company.

Heritage of the Holy Land Tour

Heritage of the Holy Land

I cannot recommend this tour because there are other companies that offer wifi service on their buses and they use headphones to hear theur guide. We could barely hear or understand our gude at times. The accomodations we've been in on this tour is dreadful. The first one was the best of the 3 we stayed in. The last 2 both looked depressing and dirty. Especially the last one, Jerusalem Gate hotel. The mattress was disgusting with large stains, I only noticed because the sheet they placed on it wasn't a fitted sheet and would come off everytime I moved. I wouldn't rate these hotels as 3 or 4 stars.

Christian Jerusalem, 3 days Tour

Christian Jerusalem, 3 days

Great 3 day tour. Thanks!

Heritage & Holy Land - 8 days Tour

  • Coach / Bus

Heritage & Holy Land - 8 days

Dear Folks, The tour was terrific and all I antiipated it would be - experiencing Israel in every way, shape and form everywhere we went! However, at my age the amount of walking was beyond my comfort zone after a several days. I was worn out after 4 days, and totally exhausted after the 6th day, after I'd rested my sore toe in the hotel the previous day! I'm in good shape for my age, however that much walking on unlevel terraine was w-a-y beyond my comfort zone and I'll sign up for that level of intensity again. The tour guides were great and professional. If I were to do another tour, I'll visit half to one/third the number of places we went, relax more, and spend more time at each place. Your foils online that answered all my questions were superb, kind and helpful. That's all, may God bless you all richly!

Discover Israel Tour

Discover Israel

Excellent tour guides, transportation services, and hotel accommodations. We were able to visit several historical and significant sites, with enough time in the afternoon to roam around and explore the area. Highly recommended!

3 Day Christian Holy Land Israel Tour Tour

3 Day Christian Holy Land Israel Tour

Petra and Wadi Rum 3-Day Tour from Jerusalem Tour

  • Active Adventure

Petra and Wadi Rum 3-Day Tour from Jerusalem

Great plan of the trip and special shoutout to the guide Mahdi! Very informative and kindest person I’ve met.

Petra and Madaba 2-Day Tour from Jerusalem Tour

Petra and Madaba 2-Day Tour from Jerusalem

Amazing tour ... Just amazing ... Even the border crossings were interesting because we saw how both countries (Israel and Jordan) handled entry and exit. Both Jerash and Petra also exceeeded expectations.We toured Israel first, so we were amazed at the Roman ruins in Jerash, which were much more extensive than in Israel ... We also stayed in the Bedouin camp overnight, which was quite rustic, but for one night absolutely worth it ... Just don’t expect it to be a hotel with private bathroom, etc. And Petra was just incredible ... We have walking issues, but we’re able to take a carriage on the long walk to the Treasury, then we took donkeys to the Monastery and back ... It was amazing how the donkeys made the long trek up the 850 steps and steep slope to the Monastery and then down again ... We’ve been on a number of trail rides and this pretty much topped them all. As long as you’re willing to take Jordan on it’s terms and not expect a 4 or 5 star experience, it’s a fantastic trip ... There’s a reason why Petra is one of the 7 wonders of the world and seeing it with your own eyes is amazing. Also, staying near Petra is a must to beat the crowds in the morning ... Lots of people want to see Petra, so getting there early as we did was great ...

Biblical Israel Tour

Biblical Israel

Amir was fantastic and guided us with insightful knowledge at a very good speed throughout the week. Small tour of 4 was great, and we covered all the biblical sites we wanted to cover, with reference to the Bible.

The best of Israel in 4 days Tour

The best of Israel in 4 days

When we rested in Israel, we had a cool guide who helped to diversify our stay in this beautiful country. I'm very glad I had a good rest.

Holyland Trip of Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Masada & Dead Sea - 5 Days Tour

Holyland Trip of Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Masada & Dead Sea - 5 Days

It was a great experience.

