Things to Visit in Jerusalem: Holy Sites, Old City, and History
Experience the best of Jerusalem from its sacred religious sites and ancient Old City walls to vibrant markets and modern neighborhoods. Covers holy sites, history, food, culture, and day trips.
The last remaining wall of the Second Temple is the holiest site in Judaism. The prayer area is open 24 hours and is free to visit. Men and women pray in separate sections. Modest dress is required and head coverings are provided at the entrance. Friday evening before Shabbat is the most atmospheric time to visit.
Walk the Via Dolorosa in the Christian Quarter
This processional route follows 14 stations marking the path believed to be Jesus's walk to crucifixion. The route ends at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Friday afternoons see organized processions led by Franciscan friars. The stations are marked by plaques and small chapels along the narrow lanes.
Enter the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Built over the sites where Jesus was believed to be crucified, buried, and resurrected, this church is shared by six Christian denominations. The Stone of Anointing at the entrance and the Edicule tomb are the focal points. Free entry. Early morning visits before 8 AM avoid the heaviest crowds.
See the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount
This golden-domed Islamic shrine is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world, built over the rock from which Muhammad is believed to have ascended to heaven. Non-Muslims can visit the grounds but not enter the mosque. Access is through the Mughrabi Gate near the Western Wall during limited morning hours.
Explore the four quarters of the Old City
The walled Old City is divided into Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Armenian quarters, each with distinct character. The Muslim Quarter has the busiest souks, the Jewish Quarter has the cleanest streets, the Christian Quarter has the most pilgrimage sites, and the Armenian Quarter is the quietest and smallest.
History and Museums
Visit Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial
This sprawling memorial and museum on Mount Herzl is the world's most comprehensive Holocaust documentation center. The main museum designed by Moshe Safdie is architecturally powerful. The Children's Memorial and Hall of Names are deeply moving. Free entry. Allow 3-4 hours minimum.
Tour the City of David archaeological site
Excavations below the Old City walls have uncovered Jerusalem's oldest settlement, dating back 3,000 years. The highlight is walking through Hezekiah's Tunnel, a 2,700-year-old water channel you wade through in knee-deep water with a flashlight. Entry is 30-75 ILS depending on the package. Bring water shoes.
See the Israel Museum and the Dead Sea Scrolls
The Shrine of the Book houses the Dead Sea Scrolls, the oldest known biblical manuscripts. The museum also has an extensive archaeology wing and a 1:50 scale model of ancient Jerusalem. Entry is 54 ILS. Allow 3-4 hours for a thorough visit.
Walk the ramparts of the Old City walls
The Ramparts Walk follows the top of the Ottoman walls around the Old City, offering views into all four quarters and across to the Mount of Olives. The walk is divided into northern and southern sections. Tickets cost 18 ILS per section. The southern section from Jaffa Gate offers the best views.
Mount of Olives and Beyond
View the Old City from the Mount of Olives
The panoramic viewpoint across the Kidron Valley to the Temple Mount is the most iconic view in Jerusalem. The ancient Jewish cemetery on the slope contains 150,000 graves. The Garden of Gethsemane at the base has olive trees said to be 2,000 years old. Walk down the hill rather than up to save energy.
Visit the Garden Tomb
An alternative to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, this peaceful garden is maintained by a British Protestant group who believe it is the true site of Jesus's burial and resurrection. The rock-cut tomb and skull-shaped hill are atmospheric. Free entry with optional guided tours.
Explore the Mahane Yehuda Market
Jerusalem's main food market has over 250 vendors selling spices, halva, fresh juice, baked goods, and produce during the day, then transforms into a bar and restaurant scene at night. The market is most vibrant on Thursday and Friday mornings before Shabbat. Most food items cost 10-30 ILS.
Food and Culture
Eat hummus at a local institution
Jerusalem takes hummus seriously, and several restaurants have been serving it for generations. A plate of hummus with warm pita, olive oil, and toppings costs 25-45 ILS. The best shops open early and close by early afternoon when the fresh batches run out. The musabaha warm chickpea version is exceptional.
Try Jerusalem mixed grill at Mahane Yehuda
This distinctly Jerusalem dish features diced chicken hearts, spleens, and livers stir-fried with onion and spices, stuffed into fresh pita. It originated in the market restaurants and costs 35-50 ILS for a generous portion. More adventurous than it sounds and deeply flavorful.
Taste knafeh in the Muslim Quarter
This warm cheese pastry soaked in sweet syrup and topped with crushed pistachios is sold at shops in the Old City's Muslim Quarter. A portion costs 10-20 ILS. It is best eaten fresh and hot, straight from the large round tray. The stretchy cheese and crispy kadaif pastry combination is addictive.
Take a food tour through the Old City
Guided food tours cross through all four quarters sampling dishes from each culinary tradition. Tours cover 8-12 tastings over 3-4 hours and cost 250-400 ILS per person. The cultural and historical context between food stops adds depth to the experience. Book at least a day ahead.
Day Trips
Float in the Dead Sea
The lowest point on earth, 430 meters below sea level, is a 90-minute drive from Jerusalem. The extreme salt content makes floating effortless. Limit your time in the water to 20-30 minutes and avoid getting water in your eyes. Ein Bokek on the Israeli side has free public beaches with showers and changing rooms.
Visit Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity
The traditional birthplace of Jesus is just 10 km south of Jerusalem in the West Bank. The Church of the Nativity, one of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world, has a small grotto marking the birth spot. Bring your passport as you cross a checkpoint. The church is free to enter.
Explore Masada fortress in the desert
This mountaintop fortress overlooking the Dead Sea is where Jewish rebels made their last stand against Rome in 73 CE. Take the cable car up or hike the Snake Path starting at dawn. The sunrise from the summit is one of Israel's most dramatic views. Entry is 31 ILS plus 59 ILS for the cable car.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Jerusalem?
Three to five days covers the Old City, major museums, and a day trip. Spend two days in the Old City exploring different quarters and holy sites, one day for Yad Vashem and the Israel Museum, and extra days for the Mount of Olives, Dead Sea, or Bethlehem day trips. Two days is the bare minimum for the Old City highlights.
What is the best time to visit Jerusalem?
March through May and September through November offer mild temperatures around 15-25 degrees Celsius and pleasant walking conditions. Summer from June through August is hot and dry at 30-35 degrees Celsius. Winter from December through February brings cooler temperatures, occasional rain, and fewer tourists. Religious holidays attract large crowds and can affect site access.
Is Jerusalem safe for tourists?
Jerusalem's tourist areas are generally safe. The Old City, museums, and main attractions have a strong security presence. Political tensions can escalate unpredictably, so check current advisories before visiting. Avoid large demonstrations and be aware of restricted areas. Dress modestly at all religious sites, covering shoulders and knees for both men and women.
What should I know about Shabbat?
Shabbat runs from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset. Public transport stops in Jewish areas, many restaurants close, and Jewish Quarter shops shut. Plan ahead by stocking up on food and arranging transport before Friday evening. Arab areas, East Jerusalem, and some hotels continue operating. Shabbat can actually be a peaceful time to explore the quiet streets of the Old City.