Jerusalem is one of the few remaining places in the world with major sections of the city that have remained virtually untouched for many decades. Such a historically significant city is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience an adventure of a lifetime.
What makes Jerusalem stand out, even more, is the unique blend of religions that is unlike any other city in the world. Considered a Holy City by many different religions, Jerusalem is one of the top pilgrimage sites in the world and it receives millions of visitors each year.
If you are looking for things to do in Jerusalem, you have landed in the right place. This article will look at 10 attractions in Jerusalem that you will enjoy during your visit to the ancient city. Read on to find out more!
Things To Do In Jerusalem
Besides the many Holy sites in Jerusalem, the city has so much more to offer! It is the kind of city where you can forget the outside world and get lost in its beautiful streets full of fun and interesting things to do.
Its mix of history, culture, food, and outdoor scenery creates a wide variety of attractions in Jerusalem that appeal to different interests and travel styles. From panoramic viewpoints and energetic markets to creative neighborhoods and serene green spaces, the city reveals countless sides, inviting visitors to explore at their own pace and uncover the many things to do in Jerusalem beyond the sites everyone knows. Unique local experiences in Jerusalem include artisan workshops, neighborhood food tastings, street-art walks, and guided encounters that offer a closer look at the people and traditions that shape the city.
The following are some of the best things to do in Jerusalem:
Top Outdoor Attractions to Visit in Jerusalem
From sweeping viewpoints to ancient streets and vibrant markets, Jerusalem offers an abundance of open-air experiences that reveal the city’s character from every angle. Many of the top outdoor attractions to visit in Jerusalem can be explored independently or as part of curated Jerusalem tours that highlight the city’s history, nature, and hidden corners. Alongside these iconic outdoor sites, travelers can also enjoy some of the best food and market tours in Jerusalem, which blend sightseeing with local flavors and neighborhood stories.
Jerusalem's Jewish Quarter and Western Wall
There is a reason why many people around the world associate Jerusalem with the history of the Jewish people. The Jewish Quarter and the Western Wall are two of the most visited places in the City.
If you are looking for something of historical significance, the Western Wall is the last remaining wall of Jerusalem’s first temple. Sometimes referred to as the Wailing Wall, it is the climax of every visit to Jerusalem’s Old City.
Photos: Noam Chen
Jerusalem Botanical Gardens
Are you wondering what to do in Jerusalem besides visiting religious sites? How about taking a look at the beautiful Jerusalem Botanical Gardens? With a wide range of indigenous plants that make the land so unique, this is a true gem of the city and one of the best places to visit in Jerusalem.
You will find it nestled near the entrance of the Nayot Neighborhood. There is no fee for both entry and parking, which is great news if you are looking for free things to do in Jerusalem.
Haram Al-Sharif Temple Mount
One of the interesting things about Jerusalem is how the different religions can co-exist while maintaining their integrity within the different locations. This is very evident when you visit the Haram Al-Sharif Temple Mount in the Muslim Quarter.
While visitors are allowed to visit the vast majority of places within the beautiful temple, the Dome of the Rock, located at the site of the first temple built by Solomon, is reserved for Muslims only.
Shuk Mahane Yehuda
If you are looking for markets in Jerusalem, the Shuk Mahane Yehuda is a must-visit. Here you will find more than 250 vendors selling a wide range of fresh produce and baked delights. It is popular with both locals and tourists and is a good place to get a feel of Jerusalem.
Mount of Olives
Regarded by both Muslims and Christians as the place where Jesus Ascended, the Mount of Olives overlooks the city and its breathtaking views alone are enough to make it one of the best places to visit in Jerusalem.
Jaffa Street
Crossing the entire city from east to west, Jaffa street is one of the longest and oldest roads you will find in Jerusalem. It is lined with many of the best shops, restaurants, and attractions in Jerusalem, making it a great place to take in a lot of things in one go.
Photos: Noam Chen
The Biblical Zoo
Located in the Malha neighborhood of the city, the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo is popular for its collection of Afro-Asiatic animals that are mentioned in the Hebrew bible. It is also highly regarded by conservationists around the world for the successful breeding of many endangered species.
Mamila
It is easy to feel lost in ancient civilization when walking through the streets of the Old City. Sometimes all you need is a break and a quick return to modern times. Mamila, the upscale part of the city, is one of the best places to visit in Jerusalem if you want a taste of the finer things in life.
With many posh restaurants, shops, and nightclubs, this is where you will find great things to do in Jerusalem at night.
Indoor Attractions in Jerusalem
While Jerusalem is known for its open-air vistas and historic streets, the city also offers a rich world of indoor cultural experiences. Travelers looking for family-friendly things to do in Jerusalem will find interactive museums and immersive exhibitions that bring the city’s stories to life in creative ways. At the same time, those drawn to history, archaeology, or contemporary creativity can explore some of the most significant art and museum attractions in Jerusalem, each offering a deeper look at the traditions, ideas, and artistic expressions that have shaped the region.