Biblical Lands 5 star - 8 days Tour

Biblical Lands 5 star - 8 days

3 Day Highlights of Israel Package Tour Tour

3 Day Highlights of Israel Package Tour

Classic Israel 4 days Tour

Classic Israel 4 days

Wonderful 4 days Classic Israel! Wow! We had the most marvelous time travelling around Israel with our expert super guide, Dani. After visiting Jerusalem near the start of our trip I was kind of not expecting anything to exceed this, but Dani kept our trip varied, interesting and fun. He was the linchpin for our group; taking us on side adventures and organizing meals which were technically not included in the Booking-tours itinerary. Dani's organization was smooth, relaxed and seamless for timings to check in to hotels, public transport and booked events. We felt looked after in his capable hands. Booking-tours put together a fantastic and memorable journey in Israel and Dani filled in the details of the trip with efficiency, care and knowledge. This was an awesome adventure.

Tailor-Made Private Israel Tour with Daily Departure Tour

Tailor-Made Private Israel Tour with Daily Departure

  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Reviews of Jerusalem Tours

Mark was great tour leader!

Tours starting from Jerusalem

  • for 7 Days (43)
  • for 10 Days (24)
  • for 3 Days (16)
  • for 3 Weeks (9)
  • to Asia (84)
  • to Israel (67)
  • to Jordan (7)
  • Israel Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Jerusalem Rundreisen
  • Français: Circuits et voyages au Jérusalem 2024/2025
  • Español: Circuitos y viajes por Jerusalén 2024/2025
  • Nederlands: Jeruzalem Rondreizen 2024/2025

THE 10 BEST Jerusalem Tours & Excursions

Jerusalem tours.

  • Cultural Tours
  • Walking Tours
  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Traditional)
  • Chinese (Simplified)
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

the jerusalem trip

1. 7-Night Israel Highlights and Bibleland Tour

the jerusalem trip

2. 3-Day Petra and Wadi Rum Tour from Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

3. Experience Shabbat With Dinner In Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

4. Old and New Jerusalem Full-Day Tour

the jerusalem trip

5. Day Tour to Jerusalem and Bethlehem from Tel Aviv

the jerusalem trip

6. Masada and the Dead Sea Day Trip from Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

7. West Bank Tour from Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

8. Jerusalem and Bethlehem Day Tour from Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

9. Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee Day Trip from Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

10. Private Market Culinary Tour in Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

11. Old Jerusalem Full-Day Tour

the jerusalem trip

12. Jerusalem Boutique Tour from Tel Aviv

the jerusalem trip

13. Private Tour Jerusalem Old City

the jerusalem trip

14. Travel to Bethlehem Half Day Guided Tour from Jerusalem & TelAviv

the jerusalem trip

15. JERUSALEM private tour with ELAD VAZANA - Life in Israel & Palestine Then & Now

the jerusalem trip

16. Jerusalem Private Full Day Tour

the jerusalem trip

17. Jerusalem Old city tour

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18. Israel Tour Guide

the jerusalem trip

19. Private Professional Photoshoot in Jerusalem

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20. All Inclusive Walking Tour Old City Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

21. Palestine Revealed: 2-Day Private Tour from Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

22. Jerusalem and the Dead Sea from Tel Aviv

the jerusalem trip

23. Jerusalem: Dual Narrative Tour

the jerusalem trip

24. Hebron Dual Narrative Tour from Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

25. 2-Day Petra Tour from Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

26. Boutique Walking Tour of Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

27. Travel To Bethlehem, Jericho & Jordan River - Group Guided Tour from Jerusalem

the jerusalem trip

28. Ashdod Shore Excursion: Jerusalem and Bethlehem - for cruise ship guests only

the jerusalem trip

29. Travel From Jerusalem To Bethlehem and Dead Sea - Daily Group West Bank Tour

the jerusalem trip

30. Old and New Jerusalem Day Trip from Tel Aviv

What travelers are saying.

