The Ultimate Guide to Jerusalem in Israel
We've put together the best things to see and do in Jerusalem, tips on our favorite activities, how much time you need, how to get around, where to stay, or when to go. Simply put, this is the only Jerusalem travel guide you will ever need.
Without any doubt, Jerusalem is a top attraction in Israel and one of the most spectacular cities we've ever visited.
It's really mind-blowing how many things are there to see and do in Jerusalem, and we believe that there is not a single visitor to Holy Land who wouldn't have it on their Israel itinerary.
Still, there is a story behind our trip to Jerusalem.
Visiting Israel was always a dream of ours, and we could not wait to fulfill it.
What might sound a bit strange is that we never knew what would be the top destination we wanted to see in the country.
We just knew that the combination of complex history, beautiful architecture, stunning national parks, striking coastline, and the fact that Israel is an important spot for many world religions will make it one of our favorite places in the world.
And we surely were not disappointed.
What made our trip so special? For sure, all the things we mentioned above, but we would say the main highlight was the three days we spent in Jerusalem.
To be honest, we were never fans of trips to a country where a person plans to visit just one city and then fly back home.
We just felt we would be missing too much.
But after exploring Jerusalem, we could see ourselves there much longer, and we can imagine this is the city a traveler chooses to dedicate the whole holiday time to.
Planning the Trip to Jerusalem
Firstly, what should you expect from visiting Jerusalem for the first time?
Thousands of years of history, a beautiful historical city center, many things to see and do, top attractions such as the iconic Western Wall, Dome of the Rock, or the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the opportunity to walk the same maze of streets, and maybe even sit under the same Olive trees like Jesus did many years ago.
Add the fascinating mix of ethnicities and religions, lively markets, or tasty Middle-Eastern food, and you get a perfect combination.
All of this makes Jerusalem a must-visit place, and all of this caused we knew from the very first moments in the city that Jerusalem would be the most memorable destination on our itinerary, simply a chapter on its own.
For many reasons, making travel plans for such renowned places as Jerusalem can often feel overwhelming.
One of them is time constraints. At first, it feels impossible to fit all must-visit sights in an itinerary that is usually just a few days long.
This is why we hope our Jerusalem travel guide will come in handy.
After three days in the city, we even knew how to repeatedly get to our favorite places, which gate to use for the entrance, or where to eat.
Feel free to get inspired.
Except for practical information on where to stay, what is the best time to visit the city, or how to get around, we cannot wait to share with you the best things to see and do in Jerusalem.
Let's get started.
Why Visit Jerusalem?
So, who is Jerusalem for, and why should you include it in your itinerary? That's an interesting question.
To be honest, we've never thought about this topic much as we always considered Jerusalem to be one of the most incredible travel destinations in the world.
Back home, when we discussed our travels with some of our friends, they admitted that Jerusalem never crossed their minds as a travel destination because they had it vaguely connected as a place mostly visited by religious pilgrims.
And in the worst-case scenario, as a place that is notoriously known for political unrest often followed by violence.
Even if you have your doubts, we think Jerusalem is really a place worth exploring for every type of traveler. We will touch on the issue of safety in another section.
Still, the truth is that even in case you are not looking for the spiritual experience of your life, you'll surely be smitten by the architecture, omnipresent history, and enchanting atmosphere.
And we believe that even the most pragmatic people will have their spiritual moment at some point. Jerusalem really is for all travelers, no matter their age or beliefs.
The only demographics where we are not entirely sure are families with young kids, as there is ample history to take in.
But if you have kids, you probably already know how to make the trip entertaining.
In the case of Jerusalem, the visit can be, in the end, a bit tiring because of so much information and the fact many places are connected with certain historical events that are hard to comprehend, and kids might, after a few hours, easily get bored.
That is why you should always have a backup plan.
Don't forget that the entire Jerusalem experience might be overwhelming even for adults.
Simply put, we think everyone should make it to Jerusalem and, by extension, to Israel at some point in their life.
How Many Days Do You Need for Jerusalem
It is always hard to give the correct answer when it comes to time requirements for a destination.
We are very well aware that every traveler has a different pace, preferences, and habits when on the road. Don't worry.
