Western Wall
Western Wall
4.5
Historic SitesAncient RuinsPoints of Interest & LandmarksReligious Sites
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
About
The remains of the Second Temple of Jerusalem and a place of prayer sacred to the Jewish people.
Duration: < 1 hour
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4.5
11,307 reviews
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JP Vann
Manila, Philippines3,697 contributions
Feb 2020 • Solo
The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall or Kotel to the Jews, is both a religious and historical/cultural site which everybody who goes to Jerusalem must visit and experience.
I knew nothing about the Western Wall prior to my impromptu visit. I happened to reach the area while walking inside the Old City of Jerusalem after my scheduled tour that day was suddenly cancelled due to Covid-19. Ms Michal Berger, a Western Wall attendant gave me a very detailed explanation on what the Western Wall is - from its history and significance to Jews and non-Jews like me. Thank you for all the information, your patience, time and kindness, Ms Berger!
This wall has withstood the test of time and people from all over the world come to offer praises and prayers and to receive blessings and answers. This place has remained sacred for more than 2,000 years.
It was a solemn experience spending silent moment in front of the Western Wall, touching the holy stones then afterwards slipped my prayers in between the cracks of the wall. I felt blessed. It is believed that this wall absorbs the prayers of the people who go there and that the divine presence never departs from the Western Wall.
"Ask God for something that comes from deep within your heart and He will hear you."
I knew nothing about the Western Wall prior to my impromptu visit. I happened to reach the area while walking inside the Old City of Jerusalem after my scheduled tour that day was suddenly cancelled due to Covid-19. Ms Michal Berger, a Western Wall attendant gave me a very detailed explanation on what the Western Wall is - from its history and significance to Jews and non-Jews like me. Thank you for all the information, your patience, time and kindness, Ms Berger!
This wall has withstood the test of time and people from all over the world come to offer praises and prayers and to receive blessings and answers. This place has remained sacred for more than 2,000 years.
It was a solemn experience spending silent moment in front of the Western Wall, touching the holy stones then afterwards slipped my prayers in between the cracks of the wall. I felt blessed. It is believed that this wall absorbs the prayers of the people who go there and that the divine presence never departs from the Western Wall.
"Ask God for something that comes from deep within your heart and He will hear you."
Written April 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
llinia
Belgium483 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
A lot of people are visiting this wall. It’s worth a visit. Men and women have to separate to touch/come close to it. Men also have to wear a small head (I don’t know the word in English) that they receive for free.
It isn’t quiet at all: a lot of people pray at loud or cry next to the wall.
There are drinking fountains with cold water and water stations were you can wash your hands as well.
It isn’t quiet at all: a lot of people pray at loud or cry next to the wall.
There are drinking fountains with cold water and water stations were you can wash your hands as well.
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tibor P
Budapest, Hungary362 contributions
Jul 2021
We were there at dawn on a Saturday, which was Shabbat, and we saw Jewish worshippers in groups praying, coming and going at the Wailing Wall. Meanwhile, the muezzin was calling the Muslims to pray from the minaret. The religious and cultural significance of Jerusalem is also understood at such a moment by those who are otherwise indifferent to religions. If you can visit at a time like this, you will have a fantastic experience. (It's worth to visit the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre on Sunday early morning, the Franciscan mass at the Holy Sepulchre is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.)
Written September 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Harry A
Long Island, NY119 contributions
Jun 2022 • Solo
I was fortunate enough to live in Jerusalem for a couple of years while studying abroad, and I’ve visited the Western Wall often. Every time I visit is always inspiring and uplifting, which is why this is the first place I went to on my summer trip to Israel. Being in a place rich with so much holiness and history never ceases to amaze me. People of any faith (or no faith) are welcome, and everyone, no matter religious affiliation, will find something that fascinates them here.
Here are a few tips for new visitors to maximize your experience:
If you can, come visit on Friday night at around sunset. This is when the Jewish Shabbat (Sabbath) begins, and when thousands of Jews gather to welcome in the holy day with song, dance, and prayer. It is truly a sight to see, you will not be disappointed!