Anthony B

  • Day Tour to Jerusalem and Bethlehem from Tel Aviv
  • Jerusalem and Bethlehem Day Tour from Jerusalem
  • Masada and the Dead Sea Day Trip from Jerusalem
  • Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee Day Trip from Jerusalem
  • Old and New Jerusalem Day Trip from Tel Aviv
  • Maya Israel Tours
  • Booqify - Amazing Jerusalem
  • Elchanan Maimon
  • Tiyoul-Tov Tourist Guide Francophone in Israel - Day Tours
  • Shai Nahon - Ecological Tourism
  • Tour for Change
  • Tour with Dinur - Day Tours
  • Gil Perez - Tour Guide in Israel
  • Aviv Tours Israel - private tour guide
  • Tour Guide in Jerusalem
  • Joni Sanderovitch Tour Guide
  • Yuval Statman Tours
  • Aizen Travel - Your Guide in Israel
  • Jerusalem With Jeremy

Jerusalem: Tours Information

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  • Pilgrim information
  • Accommodations
  • Switzerland
  • Waldsassen (Volkenroda)
  • Passau-Linz
  • Photos route
  • Info about the way
  • North Macedonia
  • Donate Earthquake
  • Stages Holy Land
  • Walk for peace
  • How it all began
  • Doves of peace
  • Travel reports
  • Planned film lectures
  • Previous film lectures
  • Information about pilgrimages & marking
  • Trip I / VII: SPAIN
  • Trip II / VII: FRANCE
  • Trip III / VII: GENEVA-VIENNA
  • Trip IV / VII: BALKANS
  • Tour V / VII: TURKEY
  • Trip VI / VII: SYRIA
  • Trip VII / VII: HL LAND
  • 2010 Three men set off
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  • 2015 Jerusalem Way Song
  • 2013 ORF report Jerusalemweg
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the jerusalem trip

Jerusalem Way

the jerusalem trip

Every journey begins with a first step ...

the jerusalem trip

The Jerusalem Way is the world's longest pilgrimage and an international peace and culture route!

the jerusalem trip

The Jerusalem Way connects religions and peoples in a unique peace project.

the jerusalem trip

The Jerusalem Way stands for mutual recognition and tolerance.

the jerusalem trip

Love, the most powerful force in the universe, penetrates, illuminates everything and builds bridges between all people!

Pilgrims create openness to encounters, dismantle prejudices and fears, and strengthen trust - basic trust. The supposed boundaries between peoples and religions can be bridged by individuals with love and mutual respect.

LONGEST PEACE PATH IN THE WORLD

The JERUSALEM WAY is both the longest peace path as well as the longest pilgrimage route in the world . The international cultural route leads from Finisterre in Spain at the end of Europe eastwards to Jerusalem at the beginning.

Jerusalem is the most important place for Christians and Jews, a holy site for Muslims and is considered Intersection of world religions . The Jerusalem Way brings together different religions, nations and cultures in an extraordinary way Peace project together and stands for mutual Recognition, tolerance and appreciation of different lifestyles.

The Jerusalem pilgrim reaches important historical places, the tombs of the apostles and numerous sites of the UNESCO World Heritage: 

Melk | Wachau | Vienna | Budapest | Belgrade | blackbird field | Battle of Kosovo |Skopje | Thessaloniki | Philippi | Dardanelles | Kavala | Troy Troy | Alexandria Troas | Assos | Pergamum | Izmir | Smyrna | Ephesus | Pamukkale | Hierapolis | Laodicea | Antioch in Pisidia | Taurus Mountains | Konya | Iconium | Goksu Canyon | Tarsus | Adana | Antakya | Antioch | Aleppo | Maalula | Damascus | Jerash | Amman | Mount Nebo | Dead Sea | Jericho | Wadi Qelt | Desert of Judea | Mount of Olives

Like a river system, the Jerusalem Way is the main stream connecting migration routes to the east and has been steadily expanding since it was founded in 2010.