We'll try to make it easier for you.
Firstly, you need to answer what is the purpose of your trip, what places you want to see in Israel, and how many days you have for your entire vacation.
Only then can you figure out how many days you should spend in Jerusalem.
Don't forget that there are a few specifics when it comes to Jerusalem.
The biggest problem is that some of the top attractions have different opening hours, so you might not be able to visit every place on your itinerary due to this fact.
Moreover, if you arrive in Jerusalem on a busy day, you might spend a long time just waiting in line for each attraction.
Lastly, don't forget that attractions in the Jewish Quarter will be closed on Shabbat.
All of these factors will have an effect on your trip, and that's why we recommend staying in Jerusalem a bit longer to have a stress-free experience.
1 Day in Jerusalem
Therefore, we would say that one day in Jerusalem is definitely not enough.
However, we would be reluctant to state that you'll see the best Jerusalem has to offer even in two days, but more about it later.
In a nutshell, we believe that one day in Jerusalem is not enough, even for the Old City, and there are still some interesting places to see outside these massive walls.
If you're really short on time and still want to visit Jerusalem, you might want to take a guided tour to avoid navigating through the maze of the Old City yourself.
2 Days in Jerusalem
We would consider 48 hours as a bare minimum for Jerusalem.
Even though we would still recommend staying a bit longer, you can see a lot of places in two days.
However, you will still feel pressed for time when exploring the Old City, and you won't have enough time for the museums or some interesting neighborhoods outside this area.
More importantly, there was so much history to learn about that our brains had a hard time keeping up to retain all the information.
And having an extra day for Jerusalem really makes a difference.
3 Days in Jerusalem
Based on our experience, three full days in Jerusalem seemed like a perfect amount of time for someone who was visiting Jerusalem for the first time.
And we are confident to say we saw most of the top sights, the same as a few less-visited ones, including a couple of museums.
We have to admit that we didn't have almost any free time and our days were still packed to the brim.
For the whole three days, we stayed in the city, and this amount of time does not include one-day trips, for example, to the West Bank, Sea of Galilee, the Dead Sea, and Masada.
We visited those places separately later on when road tripping Israel.
4-5 Days in Jerusalem
If you like to take things slowly, Jerusalem has so much to offer that you can easily stay there for five days without getting bored.
Needless to say, we would recommend including at least one day trip to the West Bank, the Dead Sea (can be done as a single day trip), or Tel Aviv.
It might seem like a stretch, but believe us, you don't get a chance to visit a city such as Jerusalem every day.
1 Week in Jerusalem
More than five days seems to us unnecessary for Jerusalem unless you don't have plans for touring the rest of the country.
In this case, you can base yourself in Jerusalem for a week while making day trips from the city to explore even more remote parts of Israel from there.
Honestly, if you're considering staying only a week in Israel, then we would stay three or four days in Jerusalem, two or three days in Tel Aviv, and take one or two day trips of your interest.
Best Things to See and Do
Jerusalem is home to some of the holiest places for Jews, Christians, and Muslims. Therefore, Jerusalem's top attractions are tightly connected with religion and history.
For some, Jerusalem is one of the most important places they visit in their lives. For some, this description might not sound fully exciting.
Either way, Jerusalem is worth visiting.
Even if you're a non-religious person with only a passing interest in history, Jerusalem will not leave you uninvolved.
It's clearly one of the most captivating places in the world that will suck you in and make you think how incredibly rich the world's history really is.
Jerusalem is also a very traditional city, with a strong Jewish Orthodox community, great food, and a one-of-its-kind atmosphere.
Here are our tips on the best things to do and see in Jerusalem.
Old City
Listed in 1981 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jerusalem's Old City is one of the most incredible places you can visit not only in Israel but in the world.
From a tourist standpoint, it has it all, and we are not exaggerating now.
The walled area of the Old City is divided into four uneven quarters, the Jewish Quarter, Christian Quarter, Muslim Quarter, and Armenian Quarter.
As the name suggests, each area has its unique feel and structures, but make sure to explore them thoroughly as each of them is exceptional.
