Old City of Jerusalem
Old City of Jerusalem
5
About
Characterized by narrow, winding streets and alleyways, this ancient part of the city is filled with shrines and attractions holy to Jews, Christians and Muslims including the Western Wall, Temple Mount and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
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Top ways to experience Old City of Jerusalem
The area
Neighborhood: Givat Ram
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786 within 3 miles
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363 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
14,049 reviews
Excellent
12,004
Very good
1,671
Average
277
Poor
56
Terrible
41
KMLondon22
London, UK171 contributions
Dec 2022
An incredible mix of history & faiths in a maze of ancient alleyways. I started by doing the so called Free 2 hour tour that starts from the Jaffa Gate (free is a bit of a misnomer as the guide stated she expected tips of 50 NIS each), which is a good way of orientating yourself. Then go off and explore on your own. Although you will soon bore of the busy central part with its souvenir shops, you can spend hours visiting different sites and wandering the alleyways in the 4 different quarters of the walled city.
Written December 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Allie H
Lincoln, CA174 contributions
Jun 2022
Obviously, this is a must do stop on any trip to Israel. We had a private tour guide who was well worth the cost, due to getting an intimate, well educated and interesting perspective.
I recommend setting time to just wander and ponder outside of the formal tours. There is an energy that is just cool to be a part of without hustling to the next spot!
I recommend setting time to just wander and ponder outside of the formal tours. There is an energy that is just cool to be a part of without hustling to the next spot!
Written January 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Freddes
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates904 contributions
Mar 2022
I would highly recommend to hire a guide for your first day there, to understand more about the history of Jerusalem that then allows you to discover more at your own pace.
This City has a mystical vibe that I have not felt anywhere else with believers from the 3 religions.
Its is loaded with spirituality and history, and is quite unforgettable.
Do not forget to go off the main track and wander in the 4 quarters to see the real people who live there.
This City has a mystical vibe that I have not felt anywhere else with believers from the 3 religions.
Its is loaded with spirituality and history, and is quite unforgettable.
Do not forget to go off the main track and wander in the 4 quarters to see the real people who live there.
Written April 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mr street
Haifa District, Israel52 contributions
Aug 2020
I visited the Old Town with my family. I bought tickets at the Tourist Information store at the Jaffa Gate for an independent tour of the walls, we chose to tour the northern wall from which you see the Christian and Muslim quarter of the city and the East Jerusalem area. The Tour starts at the Jaffa Gate and ends at The Lion Gate.The tour is not suitable for disabled people and small children the Tour requires physical effort because it includes multiple sections of high stairs. Those who do not want to continue the entire route can be descended from the walls of the Old City or outside the walls of the city, I would recommend going on a tour in the afternoon when less warm but still lit. At the end of the tour on the wall we traveled the Old City, and on the market, in my opinion the Old City is the best attraction for visitors to Jerusalem.
Written August 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Hans P
1 contribution
May 2022
We were guided by mrs Nadia Samakh from “amazingjeruzalem.com” (booqify), who is the best guide you can wish. She knows a lot about the history of places, events and beliefs.
The daytrip from Tel Aviv (125 usd) was organized in a relatively small group (14 persons) of travelers from Europe and the US / Canada who hung at her lips to learn about the olive mountain, Golgotha and other biblical places.
This small scale touroperator is most recommendable for people with historic interest.
The daytrip from Tel Aviv (125 usd) was organized in a relatively small group (14 persons) of travelers from Europe and the US / Canada who hung at her lips to learn about the olive mountain, Golgotha and other biblical places.
This small scale touroperator is most recommendable for people with historic interest.
Written May 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Temper43 - Alfredo
Panama City, Panama1,297 contributions
Mar 2022
A visit to Jerusalem without entering the Old city means you have not visited the Diamond of the Jewel.
You need several days to cover all, but the best is to visit the city for several days and maybe have a local guide to show you the main sites within the walled city.
And it will motivate you to return several times to visit the narrow alleys and the views, the churches, synagogues and simply enjoy the Tower of David and the museum there. Or walking the ramparts.
You need several days to cover all, but the best is to visit the city for several days and maybe have a local guide to show you the main sites within the walled city.