If you want to visit when it is not busy, come on weekdays in the late morning, early afternoon, or evening (early-mid morning and late afternoon gets a little busier, as well as during weekends). You can usually find a spot right by the wall to introspect, pray, or take pictures during these times. Be aware that during Jewish holidays, it can get VERY crowded.
There is a custom to put a handwritten note into the cracks of the wall when you visit. According to Jewish tradition, God reads these notes personally, and is inclined to answer any prayer or request written on it. You do not have to be Jewish to partake in this custom, anyone can do it. It is a super uplifting experience. Make sure to pre-write your note, though, since they do not have pens and paper available.
The bathrooms are newly renovated, very spacious, and very clean. Definitely use them!
A few other things to keep in mind:
Being that this is the holiest site in Judaism, visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully. This means that men must wear a head covering (any head covering works), and women must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Kippas and scarves are available for those who need.
There are usually a few beggars around. Some could get a little aggressive, but none are dangerous. If you do happen to have some spare change, however, you could really make their day. They really do need it.
All entrances to the Western Wall are guarded by heavy security. It doesn’t usually take long to get through, but be prepared to empty your pockets and have your bag searched before you enter.
I can’t recommend visiting the western wall enough. If you happen to be in Israel for any reason, go. It is a life-changing experience.
Here are a few tips for new visitors to maximize your experience:
If you can, come visit on Friday night at around sunset. This is when the Jewish Shabbat (Sabbath) begins, and when thousands of Jews gather to welcome in the holy day with song, dance, and prayer. It is truly a sight to see, you will not be disappointed!
If you want to visit when it is not busy, come on weekdays in the late morning, early afternoon, or evening (early-mid morning and late afternoon gets a little busier, as well as during weekends). You can usually find a spot right by the wall to introspect, pray, or take pictures during these times. Be aware that during Jewish holidays, it can get VERY crowded.
There is a custom to put a handwritten note into the cracks of the wall when you visit. According to Jewish tradition, God reads these notes personally, and is inclined to answer any prayer or request written on it. You do not have to be Jewish to partake in this custom, anyone can do it. It is a super uplifting experience. Make sure to pre-write your note, though, since they do not have pens and paper available.
The bathrooms are newly renovated, very spacious, and very clean. Definitely use them!
A few other things to keep in mind:
Being that this is the holiest site in Judaism, visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully. This means that men must wear a head covering (any head covering works), and women must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Kippas and scarves are available for those who need.
There are usually a few beggars around. Some could get a little aggressive, but none are dangerous. If you do happen to have some spare change, however, you could really make their day. They really do need it.
All entrances to the Western Wall are guarded by heavy security. It doesn’t usually take long to get through, but be prepared to empty your pockets and have your bag searched before you enter.
I can’t recommend visiting the western wall enough. If you happen to be in Israel for any reason, go. It is a life-changing experience.
Written January 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jay B
Fairhope, AL1,119 contributions
Nov 2019
We visited the Wall as we were exiting Old Jerusalem. The sun was setting as we approached this very holy and moving area. The mood here was vastly different than anywhere else in the city. People of all 3 faiths were there praying. You could literally feel God's presence. Unlike other Old Jerusalem sites, there is plenty of open space so you can take your time and really enjoy your time there. Just a couple of items to be aware of. Men and women pray on different sides (men on the left, women on the right), so be prepared to split up and rejoin your group. Men,be sure for me to grab a yamaka from the kiosk as you approach the Wall as men are REQUIRED to have some sort of head covering. Also, when you are done, DO NOT turn your back on the Wall, but instead back away from the wall for a few paces while still facing it. Follow these tips and you will be able to enjoy your visit AND honor these ancient customs.