The Old City can be entered through one of the following gates. Jaffa, Zion, Dung, Lions, Herod, Damascus, or New Gate.
The Golden Gate was resealed in the 16th century, while the New Gate was added in the 18th century.
One of the most popular entrances to the city are Jaffa Gate and New Gate, located in the northwestern part of the complex.
Damascus Gate is the easiest way to reach the Muslim Quarter, and the Dung Gate is great for accessing Temple Mount and Western Wall.
Western Wall
Probably the most iconic sight in Israel, the Western Wall is one of the holiest places in Judaism.
The support wall was built by King Herod in 20 BCE during an expansion of the Second Temple, which was destroyed in 70 CE by Romans.
After the temple's destruction, this massive stone wall remained standing, and the Jews have kept coming here to pray ever since.
The Western Wall (also known as the Wailing Wall) has men's and women's sections, and you should dress modestly. Men also need to wear a kippah. There is no entrance fee.
Interestingly enough, even non-Jewish people can enter the designated praying areas, walk, and touch the wall.
Many people not only vocally pray here but also place their written prayers and wishes inside the wall's cracks.
Visiting the Western Wall is a powerful experience regardless of the time, but it gets incredibly authentic, especially on Shabbat.
While you're there, you can also visit the Western Tunnels, which will allow you to fully understand the history of both temples.
Just make sure you have a reservation. Unlike the wall, there is an entrance fee to the tunnels.
Temple Mount
Home to the Dome of the Rock and Al Aqsa Mosque, Temple Mount is a must-visit place while in Jerusalem.
The walled-off complex also features many smaller structures, some beautiful arches or fountains.
It's believed that Solomon's Temple stood in this area until its destruction by Nebuchadnezzar II.
Later, the Second Temple, also known as Herod's Temple, was built at the same location and replaced the First Temple.
The history of this inconspicuous hill is far more complicated and exciting, so make sure to read some information about this area before you go.
One of the most surprising things we learned about Temple Mount ourselves was how peaceful this area could be when compared to busy suq or narrow streets.
Of course, during peaceful times, as this is one of the most controversial areas in Jerusalem known for violent incidents.
Mount Temple is the holiest place for Jewish believers, but it's also holy for Muslims and Christians.
Be prepared that the site can be closed for security reasons, and don't forget to bring a passport with you.
Access to the Temple Mount is from the Western Wall Plaza via the wooden bridge and Mughrabi Gate, but the exit is through a different gate.
Once again, be prepared for long waiting times.
Dome of the Rock
One of the world's most iconic and recognizable structures, the Dome of the Rock is a must-see place in Jerusalem's Temple Mount.
The characteristic golden dome sits atop the structure, and if you spend a few days in the city, you will see it more than once.
After Mecca and Medina, the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock is the third holiest place for Muslims.
Even though that only Muslims can enter the Dome of the Rock, you can still visit the complex and admire the structure from the outside.
Be prepared that you should wear modest clothing if you want to go inside the complex, though you can rent some at the entrance gate.
Also, don't forget that this is a top attraction in Jerusalem, and you might spend some time waiting in line to get there. Get there early.
Via Dolorosa
Also known as the Way of the Cross, Via Dolorosa is a simple route in the heart of the Old City that will allow you to revisit the last steps of Jesus on Earth.
It's said that Jesus took this route while carrying the cross from Gethsemane Garden to Calvary before his crucifixion.
For Christian pilgrims, this is one of the most moving experiences in Jerusalem.
In fact, even after two thousand years, the cobblestone and narrow route can quickly do its magic and bring you back in time.
There are fourteen stations along the way, and the walk finishes at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
You can walk the entire route on your own. Just make sure to bring at least a guidebook to learn more about each stop.
Also, keep in mind that this is not some secluded area but a regular street in the city that gets extremely crowded.
There are not only regular tourists but also pilgrims reading the Bible, locals going on with their lives, and vendors selling trinkets.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
A must-visit place for Christians, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of the top attractions in Jerusalem.
In fact, some Christians consider this church to be the holiest place of their faith. And why is that?
Inside the church, you will find Christ's Tomb, where it's believed Jesus was buried after his crucifixion.