And it will motivate you to return several times to visit the narrow alleys and the views, the churches, synagogues and simply enjoy the Tower of David and the museum there. Or walking the ramparts.
Written May 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
StevenDL37
Atlanta, GA27 contributions
Sep 2022
There is nowhere else in the world like Old Jerusalem. The History, Culture, Societal Norms and Religious Behavior is unmatched. I suggest you try to visit during the week to avoid the large weekend crowds. Take your time and don't rush as Old Jerusalem is a treasure to be savored.
Written September 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bob B
Fort Myers, FL69 contributions
Sep 2022
We stayed at the Waldorf Astoria and they arranged a private guide for a four hour walking tour of the old city. It actually lasted a little longer than the scheduled time, but it was enough to see all the highlights of the old city. Outstanding experience to see so many historical, if not ancient sites, in a tight area. Great experience.
Written September 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Simon G
Caminomorisco, Spain2 contributions
Oct 2022 • Solo
Bring money. Bring a lot of money. I was not impressed. The whole experience was dour, doleful and downright miserable. The one highlight was praying at the wall, although I am not sure how significant that was seeing that God had it knocked down about 2,000 years ago.
Perhaps He was building a new temple in the hearts of men?
The lowlight of my time was to be accosted by a fake Messianic Jew who asked me to pray with him so I could give him money for baby milk.
Apparently, he got upset with me because 100 shekels was not enough.
This whole experience represents a god who is foreign to me.
If you visit as a Christian, do not be intimidated or try to be overly-pious because God did not require that of you before you came.
Also, the city is rather smelly and dirty just like most major cities these days.
Perhaps He was building a new temple in the hearts of men?
The lowlight of my time was to be accosted by a fake Messianic Jew who asked me to pray with him so I could give him money for baby milk.
Apparently, he got upset with me because 100 shekels was not enough.
This whole experience represents a god who is foreign to me.
If you visit as a Christian, do not be intimidated or try to be overly-pious because God did not require that of you before you came.
Also, the city is rather smelly and dirty just like most major cities these days.
Written October 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
William S
Clinton, NJ375 contributions
May 2022
This past May we had the opportunity of finally visiting Jerusalem. The City had four quadrants representing different religious groups, and it is fascinating to wander through each area (not much to see in the Armenian area as it is mostly closed off) to meet the people, see religious artifacts, and explore history. The Temple Mount was special, with religious significance to many religions, along with the Western (wailing) Wall that is of special significance to Jews. Adjacent to that, we toured the tunnels that extend along the Western Wall of the old city, a fascinating exploration peeling back layers of time.
Written October 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
How much does water cost per bottle
Sue C
Spalding, UK45 contributions
Less than 5 shekels at most places
J0andBrian
Yorkshire5 contributions
Hello Danny, We are arriving by cruise ship to Ashdod Port for 1 day only to visit Jerusalem.I am a Christian and just want to get a 'feel' for the place where Jesus once walked. I am disabled, this means that I can walk for only short distances at a time. All the ships tours involve a lot of walking. My husband and I are thinking that we could maybe get a taxi into the Christian Quarter and then get taxi to different places of interest - is this feasible? I would like to see the Garden Tomb, we realise that I would not be able to visit the more popular sights as I could not queue or stand for long. Any help at all would be very much appreciated, thank you.
Dino Dino
Tampa, FL38 contributions
Yes, generally speaking, the Old City will very much require at the very least long lines of simply standing and much walking. The terrain is varied and cobblestoned, with various inclines and declines, just about every you go. It will be challenging but not impossible if you come rested and ready.
You can definately taxi to Jerusalem (plan on roughly an hour there and back, 280 Shekels cost) However, taxing within the walled Old City won't be doable as the vehicles only drive along the edges/border of the walls. The Garden tomb is outside of the city, so you could go there and then taxi to the just inside the Old City, probably the Jaffa Gate entrance.
If you have only a day I highly suggest thinking about what it is you truly hope to get out of this visit. Jerusalem, as a Christian pilgrim, really should be about moments of reflection, contemplation, prayer as opposed to the usual "quick selfie" stylings of other tour spots. So when you pray and read your bible, what moments from the Gospel really stand out to you? Then pick maybe 2 of those moments and try to get there to spend some quality time.
