can you tour jerusalem on your own

Home » DIY Israel: tips for traveling to Israel on your own

DIY Israel: tips for traveling to Israel on your own

Are you thinking of planning your own trip to israel.

Embarking on a DIY adventure can be a cost-efficient way to experience the country’s rich culture and history. But where do you begin? Here are some valuable tips and essential tools you need to make your Israel Do It Yourself journey a success. Learn how to keep your expenses down and make the most of your trip with these helpful suggestions. Start planning your unforgettable journey to Israel today!

When is the best time to travel to Israel?

Here are three great times to come to israel:.

  • September: After the summer craze and before the Jewish Holidays.
  • January: for the winter break, arriving after Christmas is great. The country has fewer tourists.
  • May and early June: great weather, green meadows, before peak season.

Read more about Best and Worst times to come to Israel.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Should you rent a car in Israel?

When visiting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, it’s best to avoid renting a car due to challenges with parking and high costs. Taxis are a more convenient and cost-effective option within the cities. However, if you plan to explore rural areas like Galilee or the Negev Desert, renting a car can be helpful as these areas are inaccessible without one. It’s advisable to keep things simple and rent a car only when necessary for rural tours. For example, rent a car when traveling to Masada from Jerusalem before continuing to Galilee or the Negev Desert.

What is the dress code in Israel?

Casual, athleisure. Pack light. You can wear anything you want anywhere you go. Some religious sites may require long pants and covered shoulders. Otherwise, wear what is most comfortable for you. Comfortable walking shoes are important, especially in archaeological sights and in Jerusalem.

What are the tipping customs in Israel?

We Would recommend bringing multiple bills of 10 and 20 USD or Euros.

It is customary to tip in Israel as follows:

  • Restaurants : 15%. You would need to notify the restaurant before they swipe your card or tip cash after.
  • Taxis : Usually not necessary on short rides. You can always round up. If there is luggage involved, or if on longer rides of 1 hour, 10-20 USD would be appreciated. Half-day or Full day taxi services should be tipped $35-$70.
  • Bell Boys- $10 for a couple, $15 for a family.
  • On a bus: $10-$20 per person per day. Same for walking tours as part of a group.
  • Private walking tour- half day: $50-$70
  • Guest lecturer\special tour of 1-2 hours- $40-$50
  • Private tour- whole day with transportation: $100-$150

Where should you visit?

Here are some great options for self-touring:

  • The Old City
  • Running tour of Jerusalem through RUNJLM.
  • Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial ( needs booking here ).
  • Israel museum- is one of the world’s best museums. It contains some of the most famous findings of all time. For example, the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Tel Dan inscription, and Herod’s grave.
  • Machneyuda food market
  • Western Wall
  • Holy Church of resurrection (Jesus’s tomb).
  • Independence trail on Rothschild street.
  • Anu museum of the Jewish people.
  • Private tour of neighborhoods\foodtour\graffiti tour.
  • Tel Aviv beaches
  • Park Hayarkon: stroll around the stream, where the locals enjoy life.
  • Palmach museum: tells the story of the youth fighting during the war of independence. Requires booking .
  • Carmel market, the main food market in Tel Aviv.

Out of the cities, with a car OR private guide:

  • Caesaria, Herod’s port and capital from the time of Jesus.
  • Acre (Akko), the Crusaders’ capital.
  • Beth Shean Roman city.
  • Sea of Galilee- exploring Jesus’s ministry.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Should you use a Tour Guide?

Yes. It is beneficial to use a tour guide for at least some of your tours. Read more about the best way to tour Israel .

Where should you eat?

Israel’s cost of living has risen considerably in recent years. Food is one of the most expensive necessities while visiting Israel. Having said that, street food in Israel is healthy, easy to find, and inexpensive. Try not to stress over looking for “the best” falafel or shawarma stand. Most places you find on the street are very good. Here are the top Israeli street foods you should check out:

can you tour jerusalem on your own

  • Falafel: the greatest all-around sandwich in a pita. Fried chickpea balls. And it’s vegan.
  • Shawarma: Meat in a sandwich stuffed with salads.
  • Sabich: eggplant and hard-boiled egg delicacy.
  • Hummus: in a plate. Wipe with pita bread.
  • Shakshuka: eggs in a pan with tomato-pepper sauce.
  • For dessert: Babka, Halva (made of sesame), Baklawa, and Kenafe.

How else can you save money?

When it comes to booking accommodations, it’s best to do it yourself. I highly recommend using Booking.com and checking the ratings as they are known for their reliability. However, it’s important to read the fine print carefully and make note of payment deadlines. For families, booking apartments can be a great way to save money in comparison to booking hotels.

You can use the following link to book.

Feel free to consult with us .

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can you tour jerusalem on your own

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Amateur Traveler

Free Self-Guided Walking Tour of Jerusalem’s Old City (with Map)

The Old City of Jerusalem is an amazing site and amazingly small when you consider all the significant sites it contains. It is around one square kilometer. I had a chance to visit Jerusalem for the first time recently when I attended the TBEX conference there. While I was there I took a walking tour from Sandeman . This is what I learned on that tour and on my own explorations.

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Jerusalem’s Old City #travel #trip #vacation #israel #jeruslaem #what-to-do-in #old-city #walking-tour #tour #jesus #ancient #temple #holy-land #wailing-wall

The Ancient Walled City

The jaffa gate, the tower of david, the armenian quarter, the roman cardo, the jewish quarter, the temple mount, david street, christian quarter, church of the holy sepulcher, guided tours, map self-guided walking tour of jerusalem’s old city.

Old City Walls

Jerusalem has been conquered by a great number of civilizations over the centuries including the Babylonians, the Romans, the Arabs,   the Crusaders, the Turks, and the British. When you look at the old walled city today you are looking at the walls built later in the cities history, completed in 1541 by the Ottoman ruler Suleiman the Magnificent. You can get a good view of the city by walking these walls.

For centuries after these walls were built, they defined the extent of the city of Jerusalem as people were afraid to live outside of the protection of the walls. The new city did not really get started until 1860 and at first, people had to be paid to live outside the safety of the walls.

Jaffa Gate

Most tourists will enter the city on the west side through the Jaffa Gate. Just inside the Jaffa gate to the left is one of the entry places where you can start a walk along the walls.

If you have questions the tourism information center is also just inside that entrance. Pick up a free map, because you will need it. If you don’t have a data service download a good offline map like those from maps.me on your smartphone before you leave your hotel or hostel .

Tower of David

When I was visiting the city, they were doing a series of free concerts in the evenings and had stages both inside and outside of the Jaffa Gate.

Tower of David

Just to the left of the Jaffa gate, you will see the tower of David, which has nothing to do with King David. Early pilgrims visiting the city read in their bibles that David built a tower and assumed that this must be it, but David’s city is outside the old walls to the south and down the hill from the old city. You can now visit the archaeological site where they are uncovering this city just outside the Dung Gate. You can also visit David’s tomb just outside of the Zion Gate.

This tower was first built by Herod the Great who also rebuilt the temple just before the time of Christ. Look at this tower closely and you will see signs of 3 different eras. The base of the tower was built by Herod, the moat around it by the crusaders and the top of the tower by the Mamluks who re-conquered the city from the crusaders.

Tower of David

Inside of the tower is an excellent museum, that I highly recommend, that explains the history of this complicated city.

Tower of David Light Show

Come back to the Tower of David at night to see the light show that is displayed on the battlements for a more colorful artistic version of the history of the city.

If you turn to the right from the Jaffa Gate and come around the Tower of David you can enter the Armenian quarter through the narrow Armenian Patriarchate St. The Armenians were the first country in the world to accept Christianity as a state religion and the Armenian quarter is one of the oldest areas in the Old City. It is also the least populated and the least open to visitors.

Follow this street down to St James St (and we are using the term street here very generously). Where these two meet is the Cathedral of St James which has the highest concentration of Saints named James buried here of any place in the world. According to Armenian tradition, the head of St James, son of Zebedee, (brother of John) and the body of St James the Just (brother of Jesus) are both buried in this church. St James the son of Zebedee was the first of the apostles to be martyred and the only one (besides Judas) whose death is mentioned in the bible. This church is opened very limited hours for tourists, only during services.

Armenian Quarter

Take St James street until you reach Ararat St and turn left. This street is named after the mountain which was historically in Armenia (and now is just outside their boundaries in Turkey) where the ark of Noah came to rest after the flood. The mountain is sacred to Armenians. If you see a prelate walking down the street wearing a black pointed hat, that would be an Armenian Christian priest and the shape of the hat is to remind you of the mountain of Ararat. Continue down this street until you get to the church of St Mark.

Armenian Quarter

Armenian tradition has it that the church of St Mark was built on the site of the upper room where Jesus and his disciples ate the last supper.   Like she many thing sin Israel, there are often more than one site associated with any particular biblical event. Other traditions place the site of the upper room just outside the Zion Gate near the tomb of David.

After the church make a quick right on Or HaHayim St. Take a right on Habad St, the first left and the first left again to get onto Ha Yehudim St. This is where your map is going to be very helpful.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

In the Jewish quarter, you can find where archeologists have uncovered the Roman Cardo, or the marketplace from the Roman era. You will have to climb down some steps as the street level of the city today is about one story taller than it was then. Here you will see an artist’s rendition of a Roman market (with one modern small boy added). You will also find the original paving stones where Jesus and others from that time walked while shopping.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

The Jewish quarter has some of the newest construction in the city as much of it was destroyed in the 6 Day War.

Dome of the Rock and Western Wall

For religious Jews, the most sacred spot in the world is the Temple Mount. Not only is this where Abraham was asked to sacrifice Isaac (spoiler, it was a test, God stopped him) but they also believe that the stone where God stood to create the world now sits under the Dome of the Rock. For the very religious, even if they were allowed to climb to the top of the Temple Mount, they should not because they might accidentally come into contact with the Holiest of Holies which is where the presents of God dwelled in the temple.

Western Wall

The Western Wall is a place where the stones of the Second Temple are exposed and is, therefore, a sacred site for religious jews. Men pray on the left and women on the right. You can approach the Western Wall but use discretion as this is a very sacred site. You will have to pass through a security checkpoint to reach the Western Wall.

Western Wall

On Mondays and Thursdays, you will see many young boys celebrating their bar mitzvah. Look for the many Torahs near the wall itself.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Or look for the jubilant parades of boys, parents, friends, relatives, and musicians coming in from the Dung Gate to the right of the Western Wall.

Dome of the Rock

The most photographed building in Jerusalem is probably the Dome of the Rock which has a gilded dome. This building sits on the stop where the Jewish temple was built (and rebuilt). Muslims believe that Mohammad traveled one night from Mecca to the “furthest mosque” or the “most extreme mosque” upon a magical flying beast.

Al-Aqsa Mosque (Church of Ascension in the background)

This mosque is believed to be the Al-Aqsa Mosque which is the more nondescript large building on the Temple Mount, next to the Dome of the Rock. This mosque is held by most Muslims to be the 3 rd most holy site after Mecca and Medina.

Al-Aqsa Mosque

The koran states that Mohammad ascended into heaven from the spot where the Dome of the Rock sits. He then negotiated with God for how often Muslims would need to pray during the day. He haggled God down from 50 times a day down to the current 5 times a day, after some prompting from Moses. Haggling skills still come in handy in Jerusalem.

Only Muslims are allowed to enter either the Dome of the Rock or the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Non-muslims can visit the outside of the buildings but not during times of prayer. One of the best times to come is early in the morning after morning prayer.

Al-Aqsa Mosque

At the Western Wall, you will see a wooden ramp that climbs to the Temple Mount. Exit the secure area of the Western Wall towards the Dung Gate and then queue up to reenter another security check to climb up the ramp. The ramp is also a great place to take pictures of the Western Wall without disturbing those who are praying there.

Religious displays for non-Muslims are forbidden on the Temple Mount. Bringing Jewish prayer books, Talit, or Tefilin is forbidden. If you are Jewish, there is a decent chance you will be turned away. Wearing a Kippah will significantly decrease your chances of gaining admission.

David Street

You will exit the Temple Mount from a different gate than you enter, coming out near David street which is a central narrow market street that heads back towards the Jaffa Gate. Take your time bargaining your way along the street if you so desire as the climb back up the hill towards the Christian Quarter.

Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in the Christian Quarter

Follow signs from David street to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. There will be more shops and restaurants along the way and unless you are there very early in the morning, larger groups of pilgrims should be expected.

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

One of the top churches in Jerusalem to see is the Church of the Holy Sepulcher which is two different holy sites for Christians combined into one. Although it is hard to picture, just up the steps on your right when you enter the church is the rock of Golgotha where Jesus was crucified. You will see pilgrims queue up to touch the spot where the cross stood which is now under an altar. All of this was not just outside of a church but outside of the city walls in the 1 st century.

Church of the Holy Sepulchre - Annointing Stone

Just in front of you as you enter the church is the stone where tradition has it that the body of Jesus was prepared for burial.

Church of the Holy Sepulcre

To the left from the entrance of the church is a tabernacle or building beneath the left of the church’s two domes. Inside this structure is what is left of the cave where, according to tradition, Jesus was buried. It is hard to picture this as a cave these days. The church opens at dawn and the easiest time to see this area without waiting in long lines is to do it early. I was fortunate to enter the church the first time during a service when the building was filled with chanting, singing, and organ music from a worship service.

The church is in surprising disrepair, although a recent renovation did remove centuries of soot from candles. But still, the floor is in need of repair in many places. The church is shared by 5 different denominations of Christians and all must agree to any changes which means in practice that the church is held in a state of status quo.

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Just to the right and outside of the entrance there are steps that go up to a chapel of the Ethiopian church, which is worth a quick visit.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Also, continue on up to a courtyard where I found this group of priests.

If you are afraid you will get lost… and you probably will or you want a great tour guide there are a number of good guided tours of the Old City.

From the church, you can either make your way back to the Jaffa Gate or you can continue on into the Christian quarter and Muslim quarter to trace the route of the Via Dolorosa. This is the route that Jesus took to the cross, so it starts near the Lion gate and ends at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.

Whatever your faith or lack thereof, Jerusalem is a fascinating place that everyone should visit at least once.

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Jerusalem’s Old City #travel #trip #vacation #israel #jeruslaem #what-to-do-in #old-city #walking-tour #tour #jesus #ancient #temple #holy-land #wailing-wall

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can you tour jerusalem on your own

by Chris Christensen

+Chris Christensen | @chris2x | facebook

13 Responses to “Free Self-Guided Walking Tour of Jerusalem’s Old City (with Map)”

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Hi Chris, its a learning experience for me reading this article of yours.. Captivated by the images. Thanks

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Peter T Sadow

If you are going to post a free walking tour, why not include a path on the map? That would be useful. A google map image of the locations is not useful. You are just being used to advertise a paid walking tour, not a free one.

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Sorry, let me see if I can add the path on the map

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Sarita Noronha

What time does the walking tour start on Friday?

I don’t know.

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it is a pity that you have not visited David’s tower laser show in Jerusalem. Also there is a great park The first station. it’s worth it to come back

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piya chakravarty

Show a path that can be used easily by visitors who are mobility challenged instead of having to walk long distances which take you nowhere or to sites you don’t want to visit

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Thanks for this great guide! Very helpful!

Chris Christensen

You are most welcome April

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You mention much of the Jewish Quarter being destroyed during the Six-Day War. Was not the bulk of the damage at the end of the War of Independnce when Jordan blew up, pillaged, etc. the Jewsih buildings, including the Hurva Synagogue?

I do not know Mike.

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Thanks for the great info. Followed your path today and it was great.

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Tags: article , best , day tour , featured , israel , jerusalem , self-guided tour , walking tour

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See What is Possible

old city walls and sites

DIY Tour of the Old City of Jerusalem

Jerusalem without a tour group? Absolutely! There is so much to see within easy walking distance, and exploring the city and surrounding areas is easy to do on your own.

January 15, 2021 //  by  Kim //   Leave a Comment

If you have read much on this website, you know that we don’t do long, in-depth trips. Our style is to be somewhere for a few days, to just get a taste, then move on. This trip was no different. But even though our stay was short, our taste of Old Jerusalem was awe-inspiring.

We stayed at the St. Thomas Home in the Muslim Quarter. It was an amazing location just a short walk to the Damascus Gate and the Old City of Jerusalem, and an even shorter walk to the Garden Tomb.

woman at the door of an inn

We took a taxi to the home from the Tel Aviv airport, then walked everywhere we needed to go the rest of the time. There is so much to see within walking distance!

I realize that you could spend much longer and see much more in Jerusalem and the surrounding area, but I also think it’s amazing what you can see and do in only 2-3 days! No tour group necessary.

Here are some highlights from our whirlwind trip to Jerusalem (which was part of my first trip overseas in 2014 that also included stops in Dusseldorf, Germany ; Tallinn, Estonia ; and London, United Kingdom .)

can you tour jerusalem on your own

* I think it’s important to mention that since Jerusalem is so significant to many people, it can unfortunately be a place of conflict and unrest. We felt safe when we were there, but we recommend that you check for any travel advisories before traveling to the area.

Table of Contents

Inside the Walls

So many sites in and around Jerusalem are deeply sacred to people of various religions. I won’t take the time to explain all the history and significance of each site here since that would take pages and pages if I were to do it any justice.

The devotion and faith of the many visitors and inhabitants of the city was obvious, and the religious and historical significance of the city made for a different crowd of tourists than those we usually mingle with in other places.