The tomb is very small, and you will be allowed to spend only a very short time inside after waiting in a (long) line.
Seeing the worshippers letting their emotions out while being absorbed at the moment is a strong experience even for non-Christians visiting this place.
While the tomb is the main attraction here, don't forget to fully explore the church as it hides a few more interesting nooks and crannies.
Again, try to get there early to avoid long lines.
City of David
Easily accessible through the Dung Gate near the Western Wall, the City of David is definitely an exciting place to visit.
Some of the evidence suggests that this ancient site was the original settlement of Jerusalem, a place where it all began a few thousand years ago.
While the ancient history is fascinating, the main reason to visit this site is the tunnel water system.
While you can always take a dry route and see this area, the best way to see this place is by taking a tour of the tunnels.
Make sure to have suitable clothing and proper footwear as you will be walking through thigh-deep water.
Mount of Olives
Opposite the Old City, Mount of Olives is one of the most astonishing places you can find in Jerusalem.
For starters, it's a massive hill with a huge Jewish cemetery that's been used as a burial site for over three thousand years.
Secondly, the area features several more important places to visit, such as the Church of the Holy Ascension, which contains the last footprint of Jesus before his ascension to heaven, the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prayed before his crucifixion or the Church of the Mary Magdalene with golden copulas.
Lastly, the views from Mount of Olives are really breathtaking and will allow you to fully understand how huge the Old City really is.
While you might often read that it's a steep hike to the top, we believe it's worth the effort and perfectly doable if you're used to walking.
Gethsemane
Set at the foothills of Mount of Olives, Gethsemane is a small garden with olive trees where Jesus prayed and later was arrested before his crucifixion.
It seems that the olive trees are not older than Jesus, as the Romans burned everything down during the destruction of the Second Temple.
It was closed on the day of our visit, reminding us how lucky we were that the vast majority of other attractions in Jerusalem (and Israel) were open during our entire trip.
There is no entrance fee to the garden.
Kidron Valley
Located between Temple Mount and Mount of Olives, Kidron Valley is characterized by olive trees, ancient tombs, and the entrance to an extensive Jewish cemetery.
The rock-cut tombs of Absalom and Zechariah immediately reminded us of similar-looking structures we saw in the Lost City of Petra in Jordan the previous year.
The upper part is known as the Valley of Josaphat. According to tradition, this is the place of the Last Judgement.
Tower of David
Located near the Jaffa Gate, the Tower of David was actually the first structure we saw after entering the Old City.
The citadel you can see today was built during the Mamluk and Ottoman periods, but the original palace dates back to the Herods era.
We can't fail to mention that three towers were erected there during the Hasmonean era, so its origins go even further.
Today, the 17th-century minaret dominates the entire structure, so the museum is easily recognizable even from outside the walls.
The museum contains archaeological finds more than 2500 years old and allows you to learn about Jerusalem's ancient history while there.
Ramparts Walk
One of the main reasons why the Old City is so impressive is the massive Walls of Jerusalem.
Built in the first half of the 16th century by the ruler of the Ottoman Empire, Sultan Suleiman I., this giant defensive structure that surrounds the entire area is simply breathtaking.
The total length of the walls is four kilometers, while the average height is twelve meters.
And believe us, the walls are even more impressive in reality than the plain numbers and words on paper.
The best part is that you can actually walk around the entire Old City via Ramparts Walk, one of the best city walks in the world.
Garden Tomb
Do you remember how we talked about Christ's Tomb in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre?
Not everyone agrees with this assumption, at least some Protestants, so you won't be surprised to find out that there is an alternate burial location outside Jerusalem's Old City.
The main argument for this tomb to be the one is that it has similarities to Bible's description, has a more ancient and believable look, and it's adjacent to Golgotha (Skull Hill).
The site is near the bus station, and as there is no entrance fee, you can go and decide for yourself.
Either way, we found this place fascinating in another aspect.
It shows us how history is complicated, how nothing is certain, and that some mysteries will probably be hidden forever.
Yad Vashem
The full name of this museum is Yad Vashem - The World Holocaust Remembrance Center.
As the name suggests, this will be a completely different experience from the usual Jerusalem attractions.
