Jerusalem

About the city

Jerusalem, one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in the world, is a spiritual center for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, offering travelers a unique journey through time. Serving as the capital of Israel, its Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to iconic landmarks such as the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Visitors can wander through ancient stone streets, explore vibrant markets, and experience the city’s diverse cultural and religious heritage. Beyond its historic sites, modern Jerusalem boasts lively neighbourhoods, renowned museums, and a rich culinary scene, offering a captivating blend of tradition and contemporary life.

Jerusalem Top Highlights

The Old City

The Old City of Jerusalem is a historic and spiritual heart of the city, enclosed by ancient walls and divided into four distinct quarters: Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian, and is home to some of the world’s most sacred sites, including the Western Wall, The Church of Holy Sepulchre and the Dome of the Rock. Walking through its narrow, cobblestone streets offers a journey through thousands of years of history, where ancient traditions and diverse cultures converge. With its vibrant markets, religious landmarks, and timeless atmosphere, the Old City is a must-visit destination for pilgrims and travelers alike.

Jerusalem Old City, Cardo_ Credit Noam Chen for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Jerusalem - Old City panorama_ Credit Noam Chen for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Jerusalem Old City, Jewish Quarter_ Credit Noam Chen for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

The Tower of David, Jerusalem_ Credit Noam Chen for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Jerusalem, Via Dolorosa _ Credit Hanna Taieb

Jerusalem, Old City _ Credit Noam Chen for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Jerusalem, Spices in the Old City Market_Credit Rami Cohen

Jerusalem, The City of David_Credit The City of David

Jerusalem - Old City walls_ Credit Noam Chen for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Mahane Yehuda

Located in the heart of Jerusalem, this market is a bustling and vibrant marketplace where the city’s diverse cultures come to life. Known for its colorful stalls, the market offers everything from fresh produce, spices, and baked goods to local delicacies and street food. By day, it’s a lively hub for shopping and tasting the best of Jerusalem’s culinary scene, while by night, it transforms into a trendy nightlife spot with bars and restaurants. Mahane Yehuda’s energetic atmosphere, combined with its authentic charm, makes it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.

Jerusalem, tea infusions at the Mahane Yehuda Market _ Credit Rami Cohen

Jerusalem, spices at the Mahane Yehuda Market _ Credit Noam Chen for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Yad Vashem

Yad Vashem is Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust and a place of deep reflection and education. The historical museum's powerful exhibits chronicle the history of the Holocaust through personal stories, artifacts, photographs, and survivor testimonies, ensuring that the memory of the six million Jewish lives lost is preserved. In addition to the museum, Yad Vashem includes the Hall of Names, the Children’s Memorial, Avenue of the Righteous Among the Nations, Valley of the communities, and more. As both a place of remembrance and a center for Holocaust research and education, Yad Vashem is a poignant and essential visit for anyone seeking to understand this tragic chapter of history.

Jerusalem,-Yad-Vashem_Janusz-Korczak-Square_-Credit-Noam-Chen-for-the-Israeli-Ministry-of-Tourism

The Israel Museum

The Israel Museum is the country’s largest cultural institution and one of the leading art and archaeology museums in the world. Its diverse collections span from prehistoric artifacts to contemporary art, offering a rich exploration of both global and Israeli heritage. Highlights include the model of ancient Jerusalem, the famous Dead Sea Scrolls housed in the Shrine of the Book, a sculpture garden, and an impressive array of fine arts. With its wide-ranging exhibitions, the Israel Museum provides visitors with a deep understanding of history, art, and culture, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.

Jerusalem, The Israel Museum _ Credit The Israel Museum

Jerusalem,-The-Israel-Museum-_-Credit-Noam-Chen-for-the-Israeli-Misitry-of-Tourism

The-Israel-Museum---Model-of-Ancient-Jerusalem-_-Credit-Noam-Chen-for-the-Israeli-Ministry-of-Tourism

The National Library

The National Library of Israel, located in Jerusalem, is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and intellectual heritage. Founded in 1892 and moved to its new location in 2023, it serves as the central repository for Israel's cultural legacy and a key resource for Judaica and Hebraica studies worldwide. The library houses millions of books, manuscripts, maps, and rare collections, covering diverse topics and representing various languages and cultures. Its mission is to preserve and share knowledge while fostering research, education, and creativity. Designed by world renowned Swiss architects Herzog & De Meuron, the new building and campus offers a stunning visual and physical manifestation of NLI’s mission and vision of openness and accessibility, welcoming audiences from Israel and around the world to engage with the Library’s priceless treasures. Through state-of-the-art facilities, online archives, and public programs, the National Library of Israel connects people with the rich history and vibrant stories that shape the past, present, and future.

Jerusalem, The National Library_Credit Rami Cohen

Jerusalem, The National Library _ Credit Stav Tzur for the National Library of Israel

Jerusalem, main reading hall of the National Library _ Credit Rami Cohen

Ein Kerem

A picturesque village on the outskirts of Jerusalem, Ein Kerem is a serene and charming destination known for its rich religious history and natural beauty. Believed to be the birthplace of John the Baptist, it is a significant pilgrimage site for Christians, home to several beautiful churches, including the Church of St. John the Baptist and the Church of the Visitation. Nestled among green hills and olive groves, Ein Kerem offers a peaceful atmosphere, with quaint cafés, art galleries, and scenic walking paths. Its unique blend of spirituality, history, and tranquillity makes it a perfect escape from the hustle of the city.

Jerusalem,-view-of-Ein-Karem_-Credit-Itamar-Ginsburg

Ein-karem-_-Credit-Mor-Dagan-for-the-Israeli-Ministry-of-Tourism

Bethlehem

Located just south of Jerusalem and under Palestinian Authority, Bethlehem is a city of immense religious significance, known worldwide as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marks the spot where Christians believe Jesus was born, making it a major pilgrimage destination, especially during Christmas. Steeped in history and tradition, Bethlehem provides a unique glimpse into the heart of the Holy Land.

Join us to receive trusted guidance from a reliable travel team

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP