A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old City is home to several sites of key religious importance.

The Old City of Jerusalem is one of the most intense places on Earth! At the heart of the Jewish, Islamic, and Christian religions, this one-kilometer, walled-in area in the center of Jerusalem is beyond words and cannot be missed. /n The Old City is divided into four neighborhoods, which are named according to the ethnic affiliation of most of the people who live in them. These quarters form a rectangular grid, but they are not equal in size. The dividing lines are the street that runs from Damascus Gate to the Zion Gate — which divides the city into east and west — and the street leading from the Jaffa Gate to Lion’s gate — which bifurcates the city north and south.

The Old City is a 0.9 square kilometers walled area within the modern city of Jerusalem.

An ancient limestone wall in the Old City of Jerusalem, it is a place of prayer and pilgrimage sacred to the Jewish people.

The Western Wall, or “Wailing Wall”, is the most religious site in the world for the Jewish people. Located in the Old City of Jerusalem, it is the western support wall of the Temple Mount. /n Thousands of people journey to the wall every year to visit and recite prayers. These prayers are either spoken or written down and placed in the cracks of the wall. The wall is divided into two sections, one area for males and the other for females. It is one of the major highlights in any tour of the Old City.

The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, is one of the most sacred sites in Judaism.

A marketplace in Jerusalem where you can find everything from fresh produce to clothing, with a special atmosphere on Fridays.

Mahane Yehuda Market, often referred to as 'The Shuk', is a marketplace (originally open-air, but now at least partially covered) in Jerusalem, Israel. /n Popular with locals and tourists alike, the market's more than 250 vendors sell fresh fruits and vegetables; baked goods; fish, meat and cheeses; nuts, seeds, and spices; wines and liquors; clothing and shoes; and housewares, textiles, and Judaica.

Mahane Yehuda Market is a marketplace in Jerusalem popular with locals and tourists.

The Haas Promenade, also known as the Tayelet, offers stunning views of Jerusalem's Old City and the Judean Desert. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to take a stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the view.

The Haas Promenade, also known as the Tayelet, is one of Jerusalem's most popular spots. Located in the neighborhood of Armon Hanatziv, the promenade offers panoramic views of the Old City, the Temple Mount, the Mount of Olives, and the Judean Desert. /n The promenade is a perfect place for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or even a bike ride. It's also a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to watch the sunrise or sunset. The promenade is lined with benches and picnic tables, making it a great place to relax and take in the views. There are also several monuments and landmarks along the promenade, including the United Nations headquarters and the Peace Forest. /n The Haas Promenade is named after the Haas family, who donated the funds for its construction. It's a must-visit spot for anyone visiting Jerusalem, offering a unique perspective of the city's historic and natural beauty.

The Haas Promenade offers panoramic views of Jerusalem's Old City.

The Jerusalem Forest is a large green space in the city, offering walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and tranquility.

Jerusalem Forest is a large green space located in the west of Jerusalem. Covering an area of 1.2 square kilometers, it's the largest forest in Jerusalem and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. /n The forest offers numerous hiking trails, picnic spots, and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna. It's home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. The forest is also home to several historical and archaeological sites, including the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial and the Mount Herzl national cemetery. /n The Jerusalem Forest is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a bit of nature. Whether you're interested in hiking, bird watching, or simply enjoying a picnic in a beautiful setting, the Jerusalem Forest has something to offer. It's a must-visit spot for anyone visiting Jerusalem, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

Jerusalem Forest is a large green space offering hiking trails and picnic spots.

Israel's national museum, home to the Dead Sea Scrolls, a large collection of Judaica and European art.

The Israel Museum is the largest cultural institution in the State of Israel and is ranked among the world’s leading art and archaeology museums. /n Founded in 1965, the Museum houses encyclopedic collections, including works dating from prehistory to the present day, in its Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Jewish Art and Life Wings, and features the most extensive holdings of biblical and Holy Land archaeology in the world.

The Israel Museum is the largest cultural institution in the State of Israel.

The Dead Sea Scrolls are ancient Jewish texts discovered in the mid-20th century in the vicinity of the Dead Sea. They are displayed at the Israel Museum.