It's always hard to describe a holocaust museum or similar places, so our only words will be that this place is a must-visit place while in Jerusalem.
Yad Vashem is set in a stunning location, extremely well-laid out, and delivers a completely heartbreaking experience.
Allow yourself about three hours to get the most out of the trip, and be prepared to soak up a lot of information while there.
There is a paid underground parking on site, but you can easily get there by Light Rail (Mount Herzl stop) or one of the Egged buses.
There is no entrance fee to Yad Vashem, but you need to reserve your spot through the official website.
Even though you can easily see Yad Vashem on your own, it's also possible to hire a certified local guide who will provide you with interesting insights during the tour.
Israel Museum
If you have less than a passing knowledge about Israel, this wonderful museum serves as a great introduction to the country.
In fact, visiting this museum as the first thing you do in Israel will give you a good headstart and allow you to understand this country better.
While the museum offers much more, the most interesting exhibit is the Dead Sea Scrolls (though be prepared that they're mostly facsimiles).
Inside the museum, you will also find thousands of years of history, a model of the Second Temple, ancient artifacts, Judaica, and even modern art.
Simply put, Israel Museum is among the best museums you can visit in Jerusalem and Israel.
The entrance fee to Israel Museum is 54 NIS, and you need to reserve your tickets online.
Street Food
While Tel Aviv is the city with the most diverse and modern cuisine in the country, we believe that Jerusalem is a great place to start exploring traditional Israeli cuisine.
It's incredibly easy to try the traditional street food in Jerusalem, regardless of where you go.
And despite the fact that visiting Israel on a budget is not easy, the local street food is surprisingly affordable.
So what are some of the most typical Israeli foods?
If you're visiting Israel for the first time, you have to try deep-fried falafel made from chickpeas, eggplant-filled pitta called sabich, a delicious dip from chickpeas known as hummus, or shakshuka, a delicious tomato sauce with poached eggs served at breakfast.
And if you're not looking for a vegetarian meal, then the roasted lamb or mutton known as shawarma is a traditional meal found across the entire Middle-East region.
Lastly, if you have a sweet tooth, then knafeh or halva will allow you to test your taste buds to the limit.
Mahane Yehuda Market
One of our favorite places in Jerusalem, Mahane Yehuda, also known as The Shuk, is a busy market in the heart of the city.
The market is located halfway between the train station and the Old City, making it extremely well accessible.
There are many vendors selling vegetables and fruits, together with sweets, baked goods, cheese, spices, olives, meat, fish stands, and even Judaica or clothing.
Unlike some other bazaars we had the chance to visit in the Middle East, this one is fairly well-laid out, clean, and not very chaotic, but still keeps its charm.
It's also way more accessible (meaning cleaner and less hectic than Carmel Market in Tel Aviv).
Simply put, this is the place to go if you want to try some local goodies.
The market is partially covered and partially open, and you can find the entrance on Jaffa Street or Agripas Street.
Day Trips
As we've mentioned earlier, Jerusalem has an excellent location, and you can easily make several day trips from there.
Moreover, if you don't want to road trip Israel's countryside, an interesting alternative might be basing yourself in Jerusalem and only taking day trips from there.
One of the most popular day trips is West Bank Tour which will show you the best places in this territory.
Another super popular tour is the Dead Sea and Masada Tour.
The Dead Sea is a salt lake known for its healing benefits and the lowest point on Earth. Masada is a symbol of Jewish resistance against Romans and a UNESCO site worth visiting.
If you've arrived in Israel to see Biblical sites, you should consider taking a popular Sea of Galilee and Nazareth Tour.
Lastly, you can also visit Tel Aviv on a day trip from Jerusalem, but we believe this fascinating city deserves more of your time.
Do I Need A Guide
One of the most burning questions you will probably ask yourself at some point is whether you should hire a guide in Jerusalem or not.
Honestly, you don't need a guide for Jerusalem.
All major attractions can be easily explored on your own, and while the Old City might, at first sight, seem like a maze, it's fairly easy to navigate as well.
We've even compiled plenty of separate travel guides on most major attractions in Jerusalem to help independent travelers plan their travels.
