Ten Things Not to Miss in Jerusalem

The Essentials When Touring Jerusalem

Ten Things Not to Miss in Jerusalem

To make life easy we have complied some checklists of the things that you shouldn't miss out on in any trip to Jerusalem.  We have split our lists into different topics so that you can choose what interests you.

Jerusalem is not a large city, but it is incredibly diverse with the different periods, religions and cultures.  Although it is not a large city it has big city traffic issues so if you are pressed for time it makes sense to plan your time carefully and rely on a combination of buses and taxis. of course the best way to see Jerusalem is on foot - sunglasses, water, hat, long sleeves (for religious sites) and a camera and go explore.

Don't Miss in the New City of Jerusalem

Here are some recommendations of must visit places in Jerusalem's New City.

Three Views of Jerusalem

To understand Jerusalem you should try and see it from the three important viewpoints –  The Tayelet, Montefiore's Windmill & Viewpoint &  if possible from Mount Scopus by the Hebrew University at the Tabachnik Park or better still from the Mount of Olives. Also stroll towards the other side of the mountain and enjoy the contrast of more than 3000 years of urban development with the raw desert. On a clear day you can see the Dead Sea in the distance. See Jonathan's Jerusalem Skylines 

Yemin Moshe & Mishkenot Shananim (Windmill)

There were the first neighborhoods built outside the Old City in the second half the 19^th century. Now an artists colony and exclusive neighborhood – so exclusive that there is an endless stream of tourists passing their front doors! Walk towards the French Consulate and explore the look out points in the park and along Paul Botta Street.

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Here are some recommendations of must visit places in Jerusalem's New City.

Three Views of Jerusalem

To understand Jerusalem you should try and see it from the three important viewpoints –  The Tayelet, Montefiore's Windmill & Viewpoint &  if possible from Mount Scopus by the Hebrew University at the Tabachnik Park or better still from the Mount of Olives. Also stroll towards the other side of the mountain and enjoy the contrast of more than 3000 years of urban development with the raw desert. On a clear day you can see the Dead Sea in the distance. See Jonathan's Jerusalem Skylines 

Jonathan's Favourite Jerusalem Skylines

View from Mt Zion

I live and work in Jerusalem, yet for all my familiarity I never get tired of the incredible views of the Jerusalem Skyline. There is something unique about the mixture of wide open spaces (over some of the valleys) with the compact Old City and the contrast with the New City skyline and the the realisation thatThis is Jerusalem.

Here are some of my favourite places to goJerusalem Skyline Spotting

• The Tayelet - I like to start with the view from the south of the Old City from The Tayelet. This is quite likely the spot that Abraham & Isaac spotted the place where Isaac was almost sacrificed and there is always the feeling of seeing Jerusalem for the first time just like they did. The centrepiece of the view is the Old City, but it is set in the context of new Jerusalem.
• Mount Scopus - This is provides the contrasting view looking at Jerusalem from the North- here the focus is very clearly Temple Mount and the valley - you can feel the sanctity emanating outwards. The best view from here is from the campus synagogue in the Hebrew University and elsewhere on campus, but, the view from the lookout point just outside is excellent. Remember to look as the desert towards the Dead Sea - the contrast is very sharp.
• Mount of Olives - This is also a view of the Temple Mount - but it is unbelievable how close you feel - you can see the mosques and all the other sites on the Temple Mount. There are also great views of the cemetries on the Mount of Olives itself and the Old City Ramparts with the walled in gates where according to tradition the Messiah will enter Jerusalem; further afield you can see Mount Zion and even as far as the Tayelet. Nearby there are some great views of the churches on the Mount of Olives. This is a view of Jerusalem not to miss.
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  David Citadel from near the Windmill
  Montefiore's Windmill - Getting closer to the Old City the view from the windmill (or anywhere along this ridge) is a favourite - the closest point is Mt Zion but the Old City ramparts extend away towards Jaffa Gate and beyond. 
• Mt Zion Lookout - The rooftop if the complex that houses King David's Tomb and the Room of the Last Supper has some of the best views of the Old City, New City and the Mt Zion skylineitself. It is also worth strolling on the sidewalk around the car park by Zion Gate and view the Ramparts, Temple Mount (silver domed Al Aksa Mosque) and down to the golden domed church in the valley.
• Follow the  Old City Ramparts Walk - from the inside or outside (Zion Gate to Jaffa Gate)  for some great lookouts over New Jerusalem the corner where the wall turns between Jaffa & Zion Gates is particularly worthwhile
• The Old City Rooftop Lookout - One of my favourite places within the Old City - stand at the point where the four different quarters meet look at the styles of rooftops, holy places and towards the Mount of Olives.
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  Overlooking The Kotel from the Jewish Quarter
  Overlooking the Kotel - There are a few places from the Jewish Quarter with outstanding views of the Kotel - head up the steps from the Kotel and work your way along the edge of the view mostly along HaKotel Street.
• Davidson Center - At the far extent of the Davidson Center are the gates that were used by the pilgrims to enter the Temple. The view here is mainly of everyday buildings but ranges from Mt  Zion through Mt of Olives and includes back towards the Taylet - but combined with the feeling that you are part of history it is a very powerful place.