Israel Museum
As one of the leading cultural institutions in the country, the Israel Museum offers a vast and compelling collection that spans archaeology, Jewish art and life, and contemporary design. Visitors can explore everything from ancient artifacts and historical manuscripts to modern installations and rotating exhibitions that highlight global and local creativity.
Yad Vashem
With Jerusalem serving as the heart of the Jewish nation, it is only right that you pay a visit to the Yad VaShem, and take a few minutes to remember the brave souls who lost their lives at the hands of Nazi oppressors during the Holocaust.
David's Tower
Regarded as a symbol of the history of the city, David's Tower is one of the most important places to visit in Jerusalem. From a religious perspective, it is a monument of King David, one of the most significant figures in Jewish, Muslim, and Christian history.
Photos: Noam Chen
Dont Forget To Grab a Bite!
It would not be a proper visit to Jerusalem if you did not stop to taste the local cuisine that makes Jerusalem so popular with food lovers across the world. Here you will find amazing restaurants in Jerusalem that will be a perfect pit stop to refuel after you have spent the day visiting the many awesome sites around the Holy City.
Summary
There is no shortage of amazing, exciting, memorable, and unusual things to do in Jerusalem. History, religion, and nature all have a home within the Holy City, and you can enjoy it all from the luxurious comfort of one of the great Isrotel hotels in Jerusalem.
FAQs
What are the top attractions in Jerusalem for first-time visitors?
Start with the Old City’s major landmarks, explore Mahane Yehuda Market, visit Mount of Olives for panoramic views, and walk along Jaffa Street to experience the city’s modern rhythm.
Are there family-friendly things to do in Jerusalem?
Yes. The Biblical Zoo, Israel Museum, and Jerusalem Botanical Gardens offer engaging activities for all ages, along with outdoor viewpoints and cultural workshops.
What outdoor attractions should I not miss in Jerusalem?
The Old City walls, Western Wall Plaza, Temple Mount, Mount of Olives, and Jerusalem’s lively markets are among the most memorable open-air experiences.
What art and museum attractions in Jerusalem are worth visiting?
Top choices include the Israel Museum, Yad Vashem, and David’s Tower, all offering meaningful insights into the city’s history, culture, and artistic heritage.
Are there unique local experiences travelers can try in Jerusalem?
Absolutely. Food tastings, artisan workshops, street-art walks, and themed Jerusalem tours all offer an authentic look at local life.
What are the best areas in Jerusalem for food and market tours?
Mahane Yehuda is the top spot, with vibrant vendors and local flavors. Mamila and Jaffa Street also offer excellent dining options for travelers.
Jerusalem is one of the few remaining places in the world with major sections of the city that have remained virtually untouched for many decades. Such a historically significant city is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience an adventure of a lifetime.
What makes Jerusalem stand out, even more, is the unique blend of religions that is unlike any other city in the world. Considered a Holy City by many different religions, Jerusalem is one of the top pilgrimage sites in the world and it receives millions of visitors each year.
If you are looking for things to do in Jerusalem, you have landed in the right place. This article will look at 10 attractions in Jerusalem that you will enjoy during your visit to the ancient city. Read on to find out more!
Things To Do In Jerusalem
Besides the many Holy sites in Jerusalem, the city has so much more to offer! It is the kind of city where you can forget the outside world and get lost in its beautiful streets full of fun and interesting things to do.
Its mix of history, culture, food, and outdoor scenery creates a wide variety of attractions in Jerusalem that appeal to different interests and travel styles. From panoramic viewpoints and energetic markets to creative neighborhoods and serene green spaces, the city reveals countless sides, inviting visitors to explore at their own pace and uncover the many things to do in Jerusalem beyond the sites everyone knows. Unique local experiences in Jerusalem include artisan workshops, neighborhood food tastings, street-art walks, and guided encounters that offer a closer look at the people and traditions that shape the city.
The following are some of the best things to do in Jerusalem:
Top Outdoor Attractions to Visit in Jerusalem
From sweeping viewpoints to ancient streets and vibrant markets, Jerusalem offers an abundance of open-air experiences that reveal the city’s character from every angle. Many of the top outdoor attractions to visit in Jerusalem can be explored independently or as part of curated Jerusalem tours that highlight the city’s history, nature, and hidden corners. Alongside these iconic outdoor sites, travelers can also enjoy some of the best food and market tours in Jerusalem, which blend sightseeing with local flavors and neighborhood stories.
Jerusalem's Jewish Quarter and Western Wall
There is a reason why many people around the world associate Jerusalem with the history of the Jewish people. The Jewish Quarter and the Western Wall are two of the most visited places in the City.
If you are looking for something of historical significance, the Western Wall is the last remaining wall of Jerusalem’s first temple. Sometimes referred to as the Wailing Wall, it is the climax of every visit to Jerusalem’s Old City.
Photos: Noam Chen
Jerusalem Botanical Gardens
Are you wondering what to do in Jerusalem besides visiting religious sites? How about taking a look at the beautiful Jerusalem Botanical Gardens? With a wide range of indigenous plants that make the land so unique, this is a true gem of the city and one of the best places to visit in Jerusalem.