Therefore, make sure to read them before you go to get the most out of your trip.
And due to its nature and importance, Jerusalem is not some unknown destination, and you can find tons of information on each site on the internet.
On the other hand, if you're short on time, hiring a local guide will allow you to get the most out of your trip without worrying about itinerary or transportation.
And while you can find most of the information online, a knowledgeable licensed guide can make your trip way more entertaining.
If you're looking for a tour run by a reliable local operator, this Jerusalem City Tour might be a great option for you.
Staying Safe
Safety in Israel is always a hot topic, and Jerusalem, being the religious and political center of the country, also gets its share of concerns.
The problematic past connected with the numerous religions mixing in the area for centuries, together with complicated modern political issues with the country's neighbors, created a complex environment that can literally go south any minute, seemingly out of nowhere.
Please do not take us wrong. We do think Israel is a safe country to visit.
Moreover, we felt safe in Jerusalem all the time.
However, it is necessary to know all the aspects and behave accordingly, although there are situations that are hard to predict.
To stay safe in Israel, we recommend watching the local news, reading the online news, following social media before and during your visit, and trying to sense the mood in the society.
You can notice the surveillance cameras near the top attractions in the Old City, so you know authorities do not take security lightly.
Also, you should be prepared for several security checks when entering places such as the Western Wall or Temple Mount.
It is good to know this in advance, and we think it is better to carry your passport with you just in case you are checked more thoroughly.
Obviously, you should never have any sharp objects or weapons in your backpack.
While the situation seemed calm on the surface and in the streets, only a few days after we left the country, two separate deadly incidents happened in the Old City.
When it comes to common crime often connected with tourism, make sure you have all your valuables safely stored in the backpack or, better, in your hotel's safe.
Always watch out for pickpockets, especially in the crowded market, where it is easy to lose attention.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
What to Wear
Jerusalem is a city of three monotheistic religions. Therefore the question of what to wear while sightseeing is definitely an important one.
We did not have a feeling that walking Jerusalem's streets would require such modest outfits as one could think before the visit.
It might have been just the time of the year that made us feel that way, as we both wore pants and regular T-shirts anyway.
In our opinion, it is always best to try not to stand out in similar destinations and instead go with the flow.
Or, in this case, follow the dress code standards of the most conservative inhabitants.
Moreover, some of the top attractions in Jerusalem are either mosques or churches, so it is more than clear you will need to think of what to wear more carefully at some point.
This is why we always left our hotel with a regular short-sleeved t-shirt but always had a t-shirt with long sleeves in the backpack, just in case.
We also wore comfortable pants and runners.
The surface on some streets is uneven, and as you will be walking all day, make sure to have proper footwear.
As a female traveler, I wore a modest shirt and always packed a shawl that would help me cover my head or neck, just in case security personnel would not find my outfit adequate.
It also depends on what time of the year you will visit Jerusalem. In case it is the winter or rainy season, always keep extra layers or an umbrella with you.
What to Pack
We can't stress enough how important it is to stay hydrated when exploring Jerusalem.
The extreme heat in summer, long waiting times regardless of the season, and packed itineraries make Jerusalem one of the most demanding travel destinations.
Fortunately, plenty of free water fountains are scattered around the Old City, so always keep your reusable water bottle full.
What else should you have in your daypack?
For sure, a camera with additional memory cards or phone, your ID or passport, and cash if you want to buy some souvenirs or something from the vendors.
Also, bring sunscreen together with a hat as the sun can be very unforgiving, especially when waiting in queues.
When is the Best Time to Visit Jerusalem
When choosing the best time to visit Jerusalem, it would be a mistake to focus only on the weather because there are many more factors a traveler must consider, such as weekdays and holidays.
First, we would like to talk about seasons and the differences between them, so you can make an informed decision on when to buy flight tickets.
It is also good to know that it is not a disaster if you are not flexible with your travel dates because Jerusalem is an all-year-round destination.
Autumn
Based on our own personal experience, the best time to visit Jerusalem is during autumn, between September and November.
Not only can you still count on sunny days (it gets rainier closer to wintertime), but crowds are thinner, and prices are quite reasonable.