Also, we loved getting a taste of a variety of cultures. So many people with very different cultures crammed in one small area is quite a site to see!

Western Wall

man in front of a wall

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

ancient building with people milling around

Shops and More

woman in old town

Outside the Walls

Garden tomb.

tomb in rock with flowers

Kidron Valley

monuments and graves

Garden of Gethsemane

woman in front of ancient church

Mount of Olives

man on a street

City of David

We paid for the tour of the City of David, which started at the City of David Visitor’s Center. In included a self-guided tour of a large area of excavations and a walk through the dry Canaanite tunnel (or you can choose the wet Hezekiah’s tunnel), by the Gihon Spring site, and back up the original steps from the Pool of Siloam to the temple mount.

man in front of ancient stone structures

Other Excavations Outside the Walls

Since this trip was over 6 years ago, I’m sure the excavations are even further along now and there is even more to see outside the walls of the city. But here are some of the areas we saw when we were there.

old stone structures with stairs

Our trip to Jerusalem was an incredible experience. It was a privilege to visit a city with so much history and special significance to ourselves and millions of others and to see places that I have read about my whole life in the Bible. It was definitely a big check on our bucket list, and a trip that I will never forget.

Grab a printable activity book for your upcoming trip at our new store!

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I am a wife and mom of three kids. I am also a traveler and a writer. Our family has been traveling together since my husband and I were newlyweds. On our first trip to Hawaii when our oldest daughter was 6 months old we tried to soak it all in because we thought it would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But with some learning, ingenuity, and flexibility we have made family travel part of our lifestyle.

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Best Things to Do in Jerusalem (Local Travel Tips)

Updated on November 6th, 2023

A street in Jerusalem, Israel, adorned with numerous signs.

Looking for how to visit Jerusalem for the first time? Check out this travel guide for our best non-religious things to do in Jerusalem, for any culture-savvy traveler.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Posted in Israel

Table of contents

  • Abraham Hostel Jerusalem
  • Tmol Shilshom
  • Aricha Sabich
  • Marzipan Bakery and Pastry
  • Dwiny Pita Bar
  • Cafe Yehoshua
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  • Pasta Basta
  • The Coffee Mill
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  • Gatsby Cocktail Room
  • Biratenu - Jerusalem Beer Center
  • Rooftop” (rooftop bar in Jerusalem)
  • Beer Bazaar
  • Mahane Yehuda Market
  • Ben Yehuda Street
  • Temple Mount
  • Dome of the Rock
  • Wilson’s Arch
  • Jewish Quarter (Rova Yehudi)
  • Western Wall
  • Mount Herzl (Har Herzl)
  • Arab Quarter
  • Armenian Quarter
  • Hebrew Music Museum
  • Jerusalem public bus
  • Taxis in Jerusalem
  • Jerusalem Central Bus Station
  • Jerusalem light rail
  • Tel Aviv-Jerusalem speed train
  • Take a day trip tour to the Dead Sea

As per a Travel Advisory update posted by the US Department of State on October 14, 2023, Israel has been marked a Level 3 Country: “Reconsider travel” due to the ongoing armed conflict, civil unrest and terrorism from “Hamas, a U.S. government-designated foreign terrorist organization.” Please visit the travel.state.gov page for Israel to learn more and stay informed.

Jerusalem is a magical city for so many reasons. It’s historic, it’s full of culture, it’s surprising to most, and what we like about it from our most recent visit is that Jerusalem has lots of personalities.

At the mention of “Jerusalem,” you may think of the Western Wall, lots of religions in one spot and a city from your history book, but maybe that’s because you haven’t seen the murals of the Mahane Yehuda Shuk during its nightlife hours, the hidden speakeasies that only locals know and the best spots for hummus.

No trip to Israel is complete without a few days or even a week, spent in Jerusalem, after you see sights in Tel Aviv and Haifa, and nature at Masada and the Dead Sea.

If you came to our Jerusalem to learn about famous spots from the Bible, politics or history, that’s great, and you’re sure to have an excellent time. Conversely, if you plan to visit Jerusalem to see what’s under the dusty artifacts and stone walls, come with us, as we show you local tips and the best things to see for the fun-loving traveler.

Retro Bahaus architecture in tan and white stone against a blue sky

Did you know that Jerusalem, and Israel as a country, is one of the best countries for gluten-free travel ? You’ll see why.

What to know before visiting Jerusalem (for non-religious trips)

Most people think of Jerusalem and think of a highly-religious city full of places of worship, dusty layers of history and maybe some conflict.

Okay, ready? Brush all of that aside and wipe your slate clean. Jerusalem is a vibrant city with a fascinating mix of cultures and people, and cool surprises around every bend.

For example, the city’s central market turns into the center of nightlife after dark, and it’s where you’ll find poetry slams, beer bars, late-night eats, colorful murals and music. Say what!

Is Jerusalem safe to visit?

Yes, totally. We didn’t experience any crime while traveling in Jerusalem. Israel presents low crime rates for tourists and locals are friendly.

The biggest threat you’d face is potentially getting ripped off in a taxi or in a market. As goes for traveling anywhere away from home, watch your bag, especially in markets and in the Jerusalem Old City (it can be crowded in the narrow alleys) and watch your pockets.

There are on and off periods of tension in Israel overall between various parties, but as a tourist, if you stick to popular attractions and the things in this guide/other blogs, you will likely not get into any type of trouble.

What’s a good packing list for traveling to Israel?

We recommend several packing lists for you to go by, and in addition, we’ll make a few recommendations below.

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For Israel additionally, we recommend a few things…

  • Bathing suit! For swimming in the Dead Sea.
  • A travel lock , for using at a rental locker (maybe at the Dead Sea)
  • A scarf or shawl, for women, to use when visiting religious sites where shoulders must be covered (synagogues, Dome of the Rock, mosques, churches, memorial sites)
  • One pair of travel pants for men and travel pants for women , as shorts are also not allowed at major religious sites, memorials and some national monuments
  • If you are Jewish and own your own kippah (skullcap), we also suggest bringing it so that you do not have to borrow or buy one when visiting the Western Wall and other sites of worship
  • Women may also benefit from packing one skirt or maxi dress for the same reasons above

Do I need a visa to travel to Israel?

You probably don’t need a visa to travel to Israel.

Passport holders of 99 major countries do not require travel visas to enter Israel, so if you are reading this and you’re not from Indonesia, Malaysia or a list of Middle-Eastern countries, you do not need a confirmation of a visa.

Should I worry about things being closed on the Sabbath (Shabbat) in Jerusalem?

Shabbat, which is Hebrew for the Sabbath, or day of rest, takes place every Friday evening at sundown until Saturday also at sundown. Shabbat is a peaceful time for Jewish Israelis who observe this day of rest, and so many businesses will be closed.

You’ll notice that Tel Aviv overall observes less of the Shabbat tradition of closing stores, but in Jerusalem it’s a different story. Things like trains will not run, the average business will be closed for the day on Saturday and will close Friday afternoon and many people will attend religious services.

Don’t be scared! As a traveler in Israel on Shabbat, you’ll have heaps to do.

A local tip is that the “monit sherut” (small buss) from the Central Bus Station in Tel Aviv runs to Jerusalem, on a somewhat limited schedule. So, ask your hotel or hostel in Tel Aviv about it, and you can make your way to Jerusalem even while other forms of transit are on their day off.

Download Moovit, as it’s a really helpful travel app and it’ll really help you with transportation specifically in Israel.

General first-time travel tips for Jerusalem

Here are a few helpful things to know about Jerusalem, to prepare you for your visit:

“Do”s and “Don’t”s in Israel

  • Try all the amazing food: falafel, shawarma (with toppings), shakshuka, sabich, Turkish coffee, arak, local craft beer
  • Go exploring: in the Old City, around Nachlaot, in the Mahane Yehuda Market (Shuk)
  • Take a tour, in order to learn more in-depth about where you are. You can book some tours or day outings with hostels like Abraham Hostel or with operators like Tourist Israel.
  • Be respectful: of various religions, ethnicities, customs, cultures and languages. Israel has a very diverse array of people, and everyone has a story. Try not to judge, and instead, choose to learn.
  • Do not go unprepared to holy sites like the Western Wall, famous synagogues or mosques, the Temple Mount (see below for our guide) or national monuments and cemeteries. Most will have a modest dress code.
  • Do not get frustrated when someone does not speak any English. Israeli people speak a multitude of languages, from Russian to French to Arabic to Hebrew, and learning English has come as a second thought, for some.
  • Do not expect everything to be open on Friday nights and Saturdays, and do be patient about it. It’s incredible to see a country that comes to ‘full stop’ for one day a week, so appreciate it!
  • Do not leave Israel without learning a few helpful phrases like ‘todah rabah’ (thank you), ‘shalom’ (hi/peace) and, ‘ayfo ha sherutim?’ (where’s the bathroom?).

Old City tourist pricing

Avoid getting your falafel and hummus inside the old city (especially the Jewish Quarter). It’s overpriced and not as good as it’ll be in the more local areas (try the market).

Jerusalem signage and languages

Signs in Jerusalem are usually in three languages: Hebrew, English and Arabic. You’ll also find taxi drivers who speak Russian, shop-owners who speak French, restaurant servers who speak Amharic (from Ethiopia) and expats who speak Spanish. There’s a bit of everyone here.

Learn some Hebrew with our travel language-learning tips !

Taking a Jerusalem city tour can be helpful

Taking a tour around Jerusalem can be helpful, as it’s really easy to get lost — much more so than in the city of Tel Aviv. The streets wind around a lot because the city is so hilly. The bright side of this is that there are lots of viewpoints to see!

Try the Jerusalem public bus system

Jerusalem’s buses run very regularly during the week (aside from Friday evenings and Saturdays during the day) and are a great way to get from neighborhood to neighborhood. Rides are rarely long and they’re pretty affordable. Our tip is to always have change, in Shekels.

White Jerusalem stone arches in a narrow alleyway

Where to stay in Jerusalem, for backpackers

Abraham hostel jerusalem.

Abraham Hostel Jerusalem is a great downtown hostel for travelers of all types, especially backpackers! Given that Israel is so (relatively) expensive for many travelers, with the exchange rate to the USD and other currencies, you may be looking into budget accommodation during your trip.

There’s an Abraham Hostel in Tel Aviv as well, and we equally enjoyed our stay there (it was awesome). Abraham Hostels really have the traveler experience down to a science.

Starting with the common area, there’s a bar, where you can grab happy hour and get to meet other travelers. The demographic here is pretty wide, from college students to travelers in groups in the 50-60 age range from Europe. Seriously, no one stands out here and everyone is welcome.

Red, yellow and green beer names in Hebrew at a bar counter

The hostel has a variety of different rooms, ranging from dorms to privates! The dorm rooms are great for those looking to try solo travel and are a nice way to be social.

In the morning, there’s a big spread of Israeli breakfast, included, so you definitely won’t go hungry and can start your day off with the delicious fresh foods that are part of the Israeli diet — vegetables, fruits and more. We love Israeli breakfasts for staying healthy during travel .

Two women taking bread and Israeli salads at a table with a red and white checked tablecloth

What we like most about Abraham Hostels both in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is that they offer so many events, every day of the week. Literally every day, there is something going on, whether you’re looking for an open mic night, a performance from a local band, a hummus-making class or a city tour you can join. They also offer Abraham Tours to other parts of Israel, like Eilat, Haifa and Bethlehem.

Did you know that staying in a hostel is one of the best ways to save money during a trip? See why!

Where to eat in Jerusalem (local spots)

Tmol shilshom.

Tmol Shilshom is a great place for starting your Jerusalem journey, as it’s a popular place for young people and cultured travelers who want to eat fresh Mediterranean food in a beautiful old alley of a quiet neighborhood. It’s a bookstore-cafe in an old garden, where you can combine food with culture. Have some Israeli wine and try the shakshuka or salmon fillet. End with cheesecake.

Aricha Sabich

Hailed as some of the best sabich, and some of the best food, in all of Jerusalem, Aricha Sabich will not leave you disappointed. Not sure what sabich is? Add this to your vocabulary fast, as sabich is an Iraqi and now Israeli breakfast dish that you can eat any time of day. It consists of eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, tahini sauce and salads, all crammed into fresh pita bread.

Marzipan Bakery and Pastry

Marzipan Bakery is a popular spot for rugelach cookies (drool!), donuts, decorated cakes and chocolate pastries. You might go twice.

Dwiny Pita Bar

This little pita bar is only two minutes away from the Mahane Yehuda Market (the Shuk) and it’ll be great for anyone looking for some of the best vegetarian options, along with creative pita fillings that amount to some “gorgeous vegetarian food” and a hip crowd.

Cafe Yehoshua

Cafe Yehoshua, located at Azza St 17, is highly-rated for healthy breakfast options and a nice Mediterranean cuisine menu. Bonus: grilled cheese sandwiches.

Sushi Rehavia

With four locations in Jerusalem, this is a great option if you want some high-quality kosher sushi. It’s well-known throughout town, and while it’s more than what you’d pay to fill up your stomach than having a falafel pita, for example, it’s delicious.

Jerusalem Steakhouse

Not to be confused with an actual steakhouse (it’s not), nor the Brooklyn joint of exactly the same name (ha), this fast casual restaurant is located at 101 Agripas and is good for a ‘real authentic loud Israel experience.’ It’s not too expensive, and it is super crazy delicious for shawarma and falafel.

Cafe Rimon is a local chain with four locations in Jerusalem and is popular for “dairy” and fish. It’s vegetarian- and vegan-friendly, and also has an assortment of gluten-free options. If you go with a group, you can order family-style.

Pasta Basta

Located in Mahane Yehuda Market, AKA “The Shuk,” Pasta Basta is not only fun to say, but has delicious pasta and is relatively inexpensive, considering the cost of many other things in Israel. Travelers say it is worth the wait (there may be one), but a good deal and highly recommended.

If you’re down on Emek Refaim, the main thoroughfare of the “German Colony” neighborhood, Bagel Cafe is your stop for an “American-style bagel” and a coffee. Takeaway is fine here, if not expected and there’s also a catering menu in case you need food for … a ton of people. Kosher.

Located at David Remez St 4, Station 9 is one of Jerusalem’s best Asian fusion restaurants for when you want to get fancy and treat yourself. The eclectic menu mixes flavors from China, Vietnam and more, all under kosher supervision.

Where to grab coffee, Israel-style

Israelis love coffee, and if you’re like us, hunting down cafes wherever you go (and how to take photos of it), you’ll want to know where locals get their coffee in Jerusalem.

Aroma is a coffee shop and cafe now found in many places in Israel, in addition to places like NYC and LA. The first one opened up in Jerusalem in 2006, and now it’s synonymous with starting your morning.

In addition to having your coffee, you can get fresh and healthy items like sandwiches, beads, pastries, vegan breakfast, gluten-free staples like shakshuka, a complete Israeli breakfast and more. Needless to say, you’ll probably go to Aroma a whole bunch during your stay in Israel.

The Coffee Mill

The Coffee Mill is a hidden gem of a cafe, owned by two Americans who created its unique atmosphere. They have coffee from all over the world, and there’s breakfast, lunch and dinner as well.

Cafe Nadi, at Hillel St 39, is one of the most well-known spots for morning coffee and breakfast in Jerusalem. It’s cozy and charming, known for excellent fresh food and outdoor seating.

Coolest local trendy bars in Jerusalem

We know what you’re thinking: cool bars? In Jerusalem? Yes, it’s true. Jerusalem has its own bar and night scene, and it’s exactly where you wouldn’t expect it to be.

To set the scene, picture a big Israeli-style market, lined with vendors selling pomegranates, vegetables, spices, teas and nuts every day (except Shabbat), mixed in with eateries and other market stalls. Now picture the time dinner time rolls around, and the vendors start packing up and leaving.

And the market turns into Jerusalem’s best bar scene.

Now you see why everyone talks about the reinvented “shuk” scene going on at night in Jerusalem, most days of the week. It’s here that you can have craft beer, a cocktail, delicious food and see a Hebrew poetry slam, all while admiring the hand-painted wall murals of famous faces colored across closed stall grates. Don’t forget your camera!

Freddy Lemon

One of the coolest bars in the Mahane Yehuda Shuk, Freddy Lemon is the spot where you’ll see indie musicians take the stage. Happy hour is til 9:30 pm and there’s outdoor (patio) seating. It’s open til 5 am.

Yudale is a tapas bar with a cool and energetic atmosphere. It’s also a two-minute walk from the Shuk, with great drinks, so you can go in the beginning or at the end of your evening out in Jeru.

HaTaklit is a divey bar with some outdoor seating on a quiet uphill street. Happy hour lasts for five hours, staff is friendly and helpful and there’s a performance space. HaTaklit means “the record” (the music kind), and you’ll see why our next listing is its neighbor.

Video Pub, or simply, “Video,” is the official gay bar of Jerusalem. It’s quirky and casual and welcomes everyone. Video is open til 3 am.

Gatsby Cocktail Room

Gatsby Cocktail Room is where you may want to get a bit more dressed up, as opposed to shuffling in from your day in your regular walking shoes and hoodie or tank top. One of Jerusalem’s best speakeasies, it does not disappoint. The menu is grand, with photos and descriptions, all in art deco style and flavor. Note: it’s not cheap, but a special experience like this comes with a special price tag.

Located at Dorot Rishonim St 8, Birma is a laid-back piano bar where you can appreciate some jazz. There’s Middle-Eastern bar food (delicious) and a lovely array of drinks.