Written January 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kevin
Chicago, IL3 contributions
Aug 2021
As a Jew, whenever I go to Israel, the first place I go to after checking into my hotel is the Kotel, but even as a non-Jew you'll find it as an immensely satisfying spiritual experience. The first time you visit the Kotel is the best, though each time after is still beyond amazing. Theirs a certain "wow" effect despite its simplicity. Perhaps its the masses rocking in sincere prayer, collectively in unison. Maybe Its the massive mix of people from all different kinds of race, religion, and ethnicities, or a boy becoming Bar Mitzvah reading from the Torah for the first time. Whatever it is that touches your heart a trip to the Kotel will be guaranteed meaningful and time well spent.
What to do: pray. Its as simple as that. You can do it in your own words or from a Siddur (Jewish prayer book, I would highly recommend the Artscroll interlinier) It is also common to leave a note of prayer in the cracks of the stones. You could also to the Kotel tunnel tours which are both informative and fascinating.
When to go: All year round is good though during Holidays it will be ultra crowded. If you want a more quiet, less busy time, I would recommend 11 am to 3 pm Sunday to Thursday, & 11 am to 1 pm Friday. Saturday is ultra crowded the whole day.
Dress code: Men: required to keep their head covered,. kippas are available at the entrance to the prayer section.
Women: must dress modestly and preferably wear a shirt with sleeves and long skirts. Bare shoulders, short skirts and shorts are not permitted. Shawls in dark colors and a form of a wraparound skirt are also available at the entrance to the prayer section.
There are also strict codes of behavior during Shabbat and Jewish festivals, including a ban on smoking, eating, writing, taking photographs and using any form of digital equipment, especially smartphones.
Security: all visitors have to go through a security barrier, manned by IDF soldiers. its typically pretty quick, taking a minute or two. You'll go through a metal detector and they might ask some basic questions, its also a good idea to have some photo id just in case.
What to do: pray. Its as simple as that. You can do it in your own words or from a Siddur (Jewish prayer book, I would highly recommend the Artscroll interlinier) It is also common to leave a note of prayer in the cracks of the stones. You could also to the Kotel tunnel tours which are both informative and fascinating.
When to go: All year round is good though during Holidays it will be ultra crowded. If you want a more quiet, less busy time, I would recommend 11 am to 3 pm Sunday to Thursday, & 11 am to 1 pm Friday. Saturday is ultra crowded the whole day.
Dress code: Men: required to keep their head covered,. kippas are available at the entrance to the prayer section.
Women: must dress modestly and preferably wear a shirt with sleeves and long skirts. Bare shoulders, short skirts and shorts are not permitted. Shawls in dark colors and a form of a wraparound skirt are also available at the entrance to the prayer section.
There are also strict codes of behavior during Shabbat and Jewish festivals, including a ban on smoking, eating, writing, taking photographs and using any form of digital equipment, especially smartphones.
Security: all visitors have to go through a security barrier, manned by IDF soldiers. its typically pretty quick, taking a minute or two. You'll go through a metal detector and they might ask some basic questions, its also a good idea to have some photo id just in case.
Written July 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betsi B
Weatherford, TX288 contributions
Mar 2020 • Business
What I expected at the wall was quiet dedicated worship. Instead what I experienced was exuberance including dancing and merriment! Very much worth a visit on Shabbat! Take note of different silks, different hats, hair etc, each depicting special groups of worshippers. Women have a special section of the wall so be careful once inside the courtyard where you enter to get right up to the wall. There is bag screening at entrance with no delays. We were thankful for the security measures. Be respectful of the “no photos” rule. Expect very busy public restrooms.
Written March 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Skippy50
Chichester, UK919 contributions
Nov 2019
The Western Wall is an icon that all should see, no matter what or no religion. The age is one thing but to see many worshipers their at any time of the day was moving, though security is very evident and a little intrusive. The tour under the Wall is a must where Herod's work can be seen first hand.
Written January 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DQShaw
York, ME1,318 contributions
Jan 2020
We were lucky to visit the Western Wall during our stay in Jerusalem. A week day in January with off and on rain so the crowds were light. People place prayers on notes and places them in cracks of the wall, some people also do that on the southern wall. Everyone I saw there behaved well in this place of great religious significance.