We visited Jerusalem in November, and the only downside was that it was getting dark earlier, but we still managed to see quite a lot during the day.
Spring
Very similar conditions as in the autumn are during springtime, between March and May, and we think this time of the year is also a perfect time to visit the city.
Summer
The absolute top season when to visit Jerusalem is summer, between June and August.
The non-existent rain and clear skies guarantee a perfect experience, but it is really hot (spring and autumn are also great because of the bearable temperatures), and you can expect crowds.
Also, this time of the year is definitely not a good choice for budget travelers.
Moreover, places outside Jerusalem, such as the Dead Sea and Negev Desert, will be scorching.
Winter
On the other hand, the cheapest time of the year to visit Jerusalem is winter, from December to February.
Sure, there is a reason, because temperatures drop and it can be quite rainy, but it is certainly a good idea if you want to see the calmer face of the city.
Due to the elevation, Jerusalem's winters are colder than you would probably expect, so make sure to pack extra warm layers.
If you're still undecided, then you can read our thoughts on when to visit Israel.
Once you decide when you want to visit Jerusalem and consequently Israel, it is time to start thinking about holidays and days of the week.
National Holidays
Once you decide when you want to visit Jerusalem and consequently Israel, it is time to start thinking about holidays and days of the week.
If we could give you one piece of advice, it would be to check the calendar carefully and then make sure to avoid major holidays such as Passover or Sukkot.
Although experiencing these holidays in the city might be magical, it is not that great from the visitor's point of view, and you really need to weigh all pros and cons.
The city will surely be crowded, hotels sold out, and only you have to decide if the atmosphere is worth it.
Shabbat
Last but not least, it is pretty vital to know, especially if you have only a few days in Jerusalem, that the opening hours and overall atmosphere in the city are significantly affected by Shabbat.
This day of rest takes place from late afternoon on Friday to Saturday late afternoon.
It can almost seem that the life in the city stops for 24 hours, some sights might be closed, and your visit must be much more carefully planned during this time.
For example, we took a one-day West Bank tour on Saturday to ensure our day won't be wasted.
How to Get to Jerusalem
Visiting one of Israel's most important and biggest cities can be daunting.
On the other hand, one thing you do not have to worry about is how to get there, no matter where you travel from.
Although we traveled around Israel by car, because of the heavy traffic, we do not recommend getting to the city this way (especially to its city center) as there are plenty of other more convenient options.
For example, we spent a few days in Tel Aviv first, then took a train to Jerusalem, explored the city, and only then rented a car to see the rest of the country.
Car
If you do not have any other option than to arrive by car, then no matter what is your initial destination, you need to get on Highway 1, which will take you to Jerusalem.
Make sure you look into the map first so you do not accidentally cross borders to the West Bank.
It is good to know that parking in Jerusalem is hard to get, and you should either find a hotel with private parking or get familiar with parking on the street, which requires downloading an app.
Driving in the city center of Jerusalem during Shabbat is not recommended as some roads might be blocked and crowds aggressive.
If you are still not sure about road tripping in this part of the world, feel free to read our guide on driving in Israel.
Public Transport
The most common way how to get to Jerusalem is by public transport.
Buses between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, Ben Gurion International Airport, or any other larger Israeli city or top attractions in the area are frequent and safe.
Ourselves, we traveled between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem by train, and it was a very smooth journey.
We were even able to walk from the train station to our hotel near the city center and saved on public transport in the city.
Honestly, the modern and fast train between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem via the international airport makes traveling between these destinations extremely easy.
Therefore, we believe the train is the best way to get from Ben-Gurion Airport to Jerusalem (or Tel Aviv, Akko, Haifa, etc.).
Jerusalem Central Bus Station and Yitzhak Navon Railway Station are located opposite each other on Jaffa Street, about 2.5 kilometers from the Old City.
As mentioned above, we decided to walk from there, but there is also a Light Rail stop making this journey a matter of only a few minutes.
Usually, it is not necessary to buy tickets in advance, especially if you travel to nearby destinations, but it is recommended to do so on public holidays.
Tours
Another great way to get to Jerusalem, especially if you are short on time and do not want to spend time figuring out the public transport system, is taking a tour.