Biratenu - Jerusalem Beer Center

Visiting Biratenu is a unique thing to do when you visit Jerusalem. Based in Hillel St 6, you can see hundreds of Israeli craft beers here and speak with the owner, who is very passionate about his work. Beer-lovers, beware! You might want to stay a while here.

Rooftop” (rooftop bar in Jerusalem)

It’s rare to find a rooftop bar in Jerusalem, but if you visit Rooftop, at Shlomo ha-Melekh St 11, it’s a great way to appreciate the city a bit from above, especially when it is warm out.

Beer Bazaar

Beer Bazaar will be your craft beer spot in Israel if you want to “finally get something other than Goldstar or Maccabi beer,” according to our friend Allie. Located in the Mahane Yehuda Market, you’ll see heaps of beers lining the walls and you can speak with knowledgeable and expert beer store staff.

Historic and interesting places to see in Jerusalem

We’re not experts in Jerusalem’s history by any means, but we do appreciate all the unique things you can see that exist nowhere else in the world. For example, where can you see the mix of cultures that takes place in the Old City, in such close proximity?

Mahane Yehuda Market

This is one of our favorite Israeli markets. Debatably the most famous in Israel, you’ll see why, once you get semi-lost among the vendors and travelers from every corner of the Earth who come here to shop and see what’s up.

Blackboard sign in Hebrew writing placed among mangos and dragon fruits in an Israeli market

Once a historic neighborhood, Nachlaot has turned kind of hipster. Lose the map, as it’s not worth bringing one — Nachlaot’s white stone alleys will charm you and you’ll wind up walking in circles no matter what you do.

The neighborhood has rather short buildings, which adds to its charm. Among them, you’ll see galleries, flowers peeking out of gardens, courtyards and centuries-old synagogues with fading signs.

Cameras are welcome!

Bright blue painted door with rusted vertical mailboxes next to a white wall

Ben Yehuda Street

Ben Yehuda Street is a major street and more or less a Jerusalem landmark when it comes to saying, Meet me at Ben Yehuda. This street is closed off for pedestrians, and it’s here that you’ll find stores that cater to tourists, but you may see street performers, groups of off-duty Israeli soldiers and travelers stopping at cafes. This is also where things happen on fun holidays like Purim and Simchat Torah.

Temple Mount

The Temple Mount is a hill in the Jerusalem Old City that is sacred to several religions. It is now part of the “Muslim part,” so it’s where you will find the Dome of the Rock and famous mosques.

A young boy playing ball in an empty plaza at Dome of the Rock

Dome of the Rock

The Dome of the Rock is one of the most holy places in the Muslim religion and it’s a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. We went there to see the architecture. It truly is beautiful. The catch is that it is a tough place in terms of being a tourist — well, not for everyone, but there are a bunch of rules to go by in order to prepare for your visit.

See our complete Dome of the Rock visit guide .

Two women wearing burkas walk by white and blue stone Dome of the Rock

One more thing: Non-Muslims can’t go into the Dome of the Rock itself. So, you have to walk around and quietly appreciate your surroundings without going into any of the buildings.

Wilson’s Arch

If you’re really into history and architecture, check out Wilson’s Arch, which was named for the explorer who ‘found’ (re-found) it in the 1800s. It’s near the Western Wall.

Jewish Quarter (Rova Yehudi)

The Jewish Quarter is one of the four ‘quarters’ (they’re not exactly all the same size) in Jerusalem’s Old City. Again, without touching too much on religion, this is the Jewish cultural section where you’ll find the Western Wall at its border, lots of shops, market stalls, religious (okay, we touched on religion) sites and even people who call this neighborhood home.

It’s totally safe, so there’s no need to worry about safety. If you love feeling like an explorer, you’ll enjoy the stone alleys, old stairwells, accessible rooftops (keep wandering!) and underground labyrinths.

Two men walk on a stone rooftop in Jerusalem Old City

Western Wall

This wall (it’s massive) is one of the most holy places in the Jewish religion and it is called “The Kotel” (Ha Kotel) in Hebrew. Note: to visit — well, to get close to it — women must cover their shoulders and be wearing a skirt or bottoms that fall below the knee, and men must wear the traditional skullcap called a ‘kippah.’

If you’d like to engage in going up close to it, note that most visitors take their visit very seriously, even by backing away from it without turning their back to the wall, and will stick a note of prayer or hope into the cracks of the massive white stones.

Note, again, that to get your note in, you’ll have to cram it in among the thousands (millions?) of notes that have been left there since the beginning of time (or so it seems). A lot of them fall to the ground. To be respectful, avoid touching any note that is not your own.

View of the parking lot outside the Western Wall in Jerusalem Old City on a clear day

Yad Vashem is The World Holocaust Remembrance Center in Jerusalem. It is an incredible and moving testament to the Jews who perished in the Holocaust and also the Gentiles who helped save them and risked their lives doing so.

It is customary to act very respectful here, as the topics are very heavy. The museum is incredibly well-done and it is worth a visit for everyone who goes there.

We recommend avoiding taking photos. It is also customary to not talk much while visiting in order to maintain respect and remembrance.

Mount Herzl (Har Herzl)

Rather than being an actual mountain, Mount Herzl (Har Herzl in Hebrew) is actually the Mount Herzl National Cemetery. It’s here that major Israeli figures are buried, like Yitzhak Rabin and Golda Meir.

The Herzl Museum, which is also on-site, has a movie about the life of Theodore Herzl, the founder of modern Zionims. Also here is the cemetery with the final resting places of fallen soldiers throughout Israel’s various wars.

Please maintain utmost respect when visiting.

If you want to find Mount Herzl, the address is, fittingly, “Mount Herzl, Jerusalem.”

Arab Quarter

The Arab, or Muslim Quarter, is one of the quadrants of Jerusalem’s Old City within the old city walls. The main point of entry is Damascus Gate, which is a landmark on any map.

The main market is the cotton market, and it is in the style of a shuk, where you can buy all the things you need (rather than souvenirs).

Armenian Quarter

The Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem’s Old City is the smallest ‘quarter’ (again, they’re not perfect quarters). Between one and two thousands Armenians live in this region.

You can enter through Zion Gate and Jaffa Gate, so look for those gates on your map. Things to do in the Armenian quarter include having coffee, visit Armenian ceramic and pottery shops and trying Armenian food at the Armenian restaurants. There are a few religious sites as well (remember, we’re not experts on religion during this article, so we’re not going to mention much more detail because we don’t feel qualified to do so!).

White stone pointed top of a church in the Armenian old quarter of Jerusalem old city

Hebrew Music Museum

Visitors say this Jerusalem museum is a real gem, and that’s because in addition to musical instruments, the museum helps depict the periods of time that shaped music in Israel and how music is intertwined with culture.

There are interactive exhibits all around, and it’s recommended to take a guided tour in order to not miss anything crucial. This is a great museum for music lovers, music fans, musicians or anyone who wants to learn something completely new while discovering Israel.

If you’re into unique and off-the-beaten-track museums, you’ll want to say you’ve been to the Jerusalem Tax Museum.

This museum exists to show people the importance of tax collection! We could use a few pointers about that every year!

Even more than exhibiting tax in Israel, the museum demonstrates how tax is collected all over the world. Worth a visit, if you’re a CPA, accounting or finance student, or if you want to learn a ton of new things!

Transit options in Jerusalem (how to get around Jerusalem)

Most of Jerusalem is walkable, as it’s not a big city, compared with other major cities in the world. While Jerusalem is not actually big, it’s very hilly and therefore, lots of streets wind around hills. There’s no real city grid, and lots of streets turn into others and are windy. There are a few transit options to help you out.

Jerusalem public bus

For getting around on a day to day, taking the public bus is very helpful. You’ll see people lining up to get on buses, especially at rush hour in the morning and later in the day. Within our week in Jerusalem, we got pretty familiar with the buses that stopped at our hostel and the other places we went. We rarely took taxis!

Taxis in Jerusalem

You can take taxis in Jerusalem, but note that the drivers sometimes don’t speak English (most will speak Hebrew, Russian or maybe Arabic a bit). Also, you will probably wind up paying a lot for a taxi as a non-Hebrew speaker. This can get frustrating. We advise taking a taxi if you can’t figure out the bus or light rail route to get to your destination.

Jerusalem Central Bus Station

As Israel is a compact country, the best way to get around is by bus, if you’re not renting a car. We got around between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and back again, via public bus. Buses to lots of major cities leave very often, and you’ll rarely have to wait.

Around the bus station, everyone is pretty helpful, especially if you’re going somewhere major (Tel Aviv, Haifa, Beersheva, Eilat).

In Jerusalem, the bus station is a pretty popular place, and people on the light rail or on the street will be hopefully pretty helpful in getting you there. The light rail (details below) has a stop at the bus station. Leave some time when taking the light rail in case there’s any sort of delay.

A good thing to know is that buses to Tel Aviv run every 15-20 minutes.

Be aware of Shabbat (Friday night into Saturday) service for all transportation options. Things tend to stop and get slower a few hours before Shabbat begins (it depends on the time of year). Ask your hotel or hostel staff for the most up-to-date details on when Shabbat starts and how it will affect transport options in Jerusalem.

Jerusalem light rail

Jerusalem has a fairly new system that’s reminiscent of a small above-ground metro, and it is called Harakevet Hakala. It mostly connects the main thoroughfares of the city (which is not huge) and can take you from the Central Bus Station to places like the square outside Abraham Hostel Jerusalem.

Tel Aviv-Jerusalem speed train

The “Tel Aviv–Jerusalem railway,” also referred to as the “high-speed railway to Jerusalem,” is Israel’s newest hi-tech transport option.

During our last trip to Israel, this speed train was not even finished yet, but everyone was very excited about its completion.

With this rail line now done, you can reach the Tel Aviv International Airport (Ben Gurion Airport) in around 25 minutes from Jerusalem city. That’s incredible!

Tickets are around 10 USD and you can pay for them at a machine with cash or credit. The trains are like European-style railway trains.

Taking the high-speed rail is a great new way to have a mass transit option in getting from the airport to Jerusalem and avoiding (sorry, taxi drivers) the high prices that taxis usually cost in getting anywhere from city to city.

Day trip ideas out of Jerusalem

Israel is a relatively compact country (many say it’s the size of the US state of New Jersey), so taking a day trip is never a huge schlep, so to speak.

Many tour operators like Tourist Israel can help you take all sorts of day trips to Masada, Ein Gedi, Caesarea and the Dead Sea. Check out how we took a Tourist Israel trip to the Dead Sea, as follows.

Take a day trip tour to the Dead Sea

Dan and I both took trips to the Dead Sea when we went on Birthright Israel trips in our late teens-early twenties (separately) and were excited to go back. Due to the heaviest rains in years during our most recent trip to Israel, we went to a different part of the Dead Sea than previous times.

This was interesting because it was not as we had remembered, and it was good for us to see another “Dead Sea region.” Our trip with Tourist Israel took an alternate route because the Dead Sea resorts near Ein Gedi, the most famous and most beautiful Dead Sea location, was closed due to mudslides the day we went.

Instead, we had an interesting time visiting Qasr el Yahud, or, the spot where Jesus was baptized. We probably would not have made our way here otherwise, so it was a kind of once-in-a-lifetime experience for us to see a famous Christian site in Israel, whereas we typically visit Jewish ones.

Leaving Jerusalem and going through the desert is a quintessential Israeli experience that everyone should have. Hopefully your tour will stop at a monument to Sea Level, as it all goes downhill from there… so to speak (ha).

Winding highway road through yellow desert hills in Israel

At the Dead Sea itself, you have to prepare to get very salty. The water in the Dead Sea is like nothing you’ve ever floated in — it’s basically hard to sink!

Bathing in water in such a high concentration of salt will leave your skin smooth and can be pretty therapeutic. Be sure to rub the mineral-rich mud all over yourself, and of course, all over your friends.

White stone and red and gray mosaic design against a blue sky

One thing to remember is to be careful of if you have any open cuts (even a paper cut), because the high salt content of the Dead Sea water can magnify the stinging feeling.

Ready to explore more of Israel? Explore Tel Aviv and the Dead Sea with us!

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The Best Things to do in Jerusalem for First-Time Visitors

Jerusalem is one of the most fascinating cities I have ever been to. The mix of history and religion combined with a (surprisingly) cool nightlife scene and some great foodie spots made it fun to explore. I’ve been to Jerusalem many times so for those looking for any first time visitors looking for inspiration, here is my quick guide which includes some helpful tips and, of course, the best things to do in Jerusalem. 

I Love Jerusalem Sign

How to Get to Jerusalem

Getting to Jerusalem is easy. From the Airport there are several options for getting to Jerusalem.

My preferred method of transportation is the train. It’s a 26-minute journey from the Airport to Jerusalem city. That being said, you still then need to find your way to your accommodation. 

The easiest option is to take a taxi, which will drop you off right at your doorstep (or at least as close as they can get depending on where you are staying). However it is also the most expensive.

Another option that will take you directly to your accommodation is the shared shuttle service called a sherut. Upon exiting the airport, you will see yellow shuttle vans. Tell the driver where you are going and he will direct you to the van headed in that direction. While this is an easy option and cheaper than a taxi but you may end up waiting a while because they only leave when they are full. 

You can also take public transit. Bus number 485 will take you from the airport to the central bus station in Jerusalem. From here you can hop on the tram to the stop closest to your accommodation option. This is by far the cheapest option

Finally, you can also rent a car from the airport.

Remember, public transportation shuts down for shabbat. During these house there will be some shabbat buses (sheruts) but the best option at this point is a taxi which also has more expensive shabbat pricing.

Getting Around Jerusalem

The Wailing Wall, Jerusalem

As mentioned above, Jerusalem is a very large city and while you will be able to walk to some places, it’s not realistic to think that you can walk everywhere.

Jerusalem does have a handy tram system that is easy enough to use. Tickets need to be bought from the machines at whatever station you start at, and then need to be tapped when you enter the bus. Your best bet is to purchase a RavKav which is the local transportation card. It can be used on the bus and train and you can load it up easily via the app.

It is important to know that all public transit in Jerusalem shuts down during Shabbat. This means from sundown (or a couple hours before) on Friday to sundown on Saturday, you will have to walk, use a taxi, or take a sherut. 

Where to Stay in Jerusalem

Abraham Hostel Jerusalem

Jerusalem is a massive city, so when you are figuring out where to stay in Jerusalem you will definitely want to keep location in mind. I suggest finding somewhere within walking distance from Old Jerusalem and the shuk as this is where many of the attractions and sites are.

The next thing to consider is your budget. Israel, despite what many may think, is not a cheap destination. That being said, there are a number of accommodation options varying in cost so you can find somewhere that fits your budget.

If you are on a tighter budget, I recommend Abraham Hostel Jerusalem. They have private room and share dorm options. They also have a big common room, breakfast spread, and nightly activities which makes Abraham Hostel Jerusalem is a great option for solo travellers as well. Book your stay here.

If you aren’t quite a hostel person and willing to spend a little more on accommodation in Jerusalem, then consider the following mid-range hotels.

  • Mr Agrippa by TLV2Go – a cute little apartment hotel by the shuk
  • Old City Boutique Hotel 

Or, if you are willing to slue there more there are plenty of gorgeous high-end hotels in Jerusalem as well. Take a look at these options:

  • Mamilla Hotel
  • King David Hotel Jerusalem

The Best Things to do in Jerusalem

Whether you are interested in history, religion, architecture, food, or culture there is plenty to keep you busy in Jerusalem. Here are my recommendations for the best things to do in Jerusalem.

Take a Tour of Jerusalem Old Town

Walls of Old Town Jerusalem

Jerusalem Old Town is the highlight of Jerusalem for many and where most tourists, especially first-timers, will spend the majority of their visit. It’s full of history and stories and a beautiful place to photograph so make sure to bring your camera!

It is easy and safe to explore Jerusalem’s Old Town on your own, however, I recommend that you do take a tour on arrival. There are thousands of years of history within these walls and no visit to Jerusalem is complete without learning at least some of the stories and uncovering some of its history and even secrets.  

There are plenty of different tour options depending on your area of interest. There is this free walking tour  for is good for a quick introduction. However, if you want something truly different then a dual narrative tour of Jerusalem is the way to go. I took this tour for a new perspective after several visits to Jerusalem and its by-far my favourite one to recommend. You are led to some of the highlights of the city by two tour guides; an Israeli Jew and a Palestinian. Together, they share stories and history of the city from two very different perspectives. It’s a fantastic way to gain some insight about history, religion, culture, and conflict in Jerusalem. 

There are so many things to see and do in Jerusalem’s old city, but there are some of the sites I believe are best visited with a guide.

Temple Mount & Al Aqsa Mosque 

Dome of the Rock

Temple Mount or Haram al-Sharif is a holy site for Christians, Jews, and Muslims alike. It’s also one of the biggest areas of disagreement. As such, there are restrictive views about visiting Temple Mount and tourists do need to be mindful of these during their visit.

The area is only open at certain times and on certain days that can change throughout the season. It can also be closed off at any time due to security concerns. Since it is a bit confusing to visit on your own, and again, there is so much to learn here, I highly recommend visiting this part of Jerusalem on a tour. 

The highlight of these grounds is the Dome of the Rock which is the iconic gold-domed structure that is seen in so many photographs of Jerusalem. It is an Islamic Shrine that is part of the grounds of Al Aqsa Mosque and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The architecture and mosaic patterns are modelled after Byzantine churches and Palaces and the bright colours really make it stand out and shine, especially in the sun. It’s absolutely beautiful and a visit here is one of the top things to do in Jerusalem. However, note that non-Muslims are not allowed to enter. 