Areas of interest are honestly going to be fairly spaced out. The main attraction of the Christian Quater would have to be the CHurch of the Holy Sepuchler (but if you're aiming for the Garden Tomb, I take it you are not of the belief that he was entombed at the Sepchler so no need to go there?)
If you're aiming for more time where Jesus likely walked, perhaps a taxi visit to the Mount of Olives just outside the city to vist the Garden of Gethseme (with 2,000 year old olive trees) and the beautiful Basillica of All nations nearby. Or maybe not visit Jerusalem at all and head north to the beautiful Sea of Galiee area where his ministry began in earnest. Some amazing sites up there easily transverable via taxi.
My take away is this. Visiting the Old City for a day is not ideal (but really, what place is sufficient in a day?) but doable. As a disabled person, you will be challenged so take your time and decide on what you really want to see. The Way of the Cross will likely be too challegening for you. Do you enjoy church visits? If so, there are plenty of many denominations? A suggesting might be to visist the Cenacle (the Upper Room Last Supper). In that immediate area you have the Tomb of the Virgin Mary, the Upper Room, as well as the Tomb of King David so you could get some Jewish culture as well as you see them intently praying at the tomb.
Lots of decsions and you can't really go wrong as long as you go with patience and the right attitude. Have fun!
lucia b
Hermosillo, Mexico7 contributions
Hola! Viajaré a Israel la próxima semana, por favor me podrían sugerir una ruta de visitas?...me interesan todos los lugares santos...muchas gracias
Wallfahrer
Brunnen, Switzerland37 contributions
Sorry, spreche zu wenig Spanisch
Norma S
Deddington, UK113 contributions
As a lone female, Is it safe to walk back from the Old City to the Yehuda market area on Shabbat evening? Is there ant form of transport available?
michelle b
17 contributions
The safest route to walk is via the Armenian quarter. (NOT through the shuk) rather through the Jewish residential quarter upto the police station in the Armenian quarter and out through Jaffa gate.
This is a very busy route travelled by many so you'd be in good company.
That being said, as a religious person myself who does not travel in vehicles on the Sabbath I cannot advise you on transportation. I know many of the taxi services do close for the Sabbath and don't know the other ones, so I can't vouch for them as I am unfamiliar. The walk to machane Yehuda market is about 20-25 minutes and very pleasant. On a busy route, so I believe you'd be safe. Of course I don't know what time you are planning this...so obviously within reasonable timing with pedestrian traffic around. I hope this helps
ScenicGirl92
Manchester, UK66 contributions
Hey,
I am travelling to Israel for a week in mid June. We are staying within the Old City of Jerusalem, and just wondering what it's like at night? I've heard some horror stories of people feeling unsafe to walk around after dark, and we really don't want to be stuck in the hotel until the sun comes out. If anyone can help reassure me, I'd be really grateful.
(I have been to Istanbul and walked out around midnight to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia - 10 mins walk, and never felt more relaxed, it was buzzing with life - just wondering if the Old city will be anything like this?)
Also, we have a jam packed itinerary (Nazareth day trip, Massada & dead sea, Bethlehem & Jericho, Caesaria and Grottos) but we will have two full days to spend in the Old city (Fri & Sun) will these be good enough days to explore, considering one is the Shabbat?
Thanks all!
Luxury T
Los Angeles, CA44 contributions
Yes I agree it is not safe but yet it is safe. What do I mean by that, Jerusalem is a beautiful town However it is full of conflict. There is always somebody crazy who hates the American and wants to hurt them, so better to avoid taking chances. The best thing to do in Jerusalem Visiting Hezekiah Tunnel , The museum and of course where Jesus walked , prayed and died. So two days is ok but if you can have more time will be better. I love the old Town market and I love shopping there for Herbs & spices.They have the best. If you have more questions email me .
Дмитрий Саламатин.
Sochi, Russia133 contributions
Доброго время суток! Подскажите пожалуйста собираюсь в Израиль в первый раз после нового года. Посоветуйте как лучше ехать самому или с туром? Заранее спасибо!
ereznik95
Kyiv, Ukraine80 contributions
в Иерусалиме есть замечательные гиды русскоговорящие. Я очень люблю изучать город с Зоар Хальфан, ее страничка есть в ФБ. Есть еще Вадим Лаут, Юлия Хович. Ну еще много талантливых гидов есть. Это если самим ехать и потом на экскурсии попадать, чтоб знающие люди вас везде поводили и показали. А можно и в турагенствах экскурсии заказывать, и самим бродить - в интернете обо всем масса информации есть и карты соответствующие.
