
Jerusalem, the shared capital of Israel and Palestine (a disputed territory between both sides), is a political, economic, cultural, and transportation center, and formerly the largest city in Palestine. Located in the Levant region of the Near East, Jerusalem is a historic city situated in the Judean Mountains, between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea. It is considered a holy city for the three major monotheistic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam).
Jerusalem, both ancient and modern, is a diverse city whose residents represent a fusion of cultures and nationalities, with both observant and secular lifestyles. The city both preserves its past and builds for the future; its meticulously restored historical sites, meticulously landscaped green spaces, modern commercial districts, industrial parks, and expanding suburbs demonstrate its continuity and vitality. Jerusalem is a major global tourist center.
Subtropical Mediterranean Climate: The city's subtropical location means it is warm even in winter, but snowfall is not uncommon, usually occurring at least once a year.
Israel has plenty of sunshine from April to October every year , which is the best season for travel.
The peak season is from July to August. If your travel period coincides with an important religious festival, be sure to book a hotel in advance.
Western Wall (Wailing Wall)
The majestic Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, is the remaining outer wall of the Jewish Temple on Temple Mount. Jews from around the world weep and whisper prayers before the Western Wall, expressing the pain of exile and mourning the loss of the ancient temple. Visitors come from all corners of the globe and come from all backgrounds, but believers write their wishes and prayers on small slips and place them in the cracks of the Western Wall. According to Jewish tradition, wishes made at the Western Wall reach heaven.
Holy Temple (Temple Mount)
The Temple of the Holy Sepulchre was built on the site of Solomon's Temple and is also known to many Jews and Christians as the Temple Mount. The only entrance for non-Muslims to the Temple of the Holy Sepulchre is through the Mughrabi (Moor's) Gate (between the Western Wall Plaza and the southeast corner), which is connected by a wooden bridge.
Al-Aqsa Mosque
The third holiest mosque in Islam, second only to the Al-Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, is located in the southwest corner of the inner courtyard of the Sharif in the eastern part of the Old City in Jerusalem. The main building is 88 meters high and 35 meters wide. "Al-Aqsa" means "far away" in Arabic, hence its nickname, "The Far Mosque." Legend has it that it was built by the ancient Prophet Suleiman (Solomon) and rebuilt during the reign of the second caliph, Umar (705 AD).
Jerusalem is one of the world’s oldest cities, central to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It has been a cultural, religious, and political hub for millennia, with landmarks reflecting its diverse history and spiritual significance.
Jerusalem is in central Israel. Visitors can reach it via train, bus, or taxi from Tel Aviv, Ben Gurion Airport, or other Israeli cities. Walking and taxis are convenient within the city, especially in the Old City.
For popular museums and guided tours, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.
3–5 days are ideal to see major religious, cultural, and historical sites.
Guided tours are widely available in English, Hebrew, Arabic, Spanish, and other languages. Many museums and sites offer audio guides in multiple languages.
Most places accept cards and mobile payments, but small vendors may require cash (ILS).
Yes, many restaurants and market stalls offer vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and halal options.