Women especially need to ensure that they are dressed appropriately when visiting this sacred site. Cover your arms, legs, and chest. Tight pants are also looked down upon. I suggest making sure you dress appropriately and bring your own scarf in case. They do provide clothing if your attire is not acceptable, however, its not always the cleanest. 

The Western Wall

Putting a note in the Western Wall

The Western Wall, sometimes also referred to as the Wailing Wall, is the most religious site in the world for the Jewish people. The Wall is located in the Old City and is the western support wall of Temple Mount, where Al-Aqsa mosque is built.

The wall is divided into 2 sections; one for men, one for women as they need to pray separately (though there is also a smaller section of the wall in the Muslim quarter where both men and women can go). Visitors can either pray out loud or write their prayers on a small piece of paper to leave in the cracks of the wall. It is free to visit, but again make sure you dress appropriately and behave respectfully.

Note that when walking away, you should walk backwards so you don’t turn your back on the wall which is seen as disrespectful. 

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

One of the major pilgrimage sites for Christians, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is considered to be the place where Jesus was crucified and his tomb. Today, this church built into the rock is quite extravagantly decorated. It’s free to visit but is usually incredibly crowded. There is a lot to see in the church so visit first with a guide to get some of the history and learn about the different sections. If you like, you can then come back on your own time to explore more. 

Shop at the Arabic Market

Market in Old Town Jerusalem

If you are looking to do some souvenir shopping, then head to the Arabic market which is also in the Old City. From rugs to scarves, ceramics to jewellery, you can find just about everything here. In my experience, not only was shopping here one of my favourite things to do in Jerusalem but it was the best souvenir shopping in Israel. Make sure you haggle though! Especially when items don’t have a sticker price attached to them. Even if they do, it might be worth asking if they can go lower. Keep in mind, you can really only haggle in this market- not in other shops around Jerusalem.

My favourite shop in the market is called Sinjalawi and its owned by a Palestinian family who are artisans themselves. The shop sells everything from jewelry to carpets and more. Every time I go in it reminds me a bit of stepping into Aladdin’s cave. Expect its much friendlier and more welcoming. The shop has been in the same family for years and is currently run by four brother who will be more than happy to help you find a unique souvenir. For something special, look at the jewelry that is embedded with Roman glass. Oh, and before you go, be sure to take a peek down the 2000 year old well at the back of the shop. It’s one of the most unique things to see in Jerusalem.

Ok, so this is an incredibly random thing to do in Jerusalem but I always think it’s pretty fun. It turns out that Santa lives part time in Old Town Jerusalem and you can visit at certain times. I was lucky enough to meet Santa one day when he was undercover. Turns out he rides bikes and camels as well as reindeer and played professional basketball. Who knew?

Eat Your Way Through Mahane Yehuda Market

Mahane Yehuda market in Jerusalem

If you are a foodie, then you will fall in love with Mahane Yehuda Market. About a 20- minute walk from Old Town, the Mahane Yehuda Market is the best place to grab some fresh food and drinks. Food on offer here ranges from baked pita bread from the oven, gooey baklava, fresh vegetables and creamy hummus. Not to mention all the juices, shakes, and spices, and teas. In my opinion, some of the  best places to eat in Jerusalem  are in this market.

Not only is the market fun to experience during the day, but it also comes alive at night. Cocktail bars and craft beer vendors alike have stalls here and transform the market into a place to drink, dance, and party. Spending time here is one of my favourite things to do in Jerusalem and when I visit I usually end up here daily. 

Yad Vashem: The Holocaust Remembrance Centre

Yad Vashem is the Holocaust remembrance centre in Jerusalem. While not exactly a happy place I think it’s really worth a visit when in Jerusalem, even if you have been to other Holocaust remembrance centres around the world. It’s considered to be one of the best museums in the world and one of the best things to do in Jerusalem. Yad Vashem is located a little bit outside of the heart of the city bit it is free to visit. The museum is quite large so you will want to dedicate a couple of hours of your time to spend here. 

Jerusalem Winery 

If you find yourself in need of a break from historic sightseeing then why not grab a glass of wine from a local winery? The Jerusalem Winery is located just outside the city walls by an adorable old neighbourhood overlooking the Old City. A large windmill marks the location of the tasting and visitor centre. You can get a glass, a bottle, do a tasting, and munch on some snacks while taking in some gorgeous views. Definitely add a visit here to your list of things to do in Jerusalem. 

How Long to Spend in Jerusalem?

Jerusalem is ancient and there is enough to see and do here to keep you busy for days. That being said, Israel and Palestine both have so much to offer that I recommend exploring more than just Jerusalem. Two to three days in Jerusalem is enough for the highlights, but keep in mind that it does make a good base for some nearby day trips as well. 

The Best Day Trips from Jerusalem

There are plenty of awesome things to do in Jerusalem, but it also makes a great base from which to explore more of Israel and Palestine. Not only does this make things easier in terms of not having to constantly move around with your luggage, but taking day trips from Jerusalem is also ideal because if you take guided day trips (which I definitely recommend) then you don’t have to worry about sorting out transportation- which can be a bit tricky.

  • The Dead Sea: The lowest spot in the world! Come here for a fun day of floating. Book a tour.
  • Masada & Ein Gedi: Ancient ruins, fantastic views, and a desert oasis. Book a tour.
  • Hebron: A historic divided city. Take this dual narrative tour to experience both the Palestinian and Jewish side.
  • Bethlehem: A Palestinian city known for being the birth place of Jesus Christ. Book a tour.  

Jerusalem is a fascinating city to explore on its own and use as a base to see more of Israel and Palestine. There are plenty of things to do in Jerusalem, so make sure to give yourself enough time to do and see as much as possible! For more tips, be sure to check out my 2 weeks in Israel and Palestine guide.

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

Wondering what to add to your Jerusalem Itinerary? I'm sharing the best things to do in Jerusalem in this guide to the holy city. #Jerusalem #Israel

[…] on a tour from Israel. I partnered with Abraham Tours who offer a 2 or 3 day Jordan trip from both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. At first, I was a bit hesitant. Three days in Jordan didn’t seem like a lot, […]

[…] my age and had some great stories about floating in the Dead Sea and exploring the Old Town of Jerusalem. Yet when I told people (other than my mom) that I wanted to travel to Israel I was met with plenty […]

[…] If I could write a love letter to a specific country’s food, it would be Israel. To be honest, I don’t really know what it is about the food there that I love so much. I mean, hummus is available around the world but it tastes better in Israel. Craft beer is, again, found around the world but I find myself craving a very specific one from Israel. Oh, and speaking of cravings, don’t even get me started on a very special cheese sandwich. While none of those may sound particularly fancy, trust me when I say Israel is the place to go if you are a foodie and in this blog post, I’m going to share some the best foodie finds that I discovered thanks to my friend Brittany of The Sweet Wanderlust. Here’s where to eat in Jerusalem. […]

[…] in Israel most people tend to focus on the central part of the country. Cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem see the majority of tourists and for those who do venture off the typical tourist trail, they tend […]

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Tour of Jerusalem’s Old City

If you do just one tour in Israel, make sure it’s this one! On the Old City of Jerusalem tour, you will see some of the world’s most interesting and important places.

Jerusalem tour

Old City of Jerusalem tour – Main sites

The western wall, the temple mount, the church of the holy sepulchre.

  • The four quarters
  • Get all my Jerusalem tours or  only this tour

Old City tour trailer

I’ve also added lots of my own personal recommendations regarding places to eat, change money and go shopping. You can also get my tours as booklets.

Old City tour – Warnings

The Old City is a safe place.

Your chances of being pickpocketed or robbed are extremely low, and certainly much lower than in any big city in Europe or the US. However, there are some issues you need to be aware of.

Travelers often complain about pushy and aggressive sellers. Check out this post if you want to visit interesting and honest shops. (All of the good places are featured in my  Jerusalem app ).

Don’t use the services of random guides who approach you. They will take you to their shops and pressure you to buy. If you need to withdraw money, use the bank ATM in the Jewish quarter.

Jaffa Gate (and other options for starting your Old City tour)

A video from my app

I start my tours at Jaffa Gate, but you can also enter the city from the New Gate, which is particularly handy if you want to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. If visiting the church is a priority for you, do yourself a favor and head there early. From 9 am, the church quickly fills up with groups.

Another option is to start the day with a visit to the Temple Mount. The Temple Mount is only open to non-Muslims from one gate, which is located next to the Western Wall, and only from 7:30 to 10:30 am and then for another hour at midday (12:30 to 1:30 pm).

One last option is to start the day from the Mount of Olives. After seeing the sites there (Chapel of Ascension, Pater Noster), you can walk down to Gethsemane and continue to the Lion’s Gate. This is the itinerary I suggest in my booklet.

When it comes to the Old City, don’t worry about missing out on any of the sites. The Old City is small, and all the sites are located close to one another.

The four quarters of the Old City

Two thousand years ago, Jerusalem was a Jewish city. 1,100 years ago, Jerusalem was a Muslim city and 900 years ago Jerusalem was a Christian city.

It’s only in the last 500 years that Jerusalem has been the way it is today, divided into four quarters: the Jewish, Muslim, Christian and Armenian quarters. Each quarter is laid out around or close to its most important site. The Jewish quarter is next to the Western Wall and the Temple Mount; the Muslim quarter is next to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Christian quarter is located around the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Armenian quarter is laid out around Saint James Cathedral.

I have made so many videos about this church. Many people fail to understand that there are actually two sites inside the church: Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified, and the tomb of Jesus.

old city tour

The Western Wall has become a symbol of what connects the Jews to Jerusalem. It is such a well-known symbol that many people don’t realize that other parts of the Western Wall can be seen and that it is not a part of the Jewish Temple itself. All the details are in this video, taken from my app.

The Temple Mount is huge – it takes up one-fifth of the Old City. This is the holiest site for Jews, as this is where the two temples once stood. Today it is also the third holiest site for Muslims, and the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque are located where the Jewish temple once stood. There are ten gates leading into the Temple Mount, but non-Muslims can only enter from one entrance, which is located next to the Western Wall and only open for limited hours: Sunday to Thursday, 7:30 – 10:30 am and for one hour at noon (12:30 – 1:30 pm). Visitors must dress modestly, and no Jewish and Christian symbols are allowed (this includes bibles).

Old city tour

Mount Zion is located outside the Old City, but historically it is part of it. It is a tiny mountain, much smaller than the Mount of Olives, and you get there by exiting the Old City from the Zion Gate. The main sites here are the Room of the Last Supper, the Tomb of King David, the Dormition Abbey, and smaller sites like the Chamber of the Holocaust, which was Israel’s first Holocaust museum, and the grave of Oskar Schindler in the Catholic cemetery.

For more information about my video tours  check out my shop.

Zion Gate Jerusalem

Best hotels & hostels in Israel

  • HOTELS TEL AVIV
  • HOSTELS TEL AVIV
  • ABRAHAM HOSTELS
  • HOSTELS JERUSALEM
  • HOTELS JERUSALEM
  • HOTELS DEAD SEA
  • HOTELS IN THE NEGEV
  • HOTELS GALILEE
  • HOTELS GOLAN HEIGHTS

Places to visit

  • JERUSALEM TRAVEL GUIDE
  • TEL AVIV TRAVEL GUIDE
  • JUDAEAN DESERT TRAVEL GUIDE
  • HOTELS GALILEEE
  • HOTELS IN THE GOLAN HEIGHTS

Tours in Israel

  • TOUR OF JERUSALEM'S OLD CITY
  • THE CITY OF DAVID TOUR
  • YAD VASHEM TOUR
  • RAMPARTS TOUR
  • MASADA TOUR

All my tours

  • JERUSALEM TOURS
  • JERUSALEM TOURS - 2 DEVICES
  • JERUSALEM RAPMARTS TOURS
  • JERUSALEM YAD VASHEM TOUR
  • JERUSALEM CITY OF DAVID TOUR
  • HARD COPY BOOKLETS + PDF
  • PDF BOOKLETS

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Jessie on a Journey | Solo Female Travel Blog

Israel Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Israel travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

For centuries, members of the three Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity and Islam) have been traveling to Israel to visit some of the holiest sites in their faiths.

Today, Israel has something to offer every kind of traveler, religious or not.

This country is home to thousands of years of history, diverse cultures, and some of the most beautiful sights in the world.

Whether you want to relax on a Mediterranean beach or explore holy ground, you’ll find something exciting to do in Israel.

Israel’s major cities have their own vibe and unique attractions.

Those looking to explore the history and religious significance of the area should head to Jerusalem, home to some of the most important sites in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Jerusalem’s Old City tells the story of the city’s history, dating back to 1004 B.C and continuing through countless empires and eras.

In Tel Aviv , you can get a taste of Israel’s history in the ancient port city of Jaffa and then head to the trendy neighborhood of Neve Tzedek to experience Israel’s modern present.

There is also Haifa, a city home to the Baha’i World Centre on Mount Carmel with incredible gardens that anyone can enjoy. The city is also home to some of the nation’s best beaches.

For those looking to get out in nature, Israel has lots of great options.

For a classic Israeli experience, head to the Negev Desert to visit the Dead Sea and the ancient fortress of Masada.

Here, the truly brave can repel down into the Ramon Crater , one of the largest in the country, for a truly unique desert experience. You also can’t miss the chance to float in the Dead Sea, the lowest place on the planet, or camp under the stars for an out-of-this-world view.

For more lush views, head to En Gedi Nature Reserve in the Judean Desert. Here, you can hike around breathtaking waterfalls and see some of the country’s native flora.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Israel in the Middle East.

Note: This ultimate guide to Israel travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Israel travel guide

Use this Israel travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Israel travel map

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Best Places To Visit In Israel

The following guides share Israel highlights and experiences that you won’t want to miss!

Israel travel guide sites

Active Middle East: Amazing Desert Adventures In Israel

rapelling Ramon Crater while travelling in israel

Ramon Crater Adventure: That Time I Hurled Myself Into Israel’s Largest Crater

Visiting Eliat's Treehouse Spa while travelling Israel

Israel’s Best-Kept Secret: Eliat’s Treehouse Spa

Having a meal in Tel Aviv while traveling in israel

Awesomely Offbeat Things To Do In Tel Aviv, Israel

Visiting the Dead Sea is one of the top things to do in Israel

Israel’s Dead Sea Like You’ve Never Seen It Before

Travel Tips For Israel

Plan the perfect trip with these Israel travel tips !

Sandboarding in the Negev Desert should be in every Israel travel guide book

10 Reasons Why Israel Should Be Your Next Trip

Hiking Masada is one of the main Israel highlights

Solo Female Travel In Israel: The Ultimate Guide

best hikes in Israel

10 Best Hikes In Israel You Shouldn’t Miss (Epic!)

Best Israel Tours

Explore local culture with an Israel tour guide through these unique excursions:

  • Hot Air Balloon Flight Including Champagne Gourmet Breakfast and Souvenirs from the Northern District
  • Mount Sinai and Saint Catherines Monastery Day Trip from Eilat
  • Local Israeli Cooking Class in Tel Aviv
  • Tel Aviv Highlights Bike Tour from Ramat Gan
  • Timna Park Jeep Tour from Eliat
  • Dead Sea, Sunrise at Masada & Ein Gedi Nature Reserve Tour from Tel Aviv
  • Golan Heights Day Trip from Tel Aviv
  • Desert Jeep Tour: Mar Saba Monastery and Wadi Qelt from Jerusalem

Renting A Car In Israel

Need a rental car for your Israel trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Israel Hotels

Click here to browse the best Israel travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays and experiences:

Israel Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on an Israel tour. When visiting Israel — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Israel travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Israel Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Israel .

Q: What are the best cities in Israel to visit?

If you have to pick three cities to visit in Israel, make them Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Bethlehem.

These three cities will give you a feel for the country’s storied past and cosmopolitan present while offering something for every kind of traveler.

Tel Aviv is a lively beachside metropolis with one of the most exciting cultural scenes in the world. Walk around the trendy neighborhood of Neve Tzedek and check out both small art galleries and major institutions like the Rokach House Museum.

Additionally, learn more about the Jewish Diaspora at Beit Hatfutsot at Tel Aviv University. Wander around the White City, a UNESCO Heritage Site full of cream-colored Bauhaus-style buildings. Or just lounge on the beach and enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine!

Jerusalem is a must-visit for travelers of all faiths. Here, you can visit a truly ancient city and some of the holiest sites in the world.

You’ll find most of Jerusalem’s top attractions in the Old City, a neighborhood that dates back to 1004 B.C. and blends aspects of Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Armenian cultures.

The Old City contains the Western Wall, the holiest site in the Jewish faith; Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock, the location of the two Jewish Temples and a significant site in Islam; and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a basilica built on what is believed to be the site of Jesus’s tomb.

Beyond the Old City, you can check out the famous Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum or browse the culinary offerings available at the Mahane Yehuda Market.

Jerusalem is also home to a thriving nightlife scene with chic cocktail bars and galleries to explore.

Moreover, the city of Bethlehem is home to many important religious sites, particularly for Christians as it is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

Here, you can visit the Church of the Nativity, built on what is believed to be the site of Jesus’s birth, and the Milk Grotto, where the Holy Family is said to have hidden during the Massacre of the Innocents.