The Dead Sea Scrolls are a collection of Jewish texts that were discovered between 1947 and 1956 in eleven caves near the Dead Sea. /n The texts are of great historical and religious significance as they include the earliest known surviving copies of the Hebrew Bible, as well as other Jewish texts and documents from the Second Temple period. The scrolls are housed in the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, where they are a major attraction for visitors from around the world.

The Dead Sea Scrolls are ancient Jewish texts discovered in the mid-20th century near the Dead Sea.

A night-time show that presents Jerusalem's story with a breathtaking multi-sensory experience.

The Tower of David Night Spectacular is a must-see for anyone visiting Jerusalem. This stunning night show uses light and sound to tell the story of Jerusalem's rich history, projected onto the walls of the ancient Tower of David. The show is a feast for the senses, with breathtaking visuals and a captivating narrative that takes you on a journey through time. /n The show takes place in the courtyard of the Tower of David, an ancient citadel located near the Jaffa Gate entrance to the Old City. The setting adds to the magic of the experience, with the ancient walls providing a perfect canvas for the projections. The show is suitable for all ages, and is a great way to learn about the history of Jerusalem in a fun and engaging way.

A stunning night show at the Tower of David, showcasing Jerusalem's history through light and sound.

Experience the spiritual and historical richness of Jerusalem, Israel's largest city. Walk through the ancient, narrow streets of the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where sacred landmarks like the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque coexist. Explore the vibrant Mahane Yehuda Market, brimming with local produce, spices, and traditional delicacies. Visit the Yad Vashem, a poignant memorial to the Holocaust. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Mount of Olives and stroll through the peaceful Garden of Gethsemane. Jerusalem is a city where ancient traditions meet modern culture, offering a unique blend of art, cuisine, and music. Whether you're seeking spiritual enlightenment, historical understanding, or cultural immersion, Jerusalem promises an unforgettable journey.

Old City

Western Wall

Mahane Yehuda Market

Haas Promenade

Start your day with a visit to the Old City of Jerusalem. Explore the narrow, winding streets, and soak in the rich history and culture of this ancient city. Don't miss the Western Wall, one of the most sacred sites in Judaism.

Enjoy a traditional Israeli lunch at a local eatery. Try some falafel, hummus, or shawarma, and don't forget to sample the local pastries.

Spend your afternoon shopping at the bustling Mahane Yehuda Market. This open-air market is a sensory delight, with a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, and local crafts.

Have dinner at a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the city. Jerusalem's culinary scene is diverse, with options ranging from traditional Middle Eastern cuisine to modern fusion.

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Haas Promenade, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline under the stars.

Exploring the Old City and Mahane Yehuda Market

Jerusalem Forest

Israel Museum

Dead Sea Scrolls

Tower of David Night Spectacular

Begin your second day with a hike in the Jerusalem Forest. This urban green space offers trails for all levels and stunning views of the city.

Have a picnic lunch in the forest. Pack some local cheeses, bread, and fruits from the market for a truly Israeli experience.

Visit the Israel Museum in the afternoon. This world-class museum houses a vast collection of art, archaeology, and artifacts, including the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Dine at a trendy restaurant in the New City. The area is known for its innovative culinary scene, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Tower of David Night Spectacular, a stunning sound and light show that tells the story of Jerusalem's history.

Nature and Culture in the New City

Daylight saving time: +1hr, Friday before the last Sunday in March, ends the last Sunday in October

UTC+2

Jerusalem's public bus system, operated by Egged, is extensive and can take you to most parts of the city. Buses are frequent and reliable, but can be crowded during peak hours. English route information is available on the Egged website.

The Jerusalem Light Rail runs from Pisgat Ze'ev in the north to Mount Herzl in the west, passing through the city center. It's a convenient way to travel, especially for visiting the Old City and the Mahane Yehuda Market.

Taxis are plentiful in Jerusalem and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. All taxis are metered, but it's a good idea to confirm the fare before you start your journey. Shared taxis, known as 'sherut', are also available.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Gett are available in Jerusalem. These can be a convenient option, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage. However, availability can be limited during peak times and in certain areas.

Renting a car can give you the freedom to explore Jerusalem and the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, parking can be difficult in the city center, and the narrow, winding streets of the Old City are closed to private vehicles.