You will find it nestled near the entrance of the Nayot Neighborhood. There is no fee for both entry and parking, which is great news if you are looking for free things to do in Jerusalem.
Haram Al-Sharif Temple Mount
One of the interesting things about Jerusalem is how the different religions can co-exist while maintaining their integrity within the different locations. This is very evident when you visit the Haram Al-Sharif Temple Mount in the Muslim Quarter.
While visitors are allowed to visit the vast majority of places within the beautiful temple, the Dome of the Rock, located at the site of the first temple built by Solomon, is reserved for Muslims only.
Shuk Mahane Yehuda
If you are looking for markets in Jerusalem, the Shuk Mahane Yehuda is a must-visit. Here you will find more than 250 vendors selling a wide range of fresh produce and baked delights. It is popular with both locals and tourists and is a good place to get a feel of Jerusalem.
Mount of Olives
Regarded by both Muslims and Christians as the place where Jesus Ascended, the Mount of Olives overlooks the city and its breathtaking views alone are enough to make it one of the best places to visit in Jerusalem.
Jaffa Street
Crossing the entire city from east to west, Jaffa street is one of the longest and oldest roads you will find in Jerusalem. It is lined with many of the best shops, restaurants, and attractions in Jerusalem, making it a great place to take in a lot of things in one go.
Photos: Noam Chen
The Biblical Zoo
Located in the Malha neighborhood of the city, the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo is popular for its collection of Afro-Asiatic animals that are mentioned in the Hebrew bible. It is also highly regarded by conservationists around the world for the successful breeding of many endangered species.
Mamila
It is easy to feel lost in ancient civilization when walking through the streets of the Old City. Sometimes all you need is a break and a quick return to modern times. Mamila, the upscale part of the city, is one of the best places to visit in Jerusalem if you want a taste of the finer things in life.
With many posh restaurants, shops, and nightclubs, this is where you will find great things to do in Jerusalem at night.
Indoor Attractions in Jerusalem
While Jerusalem is known for its open-air vistas and historic streets, the city also offers a rich world of indoor cultural experiences. Travelers looking for family-friendly things to do in Jerusalem will find interactive museums and immersive exhibitions that bring the city’s stories to life in creative ways. At the same time, those drawn to history, archaeology, or contemporary creativity can explore some of the most significant art and museum attractions in Jerusalem, each offering a deeper look at the traditions, ideas, and artistic expressions that have shaped the region.
Israel Museum
As one of the leading cultural institutions in the country, the Israel Museum offers a vast and compelling collection that spans archaeology, Jewish art and life, and contemporary design. Visitors can explore everything from ancient artifacts and historical manuscripts to modern installations and rotating exhibitions that highlight global and local creativity.
Yad Vashem
With Jerusalem serving as the heart of the Jewish nation, it is only right that you pay a visit to the Yad VaShem, and take a few minutes to remember the brave souls who lost their lives at the hands of Nazi oppressors during the Holocaust.
David's Tower
Regarded as a symbol of the history of the city, David's Tower is one of the most important places to visit in Jerusalem. From a religious perspective, it is a monument of King David, one of the most significant figures in Jewish, Muslim, and Christian history.
Photos: Noam Chen
Dont Forget To Grab a Bite!
It would not be a proper visit to Jerusalem if you did not stop to taste the local cuisine that makes Jerusalem so popular with food lovers across the world. Here you will find amazing restaurants in Jerusalem that will be a perfect pit stop to refuel after you have spent the day visiting the many awesome sites around the Holy City.
Summary
There is no shortage of amazing, exciting, memorable, and unusual things to do in Jerusalem. History, religion, and nature all have a home within the Holy City, and you can enjoy it all from the luxurious comfort of one of the great Isrotel hotels in Jerusalem.
FAQs
What are the top attractions in Jerusalem for first-time visitors?
Start with the Old City’s major landmarks, explore Mahane Yehuda Market, visit Mount of Olives for panoramic views, and walk along Jaffa Street to experience the city’s modern rhythm.
Are there family-friendly things to do in Jerusalem?
Yes. The Biblical Zoo, Israel Museum, and Jerusalem Botanical Gardens offer engaging activities for all ages, along with outdoor viewpoints and cultural workshops.
What outdoor attractions should I not miss in Jerusalem?
The Old City walls, Western Wall Plaza, Temple Mount, Mount of Olives, and Jerusalem’s lively markets are among the most memorable open-air experiences.
What art and museum attractions in Jerusalem are worth visiting?
Top choices include the Israel Museum, Yad Vashem, and David’s Tower, all offering meaningful insights into the city’s history, culture, and artistic heritage.
Are there unique local experiences travelers can try in Jerusalem?
Absolutely. Food tastings, artisan workshops, street-art walks, and themed Jerusalem tours all offer an authentic look at local life.
What are the best areas in Jerusalem for food and market tours?
Mahane Yehuda is the top spot, with vibrant vendors and local flavors. Mamila and Jaffa Street also offer excellent dining options for travelers.