The Kotel (Western Wall - Wailing Wall) is open for prayer at all hours of every day and night, and at pretty much anytime you will find people visiting & praying.

The Kotel is perhaps most often visited by tourists during the day - especially on Monday, Thursday or Shabbat (the most action.) Often a quick visit in the evening when the crowds have gone and the congregations are the serious devotees or visitors can be more rewarding. During the summer the cool evening air can make the visit more relaxing. This Kotel album was shot on a regular evening - nothing special just some of the faithful at prayer.

For more views of Jerusalem visit our Jerusalem Albums.

Here are some views of the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem's Old City as well as some views of the Kotel.

Jerusalem Albums

Please browse our albums of events and places in
Jerusalem.

Display #  5101520253050100All

1	Jerusalem Winter Wonderland - Snow in Jerusalem
2	Turrmus (Lupin) Hill
3	Jerusalem Marathon Album 2012
4	Sounds of the Old City Music Festival - March 2012
5	Anemones in Emek HaMatzleva (Valley of the Cross) - Spring 2012
6	Winter in Jerusalem 2012
7	Israel Museum Kite Day 2011
8	Jerusalem Light Festival & Butterfly Effect Album
9	The Hurva Album
10	Mahane Yehuda & Nachlaot Album
11	Israel Festival Opening - Strange Fruit
12	Israel Museum Photos
13	Aza Street Event
14	Jerusalem Park Photos
15	Ein Hemed Photos
16	Jerusalem Hills Views
17	Kotel by Night Album
18	Ein Kerem Photo Album
19	Jerusalem Old City Food Festival 2011 Photos
20	Jerusalem Marathon Photos
21	Jerusalem Anemones
22	Jerusalem Botanical Gardens Gallery
23	Cardo Photos
24	Hirbat Midras Pictures
25	Muslim Quarter Photos
26	Mt of Olives Photos
27	Yemin Moshe & the Windmill
28	Christian Quarter Album
29	Jewish Quarter Album
30	Views from Old City Rooftop Walk
31	Outside the Old City Walls Album
32	Mt Zion Album
33	Bar Kochba Cave Gallery
34	Emek Zurim Sifting Project
35	Mount Scopus Views
36	Jerusalem Zoo
37	The Davidson Center
38	Emek Refaim Street Events
39	Mamilla
40	The Souk
41	Jerusalem Knights

Yemin Moshe & Mishkenot Shananim (Windmill)

There were the first 



neighbourhoods built outside the Old City in the second half the 19^th century. Now an artists colony and exclusive neighbourhood – so exclusive that there is an endless stream of tourists passing their front doors! Walk towards the French Consulate and explore the look out points in the park and along Paul Botta Street.

Cinemateque, Mount Zion Hotel, Begin Center, St Andrews Church 

Just down from the Windmill you will find these buildings and some great views of the Hinom Valley and Mount Zion. Near the hotel there is a small museum with the story of the secret cable car that supplied Mount Zion in 1948.

Menahem Begin was a pre-state freedom fighter (and leader of the  Irgun - IZL) turned politician. He was in opposition until 1977 when he became Prime Minister. During his time in office he made peace with Egypt and launched the Lebanon War. The Menahem Begin Center covers the story of the prime minister and some of the important history (See Begin Center) St Andrew's is a beautiful building and a little taste of Scotland.

YMCA & the King David Hotel

It is possible to climb the tower for a great view of the Old City. The King David is a historical site in its own right having been part of the pre-independence struggle. It is now a top class hotel – wander around the lobby to understand how some people lived in the British Empire. If you are not staying there, but want to enjoy then the swimming pool or coffee on the terrace offer possibilities.

