Jerusalem

August 7, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Jerusalem

Jerusalem, the eternal city, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and spirituality. As one of the oldest cities in the world, Jerusalem has been a hub for pilgrimage and tourism for centuries. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the must-see places to visit, activities to enjoy, where to eat, stay, and more.

Places to Visit

Historic Sites

1. The Western Wall

Location: Western Wall Plaza, Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 4:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Admission: Free
Description: One of the most sacred sites in Judaism, the Western Wall is a remnant of the Second Temple complex that was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. Visitors can pray, place notes in the cracks, and experience the spiritual energy of this revered site.

2. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Location: Via Dolorosa, Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 5:00 AM - 7:30 PM (Christians), 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Jews)
Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
Description: This ancient church is believed to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. The complex is a beautiful example of ecumenical architecture, with different Christian denominations sharing space.

3. The Dome of the Rock

Location: Temple Mount, Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 7:30 AM - 11:00 PM (Muslims), 5:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Jews)
Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
Description: This magnificent mosque is situated on the site of the ancient Jewish Temple. Its golden dome is a stunning sight, and the intricate mosaics inside are breathtaking.

Museums

1. The Israel Museum

Location: 11 Shlomo HaMelech St., Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday to Saturday), closed on Sundays and Jewish holidays
Admission: Adults 47 ILS, Students 23 ILS, Children under 18 free
Description: One of the largest museums in Israel, the Israel Museum features a vast collection of art and artifacts from ancient times to modern day.

2. The Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial Center

Location: 3 King George St., Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (April to September), closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays
Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
Description: This poignant museum is dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust. The exhibitions include artifacts, documents, and personal stories that convey the horrors of this tragic event.

Parks

1. The Garden Tomb

Location: 3 Nablus Rd., Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (April to September), closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays
Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
Description: This charming garden is believed by some to be the site of Jesus’ burial. The beautiful gardens, flowers, and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect spot for relaxation.

Markets

1. The Machane Yehuda Market

Location: Jaffa St., Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday), closed on Fridays and Saturdays
Admission: Free
Description: This vibrant market is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of fresh produce, spices, clothing, and souvenirs.

2. The Damascus Gate Market

Location: Damascus Gate, Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (April to September), closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays
Admission: Free
Description: This bustling market is a great place to buy traditional Middle Eastern goods, such as spices, textiles, and souvenirs.

Activities

Walking Tours

1. The Old City Tour

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Cost: Guided tours available for around 100 ILS per person
Description: Explore the narrow streets of Jerusalem’s Old City with a knowledgeable guide, who will reveal the history and secrets of this ancient quarter.

2. The Via Dolorosa Tour

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Cost: Guided tours available for around 100 ILS per person
Description: Follow in Jesus’ footsteps along the traditional route to Calvary, which is now marked by nine stations of the cross.

Food Tours

1. The Jerusalem Food Tour

Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Cost: Around 200 ILS per person
Description: Sample local delicacies and learn about the history and significance of various dishes on this culinary tour.

Classes

1. Cooking Class

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours
Cost: Around 150 ILS per person
Description: Learn how to prepare traditional Israeli cuisine with a cooking class that covers recipes, ingredients, and techniques.

Where to Eat

Restaurants

1. The Eucalyptus Restaurant

Location: 16 HaYovel St., Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday), closed on Fridays and Saturdays
Cost: Around 150 ILS per meal
Description: This elegant restaurant serves modern Israeli cuisine in a beautifully restored building.

2. The Shtatka Restaurant

Location: 23 Ben Yehuda St., Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday), closed on Fridays and Saturdays
Cost: Around 100 ILS per meal
Description: This cozy restaurant serves traditional Israeli dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Cafes

1. The Café Rimon

Location: 12 HaYovel St., Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday), closed on Fridays and Saturdays
Cost: Around 50 ILS per drink
Description: This charming café serves excellent coffee, pastries, and sandwiches in a peaceful atmosphere.

Street Food

1. The Shawarma Stand

Location: Various locations throughout Jerusalem
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday), closed on Fridays and Saturdays
Cost: Around 20 ILS per serving
Description: Enjoy delicious shawarma sandwiches at a street food stand, where you can customize your order with various toppings.

Where to Stay

Hotels

1. The King David Hotel

Location: 7 King David St., Jerusalem
Hours: Check-in time around 3:00 PM, check-out time around 12:00 PM
Cost: Around 500 ILS per night (doubles)
Description: This iconic hotel has been a landmark in Jerusalem for over a century. It offers luxurious rooms and excellent service.

2. The American Colony Hotel

Location: 1 Louis G. Frankel St., Jerusalem
Hours: Check-in time around 3:00 PM, check-out time around 12:00 PM
Cost: Around 400 ILS per night (doubles)
Description: This charming hotel is situated in the historic American Colony quarter and offers comfortable rooms and a peaceful atmosphere.

Hostels

1. The Jerusalem Backpackers Hostel

Location: 15 Rachel Imenu St., Jerusalem
Hours: Check-in time around 2:00 PM, check-out time around 10:00 AM
Cost: Around 80 ILS per night (dorms)
Description: This budget-friendly hostel offers clean and comfortable dorms and private rooms.

2. The Abraham Hostel Jerusalem

Location: 67 HaYovel St., Jerusalem
Hours: Check-in time around 2:00 PM, check-out time around 10:00 AM
Cost: Around 60 ILS per night (dorms)
Description: This modern hostel offers spacious dorms and private rooms, as well as a lively atmosphere.

Things to Know

Cultural Etiquette

1. Respect for Dress Code

The Western Wall is a place of prayer, so it’s essential to dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees).
When visiting mosques or churches, remove your shoes and cover your head.
In traditional shops and markets, avoid taking pictures inside.

Transportation

1. Public Transportation

Bus: The Egged bus company offers efficient services throughout Jerusalem.
Train: The Israeli Railways operate from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

2. Taxis

Taxi: Available at ranks or by phone (around 30 ILS per ride).

Safety and Security

1. General Safety Tips

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Avoid walking alone at night.
Keep valuables secure.

Health and Hygiene

1. Tap Water

Tap water is safe to drink in Israel.
However, it’s recommended to use bottled or filtered water when traveling abroad.

Final Tips

Explore Beyond Jerusalem

Visit the Dead Sea for a unique experience.
Explore the historic city of Bethlehem and the nearby Church of the Nativity.
Enjoy the scenic views from the summit of Mount Herzl.

Learn Hebrew Phrases

Hello: “Shalom” (SHAH-lom).
Thank you: “Toda Raba” (TOH-dah RAH-bah).
Goodbye: “Lehitraot” (LEH-hee-TRAH-oot).

Enjoy your time in Jerusalem!