Jerusalem

What are the most recommended things to do in Jerusalem?

  • Explore the Old City, including the Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Dome of the Rock.
  • Walk along the City Walls and Ramparts for panoramic views.
  • Visit Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial Museum.
  • Stroll through Mahane Yehuda Market for local food and shopping.
  • Discover art and history at the Israel Museum.
  • Take a Mount of Olives tour for scenic viewpoints and historical significance.
  • Attend cultural or religious ceremonies for immersive experiences.

Introducing Jerusalem

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.

Climate and best time to travel

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.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

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).


Most Popular FAQs for Jerusalem

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

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.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

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.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Most sites are open morning to late afternoon, typically 8:00–17:00.
  • Best times: Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) for mild weather.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Western Wall: Free
  • Church of the Holy Sepulchre: Free
  • Israel Museum: ~54 ILS; tickets can be bought online or onsite
  • Yad Vashem: Free entry, but guided tours may require booking

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For popular museums and guided tours, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 days are ideal to see major religious, cultural, and historical sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Western Wall
  • Church of the Holy Sepulchre
  • Dome of the Rock / Al-Aqsa Mosque
  • Mount of Olives
  • Israel Museum & Dead Sea Scrolls
  • Mahane Yehuda Market

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are widely available in English, Hebrew, Arabic, Spanish, and other languages. Many museums and sites offer audio guides in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Mount of Olives for city panoramas
  • City Walls and Ramparts Walk
  • Western Wall plaza at sunset
  • Garden of Gethsemane

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Day 1: Old City – Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Dome of the Rock
  • Day 2: Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, City Walls Walk
  • Day 3: Israel Museum, Yad Vashem, Mahane Yehuda Market
  • Day 4: Day trips to Bethlehem or Dead Sea (optional)

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

  • Evening walks in the Old City are possible, but many sites close at sunset
  • Some museums offer night openings or special exhibitions
  • Special religious ceremonies and festivals can be attended with prior arrangements

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

  • Peak crowds: Religious holidays, Easter, Passover, and summer months
  • Least crowded: Weekdays in spring and fall

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • Toilets at major sites and museums
  • Cafes, restaurants, and food stalls in Old City and markets
  • Souvenir shops throughout Old City
  • Benches and rest areas along walking routes

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

  • Main streets and museums are wheelchair accessible
  • Steep alleys in Old City may be challenging
  • Children and elderly can enjoy guided tours tailored to mobility needs

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most places accept cards and mobile payments, but small vendors may require cash (ILS).

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Mahane Yehuda Market – street food, cafes, bakeries
  • Modern Israeli restaurants near Jaffa Gate and city center
  • Coffee shops and tea houses throughout the Old City

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many restaurants and market stalls offer vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and halal options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Luxury: King David Hotel, Waldorf Astoria
  • Mid-range: Inbal Hotel, Prima Royale
  • Budget: Hostels and guesthouses in the Old City

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Bethlehem – Church of the Nativity
  • Dead Sea – Masada and Ein Gedi
  • Hebron – Cave of the Patriarchs

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Religious items – crosses, menorahs, prayer shawls
  • Local crafts – jewelry, ceramics, olive wood carvings
  • Spices, Dead Sea products, and textiles

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Bus, taxi, or private car for nearby cities and attractions
  • Train to Tel Aviv or Haifa for longer trips
  • Guided day tours to Dead Sea, Bethlehem, and Masada

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