Jerusalem's bike-sharing program, Tel-O-Fun, offers a healthy and environmentally friendly way to get around. There are bike stations throughout the city, and you can rent a bike for a few hours or a whole day.

Many of Jerusalem's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the Old City. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore, but be aware that the city is hilly and some areas have steep steps.

The Hop-On Hop-Off Tourist Shuttle Bus is a convenient way to see Jerusalem's major sights. The buses run regularly and you can get on and off as many times as you like throughout the day.

Private tours can be arranged with a guide who will drive you around the city. This can be a good option if you have limited time or want to learn more about Jerusalem's history and culture.

Monit Sherut are shared taxi vans that operate on specific routes. They run more frequently than buses and operate on Shabbat when most public transportation does not.

A creamy chickpea spread that is a staple in Israeli cuisine. It is often served with warm pita bread and is a must-try for any visitor to Jerusalem.

Hummus

A deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. It is one of the most popular street foods in Jerusalem.

Falafel

A dish of eggs poached in a sauce of tomatoes, chili peppers, and onions, often spiced with cumin. It is a common breakfast food in Jerusalem.

Shakshuka

A popular street food in Jerusalem, it consists of meat cut into thin slices, stacked in a cone-like shape, and roasted on a slowly-turning vertical rotisserie.

Shawarma

A Levantine appetizer of mashed cooked eggplant mixed with tahini, olive oil, and various seasonings. It is often served as a dip with pita bread.

Baba Ganoush

A chopped salad of finely diced tomato, onion, cucumber, and bell or chili peppers. It is a common accompaniment to many meals in Jerusalem.

Israeli Salad

A traditional Israeli sandwich, consisting of pita bread stuffed with fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, salad, tahini, and amba sauce.

Sabich

A popular dessert in Jerusalem, it is a creamy pudding made from milk or cream and sugar, thickened with rice flour or cornstarch, and often flavored with rose water.

Malabi

A filled pastry made of a thin flaky dough, filled with cheese, spinach, or mashed potatoes. It is a popular snack or breakfast food in Jerusalem.

Bourekas

A traditional Middle Eastern spirit made from grapes and aniseed. It is often served with water and ice, and is a popular drink in Jerusalem.

Arak

A method of preparing coffee where finely powdered roast coffee beans are boiled in a pot. It is a common way to enjoy coffee in Jerusalem.

Turkish Coffee

A type of lemonade made from freshly-squeezed lemons and mint. It is a popular refreshing drink in Jerusalem, especially in the hot summer months.

Limonana

Passover (Day 1)

Passover (Day 7)

Yom HaAtzmaut

Shavuot

Rosh Hashana

Rosh Hashana (Day 2)

Yom Kippur

Sukkot (Day 1)

Shemini Atzeret / Simchat Torah

Municipal Election Day

An ancient fortification in the Southern District of Israel situated on top of an isolated rock plateau.

Masada

One of the world's saltiest bodies of water, 9.6 times as salty as the ocean. This salinity makes for a harsh environment in which plants and animals cannot flourish.

Dead Sea

A lively city on Israel's Mediterranean coast known for its Bauhaus architecture, beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Tel Aviv

An ancient city and harbor built by Herod the Great about 25–13 BC. Today, its ruins lie on the Mediterranean coast of Israel.

Caesarea

A nature reserve and national park known for its stunning desert landscapes, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife.

Ein Gedi

A northern Israeli port city built in tiers extending from the Mediterranean up the north slope of Mount Carmel. Known for the beautiful Baha'i Gardens.

Haifa

Also known as Lake Tiberias or Kinneret, it's a freshwater lake in Israel and a significant site in the Christian New Testament.

Sea of Galilee

A city in the northern coastal plain region of northern Israel at the northern extremity of Haifa Bay. Known for its well-preserved old city walls.

Acre

A geologic formation on the border between Israel and Lebanon, located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea.

Rosh Hanikra

Israel's southernmost city, a busy port and popular resort, known for its coral beach nature reserve.