Israel Museum

Highly regarded and newly renovated. Enjoy the exhibits and Take a few minutes to go and see the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Model of Jerusalem in the Second Temple era. There is also a youth wing and during chagim there are normally children's arts & crafts groups for a few shekalim. See the Israel Museum

Bible Lands Museum

One of the important and popular museums in Jerusalem, detailing biblical history, but, also covering the broad range of cultures of the Ancient Near East. See Bible Lands Museum 

Islamic Art Museum

Not one of the better known museums, but, very popular with those who are in the know, some beautiful treasures. Located near the Jerusalem Theater and the President's Official Residence. See Islamic Art Museum 

Jerusalem Theatre

Jerusalem's main center for performing arts and in the spring one of the foci of the Israel Festival. See  Jerusalem Theatre (Hebrew)

Neighbourhoods

Wander through some of the classic Jerusalem neighbourhoods – Rehavia, German Colony, Shaarei Chesed, Yemin Moshe & Mea Shearim.

Machane Yehuda Market

Jerusalem's main market, and considered a classic experience by it fans and addicts of fresh produce. It also has spices, cheese, confectionery and some hardware shops. A recent trend has been to add some cafes so that you can drink and surf in the heart of the market! Is generally very busy on Thursday/Friday and just before the chagim. 

Seasonal Markets

Around the time of the various different chagim (festivals) then there are some unusual markets. Just before Sukkot there is the 4 Species street markets (Mea Shearim), before Yom Kippur the traditional kaparot can be seen (with live chickens) in Mea Shearim, Mahane Yehuda and other places. Just before Pesach, you may be able to see matzot being hand baked (a process from mixing to end of baking taking less than 18 minutes.)

Mamilla

Explore this trendy modern ancient shopping walk just outside the Jaffa Gate. Always has atmosphere (helped by the art work and often by street performers) – a great place to wander and get a coffee or a meal, even if you don't like shopping. Close to the Tower of David Museum & the Old City Wall Tour 

Yad Vashem

The Holocaust Museum is an essential - essential to honour and essential to never forget. If you visited a few years ago then there are new exhibits.  Certain areas are restricted to over 10 years old & some of the outside exhibits are not wheel chair accessible. It is located on Mount Herzl and is easily accessible by many bus routes (18 20 23 etc) and by taxi. See Yad VaShem Museum

Don't Miss in the Jewish Quarter

Tower of David & View towards Mt Zion

Here are our recommendations for some of the essential things to see and do in the Jewish Quarter in Jerusalem's Old City.

It is great to wander an absorb the unique atmosphere. Friday evening is a very special time in the Jewish Quarter as everybody gets ready for the Sabbath and many people come to pray in the synagogues and at the Kotel. For further views - see The Jewish Quarter Album 

Tower of David – An amazing museum set in the restored citadel. Highly recommended sound and light experience. See - Tower of David Museum

Old City Ramparts Walk – By far one of the highlights of the Old City – fun, history and views. See Old City Wall Tour 

Old City Souk – A classic market. The sounds and smells of an old Arab market, take in the atmosphere and don't forget to bargain hard. Not strictly speaking in the Jewish Quarter but ajacent to the Jewish Quarter.

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Don't Miss in the Jewish Quarter

Children - Don't Miss in Jerusalem

Tiger - Jerusalem Biblical Zoo

Check out our list of essential children's sites at Children's Jerusalem Must Do Sites – you get the "tourist" points for having been there but they are all fun.

Here are some more ideas ofkeeping children busy in Jerusalem. This is a mixture of good tourism and things that children enjoy anywhere in the world.

Jerusalem Science Museum

Asimply amazing place – lots of hands on and you can get by without Hebrew. Great on a hot day with amazing air conditioning. Can be mobbed during the chagim. Science Museum site

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Unwinding in Jerusalem

Here are some ideas for things to help you Relax in Jerusalem(in no particular order)

Have a coffee (or a meal) on Emek Refaim

Stroll down the main street, 

Emek Refaim

choose your cafe and then go for a wander through some of the streets of the German Colony or Bakaa.  SeeHanging Out in Emek Refaim

Jerusalem of Gold

Catch the sunset from the Israel Museum as the golden rays shine on the buildings of Rehavia turning them into pure gold.

Tower of David & View towards Mt Zion

Here are our recommendations for some of the essential things to see and do in the Jewish Quarter inJerusalem's Old City.

It is great to wander an absorb the unique atmosphere. Friday evening is a very special time in the Jewish Quarter as everybody gets ready for the Sabbath and many people come to pray in the synagogues and at the Kotel. For further views - see The Jewish Quarter Album 

Tower of David – An amazing museum set in the restored citadel. Highly recommended sound and light experience. See - Tower of David Museum

Old City Ramparts Walk – By far one of the highlights of the Old City – fun, history and views. See Old City Wall Tour 

Old City Souk – A classic market. The sounds and smells of an old Arab market, take in the atmosphere and don't forget to bargain hard. Not strictly speaking in the Jewish Quarter but ajacent to the Jewish Quarter.