Galinakug
Moscow, Russia40 contributions
Действительно ли существуют проблемы при въезде в Израиль? Какие вопросы могут представлять сложности для туристов?
ereznik95
Kyiv, Ukraine80 contributions
в связи с тем, что въезжающие как туристы стали массово оставаться и работать нелегально, ужесточился безвизовый въезд. Причем проверка может занять как 15 минут, так и 7 часов, а многих заворачивают, не объясняя причин - право принимающей стороны. Проверяют и наличие обратного билета, и гостиничную бронь, и знание адреса, куда направляетесь. Проверяют психическую стабильность, задав вопрос и оставив вас одних (камеры наблюдения включены, но не заметны) в комнате досмотра. Потом может зайти другой сотрудник, начать задавать те же вопросы. А психологи в это время изучают вашу реакцию и выносят вердикт: адекватен ли турист, не представляет ли социальную угрозу. Поэтому: улыбайтесь, господа! ( ну и соответствующими документами обеспечьте себя)
Galinakug
Moscow, Russia40 contributions
Добрый день! Планируем впервые посетить Изоаиль во второй половине ноября. Скажите, пожалуйста, открыт ли доступ к Стене плача?
gulya19711907
Astana, Kazakhstan7 contributions
Проблем не было. Доступ был открыт для всех. В одежде требуется соблюсти сдержанный и достойный вид:ничего открытого, короткого, мини. Желательно иметь головной убор или платок.
Brecht T
Aarschot, Belgium73 contributions
We are visiting Jerusalem during Rosh Hashanah (10th and 11th of september). Is there a difference in opening hours for e.g. Temple Mount and Church of the Holy Sepulchre during Rosh Hashanah or is it closed on both days?
Thank you very much in advance!
Viagem de casal
Sao Paulo, SP300 contributions
I don't think it will be closed in this days because the Holy Sepulcre Church (christian place) and the Temple Mount (muslim place) are not jewish places to the Jewish New Year.
Lucyesme2015
Plymouth, UK3 contributions
how much walking is there in the jerusalem bethlehem trip
Ivan_emmanuel
New Delhi, India487 contributions
Both places require quite alot of walking!
My phone data tells me that we did about 6miles each day minimum! It could be more as well!
Depending on how many places u plan to visit.
Wear Comfortable shoes!! Especially in Jerusalem, there are cobbled streets and they're quite uneven!!
Old City of Jerusalem - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Old City of Jerusalem
- We recommend booking Old City of Jerusalem tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 169 Old City of Jerusalem tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Old City of Jerusalem:
- Old and New Jerusalem Full-Day Tour (From $73.00)
- Jerusalem Half Day Walking Tour (3 hours) from Jerusalem (From $29.00)
- Travel to Bethlehem Half Day Guided Tour - Daily Trip from Jerusalem (From $50.00)
- Jerusalem, Dead Sea, and Bethlehem from Tel Aviv (From $109.00)
- Jerusalem Walking Tour: In the Footsteps of Jesus (From $89.00)
- Hotels near Old City of Jerusalem:
- (0.10 mi) Lutheran Guest House
- (0.05 mi) GLOWS - a unique experience
- (0.08 mi) Al Arab Hostel
- (0.11 mi) The Rova Arches — Historic Home in the Old City
- (0.06 mi) Appartement Penthouse David
- Restaurants near Old City of Jerusalem:
- (0.00 mi) Al-Buraq
- (0.13 mi) The Quarter Cafe
- (0.05 mi) Arafat Hummus
- (0.12 mi) Holy Cafe
- (0.10 mi) Burgers Bar - Tiferet Israel
- Attractions near Old City of Jerusalem:
- (0.03 mi) Just Jerusalem Tours - Day Tours
- (0.06 mi) Israel With Arky: Day Tours
- (0.11 mi) The Western Wall Tunnels
- (0.09 mi) The Cardo
- (0.12 mi) America Israel Tours