Bethlehem is also a great place to experience and learn more about Palestinian culture.

The Old Bethlehem Museum features a recreation of a 19th-century Palestinian home as well as several other historic artifacts. You can also stop by the Palestinian Heritage Center where you can find handmade clothing, jewelry, and other products from local Palestinian artisans.

Q: What should I know before traveling to Israel?

One of the most important things to keep in mind when planning a trip to Israel is Shabbat, or the Jewish Sabbath.

The weekend consists of Friday and Saturday in Israel as Saturday is the holiest day of the week.

Most businesses and public transit systems shut down from sundown on Friday nights to sundown on Saturday nights to observe Shabbat.

You’ll likely find a few places open here and there (particularly in more secular cities) but this probably won’t be a day for major activities and dining plans.

If you’re in a predominantly Jewish city like Jerusalem, be prepared to take the stairs as many businesses shut down their elevators on Shabbat. If you’re touring the country and want to avoid the effects of Shabbat, this might be a good time to visit a predominantly Christian city like Nazareth or a Muslim city like Acre.

While Hebrew is Israel’s official language, you’ll find that English is widely spoken. About 85% of the country’s population speak at least some English, so you shouldn’t have too much of a problem communicating with locals.

The Israeli people are also known to be quite warm and sociable and greet people with hugs and kisses on the cheek.

They are also very direct communicators and not afraid to share their opinions. If you end up in a lively debate over dinner at your new Israeli friend’s house, don’t be surprised!

It’s also very important to be respectful of the different cultures and religions of Israel. You’ll want to be aware of the dress codes and modesty guidelines for different religious sites before you visit.

Women are asked to cover their knees and shoulders at most places of worship and may be asked to cover their hair at Islamic holy sites. Keep a scarf or shawl handy just in case.

Men are generally required to keep their knees and shoulders covered, as well. These are also good guidelines to keep in mind when visiting more religious neighborhoods and cities.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Israel?

The threat of terrorism is an unfortunate reality that many live with in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. It’s important to be aware of these threats and keep an eye on the news while traveling in this region.

That said, Israel is known to be quite safe for travelers due to its low crime rate and emphasis on security. You’ll see this as soon as you cross the border. For instance, you’ll probably face more questions from security officers than “business or pleasure?”.

Security officers are also present throughout Israeli cities, particularly at major religious sites.

And as with any major travel destination, you’ll want to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times to avoid pickpocketing and petty theft.

If you plan on visiting cities like Bethlehem, Ramallah and Jericho, you’ll need to cross into the West Bank, an area controlled by Palestinian authorities. Security is particularly strict on the Israeli-West Bank border, so it’s important to take the border crossing process seriously and answer any questions from security officers honestly.

It’s best to stick to the major cities and tourist areas when visiting the West Bank, and you may even want to travel with a tour group for added safety and ease.

Due to the increased rates of violence, most governments and travel experts warn travelers against visiting the Gaza Strip.

Q: How much money do I need per day in Israel?

The average traveler spends around $107 USD per day in Israel on accommodations, food, transportation, attractions, and other expenses.

How much you spend per day varies from city to city; Tel Aviv is considered one of the most expensive cities in the world and accommodation prices are rising across the country.

Q: How many days do you need for Israel?

Most experts recommend planning for about 10 days in Israel. This will give you a few days to spend in the major cities as well as time to visit the Dead Sea and other attractions off the beaten path.

Q: What is the best month to visit Israel?

If you’re looking for mild weather, it’s a toss up between the spring months (April and May) and autumn months (September and October), though note Passover in the spring can drive up prices and crowds.

Q: How long can a tourist stay in Israel?

Tourists from many countries — like the United States and Canada — can visit Israel for up to 90 days without a visa.

Q: Do I need an Israel travel visa?

Travelers from the United States, Canada, and several other countries do not need a visa to visit Israel for a period of fewer than 90 days.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Israel International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit rules and Israel Travel Requirements. You can also contact the Embassy of Israel.

Q: Can you tour Israel on your own?

Yes. You do not need a tour guide to explore Israel, though having one can certainly provide you a deeper understanding of the place.

Q: Where is Israel?

Israel is located in the Middle East. It shares land borders with Lebanon (north), Syria (northeast), Jordan (east), the Palestinian territories of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip (east and west, respectively), and Egypt (southwest).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Israel?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Israel, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Israel?

The tap water is safe to drink in Israel in most places, though not the Dead Sea. It is always safe to double-check with your hotel, as well.

Q: What is the local currency in Israel?

The local currency in Israel is the New Israel Shekel (NIS).

What would you add to this Israel travel guide?

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can you tour jerusalem on your own

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Making a trip to the land of the Bible without a tour group? Here are some tips for maximizing your experience!

Transportation

Israel is very small. You can see the entire country in two weeks or less, as long as you can get from place to place quickly.

Rental cars are amazingly affordable. Fuel for those cars is amazingly expensive. Still, for getting around on your own, this is the very best way to see Israel. Parking in Jerusalem’s Old City is non-existent. Leave your car at your hotel and catch a taxi or walk.

Public Transportation includes a vast array of buses and a new train . I have no experience with either option and cannot offer an opinion.

Contracting with a tour guide and his or her vehicle. This is the very best way to see the country. Unfortunately, it’s going to cost you the most money, too. But if you’ve got the cash, a guide will make the rocks come alive for you. All big groups in the tour busses have guides. Without a guide, you’ll miss much of the information that will explain why you’ve come to a particular site. If you want a personal recommendation for guides, contact me.

Even without a guide, you can still take advantage of this amazing place. Get a basic guidebook (available at any bookstore or on-line) and read it before you make your trip. It makes for great reading on the plane, too.

Language differences

Though you’ll hear a lot of Hebrew and Aramaic, almost everyone in Israel also speaks English.

National Parks Pass

The best bargain in Israel, this pass will grant you access to dozens of sites. It’ll even give you ideas of where to visit.

Things to see in Jerusalem

  • Praying at the Western Wall.
  • Western Wall Tunnel Tour . Like most of the places on this list in Jerusalem, the National Parks pass doesn’t cover admission to this site. That’s OK. Spend the money for a guided tour!
  • City of David experience, including Hezekiah’s Tunnel walk, a visit to the Pool of Siloam, and an underground walk back to the Temple Mount Area and The Davidson Center Park. If you want to do the tunnels, you need to be sure to get all the tickets necessary and hold on to the receipts. You’ll need water shoes (knee-deep water) and a headlamp. You can also rent small pen-lights there for $1. Or use the light on your phone. This is AMAZING history.
  • The Davidson Center archeological park. You’ll see a First-Century street and the southern steps leading up to the Temple Mount. No doubt, Jesus walked in these places many times. Pentecost probably happened here. Pay attention to the “micvahs.” Watch this video and/or read this to understand more.
  • The Cardo /Jewish Quarter shopping district.
  • Wandering through the Old City.
  • Sisters of Zion Convent – go underground to see the actual stones of the Via Dolorosa Jesus knew.
  • Walking the “Via Dolorosa” and visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
  • Visiting the Garden Tomb . Try to join a group that’s going to have communion. Be sure to hear what the guide says. For many, this is the highlight of an entire trip to Jerusalem. Save it for last if you can.
  • Explore the Mt. of Olives. Visit the Church of All Nations, traditional site of Gethsemane.
  • Walk down into the Kidron Valley. Check out this video for the reasons why.
  • Visit Yad Vashem , the Holocaust Memorial. This is a three-hour experience. Quite disturbing. Very important.
  • Israel Museum . This is where the Dead Sea Scrolls are kept. Many other exhibits, too.
  • Visit the “Burnt” House and the Wohl Museum .
  • Shopping for antiquities? Visit The Ancient Coin in the Jewish Quarter. Tell Joseph Zambil that I sent you!

Things to see in the Dead Sea Area

  • The most visited place in Israel. Hang near a tour group and you’ll learn more.
  • The Dead Sea. Plan on floating in En Bokek, on the southern end of the Dead Sea. By far the nicest area to do this.
  • Ein Gedi. One of your National Parks jewels. Hike up to see the waterfalls of Nahal David. Watch this video to get a glimpse of what’s there.
  • Qumran, where the Dead Sea scrolls were found. Nice gift shop and restaurant here. It’ll be hot, no matter what time of the year. You can also take a short hike up into the mouth of the wadi.
  • You can spend the night in En Bokek or one of the other places along the shore, or you can make this entire journey a day trip loop from Jerusalem.

Things to see around the Sea of Galilee

  • Start with a view from the top of Mt. Arbel. You’re looking at 80 percent of the recorded ministry of Jesus! It’s a nice, short hike from the parking lot. It’s a tough, energizing hike from the bottom! You can also hike down, if you’ve got someone who’ll pick you up.
  • Magdala, home of Mary (of Magdala) Magdalene.
  • Capernaum, adopted home town of Jesus.
  • Skip the overcrowded churches that “remember” Peter’s primacy or the feeding of the 5,000. Worthless stops … neither are in the actual location of the events and you’ll be fighting hundreds and hundreds of tourists who never seem to notice this.
  • Ride all the way around the lake. Just take it in.
  • Yardenit , the baptismal site. You’re welcome to watch others being baptized in the Jordan River, or be baptized yourself. They sell thin robes and access to the changing area for $10.
  • Tiberias has little to offer.
  • My favorite places to stay are Nof Ginosar and En Gev. Both have beach access. If you plan on swimming, have water shoes handy. The lake bottom is covered with sharp rocks.
  • The “Alamo” of Jewish history. People fought to the end against the Romans, many of them taking their own lives in freedom rather than surrendering to their hated enemies. Be warned: It’s a strenuous hike just to get there.
  • Bet She’an, a city of the original Decapolis. If you never get to Italy or Greece, this city is a carbon copy of what you’d find in those countries’ ancient sites. This is a stunning place to visit.

Things to see in the Golan and far north area

  • Banias, or Caesarea Philippi. Watch this to learn more.
  • Tel Dan, one of the most beautiful places you’ll visit. A magnificent, comfortable hike that will show you a pagan altar from the worst days of the Old Testament history, and the “Abraham Gate,” the oldest city gate in the world.
  • Omrit , if you can find it. It’s a challenging hike. Contact me for instructions if you can’t find them on-line.
  • One of the most important cities from the ancient world. You’ll see burned stones here from the time of Joshua. It’s in the Hula Valley.

What to see along the coast of Israel

  • Caesarea Maritima. Give at least half a day to this experience. You’ll want to explore the aqueduct, the harbor and the heart of the ruins, where you’ll find an amazing theater and hippodrome. Eat lunch while you take in the beautiful Mediterranean. Get there early … and try to leave before the afternoon traffic jams begin.
  • Tel Aviv. We don’t visit Tel Aviv on our tours, so I’m clueless on what this major city has to offer. Jaffa is ancient Tel Aviv, but even there, you’ll find little more than expensive shops and beautiful scenery.

The Shephelah and Negev

  • Explore the Valley of Elah , where David defeated Goliath. There’s also Shaaraim, the new find on top of the hill overlooking the valley. It’s a hiking experience.
  • Bet Shemesh.
  • Tel Gath, hometown of Goliath.
  • Beersheba, where Abraham secured a well.
  • Mitzpe Ramon, one of the world’s largest erosion craters.
  • Eilat and Timna Valley – at the southern-most tip of Israel. Unless you’ve got the time, I’d advise skipping this. Far too much time for what you’d see in the north.

Hiking in Israel

Israel had great trails throughout the country. Here’s a helpful link . Be sure to carry plenty of water and everything else you’d need in a backpack. And never walk in a wadi (canyon) in the winter. Running into a flash flood while hiking has been a life-ending experience for several people in recent years.

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Hi i will be travelling to Israel, on my own. Is...

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Old City of Jerusalem Questions & Answers

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Hi i will be travelling to Israel, on my own. Is it safe for a woman alone to walk around and sightsee and sign up for tours to Jerusalem, Bethlehem?

can you tour jerusalem on your own

For Bethlehem, we used Issa Zidane He is on Facebook. He is a Palestinian licensed tour guide and is very personable and intelligent. For Jerusalem, we used "Masada Mark" (Mark Sugarman) with Sar El tours. He is absolutely awesome. Even if he can't accommodate you he will certainly be able to help you find a reputable licensed guide.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

As a solo 72 year old male who walked extensively alone, I felt safe at all times, but I was careful to be off the streets by 11 pm. However Bethlehem horror stories abound concerning lone travellers, so that is a notable exception. Israeli security towards tourists is exceptional.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

If I go on tour with church to Israel do they allow to rest at all or is it just hiking all day

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Hallo, be sure that You can visit Jerusalem alone and feel Save (Thats what I do in this Moment), but I recommend You for your First stay in this City to take a guide. Not because of the Safety, it's because there are so many places to Look, and a gide can Tell You so many about the town, it's the best way in my opinion to discover this Place the First Time.

Bethlehem I'm not shure that it is possibel without a licenced Guide.

Hi Bellbuttons,

In fact, signing up for tours is what will help keep you safe throughout the day because you will always be with a group. So, if I were you, sign up for at least one walking tour everyday, that way, you will meet new people and maybe you can make other plans together throughout the day (that's what I did).

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Absolutely no problem ....u can always hire a tour guide/company to show u around to get the best info ...I have taken Viator tours around the world and always have been very satisfied

can you tour jerusalem on your own

I would say yes it would be safe for women to travel around alone. I am back after spending a week in jerusaleum but I was not alone. It would not be a place where I would travel alone to but that is my opinion. be alert at all times and don't get sucked in to the guys that tout to be your guide for few hours as they will rip you off and charge you megs bucks and then look for a tip and take you into a relations or friend shop where they will try a rip you off and sell souvenirs. do be alert and wary at all times. keep passport on you as well. be careful abd you should be ok.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

In my opinion, absolutely safe.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

You don't have to worry about traveling alone. Israel is as safe for women as it is for men. You can explore Jerusalem on your own, but a guided tour is a good idea. There's so much to learn!

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Yes, it is safe for women and in the holier areas, areas close to the Synagogues and western wall, you are expected to dress "modestly," so longer skirts and longer shirts to cover your shoulders and elbows and knees.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

I have walked alone in the different parts of Jerusalem and was never afraid. People treated me with politeness. I would gladly go there again. Outside Jerusalem I went with a group. A copuple of times I left the group and was on my own in Bethlehem, and that was also ok. People treat you with respect.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Yes! stay in well guarded areas and be aware of your surroundings! Listen to daily news. Trust Israeli security!

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Jerusalem yes on your own is ok but in the Arab quarter have someone with u. Bethlehem you should always be in an escorted group and always have at least one person with u if you are going out of the group.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

In West Jerusalem ( The Jewish Quarter) you will be perfectly safe.Dress standards in most of Israel including Jerusalem are western style,there are however religious communities that are dispersed throughout Jerusalem ( orthodox Jewish) where out of respect one should dress modestly ( ie arms covered above the elbow and legs covered above the shins).

Most of the religious sites within the City walls which include a number of Churches and places of interest to those looking for Christian biblical sites are in areas where it is perfectly safe to walk at any time of the day.

In the Arab quarter there are several sites of Moslem interest for which you will need to dress modestly,and you should be part of a group if you wish to avoid unwanted attention.

If you sign up for Tours make sure that they are with an accredited guide (Trip adviser reviews are very useful for judging standards).I have visited Jerusalem on many occasions and only felt concerned when walking through the Souk when the shops are closed.My wife received an unwanted advance but an undercover Israeli police officer noticed and directed her back into the Jewish Quarter.

The only time I visited Bethlehem was to visit Rachel ( the Jewish matriarch's tomb).That site is heavily patrolled by the Israeli military and I wouldn't recommend an unaccompanied visit.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

There are certain areas in Jerusalem that are not advisable to walk alone if you are either a Jew or Christian/Muslim. Generally, walking around East Jerusalem in the Arab Quarter is considered safe for Christians and Muslims. As anywhere in the world, walk around during sensible times and stay on signposted (English/Arabic/Hebrew) routes. Remember that Jerusalem is holy city for Jews, Christians and muslims so when visiting historical and religious sites, it is advisable to dress appropriately. Remember to carry some sort of ID with you at all times. There are security check posts entering/exiting Jerusalem where you will most likely have to show your passport. Keep the blue entry permit that you will receive at Tel Aviv airport inside your passport. Entering Bethlehem (which is under the Palestinian Authority), you will have to through Israeli check posts. Therefore it is advisable to sign up with official tour companies when visiting Bethlehem. If you have any further questions, do contact me again.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

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Destination Daydreamer

can you tour jerusalem on your own

7 Awesome Jerusalem Tours Definitely Worth the Money

Jerusalem is by far my favorite city in the whole world. I spent 4 months studying in and exploring Jerusalem so I’d say I have the experience to confidently say that. You know when people tell you to ‘picture your happy place’ I set myself on the Mt. of Olives with sweeping views of the Old City of Jerusalem while listening to the sounds of the Muslim call to prayer echoing over the city’s many minarets. That’s how much I love this city.

What makes Jerusalem so amazing is the immense amount of culture you can take in all within one city. Three main world religions (Islam, Judaism, and Christianity) all view Jerusalem as a holy and important city with areas and sites dedicated to each group. And no matter your religious views, or lack thereof, it is fascinating to witness these three cultures intersecting within one area. And what better way to do this than on one of these Jerusalem tours!

