Jerusalem-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Jerusalem

  • Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) and take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel
  • Check-in at the Arthur Hotel (or similar), located in the heart of the city, within walking distance to the Old City
  • After settling in, head to the nearby Mamilla Mall for some shopping and people-watching
  • For dinner, try HaCarmel, a popular restaurant serving Israeli cuisine with a focus on local ingredients

Day 2: Exploring the Old City

  • Start the day by visiting the iconic Western Wall (also known as the Wailing Wall), the holiest site in Judaism
  • Explore the adjacent Church of Holy Sepulchre, one of Christianity’s most sacred sites
  • Walk through the narrow streets and alleys of the Old City, taking in the sights, sounds, and aromas
  • Visit the Dome of the Rock (free admission), an impressive Islamic shrine located on a hill overlooking the Old City
  • For lunch, try some street food at Mahane Yehuda Market (also known as the “Shuk”)
  • In the evening, enjoy dinner at Abu Shukri, a restaurant serving traditional Palestinian cuisine

Day 3: The City of David and Mount Zion

  • Visit the City of David, an archaeological site that features the remains of ancient Jerusalem’s first city
  • Explore the nearby Hezekiah’s Tunnel, a 1,700-year-old tunnel carved out by King Hezekiah to bring water from the Gihon Spring to the city
  • Head to Mount Zion, a hill where many significant events in Jewish history took place
  • Visit the Davidson Archaeological Park (free admission), which features some of the most impressive ruins in Jerusalem
  • For dinner, try Babka CafĂ©, a cozy spot serving delicious pastries and sandwiches

Day 4: Yad Vashem and the Knesset

  • Start the day by visiting Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust memorial (free admission)
  • Explore the nearby Knesset, Israel’s parliament building, which offers guided tours
  • Visit the Supreme Court (also located in the Knesset complex), an impressive example of modern architecture
  • For lunch, try some healthy food at The Kitchen Market
  • In the evening, enjoy dinner at Lion’s Den, a popular restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine

Day 5: The Israel Museum and the Tower of David

  • Visit the Israel Museum, one of the world’s greatest museums, featuring an impressive collection of art and artifacts
  • Explore the nearby Tower of David, a medieval fortress turned into a museum (free admission)
  • Visit the adjacent City of David Archaeological Park (free admission), which features some of the most impressive ruins in Jerusalem
  • For dinner, try Habarim, a restaurant serving traditional Israeli cuisine

Day 6: Ein Kerem and the Hebrew University

  • Visit the charming neighborhood of Ein Kerum, featuring picturesque alleys and beautiful architecture
  • Explore the nearby Hebrew University’s Mount Scopus campus (free admission), which offers stunning views of Jerusalem
  • Visit the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens (free admission), a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
  • For lunch, try some healthy food at The Garden Restaurant
  • In the evening, enjoy dinner at Tzfat, a restaurant serving traditional Israeli cuisine

Day 7: Return to Ben Gurion Airport

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a neighborhood you haven’t yet visited
  • Head back to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) and depart from Israel

Important Information

  • Transportation:

    • Taxis are available at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)
    • Bus 485 connects the airport to Jerusalem’s central bus station
    • The city has a good public transportation system, including buses and a light rail line

  • Tips:

    • Be respectful of local customs and traditions
    • Learn some basic Hebrew phrases to show appreciation for the culture
    • Don’t drink tap water in Jerusalem

  • Things to Know:

    • Opening hours: Most museums and sites are open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday-Friday; closed on Shabbat (Friday evening-Saturday evening)
    • Security checks: Some sites may have security checks, especially near sensitive areas or during peak season
    • Weather: Jerusalem’s climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters

Accommodation

  • Prices for accommodation vary depending on the hotel, location, and time of year
  • Budget options: around $100-150 per night
  • Mid-range options: around $200-300 per night
  • Luxury options: around $400-500 per night

This itinerary provides a good balance of culture, history, and leisure activities for tourists visiting Jerusalem. However, feel free to adjust it according to your interests and preferences!