Jerusalem, Israel-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old City

  • Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport and transfer to your hotel in Jerusalem
  • Check-in to your accommodation (see below for recommendations)
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Visit the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount (free admission, but dress modestly)
    • Wander through the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter and explore the local shops and markets
  • For dinner, try Mamilla, a modern Israeli restaurant with stunning views of the city (average price: 150 ILS per person)
  • Things to know: Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Also, be respectful of the holy sites and traditions.

Hotel Recommendation: The Mamilla Hotel (average price: 500 ILS per night)

Day 2: Jerusalem’s History and Culture

  • Start the day with a visit to the Israel Museum, one of the world’s leading museums in art and history
    • Explore the exhibits on Jewish and Israeli history, including the Holocaust
    • Visit the Shrine of the Book, which houses the Dead Sea Scrolls (average admission: 50 ILS per person)
  • For lunch, try HaKosem, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Israeli cuisine (average price: 100 ILS per person)
  • In the afternoon, visit the Mount Herzl National Cemetery and learn about Israel’s history and its leaders
    • Explore the Garden Tomb, a site believed by some to be the tomb of Jesus (free admission, but dress modestly)
  • For dinner, try Eucalyptus, a modern Israeli restaurant with a focus on local ingredients (average price: 150 ILS per person)

Things to know: Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist sites. Also, be aware of the museum’s rules and regulations.

Day 3: Exploring the Modern City

  • Spend the day exploring West Jerusalem, a bustling metropolis with a mix of old and new architecture
    • Visit the Mamilla Avenue, a trendy shopping street lined with cafes and restaurants
    • Explore the Talpiot neighborhood, a charming area with historic buildings and local shops
  • For lunch, try Shakshuka, a popular restaurant serving traditional Israeli cuisine (average price: 100 ILS per person)
  • In the afternoon, visit the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and enjoy a performance or take a guided tour of the concert hall (average admission: 50 ILS per person)
    • Visit the Ticho House, an art museum featuring works by Israeli artists (free admission, but donations are appreciated)

Hotel Recommendation: The Inbal Hotel (average price: 450 ILS per night)

Day 4: A Day at the Beach

  • Take a day trip to Tel Aviv, one of Israel’s most popular beach cities
    • Spend the morning relaxing on Gordon Beach or Frishman Beach
    • Visit the White City Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring stunning examples of modernist architecture (free admission, but guided tours are recommended)
  • For lunch, try Shenkin Street, a trendy shopping street lined with cafes and restaurants (average price: 150 ILS per person)
  • In the afternoon, visit the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and explore the exhibits on Israeli art and culture (average admission: 50 ILS per person)

Things to know: Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Also, be respectful of the local customs and traditions.

Day 5: Exploring the Surroundings

  • Take a day trip to Ein Karem, a charming village located just outside Jerusalem
    • Visit the Church of St. John the Baptist, a historic church believed by some to be the site where John the Baptist was born (average admission: 10 ILS per person)
    • Explore the local shops and markets, featuring handmade crafts and souvenirs
  • For lunch, try Ein Karem Market, a bustling marketplace serving traditional Israeli cuisine (average price: 100 ILS per person)
  • In the afternoon, visit the Sataf Forest Reserve and explore the hiking trails and scenic views (free admission)

Things to know: Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Also, be respectful of the local customs and traditions.

Day 6: Last Day in Jerusalem

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute sights
    • Visit the Jerusalem Flea Market, a bustling marketplace featuring handmade crafts and souvenirs (free admission)
    • Explore the City of David, an archaeological site featuring ancient ruins and artifacts (average admission: 50 ILS per person)
  • For lunch, try Machane Yehuda, one of Jerusalem’s most popular markets serving traditional Israeli cuisine (average price: 150 ILS per person)
  • In the afternoon, transfer back to Ben Gurion Airport for your departure flight

Hotel Recommendation: The Hotel David Citadel (average price: 600 ILS per night)

Getting Around

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available throughout Jerusalem. Average fare: 100-200 ILS.
  • Bus: Jerusalem has an extensive bus network. Average fare: 6-10 ILS.
  • Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the city, especially in the Old City.

Tips and Essentials

  • Language: Hebrew is the official language, but many locals speak English.
  • Currency: Israeli Shekels (ILS) are the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Weather: Jerusalem has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.
  • Safety: Jerusalem is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Other Things of Interest

  • Museums: Jerusalem has a wide range of museums, including the Israel Museum, the Jerusalem Archaeological Museum, and the Eretz Israel Museum.
  • Cuisine: Israeli cuisine is a fusion of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Jewish traditions. Try popular dishes like falafel, shawarma, and hummus.
  • Shopping: Jerusalem has many markets and shopping streets, including the Old City’s souk, the Mamilla Avenue, and the Mahane Yehuda Market.

Note: Prices are estimates and may vary depending on individual circumstances.