I have since returned to Jerusalem with my husband so he could have some of the same amazing experiences I had while exploring the city. As I guided him through the bustling streets of Jerusalem and crowded walkways of the Old City he said to me over and over, ‘This is so crazy that you know your way around Jerusalem without a map.” And I totally agree, it’s crazy to know a city like Jerusalem well enough to be able to navigate from memory.

*There may be affiliate links in this post.  Read my  privacy/disclosure policy  to learn more.

Why Book a Walking or Guided Tour in Jerusalem?

Even though I had 4 months of experience living in Jerusalem, and could so confidently create an itinerary and navigate my husband and myself through the city, there were still certain experiences that I chose to book a tour for during our travels.

Jerusalem (especially the Old City) can be a little overwhelming. There are so many different cultures/religions colliding that it almost feels like you need to learn how to navigate multiple new countries but all within walking distance of each other 😅.

Besides touring the city and the Old City of Jerusalem itself, there are quite a few amazing sites to see in the surrounding area. For example, did you know Bethlehem is only a few miles away from Jerusalem? Or that you can float in the Dead Sea just an hour away?

The thing is, these places can be a little tricky to get to because you’d either need to rent a car and navigate military checkpoints along the way or figure out a potentially confusing and inconvenient public transit system.

So, because of these reasons, we decided to book a few tours in and from Jerusalem to make the most of our time in this amazing place. We paid ourselves for these tours and I am convinced we found the best Jerusalem guided tours.

So now, after 4 months of living experience and countless hours of research upon our return, I’m here to give you my recommendations for the best Jerusalem tours to book to make your time in Jerusalem amazing and as carefree as possible.

Which Company is the Best to Book Tours in Jerusalem With?

Before my husband and I traveled back to Jerusalem and the surrounding areas, I spent HOURS researching to find the best tour company in Jerusalem. I wanted to find reliable, engaging, and affordable groups to join. I kid you not, I wouldn’t be surprised if I spent over 100 hours looking just at different Jerusalem tour packages, different walking tours in Jerusalem, and the best way to complete day trips from Jerusalem.

And after booking and completing multiple tours with Abraham Tours , I am convinced I found the best group to take tours within the Holy Land. They have so many tour options to choose from! Plus I feel like the prices are very reasonable where you couldn’t do it much less expensive on your own. And you can even search by departure location of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Nazareth, or Eilat.

Abraham Tours is a tour group connected with Abraham Hostels, however, you don’t need to be staying at the hostels to participate. Personally, I’m not a hostel person so we stayed at an Airbnb in West Jerusalem but still participated in multiple Abraham Tours. I would say that the vast majority of all our tour groups were staying at other places than the hostel.

And if you are thinking that these tours will only be filled with single 20-year-olds, don’t worry! Our groups had a great mixture of different types of people. There were solo travelers, couples, families with teenagers, LGBTQ, and retirees. So basically, no matter your travel situation, you can feel comfortable on an Abraham Tour !

Quick Guide to the Best Tours to Book in Jerusalem

Walking tours in jerusalem:, 1. holy city tour jerusalem (old city).

Since I lived in Jerusalem for 4 months prior to my return with my husband, I definitely knew my way around the Old City. I had ventured countless times through the streets and alleyways, so much so that I felt very confident in being able to be my husband’s tour guide during that portion of our trip.

Woman and man in front of Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem- one of the best thing to see on Jerusalem tours

Because of my experience, we didn’t opt for a Jerusalem Old City tour , however, I definitely recommend it for someone who has never been before. Having a local Jerusalem tour guide will enhance your experience SO much.

This Holy City Tour is a guided half-day walking tour that covers the amazing religious sites of the three main religions represented (Islam, Judaism and Christianity) in the Old City of Jerusalem.

You’ll enter the temple mount and see the Islamic mosque ‘Dome of the Rock’ (which is literally one of my favorite buildings in the whole world… I mean those blue, green and yellow tiles 😍). The temple mount has very specific opening hours that can easily be missed if you don’t pay attention correctly. That is one reason it is great to visit on this tour .

Large domed building with blue green and yellow tiles and gold roof

*The temple mount is always closed on Fridays and Saturdays. If you book the tour on a Friday or a Saturday you will visit a site with an overlook of the Dome of the Rock rather than getting up close. I recommend making sure you book on a day other than those two days to ensure you get to get up close and personal with the gorgeous Dome of the Rock.

Also on this tour , you’ll visit the Western Wall (sometimes known as the Wailing Wall-but its name is actually the Western Wall). This is the last remaining wall from thousands of years ago that surrounded the Jewish temple and is now a holy site/outdoor synagogue. Here you will get to observe many faithful Jews praying and reading scripture along the wall.

Large, ancient brick wall with Jews praying at the base

Plus you will visit holy Christian sites like the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Via Dolorosa (the path of Christ and the cross). A benefit of a guided tour to all of these different sites is that you will definitely gain a better understanding of the significance of Jerusalem and why this area is called the ‘Holy Land’ to so many different faiths. Plus you’ll get help navigating the sometimes confusing and crowded paths and alleys of the Old City (a big plus in my opinion).

Old white church with blue domed roof and gold cross

2. Mount of Olives Tour

This Mount of Olives tour covers an area that can be easily overlooked in Jerusalem but it has some great things to see. Just to the east of the old city is the Mount of Olives (which is actually where my university was located during my time in Jerusalem). The best part about visiting the Mount of Olives is that you get some awesome views of Jerusalem.

Green olive branches with blue sky background

The view from up there overlooking the bright blue, yellow, and green tiles of the Dome of the Rock and the blue and green domes of ancient churches is just amazing. And to top it all off, you may be up there while the Islam Call to Prayer is echoing over the city, it is just seriously the best. But that’s coming from me- I’m a total sucker for a good view.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Plus you’ll get to get up close and personal with beautiful, ancient olive trees and visit important sites. My favorite places visited on this tour are the Garden of Gethsemane and the huge Jewish cemetery on the hillside.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

3. Meet the Ultra-Orthodox Jews Tour

If you are looking for one of THE most interesting and unique tours in Jerusalem, you for sure need to check out this ‘ Meet the Ultra-Orthodox Jews Tour ‘. To me, one of the best things about visiting Jerusalem is getting to see how different devout people practice their religions.

You’ll the Mea Shearim neighborhood of Jerusalem which is home to Ultra-Orthodox Jews. It is like stepping into another world/time. Almost everything feels different in this neighborhood like the religious clothing worn, the incredibly high modesty required, and the behavior of the Ultra-Orthodox community.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Obviously, people living their life shouldn’t be a tourist attraction. That’s why I appreciate that this tour is led by a member of the local Ultra-Orthodox Community who gives great information and insights about the local community.

If you are interested in visiting the Mea Shearim neighborhood , I definitely recommend booking this ‘Meet the Ultra-Orthodox Jews Tour’ . If you want to visit the area on your own, be sure to wear extra-modest clothing (long sleeves and pants) and don’t try to drive through the neighborhood on Shabbat (sunset on Friday to sunset on Saturday) because they do not drive on the sabbath.

Day Trips from Jerusalem:

4. bethlehem tour.

I feel like you can’t travel all the way to Jerusalem and then not visit Bethlehem. Did you know that Bethlehem is only a short 15-20 minute drive from Jerusalem? However, a slightly tricky thing about visiting Bethlehem is that it is located in the West Bank on the other side of the separation wall (which is a different discussion for a different time).

Woman in front of blue door with Arabic sign overhead

But this means you will go through a security checkpoint to enter Bethlehem and will need your passport on you. Taxis are unable to cross into Bethlehem but there are some buses that are available. Personally, I didn’t want the stress of figuring out the best way to cross into the West Bank, so this Bethlehem tour from Jerusalem was totally perfect for us. Abraham Tours even makes sure to employ a local Bethlehem tour guide to ensure tourism money is still going into the city.

We met up at the desk of the Abraham Hostel which happened to be the meeting point for this Bethlehem tour , boarded a van with other group members, and made the quick drive to Bethlehem and met up with our local tour guide.

We walked through Bethlehem and learned a little bit about the history of the city and the negative effects on the city since the separation wall was built. Then we visited the Church of the Nativity which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the spot where it’s believed that Jesus Christ was born. Obviously, the church wasn’t there at the time of Christ 😅, but it was built in about 500 AD around the supposed site of the birth of Christ.

Ancient brick church with bell tower in Bethlehem

We also visited the Milk Grotto (a Catholic church in Bethlehem), a couple of shops where you can purchase beautiful olive wood nativity sets and other trinkets, and a shepherd field overlook.

I personally liked walking around the city of Bethlehem and being in the same general areas Christ may have been more than the specific holy sites we visited in Bethlehem. But I still think they are worthwhile to visit to have your own experience.

View of tan buildings across hillside in Bethlehem

Our tour guide let us make a quick stop at a Banksy graffiti piece on the separation wall (I think someone in our group asked about it). The itinerary does not include any Banksy stops- but if you ask nicely maybe your tour guide will make a quick stop for you also :). There are multiple Bansky pieces in Bethlehem all of which are very thought-provoking.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

5. Dead Sea, Masada & Ein Gedi Tour

In my opinion, the Dead Sea, Masada & Ein Gedi tour is one of the best day tours from Jerusalem you can take. This specific tour is interesting because it includes 3 great destinations all located just over an hour away from Jerusalem. The Dead Sea (think water so salty you can float in it and mineral-rich mud you can cover yourself in), Masada (think 2,000-year-old, giant, hilltop fortress), and Ein Gedi (think lovely nature walk to an oasis in the desert).

This is a ‘self-guided’ tour where the entrance price to Masada and Ein Gedi are not included. Basically, this means it is a shuttle that will take you to these three destinations and provide you with some audio tours (if you want). This may sound kind of basic, but for me, this was an amazing option to be able to not have to think about how to get to the Dead Sea on public transit.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

I have a friend who was visiting Jerusalem and she tried to take the bus to Masada and then the Dead Sea. Because of their tight schedule and their confusion about the bus stops, they, unfortunately, got off at the wrong Dead Sea stop and then had to take the next bus back to Jerusalem because they ran out of time.

I so did not want that to happen to us and really wanted to enjoy the day without thinking much. And I’m so glad we booked this experience ! It made the day super smooth and fun.

We started out with some time at Ein Gedi (and saw some adorable little critters along the trail called a Rock Hyrax). The walk is easy and ends at a waterfall and pool of water.

Small waterfall into pond surrounded by desert rocks

Then we went to Masada and rode the cable car to the top of the mountain. There are some awesome views of the Moab Mountains and the Dead Sea, not to mention the tons of ancient ruins atop the mountain to see. They even offer a Masada sunrise tour if that is something you are interested in!

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Then we ended the day hanging out at the beach of the Dead Sea aka the lowest point on earth! Be sure to bring your swimsuit to float in the water. It really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can roll all around in the water and not sink.

You can even pick up some Dead Sea salt to take home as a souvenir to think of your trip every time you cook (that’s what we did 🥰). Also, maybe don’t plan on shaving the morning you visit because the salt can really sting recently shaved areas 😬.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

If you are short on time or are only interested in visiting the Dead Sea, no worries, they also offer a one-stop Dead Sea tour .

Jerusalem to Jordan Tours:

6. 2-day jerusalem to petra tour.

Okay, okay, okay I know, you are in the midst of planning a trip to Jerusalem, not Jordan. However, I think you should heavily consider adding this 2-day Jerusalem to Petra tour to your itinerary. The country of Jordan neighbors Jerusalem to the east and has some amazing sites that you can easily fit into a quick 2-day road trip from Jerusalem. The drive from Amman to Jerusalem is only 1 hour and 50 minutes!

Hillside covered in white and tan cement buildings

Once again, I had already visited Jordan when I was studying in Jerusalem. However, once my husband realized we could visit Petra on this trip which is not only one of the 7 New Wonders of the World but also a filming location of Indiana Jones he was sold on us visiting.

Woman and man in front of large building carved out of red rock in the desert

And even though I’d already been, I was still logistically lost on how we would do it. Because on my prior visit, I was not responsible for any planning or logistics. Thankfully, I found this amazing 2-day Petra tour from Jerusalem and I’m so glad we participated in it!

How can you not add one more night to your itinerary to get to see the country of Jordan? It’s so close! Plus, if you do have more time, they also have a 3-day tour option or an 8-day Israel/Jordan tour option. (Spoiler alert-the 3-day tour option includes Petra PLUS a desert Jeep tour).

Woman riding camel in front of building carved out of red rock

One con I’ll admit is that I would have enjoyed more time in Petra. We had to move pretty quickly to see the things we wanted to see within our allotted time frame. However, the ease of transportation, an awesome local Jordanian tour guide, the extra sites we saw in Jordan, and the super unique experience of staying overnight in the desert at a Bedouin camp totally made booking the 2-day tour to Jordan from Jerusalem it all worth it.

Green tents in front of red rocks in the desert

However, if you do want more time than we had in Petra, just book the 3-day tour to Jordan from Jerusalem instead (problem solved!). Plus you’ll get to visit Wadi Rum and experience a Jeep tour through the desert!

Jerusalem Tour From Tel Aviv:

7. jerusalem day tour from tel aviv.

If you are staying in Tel Aviv but are interested in seeing Jerusalem, this is the tour for you! The ‘Jerusalem Day Tour from Tel Aviv’ includes all of the major highlights of Jerusalem that anyone needs to see. Like visiting the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and visiting an overlook of the Dome of the Rock.

Woman standing in front of sign that says 'Holy Sepulchre'

Plus you get to see one of Jerusalem’s hidden gems, the Mehane Yehuda Market which is full of delicious baked goods, produce spices, and more. Mahane Yehuda market is located outside of the Old City which means you will be surrounded by many locals shopping rather than only tourists.

Crowded marketplace with Hebrew signs over stalls

If you are planning a trip to Tel Aviv, I definitely recommend making time in your itinerary to take a day trip to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv. And this Tel Aviv tour to Jerusalem is my top pick for that.

These two cities are only about one hour apart but are so different and unique that you need to see both. This Jerusalem tour from Tel Aviv is the perfect way to experience Jerusalem during your travels to Tel Aviv.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

And those are the guided tours to Jerusalem that I recommend (and the surrounding areas)! Please  let me know  if you have any questions in the comments below. I really did love my experience with Abraham Tours (which btw did I mention I paid for all of those tours myself-they weren’t a collaboration). Book one- if not all of these tours now- like, right now! You won’t regret it.

Check out this other post, I know you’ll love it:

8 Key West Excursions Definitely Worth the Money

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The ultimate guide to renting jet skis in key west, florida, 5 ways to get to the blue lagoon in malta + things to know before you go.

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Hi there Jenessa! We are taking a mediterranean cruise that stops in Jerusalem, (Ashdod) and in Tel Aviv (Haifa) do you know if any of these tours with Abraham tours are available to cruisers? Or how would a traveler get to a meeting point from the cruise port? Thanks in advance! Tara

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Hey Tara, sounds fun! To take a tour with Abraham Hostels you’ll need to get to the meeting point which is the Abraham Hostel in Tel Aviv (or Jerusalem, but I think the Tel Aviv one may be easier to get to). Here is a good article on another site that give directions for either a taxi or a bus line from Ashdod Port to Tel Aviv. Good luck!

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The Only Itinerary You Need to See New York in 2 Days

Yellowstone with kids: the ultimate 2 day itinerary.

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can you tour jerusalem on your own

CHRISTIAN HOLY LAND TOUR

Private luxury designed for the Christian traveler. Once-in-a-lifetime starts now!

  • Israel Tour Packages
  • Christian Holy Land Tour Package

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Private Tour Package series: Luxury Christian Holy Land Experience The perfect bucket-list experience for parties of 2 – 8 travelers. Tour the Holy Land for 10 days/9 nights in the finest luxury accommodations. Explore the Land of the Bible on an incredible private journey that’s anything but cookie-cutter. Pace: Comfortable Activity level: Moderate (walking) var packageBookingPageId = '3973'; Overview Itinerary Leisure day Upgrades Extensions Formalities Inquiry Overview The Luxury Christian Holy Land Experience

The Christian Holy Land Tour is a journey through the history of the Land of the Bible: from the ancient roots of Christianity to the life and teachings of Jesus, and through the millennia of Church life up to the present day. From the lush Galilean Landscape to the splendor of Jerusalem and all the places in between, you’ll be amazed at how much you can do and see while still maintaining a comfortable pace.

This non-denominational Christian tour is designed to provide travelers an in-depth exploration of the historical, cultural, and religious landmarks that make the Holy Land one of the world’s great treasures. This package is designed for travelers who would like to experience both must-sees and unique encounters all while traveling in the comfort of a private tour in high-end accommodations.

This tour package is available throughout the calendar year except for select blackout dates. You can book this package at one of three different levels: Deluxe, Luxury, and Luxury Exclusive.

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Christian Holy Land Tour pricing*

can you tour jerusalem on your own

*Price per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement will apply for any guests staying in a single occupancy room. Prices subject to change

The Christian Holy Land Experience

Day 1 – arrival day.

