Jerusalem is unlike any other city in the world. Holy to three faiths and inhabited for more than 3,000 years, it layers ancient stones, vibrant markets, world-class museums and a lively food and nightlife scene into one fascinating destination. This short Jerusalem travel guide covers the places most worth your time on a first visit.
The Old City
Jaffa Gate and the Tower of David
Jaffa Gate is the main entrance to the Old City for most visitors. Right beside it, the Tower of David Museum tells the story of Jerusalem in its ancient citadel, and its evening light show is spectacular. From here, wander into the narrow alleys and colourful markets.
The Western Wall
The Western Wall is the holiest place where Jews can pray, and one of the most moving sites in the world. Visitors come from every corner of the globe to pray and tuck notes between the ancient stones. The Western Wall Tunnels tour reveals hidden sections of the wall underground.
The Jewish Quarter
Rebuilt after 1967, the Jewish Quarter has quiet lanes, historic synagogues and small shops. Do not miss the restored Hurva Synagogue and the Cardo, a colonnaded Roman and Byzantine main street.
The City of David
Just outside the walls, this archaeological site is where ancient Jerusalem began. Walk through Hezekiah’s Tunnel, an underground water channel more than 2,700 years old – bring water shoes and a torch.
Museums and memory
The Israel Museum
A must for anyone interested in art and history. Highlights include the Shrine of the Book, home to the Dead Sea Scrolls, a huge model of Jerusalem in the Second Temple period, and excellent archaeology and art wings.
Yad Vashem
Israel’s national Holocaust memorial and museum is a profound, deeply moving experience. Its exhibitions tell the personal stories of victims, survivors and rescuers. Allow at least three hours, and note that entry is free.
Markets, streets and neighbourhoods
Mahane Yehuda Market and Nachlaot
Nothing captures Jerusalem’s energy like Mahane Yehuda. By day it is a riot of spices, fresh produce and pastries; at night the shutters come down and the market turns into a hub of bars and restaurants. Next door, the picturesque lanes of Nachlaot are perfect for a stroll.
Ben Yehuda Street and the city centre
The Ben Yehuda pedestrian mall is the heart of downtown, with shops, cafés and street performers. Nearby, Mamilla Avenue offers upscale shopping with views of the Old City walls.
The German Colony and Emek Refaim
The leafy German Colony and its main street, Emek Refaim, are full of cafés and restaurants. The adjacent Railway Park (HaMesila) is a popular walking and cycling path built on a former train line.
Getting around
The light rail is a convenient way to cross the city, running through the centre to Mount Herzl and beyond. Coming from the coast? The fast train between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem makes a day trip easy.
Jerusalem with children
The Biblical Zoo is a great family outing, with animals mentioned in the Bible and pleasant walking paths. The Bloomfield Science Museum is another favourite. For more ideas, see our guide to kids’ activities in Jerusalem.
Nature and walks
- The Jerusalem Trail: a long-distance walking route through the city’s historic sites, forests and gardens.
- Emek Tzurim National Park: on the slopes below Mount Scopus, with views of the Old City and an archaeological sifting project you can join.
- The Jerusalem Forest and Ein Karem: wooded trails and the pretty village of Ein Karem on the city’s western edge.
- The Mount of Olives: the classic panoramic viewpoint over the Old City, best at sunrise.
Practical tips
- Shabbat: from Friday afternoon to Saturday evening, most of West Jerusalem’s shops, restaurants and public transport close. Plan accordingly.
- Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees at holy sites.
- Bring layers: Jerusalem is in the hills and is cooler than Tel Aviv, especially in the evenings and in winter.
- Wear good shoes: the Old City’s stone streets are uneven and slippery.
There is endlessly more to discover, but this is a great start for a first visit. If you are staying over, our guide to hotels in Jerusalem will help you choose a base, and you can add a day trip to the Dead Sea, about an hour away.