Currently 18 countries and 2 continents are connected by the Jerusalem Way

Like any journey, pilgrimage is an adventure, a path to oneself and, for some, to God. Setting off gives the pilgrim the opportunity to strengthen trust in himself, in a higher authority and confidence in life. These key experiences constitute walking the path to Jerusalem. Nevertheless, caution and personal responsibility are essential when planning your trip. 

An Arabic proverb says:

“Trust in God is important, tying up the camels shows common sense.”

Before embarking on a pilgrimage, we recommend clarifying the current political situation in the Middle East and following the recommendations of the embassies. 

As of February 2024:

The borders with Syria are closed. Antakya is the end of the Jerusalem Way in Turkey. We recommend flying from Antakya to Amman in Jordan. The bus takes you north to Ar-Ramtha to the starting point in Jordan and the pilgrimage can continue there. Please refer  Jordan  . Pilgrimages to Israel and Palestine are possible at your own risk. However, we advise against it.  

GPS from Spain to Jerusalem | 8.500km  

Since 2020 there is a continuous Jerusalem Way GPS from Finisterre in Spain to Antakya in Turkey. Syria has not yet been developed as a GPS. The 250 km route from Jordan, Palestine and Israel is available as GPS. The GPS of  Finisterre to Budapest  (3.500 km) is available online and is available at the  the respective stage  downloaded. The GPS   developed by  Budapest to Jerusalem  (5.000 km) can in our  WEBSHOP  can be ordered for the desired countries. 

The GPS on the cell phone is the basic orientation. Add on site Stickers and signs GPS with peace dove on the side of the road. In all countries there are markings along the way. Due to the weather, the renewal is an ongoing process. We are happy to give pilgrims stickers to mark the route. 

A JERUSALEM WAY APP is being planned. We currently recommend this  MAPY app . The proven app contains colored hiking maps with contour lines and satellite images. You can save the countries on your cell phone and navigate offline ! This means that no internet is required while on the move, which is particularly important in “roaming” countries. 

The app makes it easy to find routes and historical points of interest (POI). The route leads directly to important sights. In addition, there are tried and tested ones from Jerusalemway Accommodations stored, these are constantly expanded and updated. Information and rights to  Using the app .

  

Information sheet for pilgrims:  pilgrim info

Info (PDF) by email to:  [email protected]

The maps below show the Jerusalem route from Austria and the complete route from Spain to Jerusalem.

the jerusalem trip

  • Israel / Palestine

the jerusalem trip

E-Mail: [email protected] Phone: + 43 699 / 18 03 1970

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Supported by:

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Birthright parents: How I learned to stop worrying and embrace my kid’s wartime trip to Israel

Many birthright participants say that the elements of their trips connected to israel’s current situation are what they’ve found most meaningful and uplifting..

 Participants of Taglit Birthright float in the Dead Sea during their 10-day tour of Israel (photo credit: MELANIE FIDLER/FLASH90)

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APT Taipei back with largest-ever festival

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Asia now a thriving hub for poker fests

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Pinoys whoop it up in WPT

TRIP TO JERUSALEM

Filipino boxer targets world title in Nagoya

the jerusalem trip

One of two Filipino boxers tasked to end the world title drought for the Philippines on 31 March is right on track in his buildup, Melvin Jerusalem’s think-tank assured on Saturday.

Jerusalem battles World Boxing Council minimumweight champion Yudai Shigeoka at the International Conference Hall in Nagoya.

“So far, so good,” lead trainer Michael Domingo said, noting that the sparring phase has intensified.

Sparring with Jerusalam are Japanese Kiyuto Narukami and Filipinos Dariel Diamante of Jam Boxing, Yerroge Gura of ArQ and Mark Vicelles of Omega Boxing.

“He is doing good. His weight is in check and he is working hard to give the Philippines a world title,” JC Mananquil, the fighter’s promoter said.

This will be Jerusalem’s third world title shot.

In 2017, Jerusalem was beaten by Thailand’s Wanheng  Menayothin for the WBC 105-lb belt in Phitsanulok, Thailand.

