Jerusalem, Israel-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Jerusalem, Israel

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old City

  • Morning: Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport and take a taxi or shuttle bus to your accommodation. Check-in at Hotel Notre Dame, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Jerusalem.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Christianity’s holiest sites. Explore the nearby Jaffa Gate and the bustling souks (markets) of the Old City.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Eucalyptus, a renowned restaurant serving modern Israeli cuisine.

Day 2: Western Wall and Jewish Quarter

  • Morning: Visit the Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, where Jews come to pray and leave notes in the ancient stones. Explore the nearby Western Wall Tunnels.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter, which features a range of synagogues and historical sites.
  • Evening: Try some traditional Shabbat dinner at HaKosem, a family-run restaurant in the Old City.

Day 3: Mount Zion and the Yad Vashem Museum

  • Morning: Visit the Church of the Dormition, located on Mount Zion, which is believed to be the place where Jesus’ disciples chose Matthias to replace Judas.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial Centre, a museum that commemorates the victims of the Holocaust. Don’t miss the poignant Hall of Names and the Children’s Memorial.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Abu Shukri, a popular restaurant serving traditional Middle Eastern cuisine.

Day 4: City of David and Silwan

  • Morning: Explore the ancient city of David, which features archaeological remains dating back to the First Temple period.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby village of Silwan, where you can see ancient tombs and other historical sites. Don’t miss the chance to take a short hike through the nearby valley.
  • Evening: Relax with dinner at Machneyuda, a trendy restaurant in the heart of Jerusalem.

Day 5: The Israel Museum

  • Morning: Visit the Israel Museum, which features a range of exhibits on Israeli history and culture. Don’t miss the iconic model of Jerusalem as it was during the Second Temple period.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Bible Lands Museum, which showcases artifacts from ancient civilizations mentioned in the Bible.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Eucalyptus Hotel’s restaurant, which serves delicious Israeli cuisine.

Day 6: The Mamilla Mall and the Tower of David

  • Morning: Visit the modern Mamilla Mall, which offers shopping and dining options with a stunning view of the Old City.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Tower of David Museum, which features exhibits on Jerusalem’s history and a range of interactive displays.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Old City’s famous Shuk, where you can find a range of traditional street food stalls.

Day 7: Last Day in Jerusalem

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute sites on your list.
  • Afternoon: Take some time to relax at your hotel or enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the restaurants mentioned above.
  • Evening: Depart for Ben Gurion Airport and head home.

Things to Know

  • Transportation: Jerusalem has a range of public transportation options, including buses and taxis. You can also rent a car if you prefer.
  • Weather: Jerusalem’s climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly.
  • Respect for Local Culture: Jerusalem is a city of great cultural and historical significance. Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting holy sites.

Tips

  • Learn some Hebrew phrases: While many Jerusalemites speak English, it’s still appreciated if you can learn a few basic Hebrew phrases.
  • Try traditional food: Jerusalem is famous for its delicious street food and traditional cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local specialties during your visit.
  • Explore beyond the tourist areas: While the Old City is a must-visit destination, there are many other interesting sites and neighborhoods to explore in Jerusalem.

Accommodation