VIP arrival Transfer to your hotel Relax and unwind Explore Jaffa (on own) Dinner at leisure

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Overnight : Tel Aviv

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Day 2 – North to Galilee

Caesarea National Park Tel Megiddo Lunch on own Nazareth Mt. Precipice Dinner included

Overnight : North

Day 3 – Golan & Galilee

Caesarea Philippi Lunch on own Mt. of Beatitudes Capernaum & Tabgha Galilee Boat Ride Dinner included

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Day 4 – Lower Galilee

Mount Tabor Sindyanna of Galilee Lunch on own Benedictine Abbey Dinner at leisure

Overnight : Jerusalem

Day 5 – Jerusalem Old City

Mount of Olives Gethsemane Via Dolorosa Holy Sepulchre Davidson Center Dinner at leisure

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Day 6 – Jerusalem & Bethlehem

Yad Vashem Memorial Lunch on own Bethlehem Dinner at leisure

Day 7 – Judean Desert

The fortress at Masada Dead Sea experience Lunch included Return to Jerusalem Dinner at leisure

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Day 8 – Jerusalem

City of David Lunch on own Israel Museum Dinner at leisure

Day 9 – Leisure Day

Enjoy a day on your own in Jerusalem or choose from one of the other options in the Leisure day tab.

Dinner at leisure

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Day 10 – Departure Day

Spend your last morning exploring on your own, relaxing at the hotel, or shopping for souvenirs.

Transfer to Airport VIP Departure Assistance

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Have a safe flight!

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Leisure day

Spend your leisure day on your own or choose one of these options

can you tour jerusalem on your own

  • Latrun Armored Corps Memorial
  • Burma Road Jeep Tour
  • Lunch on your own
  • Ammunition Hill
  • Dinner on your own

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  • Artisan Goat Cheese Farm
  • Boutique Winery Tour
  • Machne Yehuda Market Culinary Experience
  • Dinner is included

can you tour jerusalem on your own

  • Mt. Herzl Nat’l Cemetery
  • Theodor Herzl Museum
  • Knesset & Supreme Court
  • M. Begin Heritage Center

can you tour jerusalem on your own

This full-day tour of some of the Jerusalem area’s finest wineries will satisfy every oenophile’s thirst. Explore the history of wine-making in the region, learn about the fascinating technologies that enable the production of top-quality wines in harsh climates, and enjoy a taste of some of the best wines being sold anywhere in the world today.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Engage your fighting spirit with an exciting military experience with some of the IDF’s best former counter-terrorism experts. Train in Krav Maga hand-to-hand combat, practice counter-terrorism maneuvers, compete in shooting exercises, and more. See if you have what it takes to join the elite combat forces of the IDF.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Enjoy a private helicopter flight to Mitzpe Ramon in the Negev Desert for an incredible day in and around the Ramon Crater, one of Israel’s most amazing natural attractions. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery, tour the crater and desert surroundings by Jeep, and even rappel down into the crater before returning to Jerusalem by helicopter.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Cross the border into Jordan and take off on a helicopter flight to Petra, one of UNESCO’s amazing World Heritage Sites. Enjoy an expertly guided private tour of the stunning Rose Red City and its famous landmarks: the Treasury, the Siq, and more. Cross Petra off your bucket list, then fly back to Jerusalem.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Take off on an amazing once-in-a-lifetime private helicopter flight over some of Israel’s most beautiful landscapes.

Half-day experience. Please note that this is a Leisure Day add-on and can only be added when you choose to spend the day on your own.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Set out on a special private tour and expert wine tasting at a local boutique winery.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

See if you have what it takes to be part of the IDF’s elite counter-terrorism forces.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Finishing touches to make your tour singularly yours

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Flexible start day

This itinerary is designed to begin on a Sunday. If you wish, you may shift your tour dates to start on a different day of the week (note: this may result in minor changes to the itinerary that will not affect the overall travel experience or trip value) .

Cost: $500 total

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Room upgrades

Crank up the luxury by upgrading from a deluxe-level room to a premium-level room or a suite for your whole trip.

Premium starting from $1,560 per room Suite starting from $4,960 per room

You’re coming all this way, why not cross a few more items off your bucket list?

Choose from one of these amazing trip extensions to add either before or after (or both!) your Tour Package. All extensions offer comprehensive private touring packages in high-end luxury accommodations.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Private 10 day / 9 night tour in luxury accommodations, including a spectacular 4-night Nile Cruise through iconic archaeological sites. Tour highlights: the Pyramids at Giza, the Mighty Sphinx, Old Cairo, Luxor, The Valley of Kings, and much more!

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Private 7 day / 6 night tour in luxury accommodations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Tour highlights include: Old and New Dubai, including a visit to the 148th floor of the Burj Khalifa; incredible Desert Safari and traditional hospitality, and much more!

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Private 6 day / 5 night tour in luxury accommodations, including all the best of Jordan. Tour highlights include: traditional desert hospitality in Wadi Rum, a mind-blowing tour of the Lost City of Petra, a Dead Sea retreat, and tour of capital city Amman.

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Private 6 day / 5 night tour of Egypt in luxury accommodations. Tour highlights: The Pyramids at Giza, the Mighty Sphinx, Karnak, the Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Old Cairo, and much more!

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Private 5 day / 4 night tour in luxury accommodations in the economic heart of the UAE. Tour highlights include: modern and classical Dubai, desert hospitality, a day trip to Abu Dhabi, and plenty of down-time and shopping opportunities for all.

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Private 5 day / 4 night tour in luxury accommodations with the stunning red desert landscape all around. Tour highlights include: a relaxing day of water sports or beach time in Aqaba, desert hospitality in Wadi Rum, and fabulous tour of Petra.

Formalities

The Christian Holy Land Tour: package details

Package inclusions: • Expertly crafted private itinerary that’s perfect for your party of 2-8 guests. • VIP Meet-and-Greet service upon arrival and private car service to and from the airport. • Nine nights’ accommodation in luxury hotels (according to package level chosen). • Breakfast at the hotel every morning and select lunches and dinners. • Luxury touring vehicle with English-speaking driver; all entrance and activities fees (per itinerary). • Expert services of a private, English-speaking tour guide for your whole trip. • Full backing of Dekel Tours and 24/7 support to ensure smooth running of the trip and real-time response to any unforeseen disturbances.

Package exclusions: • All international airfare. • Travel insurance that includes coverage for trip cancellation/interruption, medical, etc. • Meals listed as “on own” in itinerary. • Activities not listed in itinerary. • All gratuities and other out-of-pocket and personal expenses.

Help with insurance and flights

We strongly recommend that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance in the event that you need to cancel your trip unexpectedly. We suggest arranging insurance through an agent in your home country; in the event that you need to file a claim, it is far easier to do so locally. Note: the best time to purchase travel insurance is within 2 weeks of confirming your trip and paying a deposit.

We partner with Travel Insured International to bring our valued US-based guests the kind of travel insurance that can stand up to our Uncompromising Quality, Uncomplicated Travel promise. Click here for information or to get a quote!

To inquire about flights for your travel package, we recommend that you contact Karen Berger at Preferred Naples Travel, located in Florida. Just be sure to let her know you are traveling with Dekel Tours.

Take the first step toward an unforgettable Israel experience

If you have questions or you want to book this tour, click below to contact one of our friendly tour specialists.

Schedule your free consultation

Travel professionals who have already received an agent login can book this package from their agent dashboard. (If you’ve never partnered with Dekel Tours and you’d like to get started, click here to set up a consultation .)

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Your first step toward unforgettable Israel experience

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Travel with friends or during off-peak travel seasons for amazing savings (off-peak months: January, February, May, July, August, September, November and December)

Egypt tours which include Nile Cruise can only start on specific days of the week. Please read carefully when booking Egypt tour.

If adding multiple destinations, we recommend pairing Jordan u0026 Israel together (order not important).

Tours in Israel are scheduled to begin on Sunday and end ten days later on Tuesday. It is possible to start Israel tours on a different day of the week. An addition fee will apply and changes to the itinerary might be made to accommodate flexible start date.

Step 1 – Select travel destinations

Choose all destinations for this trip and the order they will be visited in.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Step 2 – Select leisure day option in Israel

Day 9 in Israel itinerary is a leisure day. Choose one of the free or upgraded leisure day options below.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Israel & the IDF

Included in the price

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Theme Day: Israel & the IDF

This is a full-day activity.

– Laturn Armored Corps Memorial – Burma Road Jeep Tour – Lunch on your onw – Ammunition Hill – Dinner on your onw

Overnight: Jerusalem

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Spend the day on your own

Half-day upgrade options available – click “Select”

Choose to spend the day on your own shopping or relaxing on the beach or choose from the half-day activity options. Please note, you can choose a maximum of two half-day activities.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Culinary & Wine

Included in price

Artisan Goat Cheese Farm Boutique Winery Tour Lunch on your own Machne Yehuda Market Culinary Experience Dinner is included

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Modern Israel

Mt.Herzl Nat’l Cemetery Theodor Herzl Museum Lunch on your own Knesset & Supreme Court M. Begin Heritage Center Dinner on your own

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Wine for Aficionados

$300 per person

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Warrior Adventure

$3,650 total

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Mitzpe Ramon

$250 per person

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Petra, Jordan

$500 per person

Select your leisure day adventure(s)

Choose up to 2 half-day extras to spice up your leisure day

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Aerial Tour by Helicopter

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Wine tasting

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Army Outing

See if you have what it takes to be part of the IDF’s elite counter-terrorism forces.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Step 3 – Select package level

Package level applies to all destinations in this trip.

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Package level – Deluxe Comfortable accommodations at 4+ star hotels such as Beach Hotel Tel Aviv (Israel), Made up Hotel (Egypt), Desert Hotel (Jordan) and similar.

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Package level – Luxury Luxury accommodations at 5 star hotels such as Beach Hotel Tel Aviv (Israel), Made up Hotel (Egypt), Desert Hotel (Jordan) and similar.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Package level – Luxury Exclusive Luxury accommodations at 5+ star hotels such as Beach Hotel Tel Aviv (Israel), Made up Hotel (Egypt), Desert Hotel (Jordan) and similar.

Step 4 – Select the number of travelers and accommodation preferences

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Select the type of room in all hotels for this trip. Deluxe is the default and is included in price. Premium and Suite are upgrades and are charged extra.

Select the number of people staying in each room. Please note, Single Supplement Fee will apply for single occupancy rooms

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Step 5 – Select travel dates

Select preferred travel year and month, step 6 – travel calendar.

Here you will find all the information about the flights, border crossings and visas for this trip

Step 7 – Review & book

Please review carefully before placing your order

Name this trip

Trip name successfully saved.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Israel Highlights Tour

Select Egypt experience

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Egyptian Wonders – Cairo, Pyramids & Nile Cruise

Private 10 day / 9 night tour in luxury accommodations, including a spectacular 4 night Nile Cruise through iconic archaeological sites. Tour highlights: the Pyramids at Giza, Old Cairo and the Khan el-Khalili suq, the Mighty Sphinx, Luxor, and much more!

can you tour jerusalem on your own

The Highlights of Egypt

Private 8 day / 7 night tour in luxury accommodations, including a spectacular 4 night Nile Cruise through iconic archaeological sites. Tour highlights: the Pyramids at Giza, Old Cairo and the Khan el-Khalili suq, the Mighty Sphinx, Luxor, and much more!

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Pyramids & Beyond – Mini-Egypt: Giza, Cairo & Luxor

Private 6 day / 5 night tour in luxury accommodations. Tour highlights: the Pyramids at Giza, Old Cairo and the Khan el-Khalili suq, the Mighty Sphinx, Luxor, and much more!

Select Jordan experience

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Incredible Jordan – The Ultimate Jordan Tour

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Red Desert Adventure – Mini-Jordan: Wadi Rum & Petra

Select UAE experience

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Enjoy the Emirates – Dubai, Abu Dhabi & more!

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Dazzling Dubai – Mini-UAE: Dubai Getaway

Request this trip

Request this trip Trip start date is less than 3 months from now. Request this trip now and you tour specialist will check availability and be in touch shortly.

Guest details

For booking purposes, please provide the following information about at least one person participating in this trip.

In case of combining 3+ destinations (including Jordan), we recommend pairing Israel and Jordan (in whatever order) together.

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Discover more of our amazing private Israel tour packages

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Best of Israel: The Culinary & Wine Tour

10 Days/9 Nights in luxury hotels.

The Culinary and Wine Tour brings you the best of Israel’s incredible food and wine scene on your journey through the country’s historical, cultural, and natural landmarks. Through local open-air markets, traditional cooking workshops, boutique wineries, scrumptious street food stands, and all the fascinating places in between, you’ll be amazed at how much you can do and see (and eat and drink) while still maintaining a comfortable pace.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

This is Israel: The Highlights Tour

The Israel Highlights Tour brings you all of Israel’s heavy hitters in one amazing journey. Embark on a private luxury tour of Israel, from the glitter of modern Tel Aviv to the ancient splendor of Jerusalem and all the incredible places in between. You’ll be amazed at how much you can do and see while still maintaining a comfortable pace. This is Israel: Uncomplicated!

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Best of Israel: The Outdoor Adventure Tour

11 Days/10 Nights in luxury hotels.

The Outdoor Adventure Tour is the perfect tour of Israel for people who love to get outside and play. Discover all the wonders of Israel on this luxury tour that’s built to keep your heart-rate elevated. Smash your step counter and join us for an incredible journey over the hills, through the deserts, into the craters, and all over this beautiful land.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

Want to see Israel your way?

No problem! We love custom designing Israel tours. Your dedicated tour specialist will spend the time to get to know you so we can build you an Israel trip from the bottom up. You can be sure your Israel experience is perfectly suited to you and your specific needs and preferences. Discover the Dekel Tours promise of Uncompromising Quality and Unparalleled Service. It’s how we do Israel: Uncomplicated .

Guest Testimonials

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Screen Rant

8 biggest differences between the eras tour’s theatrical & disney+ streaming versions.

There are some key differences between Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor’s Version) on Disney+ and the concert movie's theatrical release.

  • Taylor Swift's Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) on Disney+ includes four previously cut songs, filling out the concert setlist in the correct order.
  • Because of the inclusion of previously cut songs and bonus acoustic songs on The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version), the theatrical and streaming versions of the Eras Tour movie differ in runtime.
  • The Eras Tour movie now features a song released after the tour began thanks to the inclusion of the Speak Now (Taylor's Version) vault track "I Can See You" as a bonus acoustic song on the Disney+ release.

T aylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) is officially streaming on Disney+, and some major changes have been made to the concert movie since it first premiered in theaters. Divided into 10 separate sections, the set list for Taylor Swift's Eras Tour covers almost every era of her lengthy music career. In October 2023, Swift brought the showstopping concert experience to the big screen by releasing The Eras Tour movie in theaters. Following its theatrical release, Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour movie broke several box office records , surpassing 2011's Justin Bieber: Never Say Never as the highest-grossing concert movie ever.

Now, the concert movie has finally hit streaming with an exclusive Disney+ release titled Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) . Of course, the privacy and control settings offered by streaming are just some of the many ways that watching Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour on Disney+ will be different from theaters , but it's not just the viewing experience that's changed. There are some major differences between the theatrical and streaming versions of Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour movie themselves, primarily in the number of songs in the Disney+ release.

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) is available to stream now on Disney+.

8 Four Songs Cut From The Theatrical Version Are Included In The Eras Tour Movie On Disney+

The eras tour (taylor's version) shows (almost) the entire concert.

The biggest difference between The Eras Tour movie on streaming versus in theaters is the inclusion of four previously cut songs in Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) on Disney+. When it was released in theaters, Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour movie did not include every song from the concert's regular set list in order to shorten the runtime. When it was made available to rent on demand on December 13, 2023 (Swift's 34th birthday), the VOD release included the previously cut songs "The Archer," "Long Live" and "Wildest Dreams" at the end of the movie as bonus content.

In addition to these three songs, The Eras Tour movie also re-added "cardigan" on Disney+ . Unlike the VOD version, these four songs have now been edited into their respective eras in their proper placements on the set list in the streaming version. Now that "The Archer," "Long Live," "cardigan," and "Wildest Dreams" are finally featured in The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) , almost the entire concert is shown in the correct order on Disney+. The only two songs still missing from The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) are "no body, no crime" and "Seven (Interlude)."

13 Best Taylor Swift Easter Eggs & References In The Eras Tour Movie

7 three eras end differently in the eras tour movie on disney+, the lover, speak now, & folklore eras each end with the proper song now.

Of the four previously cut songs that were finally included in The Eras Tour movie on Disney+, three serve as the final songs of their respective eras on The Eras Tour set list. At the live shows, "The Archer" closes out the Lover era and "cardigan" closes out the folklore era. Although the Speak Now era previously consisted of just "Enchanted," after Speak Now (Taylor's Version) was released on July 7, 2023, "Long Live" was added to the set list as the second and, thus, last song in the Speak Now era.

Swift performs "Wildest Dreams" between "Shake It Off" and "Bad Blood" during the 1989 era at the live shows, so its omission from the theatrical version of The Eras Tour movie wasn't as jarring.

Now that "The Archer," "Long Live," and "cardigan" are included in The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) on Disney+ in their correct placements on the set list, all the eras finally end with the same final song as the live shows.

Because these three songs were excluded from the theatrical release, the Lover, Speak Now, and folklore eras all ended with different songs in The Eras Tour movie than they do at the live shows. The Lover era concluded with the title track, the Speak Now era started and ended with "Enchanted," and "my tears ricochet" finished off the folklore era . Now that "The Archer," "Long Live," and "cardigan" are included in The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) on Disney+ in their correct placements on the set list, all the eras finally end with the same final song as the live shows.

6 "Long Live" Plays Twice In The Eras Tour Movie On Disney+

The studio version & swift's live performance of "long live" are both in the eras tour movie (taylor's version).