The Kotel

Kotel View point – From the Kotel take the steps on the right (direct behind the men's section.) Work your way to the left and just drink in the unique view. Very compelling towards evening especially on a Friday night. See The Kotel - Wailing/Western Wall 

Kotel Tunnels – Incredible excavations that run by the Western Wall. You must book in advance (like before you book your airline tickets!!) See Kotel Tunnels 

Corner of Western & Southern Walls (Davidson) & Mt of Olives

Davidson Centre – Located by Dung Gate (to the left of the Kotel) – incredible archaeological site spread out between the Old City walls and the southern wall of the Temple Mount. You can climb the same steps that the pilgrims used thousands of years ago. An extremely absorbing and impressive experience, see  Davidson Center 

City of David – Strictly speaking outside the current Ottoman walls, but logically the central feature. Visit David's capital city and explore the water system (Hezekiah's Tunnel.) See City of David & Hezekiah's Tunnel 

Old City Roof Top Walk – A slightly less well known, but very highly recommended view of Jerusalem. See Roof Top Walk 

The Cardo

Cardo – This is the main east-west road from Roman times. It has been excavated and restored – partially open air and partially covered. Sometimes, converted into a hands on living museum. Check out the model of the Temple Candelabra.

Old City Street

Wander around the Jewish Quarter – The Old City is one of those places where you never tire of just wandering (but, you will get extremely tired!!) - explore the alleys and paths; look for all the special places and sites.

Jewish Quarter Main Square – The main square of the Jewish Quarter seems to be where all the alleys lead towards, full of atmosphere, always bustling and a god place to sit down, get refreshments and admire the Hurva.

The Main Square of the Jewish Quarter & The Hurva

Hurva – The old synagogue for so long a symbol of a previously divided Jerusalem is restored. This is a definite must do – simply because it is so difficult to gain admittance. See The Hurva 

Four Synagogues – A small complex with four unique synagogues and four unique stories to match.

For further views - see The Jewish Quarter Album

See our Guide to the Jewish Quarter

Here are some views of the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem's Old City as well as some views of the Kotel.

Old City

City of David & Hezekiah's Tunnel Things to do in Jerusalem Probably the all time favourite activity for children in Jerusalem isHezekiah's Tunnel located in the ancient City of David NP. However, don't be put off by the children tag; it is great for adults and there is plenty of real history to make it rate as a genuine grown up experience. Extending from the ancient City of David (outside and down the hill from Dung Gate – near the Kotel) towards the Silwan Spring. The City of David is the site of King David's ancient capital and sits outside the much newer (and still existing) Old City walls. The site itself has been extensively excavated and one gets the sense of being connected to something ancient and eternal. In many ways this is were the story of Jerusalem and Ancient Israel really begin. Share Read more...

Kotel Tunnels Things to do in Jerusalem The Kotel Tunnels are without a doubt one of the most incredible places inJerusalem. Simply amazing excavations that allow you to walk along the length of the Western Wall (Kotel), peer down into previous historical times and stand opposite the Holy of Holies of the Temple (bring a prayer with you.) Share Read more... Mount Zion Things to do in Jerusalem Mt. Zion – David's Tomb, the Last Supper and Pentecost, Crowned by a Minaret Mt. Zion is a wide spur of land extending south of the Armenian Quarter outside the walls of theOld City of Jerusalem.  It is a microcosm of Jerusalem's sanctity to all three monotheistic religions.  The same small building on Mt. Zion houses David's Tomb on the ground floor, the Cenacle, the room where the Last Supper and Pentecost took place one flight above, and has a minaret on its roof, harking back to when it was a mosque dedicated to Nebi Daoud – the Prophet David. Share Read more... Mount Zion Rooftop Viewpoint Things to do in Jerusalem Share The Mount Zion rooftopover the King David Tomb / Last Supper complex onMount Zion is one of those great little secrets about Jerusalem. On exiting the Last Supper room there is a old sign in Hebrew and a viewpoint symbol that are easily missed. Share Read more... Muslim Quarter - Old City Jerusalem Things to do in Jerusalem Share

Jerusalem's Muslim Quarter – Multiculturalism for All the Senses

Sights, sounds, smells and tastes - a walk through the Muslim Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem is a multicultural experience for all the senses.  The Moslem Quarter is located on the northeast side of the Old City of Jerusalem.  Home to roughly two thirds of the Old City's residents, it is the largest and most populous quarter of the four quarters. As long as 2,000 years ago, it became the "Muslim Quarter" as ethnic differences emerged in the city during the Mamluke period (following the expulsion of the Crusaders). Most of the buildings that are institutional in origin, such as former or present Madrasas(Moslem religious academies), khans (inns), mosques, courts and tombs date back to the Mamluke Period (1267-1517 C.E.), while many of the residences are from the ensuing Ottoman Period(1517-1917 C.E.).  Some of the former are even remodeledCrusader structures as are some of the covered markets. The Muslim Quarter's charm stands out for the way its distinctly Islamic character is interwoven with diverse, rapidly changing human and cultural scenery. Share Read more...