The most usual way is taking a Jerusalem and Bethlehem Tour from Tel Aviv, which will give you the chance to see the best the city has to offer in a limited time.
Still, we recommend you plan your trip the way that you will get to spend at least one night in Jerusalem and have time to explore its top attractions at a leisure pace.
How to Get Around
If you decide to stay in proximity to the Old City, you can easily explore Jerusalem on foot.
In fact, walking within the Old City is the only reasonable way to see this area. We even walked to our hotel from Yitzhak Navon Train Station so we could stop at the local market along the way.
For the next three days, we were able to reach most of Jerusalem's attractions without the need to use public transport.
Simply put, if you are used to walking everywhere, Jerusalem is a great place to do so.
Still, there are a few places, such as Yad Vashem, that require using public transport.
Luckily, the Jerusalem Light Rail is one of the best ways to get around the city. It's reasonably cheap, reliable, fast and very comfortable.
It connects the City Hall near the Old City with the previously mentioned train station or the museum.
You can buy tickets at every stop or use the Rav Kav smartcard.
Alternatively, you can use a taxi to get around Jerusalem, though it's more expensive unless you travel in a group. It's better to use the Gett app to avoid being scammed or make sure to agree on the price before you start the trip.
Jerusalem also has an extensive bus network operated mainly by Egged.
Getting around Jerusalem by bus might be convenient for some travelers. Just make sure to have a Rav Kav smartcard, as you can't use regular tickets anymore.
The local buses are also a popular way to reach towns such as Jericho, Ramallah, or Bethlehem on the West Bank.
Lastly, if you've arrived in Jerusalem by car, then we would strongly recommend leaving it at your hotel's parking.
Jerusalem is known for traffic jams and a bad parking situation so you might consider whether you need a car for this city at all.
Don't forget that public transport doesn't run in Jerusalem on Shabbat.
Where to Stay in Jerusalem
Earlier, we established you should stay overnight in Jerusalem. Now you will need to find a nice and good hotel for the amount of time you have.
We've already mentioned that Jerusalem is not the cheapest city in the world, and the budget category hotels are actually quite expensive.
Also, be prepared that the hotels with an excellent value-to-price ratio are booked out obviously first.
High prices are the reason why it is better to travel in the shoulder season and avoid major holidays unless you want to spend a fortune on accommodation.
On our trip, we were lucky enough to secure a great deal, but that might not be your case if you don't book your hotel in advance.
It is definitely worth it to stay within walking distance of the Old City, so you do not spend that much time commuting.
Although you can find hotels in the Old City, we believe that it's better to stay outside this area, so you have a better opportunity to see Jerusalem from a different perspective.
Here are our tips on the best hotels in Jerusalem for every type of traveler.
Budget | Abraham Hostel - One of the most popular hostels in Jerusalem, Abraham Hostel is conveniently located halfway between the Yitzhak Navon Train Station and the Old City. This hostel is always a great choice if you're traveling on a budget.
Mid-range | Ibis Styles Jerusalem City Center - Ibis Styles in Jerusalem, as in many cities around the world, is always a safe bet when searching for accommodation. The hotel has a fantastic location, only 700 meters from New Gate, comfortable rooms, a daily buffet breakfast, and offers excellent value for money.
Luxury | Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem - Designed with Greco-Roman, Gothic and Ottoman motifs, Waldorf Astoria is one of the best hotels in Jerusalem. It offers a great service, beautiful rooms, and a location within walking distance of the Old City. It is a truly wonderful hotel. If you can afford this type of accommodation, just go for it.
Is Jerusalem Worth Visiting?
Jerusalem is definitely worth visiting, regardless of whether you come here on a day trip or stay for a week. Whether you come for the history, religion, architecture, people, culture, or food, you won't leave disappointed.
There is just so much to see and do in Jerusalem that you will probably end up wishing to have more time for the city.
And we believe every traveler will have a great there, regardless of their age or preferences.
If you're planning your trip to Israel, we would have a really hard time coming up with a single reason not to include it in your travel itinerary.
Simply put, Jerusalem is an extraordinary place to visit, a true traveler's dream come true, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