Although Swift's live performance of "Long Live" was cut from the theatrical release of The Eras Tour movie, the studio version of "Long Live (Taylor's Version)" played over the end credits. This is still the case in the streaming version, but Swift's live performance of "Long Live" also appears in the Speak Now era after "Enchanted," just like in the live shows. As a result, "Long Live" plays twice during The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) in both live and studio-recorded formats. This is the only instance in which two different versions of the same song play in the streaming version.

5 There Are Four Bonus Acoustic Songs In The Eras Tour Movie On Disney+

"the acoustic collection" is included at the end of the eras tour (taylor's version).

One of the biggest differences between the theatrical and streaming versions of The Eras Tour movie is that The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) on Disney+ contains four bonus acoustic songs. At every show on The Eras Tour, Swift does an acoustic set in between the folklore era and the final Midnights era . During this set, she performs two surprise songs from her vast catalogue of music: one on piano and one on acoustic guitar.

Because Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour movie was filmed during her first three stops at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, Swift had six surprise songs to choose from for the acoustic set in The Eras Tour movie. She went with her performances of "Our Song" and "You're Own Your Own, Kid," which left four songs that she later included as bonus acoustic songs in The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) on Disney+. "I Can See You," "Death by a Thousand Cuts," "You Are In Love," and "Maroon" appear at the end of the streaming version as part of "The Acoustic Collection."

4 The Surprise Songs From The Acoustic Set Play Twice In The Eras Tour Movie On Disney+

"our song" & "you're own your own, kid" appear again in "the acoustic collection".

"Long Live" may be the only song with two different versions featured in The Eras Tour movie on Disney+, but "Our Song" and "You're Own Your Own, Kid" play twice in The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) . Just like in theaters, these same surprise songs play during the acoustic set of the regular set list in The Eras Tour movie on Disney+ . However, these same performances of "Our Song" and "You're Own Your Own, Kid" are featured again in the "Acoustic Collection" alongside the bonus acoustic songs.

Why Taylor Swift Almost Completely Ignores Her Debut Album On The Eras Tour (Despite The Title)

3 the eras tour movie on disney+ has a much longer runtime, the eras tour (taylor's version) is 45 minutes longer than the theatrical release.

On The Eras Tour, Swift's live shows are roughly 3 hours and 15 minutes long. However, because of all the songs cut from the concert movie in theaters, Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour 's runtime was only 2 hours and 45 minutes. With the addition of "The Archer," "Long Live" and "Wildest Dreams," the VOD release's runtime rounded out to approximately 3 hours.

The Eras Tour movie has a runtime of 3 hours and 30 minutes on Disney+, 45 minutes longer than the theatrical release and 15 minutes longer than the live concert (thanks to "The Acoustic Collection").

Now, between the four previously cut songs added back to the set list, the four bonus acoustic songs, and the original surprise songs from the acoustic set playing again in the "Acoustic Collection," The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) has a very long runtime. The Eras Tour movie has a runtime of 3 hours and 30 minutes on Disney+ , a whole 45 minutes longer than the theatrical release and 15 minutes longer than the live concert (thanks to "The Acoustic Collection"). However, pausing and fast-forwarding make this runtime much more manageable on streaming than at a live show or in theaters.

2 The Eras Tour Movie On Disney+ Includes A Song Released After The Eras Tour Began

"i can see you" was released as a vault track on speak now (taylor's version).

Since embarking on The Eras Tour in March 2023, Swift has released two more re-recorded albums. The first was Speak Now (Taylor's Version), released on July 7 before filming for The Eras Tour movie took place in August 2023. The second was 1989 (Taylor's Version) on October 27, 2023, just two weeks after the premiere of The Eras Tour movie in theaters on October 13. These two albums combined contain a total of 11 previously unreleased songs "from the vault."

Although none of the Speak Now (Taylor's Version) vault tracks made it into The Eras Tour's regular set list, "Long Live" was added to the Speak Now era in the show as a celebration of the re-recorded album's release.

"I Can See You (Taylor's Version) [From The Vault]" was included as a bonus acoustic song in the streaming version.

Of course, Swift couldn't have performed any 1989 (Taylor's Version) vault tracks as surprise songs while filming The Eras Tour movie in August 2023, since the album hadn't come out yet. However, Swift did perform one vault track from Speak Now (Taylor's Version) , "I Can See You," while filming The Eras Tour movie, but it wasn't selected as one of the two surprise songs for the acoustic set in The Eras Tour movie. Instead, these were "Our Song" from her debut self-titled album and "You're Own Your Own, Kid" from Midnights, both of which were released before the tour began.

However, "I Can See You (Taylor's Version) [From The Vault]" was included as a bonus acoustic song in the streaming version. As a result, The Eras Tour movie on Disney+ now contains a song released after The Eras Tour began. "I Can See You" is also the only vault track in The Eras Tour movie other than " All Too Well (10 Minute Version) " from Red (Taylor's Version) , which was released on November 12, 2021, and closes out the Red era on The Eras Tour set list.

What Is Taylor Swift's Next Album & When Does It Release?

1 taylor swift drops 2 more f-bombs in the eras tour (taylor's version), including "maroon" as a bonus acoustic song on disney+ added 2 more f-bombs to the eras tour movie.

Throughout the theatrical version of The Eras Tour movie's two-hours-and-49-minute runtime, Swift only drops four F-bombs across three of the 40 songs. While none of the previously cut songs included in the streaming version contain any F-bombs, one of the four bonus acoustic songs actually contains two back-to-back. On the bridge of "Maroon," Swift drops two F-bombs, bringing the total to six F-bombs in Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour movie on Disney+ across four songs. This could be useful information for any parents monitoring the coarse language in the streaming version of Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour.

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour is a film rendition of the colossal worldwide event that sees the legendary pop star hit the stage in a specially curated film event. Performing the hits of her over seventeen-year career in music, The Eras Tour highlights Taylor Swift and her team as they put on a show of a lifetime.

can you tour jerusalem on your own

How to watch 'Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version)'

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor’s Version) arrives on Disney+ tonight — don’t worry, you don’t need to calm down! After achieving Golden Globe -worthy box office success during its theatrical release, the concert film is finally going to be available to stream from the comfort and privacy of your own home, meaning you can sing along as loud as you’d like without fear of winding up a viral video on Tik Tok. The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) will feature songs that weren't in the theatrical release OR in the digital rental version, including —thankfully — the pop star's performance of "Cardigan" and four additional songs from the acoustic set of the show (AKA surprise songs!). You can start streaming Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor’s Version) as early as 9 p.m. ET tonight.

The release of the Golden Globe-nominated movie marks another step of Swift’s into her cinematic era. The singer-songwriter has previously generated Oscar buzz for her short film/music video All Too Well: The Short Film and has made appearances in films including Valentine’s Day ( opposite Taylor Lautner ), Cats , The Giver and David O. Russell’s Amsterdam . Last year, Swift signed a deal with Searchlight Pictures to direct a feature film based on her own original script — but little is known about the future project.

So we may have to wait a little longer to watch Taylor Swift's first official movie (and listen to her latest album, The Tortured Poets Department ), but the wait is almost over for Taylor Swift: The Era's Tour (Taylor's Version)! Are you ready for it? Here's what you need to know about how to watch The Eras Tour from home — cowboy boots optional!

When does The Eras Tour movie come out?

The Era's Tour (Extended Edition) movie has been available to rent on digital since Dec. 13 of 2023 (Blondie's birthday, in case you didn't know!), but the film will finally be available to stream free with a Disney+ subscription starting this Thursday, Mar. 14 at 9 p.m. ET. 

What time does the Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) come out on Disney+? 

Initially slated for a Friday, Mar. 15 release, The Eras Tour film will now be available on Disney+ starting Thursday evening, Mar. 14 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. 

Where to stream Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour movie

All of taylor swift’s movies and tv appearances.

While the Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour concert film isn’t currently available on Netflix, Hulu or HBO’s Max, there are more Taylor Swift documentaries, concert films and even movies featuring Taylor Swift — some of which you can stream in the meantime.

Taylor Swift concert films

Journey to Fearless (2010)

Speak Now World Tour Live (2011)

The 1989 World Tour Live (2015)

Taylor Swift: Reputation Stadium Tour (2018)

Taylor Swift: City of Lover (2020)

Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions (2020), stream on Disney+

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (2023), Stream on Disney+

Taylor Swift documentaries

Miss Americana (2020), stream on Netflix

IMPACT X Nightline: Taylor + Travis (2023), stream on Hulu

Every Taylor Swift film and TV appearance

CSI: Crime Scene Investigation : Season 9, Episode 16 (2009),  stream on Hulu

Valentine’s Day (2010), rent on Amazon

The Lorax (2012), stream on Peacock

New Girl : Season 2, Episode 25 (2013),  stream on Peacock

The Giver (2014),  stream on Netflix

Cats (2019), rent on Amazon

Amsterdam (2022), stream on Max

Long live The Eras Tour! (Ashok Kumar/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management)

IMAGES

  1. Build your own Tour

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  2. Best of Jerusalem Day Tour

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  3. Free Self-Guided Walking Tour of Jerusalem's Old City (Map)

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  4. Old and New Jerusalem Full-Day Tour Operated by Bein Harim Ltd

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  5. One day in Jerusalem: 360° Virtual Tour with Voice Over

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  6. Tour of Jerusalem’s Old City

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COMMENTS

  1. How to tour Jerusalem on your own

    Once you arrive in Jerusalem, most of the sites on the itinerary below are in and around the Old City. You can draw a circle with a 3/4-mile radius and hit all but 3 of the sites on the list. Whether you take a regular tour or do it on your own, Jerusalem's Old City is done on foot. There is no way around it.

  2. How to tour Israel on your own

    Jerusalem (4-5 nights) - For an exhaustive itinerary of Jerusalem check out my post on how to tour Jerusalem on your own. The ancient city can be done in as many days as you like, I suggest 3 days. The ancient city can be done in as many days as you like, I suggest 3 days.

  3. DIY Israel: tips for traveling to Israel on your own

    Taxis: Usually not necessary on short rides. You can always round up. If there is luggage involved, or if on longer rides of 1 hour, 10-20 USD would be appreciated. Half-day or Full day taxi services should be tipped $35-$70. Bell Boys- $10 for a couple, $15 for a family. Touring services : On a bus: $10-$20 per person per day.

  4. 12 Self-Guided Walking Tours in Jerusalem, Israel + Create Your Own Walk

    Even if you are not religious, a tour of the Mount of Olives is also worth taking for its most spectacular views! In all, we have prepared 12 self-guided walks for you to explore Jerusalem, which cover everything from historical and religious sites to ample shopping opportunities. Not only that, but you can also create your own walk with the ...

  5. Free Self-Guided Walking Tour of Jerusalem's Old City (Map)

    The Ancient Walled City. Jerusalem has been conquered by a great number of civilizations over the centuries including the Babylonians, the Romans, the Arabs, the Crusaders, the Turks, and the British. When you look at the old walled city today you are looking at the walls built later in the cities history, completed in 1541 by the Ottoman ruler ...

  6. The Ultimate Guide to Jerusalem in Israel

    Here are our tips on the best things to do and see in Jerusalem. Old City. Listed in 1981 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jerusalem's Old City is one of the most incredible places you can visit not only in Israel but in the world. From a tourist standpoint, it has it all, and we are not exaggerating now.

  7. DIY Tour of the Old City of Jerusalem

    In included a self-guided tour of a large area of excavations and a walk through the dry Canaanite tunnel (or you can choose the wet Hezekiah's tunnel), by the Gihon Spring site, and back up the original steps from the Pool of Siloam to the temple mount. City of David excavations. Canaanite Tunnel. Gihon Spring. Warren's Shaft.

  8. Holy Land Travel HQ

    How to tour Israel on your own: A step-by-step guide (with itinerary and maps) If you are looking to tour Israel on your own, then you are in the right place. Whether its just wanting to go alone or a group tour timeline doesn't fit your schedule.

  9. 44 Things to Do in Jerusalem (Local Travel Tips)

    Taking a Jerusalem city tour can be helpful. Taking a tour around Jerusalem can be helpful, as it's really easy to get lost — much more so than in the city of Tel Aviv. The streets wind around a lot because the city is so hilly. The bright side of this is that there are lots of viewpoints to see! Try the Jerusalem public bus system

  10. The Best Things to do in Jerusalem for First-Time Visitors

    It is easy and safe to explore Jerusalem's Old Town on your own, however, I recommend that you do take a tour on arrival. ... Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. Book your tours. My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is GetYourGuide. They have options all over the world ...

  11. Jerusalem Tours with Local Private Tour Guides

    Visit Jerusalem and the Holy Land with your own private tour guide. Your personal tour guide will help you see the sites important to Christians, Jews and Muslims - the Via Dolorosa, the Mount Of Olives, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Western Wall, Temple Mount and the Al-Aqsa Mosque to name just a few.

  12. Tour of Jerusalem's Old City

    The Temple Mount is only open to non-Muslims from one gate, which is located next to the Western Wall, and only from 7:30 to 10:30 am and then for another hour at midday (12:30 to 1:30 pm). One last option is to start the day from the Mount of Olives. After seeing the sites there (Chapel of Ascension, Pater Noster), you can walk down to ...

  13. Israel Travel Guide

    For a classic Israeli experience, head to the Negev Desert to visit the Dead Sea and the ancient fortress of Masada. Here, the truly brave can repel down into the Ramon Crater, one of the largest in the country, for a truly unique desert experience. You also can't miss the chance to float in the Dead Sea, the lowest place on the planet, or ...

  14. Visiting Israel on your own

    Israel is very small. You can see the entire country in two weeks or less, as long as you can get from place to place quickly. Rental cars are amazingly affordable. Fuel for those cars is amazingly expensive. Still, for getting around on your own, this is the very best way to see Israel. Parking in Jerusalem's Old City is non-existent.

  15. 10 Day Israel and Jordan Itinerary: Jerusalem, Petra & the Dead Sea

    It's time to go to Petra! You can visit Jordan on your own, arranging your transportation and hotel accommodations, but we highly recommend hiring a tour company. Cross the border into Jordan and travel the two hours north to Petra. Spend the day exploring Petra. Must-see sites are the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Siq.

  16. Best of Jerusalem Travel

    After seeing Jerusalem on my own and with a tour, I would say the happy medium is somewhere in-between. With that said, I would DEFINITELY hire a guide for the day to take you through the old city. Find out why you should hire a tour guide. Jerusalem Travel Guide Book Recommendations: Before heading to Jerusalem I purchased these two guide books.

  17. Trip to Israel: Tips on How to Tour Israel on Your Own

    While many travelers opt for guided tours to explore Israel, touring Israel on your own can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to discover the country. With a little planning and research, you can enjoy the freedom to move at your own pace, visit off-the-beaten-path sites, and connect with locals.

  18. Full-Day Tour of Jerusalem with Bethlehem or Dead Sea Option

    Discover the important historical sites of Jerusalem on a flexible private tour with your own personal guide. In addition, you can choose to add either a visit to Bethlehem, the Holocaust Museum at Yad Vashem, or the Dead Sea on your full-day itinerary. ... This tour of the old city of Jerusalem is completely flexible and can include all the ...

  19. On Your Own

    The summer is very hot, in Dec, Jan and Feb it is colder and you should expect some days with rain. With 10 days and an emphasis on the Christian sites, you might want to look at a schedule something like this: Tel Aviv - 2 days. Galilee- 3 days. Jerusalem - 5 days which would include a day trip to the Dead Sea.

  20. Hi i will be travelling to Israel, on my own. Is...

    You can explore Jerusalem on your own, but a guided tour is a good idea. There's so much to learn! Yes, it is safe for women and in the holier areas, areas close to the Synagogues and western wall, you are expected to dress "modestly," so longer skirts and longer shirts to cover your shoulders and elbows and knees.

  21. 7 Awesome Jerusalem Tours Definitely Worth the Money

    Plus I feel like the prices are very reasonable where you couldn't do it much less expensive on your own. And you can even search by departure location of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Nazareth, or Eilat. ... Masada & Ein Gedi tour is one of the best day tours from Jerusalem you can take. This specific tour is interesting because it includes 3 great ...

  22. 3 Reasons Why you should Hire a Jerusalem Tour Guide

    This is a huge time saver, especially during the busy tour season. Tour guides take care of all of the logistics. For me, part of the stress of planning a trip is figuring out how to get from point A to B, and what the best and most logical flow of touring is. Tour guides take all the hassle out of travel. A good tour guide will check operating ...

  23. Luxury Holy Land Tour Packages

    Bar Mitzvah Tour in Israel A custom Bar Mitzvah Tour in Israel is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to engage in over 5000 years of Jewish history and culture, from the times of our forefathers to today's vibrant and modern State of Israel. Plan your trip with us so you can be sure your Bar Mitzvah tour is a completely customized, once-in-a ...

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    Looking for your own kingdom in Pennsylvania? This castlelike Gothic Revival residence in Gladwyne, PA, is worth a look.. The 10,680-square-foot estate, which took a decade to build, sits on ...

  25. 8 Biggest Differences Between The Eras Tour's Theatrical & Disney+

    T aylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) is officially streaming on Disney+, and some major changes have been made to the concert movie since it first premiered in theaters. Divided into 10 separate sections, the set list for Taylor Swift's Eras Tour covers almost every era of her lengthy music career. In October 2023, Swift brought the showstopping concert experience to the big screen ...

  26. How to watch 'Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version)'

    The Era's Tour (Extended Edition) movie has been available to rent on digital since Dec. 13 of 2023 (Blondie's birthday, in case you didn't know!), but the film will finally be available to stream ...