Written March 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
alexisrachelletx
Nashville, TN1,623 contributions
Dec 2019
What is the Western Wall? Also called the Wailing Wall or the Kotel, it is an ancient wall originally erected as part of the expansion of the Second Temple. It is the holiest site for prayer for Jews.
My Western Wall experience: I was on my Birthright trip (for 27-32 year olds). We arrived at the Western Wall after sunset on the last night of Hanukkah. This didn't detract from the moving experience, but because it was the last night of Hanukkah, it was CROWDED. If you wanted to touch the wall or place a written prayer into the crevice of the wall, you had to be dedicated and a little pushy.
(FYI: there is security and you will be go through some metal detectors before entering the area. On a crowded day/night, this can take a few minutes. Also, Orthodox rules at the Wall require men and women to pray in separate areas. Robinson's Arch is an egalitarian area where mean and women can pray together, but it is separate from the other areas of prayer.)
It was amazing to be there and see so many Jews praying at such a holy site in our religion. I was very moved. If you are in Israel, do not miss out on having a moment at the Western Wall.
My Western Wall experience: I was on my Birthright trip (for 27-32 year olds). We arrived at the Western Wall after sunset on the last night of Hanukkah. This didn't detract from the moving experience, but because it was the last night of Hanukkah, it was CROWDED. If you wanted to touch the wall or place a written prayer into the crevice of the wall, you had to be dedicated and a little pushy.
(FYI: there is security and you will be go through some metal detectors before entering the area. On a crowded day/night, this can take a few minutes. Also, Orthodox rules at the Wall require men and women to pray in separate areas. Robinson's Arch is an egalitarian area where mean and women can pray together, but it is separate from the other areas of prayer.)
It was amazing to be there and see so many Jews praying at such a holy site in our religion. I was very moved. If you are in Israel, do not miss out on having a moment at the Western Wall.
Written January 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is there wi-fi at the western wall in Jerusalem?
Is there wi-fi service at the egalitarian section of the western wall?
Written May 31, 2022
How do I book a guided tour of the Western Wall and the underground tunnels ?
Written April 21, 2021
Educated guess - Ask the hotel that you are staying at for recommendations - e-mail them in advance , OR there is a ministry of tourism office 20 meters inside from the Jaffa gate ( of the old city ) , where you can ask in person for details etc
Written April 30, 2021
Hi. How much time is recommended to plan for a good visit to the Western Wall?
Written August 1, 2020
Se non ci sono particolari ricorrenze religiose non molto, 15-20 minuti. L'ingresso è controllato con varchi con metal detector e militari, e può capitare che si faccia un pò di coda.
Written September 30, 2020
Pour voir le Kotel, les femmes doivent porter un foulard sur la tête comment doit être ce foulard
?
Written March 11, 2020
Les femmes n'ont pas obligation à porter quoi que ce soit sur la tête elles respectent simplement le côté droit qui leur est réservé. Les hommes sont à gauche et portent au minimum la kippa.
Written March 11, 2020
will be staying at inbal Jerusalem. want to go to Friday night sabbath at the western wall .
so do people walk to this?? is it safe for two older ladies to walk to this?
(have no sense of geography in Jerusalem yet.)
thank you so much!
judy in az
Written January 29, 2020
Yes. Keep in mind that women and men are separated.
Written February 7, 2020
Hi ,
I am Tamil ( Hindu) from India, can i touch the wall and pray ?
Written November 24, 2019
Yes you can. There are no restrictions
Written January 31, 2020
Aspergillius
Carlsbad, California
Is there wifi and mobile phone reception at the wall?
Written November 15, 2019
I am not sure about wifi but the signal on the mobile phone is good.
Written January 31, 2020
Good Morning!
Thank you guys for the previous input regarding my trip in January to Israel-Jordan and Egypt.
I was wondering if anyone can indicate a tour from Jerusalem to Bethlehem all day tour that it’s not a rush kind the tour and also a all day tour to the Red Sea and Masada, all the tours that I’ve been checking seems a little on the rush side .
Thank you again .
Written October 29, 2019
Sorry, I just saw your question now. If you still need help let me know.
Written November 29, 2019
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