3-Day Local Family Adventure: Outdoors, Food & Wine in Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Israel

3 days

The Western Wall at the Temple Mount
The old city with Dome of the Rock, the Golden/Mercy Gate and St. Stephen's/Lions Gate, view from the Mount of Olives
Souvenir market
Tower of David
Skyline

About Jerusalem, Israel

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.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Old City and Mahane Yehuda Market

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the four quarters: Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian. Visit the Western Wall, the most sacred site in Judaism, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Jesus is said to have been crucified and buried.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Israeli lunch at a local restaurant. Try dishes like falafel, hummus, and shawarma. Don't forget to try the local wine.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling Mahane Yehuda Market. This is a great place to buy fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.

Dinner

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a restaurant offering a fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Pair your meal with a glass of Israeli wine.

Evening

End your day with a light and sound show at the Tower of David, which tells the story of Jerusalem's history.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Israel Museum, home to a vast collection of art and archaeology from around the world. Don't miss the Dead Sea Scrolls in the Shrine of the Book.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying out traditional dishes like shakshuka and sabich. Enjoy the local wine.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Jerusalem Botanical Gardens. The kids will love the tropical conservatory and the Japanese garden.

Dinner

Dine at a local restaurant, sampling dishes from the diverse Israeli cuisine. Try the local wine.

Evening

End the day with a visit to the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo, which features animals mentioned in the Bible. The zoo is beautifully lit in the evenings.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. This is a moving and educational experience.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, trying out dishes like bourekas and malawach. Don't forget to try the local wine.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Ein Yael Living Museum, where you can experience hands-on ancient crafts and activities.

Dinner

For your final dinner, enjoy a meal at a restaurant offering a fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Pair your meal with a glass of Israeli wine.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing stroll through the German Colony, a charming neighborhood with beautiful architecture and a lively atmosphere.

Attractions in Itinerary (11)

Old City

1
Old City

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

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Religious Sites
Neighborhoods
Western Wall

2
Western Wall

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

Attractions
Religious Sites
Cultural Experiences
Church of the Holy Sepulchre

3
Church of the Holy Sepulchre

One of the most holy sites in Christian tradition, this church is believed to contain the sites where Jesus was crucified and was buried and resurrected.

Religious Sites
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Mahane Yehuda Market

4
Mahane Yehuda Market

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

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Tower of David

5
Tower of David

A historical museum that exhibits 4000 years of Jerusalem's history. It is also known as Jerusalem Citadel.

Attractions
Monuments
Museums
Israel Museum

6
Israel Museum

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

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Jerusalem Botanical Gardens

7
Jerusalem Botanical Gardens

The largest botanical garden in Israel, featuring plants from around the world.

Parks
Gardens
Jerusalem Biblical Zoo

8
Jerusalem Biblical Zoo

A zoo that seeks to preserve rare species from around the world, including animals mentioned in the Bible.

Attractions
Parks
Yad Vashem

9
Yad Vashem

Israel's official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, featuring a comprehensive museum and research center.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Ein Yael Living Museum

10
Ein Yael Living Museum

Ein Yael Living Museum is an interactive museum located in Jerusalem, Israel. It offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of ancient times with hands-on workshops in ancient crafts and arts, archaeological digs, and nature walks.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
German Colony

11
German Colony

A trendy Jerusalem neighborhood known for its unique blend of old and new architecture.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Hummus

Hummus

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.

Falafel

Falafel

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

Shakshuka

Shakshuka

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.

Shawarma

Shawarma

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.

Baba Ganoush

Baba Ganoush

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.

Israeli Salad

Israeli Salad

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

Sabich

Sabich

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

Malabi

Malabi

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.

Bourekas

Bourekas

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.

Arak

Arak

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.

Turkish Coffee

Turkish Coffee

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.

Limonana

Limonana

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.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Jerusalem, Israel, is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant and the city is less crowded compared to the high summer season. These seasons also coincide with major Jewish holidays such as Passover in spring and Sukkot in autumn, providing tourists with unique cultural experiences. However, it's important to note that prices may be higher during these holidays due to increased demand. Winter (December to February) can also be a good time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures, but be prepared for occasional rain.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

April 23

Tue

Passover (Day 1)

April 29

Mon

Passover (Day 7)

May 14

Tue

Yom HaAtzmaut

June 12

Wed

Shavuot

October 3

Thu

Rosh Hashana

October 4

Fri

Rosh Hashana (Day 2)

October 12

Sat

Yom Kippur

October 17

Thu

Sukkot (Day 1)

October 24

Thu

Shemini Atzeret / Simchat Torah

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₪ ILS

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 101; Fire: 102; Police: 100

Drinking waterYes, but many opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type H

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Jerusalem, Israel as a first time visitor

1

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

2

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

3

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.

4

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

5

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).

6

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

7

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.

8

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.

9

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

10

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

11

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

12

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

13

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

14

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.

15

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

16

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

17

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.

18

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.

19

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

20

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.

Basic Hebrew to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

שלום

Shalom

Greeting someone

Goodbye

להתראות

Lehitraot

Saying goodbye

Please

בבקשה

Bevakasha

Making a request

Thank you

תודה

Toda

Expressing gratitude

Yes

כן

Ken

Agreeing or confirming

No

לא

Lo

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

סלח לי

Slicha

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

אני לא מבין

Ani lo mevin

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

אתה מדבר אנגלית?

Ata medaber anglit?

Asking if someone speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

איפה השירותים?

Eifo ha'sherutim?

Finding a bathroom

How much does this cost?

כמה זה עולה?

Kama ze oleh?

Asking the price of something

I need a doctor

אני צריך רופא

Ani tzarich rofe

In case of a medical emergency

Help

עזרה

Ezra

In case of an emergency

Food

אוכל

Ochel

When looking for something to eat

Water

מים

Mayim

When asking for water

Hotel

מלון

Malon

When looking for a place to stay

Taxi

מונית

Monit

When needing transportation

Airport

נמל התעופה

Namal HaTeufa

When needing to find the airport

Good morning

בוקר טוב

Boker Tov

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

לילה טוב

Laila Tov

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing for warm days

  • Warm clothing for cool nights

  • Underwear and socks

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimwear (if planning to visit the Dead Sea)

  • Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

  • Travel-sized first aid kit

  • Prescription medications and any necessary health supplies

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other form of ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency (Israeli Shekel)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone and charger

  • Travel adapter for Israeli outlets

  • Digital camera or GoPro

  • Headphones

  • Portable power bank

  • Laptop or tablet for entertainment during downtime

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook for Jerusalem

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks for on-the-go

  • Travel pillow and eye mask for the flight

  • Small backpack or daypack for daily excursions

  • Umbrella or lightweight rain jacket

Weather Conditions

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!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

16° / 6°

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

February

18° / 6°

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

March

20° / 8°

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

25° / 11°

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

May

27° / 15°

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

June

30° / 18°

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

July

34° / 20°

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

August

34° / 20°

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

32° / 18°

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

29° / 15°

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

November

23° / 11°

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

December

18° / 8°

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.

Did you know?

Did you know that Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world, with its history dating back to 4000-5000 BC?

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