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Things to do in Jerusalem One of the best things to do in Jerusalem is the Old City Ramparts' walk – it is also a great children's (of almost all ages) activity.  It has it all amazing views, exciting ramparts, the unusual and off beat - did you know that there is a Police stable (as in real horses!) inside the Old City? The walk can be tough in the hottest part of the day and is not advised (or basically impassable) for the infirm or for push chairs as it does require navigating some steep steps and walking on ancient walls.  Share Read more...

Old City Roof Top Walk Things to do in Jerusalem If you are in the mood for seeing things from above; then theJerusalem Old City Roof Top Walk is also a must. Children will love running over the Old City roof and the rest of us will be mesmerised by the unique views of the sites and buildings in the Old City of Jerusalem. Don't forget your camera. See our Rooftop Album. In our opinion this is one of the essential places to visit in Jerusalem. Share Read more... The Armenian Quarter - Old City Jerusalem Things to do in Jerusalem

The Armenian Quarter Jerusalem - Introduction

The Armenian Quarter is located in the southwestern quadrant ofJerusalem’s Old City.  Quiet and enigmatic, it is primarily a residential neighborhood.  A large section of the Armenian Quarter is occupied by the mostly closed compound of the Armenian Monastery.  Home to over 4,000 Armenians in the middle of the 20th century, its population has dwindled significantly as a result of successive waves of immigration to Australia, the United States and UK in the 1950's and 1960's.  It is, however,  still home to several hundred people. On the Armenian Quarter's periphery are a number of churches belonging to other Christian denominations, among them Syrian Orthodox, Maronite, Greek Orthodox and Anglican.  The Syrian Orthodox church, St. Marks, is particularly interesting, while the Maronite Patriarchate offers great views from its roof.   Share Read more... The Cardo - The Ancient Heart of Jerusalem Things to do in Jerusalem Share

The History of the Cardo

The Cardo was Jerusalem's main street 1500 years ago.  The Cardo was originally paved in the 2nd century when Hadrian rebuilt Jerusalem as a Roman polis called Aelia Capitolina. The Cardo was extended south to the area of today's Jewish Quarter in the 6thcentury by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. In its day, The Cardo was an exceptionally wide colonnaded street running through the heart (or cardo) of the city on a north-south axis, connecting many of Byzantine Jerusalem's major institutions.  Parallel rows of columns supported a red ceramic tile roof and an arcade ran along, at least part of its eastern side.  Jerusalem's Cardo (cardos were features of many Roman cities, especially in the Near East) is depicted on the Madaba Map, the mosaic pavement of a 6th century Byzantine Church found in the town of Madaba in Jordan. There is a replica of the Madaba Map on display in the Cardo. Share Read more... The Church of the Holy Sepulchre Christian Sites in the Old City Share

Introduction to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the holiest place in Jerusalem for most Christians (See also Christian Quarter Photo Album.)  It is revered as the site of the crucifixion and burial of Jesus, as well as several additional associated events.  The church also incorporates a variety of other Christian holy sites, among them the burial place of Adam - the first man, the navel of the world and the cave where the 'true cross' was discovered.  The pope's call to rescue the Church of the Holy Sepulchre from the Holy Land's Muslim rulers caused the Crusades and it continues to be a major destination for most Christian pilgrims. Share Read more...

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Don't Miss Near Jerusalem

Here are things that you shouldn't miss in the Jerusalem area. For almost all of them you need a car or a taxi.

Armoured Car on the road to Jerusalem

Many of them fit together very well for a long half day. Start in Ein Kerem, Visit Sataf and then take the Nes Harim road to the stalactite cave or Kift Zuba. You can complete the loop via Bet Shemesh – Shaar HaGai and then get to Abu Gosh & Shoresh via the main Tel Aviv Jerusalem road. Look out for the remains of the armoured cars that tried to break the seige of Jerusalem in 1948.

If you have more time you can catch the Armoured Corps Museum and Mini Israel.

Ein Karem

Ein Karem is a beautiful village just a few minutes from Jerusalem; packed with ambiance, churches and cafes.

See  Ein Kerem Village

Sataf

Sataf is located on one of the hills just beyond Hadassah Hospital and Ein Kerem village.

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