Six years later in January 2023, Jerusalem got another chance and was lucky as he knocked out Masakata Taniguchi to win the World Boxing Organization version of the 105-lb strap.

But his reign was short-lived.

In May, he traveled to the United States and defended it for the first time against mandatory challenger Oscar Collazo of Puerto Rico.

Arriving less than two weeks before the fight at the Fantasy Spring Resort and Casino, Jerusalem quit on his stool at the end of the seventh stanza to surrender the championship.

A native of Manolo Fortich in Bukidnon, Jerusalem sports a 24-3 win-loss record with 12 knockouts.

Shigeoka, making the first defense of the WBC plum, packs an 8-0 ledger with five knockouts.

On the same night Jerusalem attempts to become a world champion for the second time, another Filipino boxer — Ar-Ar Andales — will get the opportunity to also win a world crown when he meets defending champion Ginjiro Shigeoka for the International Boxing Federation minimumweight diadem.

Andales brings to the ring a 14-2-3 slate with six knockouts while Shigeoka parades a 10-0 with eight knockouts.

Both Jerusalem and Andales are pressured to deliver given the misfortunes that have struck Philippine boxing lately.

Just before 2023 ended, Marlon Tapales lost to Naoya Inoue in a world super-bantamweight unification showdown at the Ariake Arena.

Last month, Jerwin Ancajas failed in his bold bid to become a two-division titleholder after sustaining a seventh-round knockout to Takuma Inoue in their World Boxing Association bantamweight encounter at the Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Arena.

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Milei Pledges to Move Argentina’s Embassy to Jerusalem in Embrace of Israel

(Bloomberg) -- President Javier Milei told Israeli officials that he plans to move Argentina’s embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, underscoring his efforts to use his first bilateral trip abroad to bring the two nations closer.

Milei confirmed the plans to Israeli Foreign Affairs Minister Israel Katz upon arriving in Tel Aviv on Tuesday. Diana Mondino, Argentina’s foreign minister, later said that no official decision has been made and that relocating the embassy would be a long process, according to Argentine news outlets.

The shift would make Argentina the largest nation to move its embassy since the US relocated to Jerusalem in 2018, and Milei’s desire to complete it highlights the clear pro-Israel stance he has staked out even as the country faces allegations of genocide and intensifying international criticism over its ongoing war in Gaza.

Milei has also said that he plans to label Hamas a terrorist organization, a move that would put Argentina at odds with other Latin American countries that have blasted Netanyahu’s strategy to eradicate the organization from the Gaza Strip. 

Milei’s promises to strengthen ties with Israel began before the Oct. 7 Hamas attack that sparked the current war, and his geopolitical plans often overlap with personal religious beliefs that have included his own journey toward Judaism. Milei has said that he intends to convert from Catholicism, and after winning the presidency flew to New York to visit the tomb of orthodox rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson before having lunch with Bill Clinton. 

Read More: Milei’s Embrace of Judaism Seals Argentina Pro-Israel Stance

Milei visited the Wailing Wall and is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with President Isaac Herzog later Tuesday. On Wednesday, he will be received by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other members of his cabinet.

Milei is traveling with an Argentine rabbi he’s tapped to become his country’s ambassador to Israel, along with Mondino and his sister and adviser, Karina. 

Milei has also moved closer to Jewish leaders in Argentina, which has the largest Jewish community in Latin America. Amid marathon talks with congress to push through his reform agenda, he set aside a day in January to speak at the country’s Holocaust Museum. He also counts Eduardo Elsztain, a real estate titan, among his closest allies in the business community. 

After Israel, Milei will head to the Vatican to meet with Pope Francis, whom he often criticized as having undue influence in Argentine politics. Since the election, both men have taken a pragmatic turn and agreed to meet. In Rome, Milei will also meet Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. 

--With assistance from Alisa Odenheimer.

(Recasts lead to include plans of embassy move.)

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Javier Milei leaves the Holocaust Museum in Buenos Aires on Jan. 26.

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