Eilat

The Dead Sea

Interior of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Sreet of the old city, Alley made with hand curved stones

The old city with Dome of the Rock, the Golden/Mercy Gate and St. Stephen's/Lions Gate, view from the Mount of Olives

The old city and Temple Mount from the Mount of Olives

Jerusalem is a city of great religious significance, so it's important to dress modestly. This is especially true when visiting religious sites.

The official languages are Hebrew and Arabic, but English is widely spoken.

The local currency is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

Jerusalem operates on Israel Standard Time (IST), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

The city has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 60-85°F (15-29°C), while winter temperatures range from 40-55°F (4-13°C).

Jerusalem is generally safe for tourists, but it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations or large gatherings.

Public transportation is reliable and includes buses, trams, and taxis. However, public transport doesn't operate from Friday afternoon until Saturday night due to the Jewish Sabbath.

Tipping is customary in Israel. It's usual to tip waitstaff 10-15% of the bill, and it's also appreciated to tip taxi drivers and hotel staff.

Israel has a 220-volt electricity supply, and the plug type is H, which is unique to Israel. You may need a travel adapter.

Jerusalem is a city with a complex political situation. It's wise to avoid discussing politics, especially in public places.

Israelis are known for their directness in communication. Don't be surprised if locals seem blunt or straightforward.

The tap water is safe to drink in Jerusalem, but if you have a sensitive stomach, you might prefer to stick to bottled water.

Jerusalem's Old City is divided into four quarters: Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Armenian. Each has its own unique atmosphere and attractions.

Friday evenings and Saturdays are the Jewish Sabbath, or Shabbat. Many businesses close during this time, especially in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City.

Israeli cuisine is diverse and delicious. Don't miss trying local dishes like falafel, hummus, shakshuka, and Israeli salad.

Jerusalem has a vibrant market culture. The Mahane Yehuda Market is a must-visit for foodies.

If you're planning to visit the Dome of the Rock, a sacred Islamic site, note that non-Muslims are only allowed entry during certain hours and modest dress is required.

Israel has strict customs regulations. Be sure to declare all agricultural items and avoid bringing in any products from countries Israel doesn't have diplomatic relations with.

Israelis are generally very friendly and helpful to tourists. Don't hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations.

Remember to respect local customs and traditions. Jerusalem is a city of deep historical and religious significance, and it's important to be mindful of this during your visit.

January is the coldest month in Jerusalem, with occasional rain and snowfall. Pack warm clothes and waterproof shoes.

February is still quite chilly with a chance of rain. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

In March, the weather starts to warm up, but there can still be some rainy days. The almond trees start to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit.

April is a pleasant month with mild temperatures and little rain. It's a great time to explore the city on foot.

May brings warm weather and lots of sunshine. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

June is the start of the hot season, with almost no rain. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

July is the hottest month in Jerusalem. Early morning and late evening are the best times to explore the city.

August is equally hot as July, with high temperatures throughout the day. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions or relax at a café.

September is still quite hot, but the temperatures start to drop towards the end of the month. It's a great time to visit the Old City.

October brings cooler temperatures and the start of the rainy season. Pack a light jacket and an umbrella.

November is a mild month with occasional rain. It's a good time to visit museums and historical sites.

December is a cool month with a chance of rain and even snow. It's a festive time to visit, with Christmas celebrations in the city.

Jerusalem, Israel, experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The best time to visit Jerusalem is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. 

During the summer months (June to August), temperatures can reach up to 85°F (29°C), so it's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing, hats, and sunscreen to protect against the strong sun. It's also a good idea to carry a water bottle to stay hydrated. 

Winter (December to February) in Jerusalem can be quite chilly with temperatures dropping to around 41°F (5°C). Rain is common during this period, and there can even be occasional snowfall. Therefore, it's recommended to pack warm clothing, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella. 

Regardless of the season, Jerusalem's weather can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to check the local forecast before heading out for the day. Also, due to the city's religious significance, modest clothing is recommended. This means covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites. 

Lastly, remember that Jerusalem is located at a high altitude, so the sun can be stronger than you might expect, even on cooler days. Always wear sun protection, even in the winter months. 

Enjoy your visit to this historic and beautiful city!

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2-Day Local Experience: Outdoor Fun & Shopping in Jerusalem with Friends

About Jerusalem, Israel