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Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel

Journey to the Heart of the World: Jerusalem Jerusalem, a city steeped in millennia of history and spirituality, beckons travelers with an allure unlike any other. Nestled in the Judean Hills, this UNESCO World Heritage …

#Holy city#Religious sites#Historical landmarks#Middle East#Cultural diversity

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Jerusalem.

Top Hotels in Jerusalem

Top Flights to Jerusalem

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Jerusalem.

Tours

Yad Vashem

The World Holocaust Remembrance Center, a touching memorial and museum documenting the events of the Holocaust.

Mount of Olives

A historic and religious site offering breathtaking views of the Old City.

Israel Museum

The largest cultural institution in Israel, featuring art, archaeology, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Tower of David Museum

A museum dedicated to the history of Jerusalem housed in an ancient citadel.

Ein Kerem Neighborhood

A picturesque neighborhood with narrow cobblestone streets full of charm and history.

Explore the Old City of Jerusalem

A historic area, divided into the Jewish, Christian, Armenian, and Muslim Quarters, famous for religious sites like the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Shopping

Mamilla Mall

An upscale outdoor shopping area featuring international brands, cafes, and restaurants.

Machane Yehuda Market

A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.

Outdoor

City of David National Park

Explore the archaeological site holding findings from the time of King David.

Jerusalem Botanical Gardens

A peaceful retreat showcasing a variety of plants from different regions of the world.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Jerusalem.

Currency

₪ | ILS | Israeli New Shekel

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Jerusalem, Israel, is around 1 million.

Languages

Hebrew, Hebrew, Arabic, English

Average weather

Jerusalem

Jan

12°6°

Feb

13°6°

Mar

16°8°

Apr

22°11°

May

26°15°

Jun

28°18°

Jul

30°20°

Aug

30°20°

Sep

29°19°

Oct

26°16°

Nov

20°12°

Dec

15°8°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Jerusalem.

What people love

Traveling to Jerusalem, Israel, offers a unique and enriching experience due to its historical, cultural, and religious significance. Here are some pros of traveling to Jerusalem:

Rich History: Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history that dates back thousands of years. It is a place where ancient history and modern life coexist, offering visitors a chance to explore historical sites such as the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock.
Religious Sites: Jerusalem is a holy city for three major world religions - Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Visitors can explore significant religious sites such as the Western Wall for Jews, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for Christians, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque for Muslims. This diversity of religious sites makes Jerusalem a unique destination for spiritual and religious exploration.
Cultural Diversity: Jerusalem is a melting pot of cultures, with a mix of Jewish, Muslim, and Christian populations. This diversity is reflected in the city's architecture, cuisine, and traditions, offering visitors a chance to experience various cultural influences in one place.
Unique Architecture: Jerusalem is home to a mix of architectural styles ranging from ancient to modern. Visitors can explore historical sites like the Old City with its narrow winding streets and ancient structures, as well as modern landmarks such as the Israel Museum and the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial.
Culinary Delights: Jerusalem offers a diverse culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Middle Eastern dishes, international cuisine, and modern gastronomic experiences. Visitors can enjoy delicious local specialties such as falafel, hummus, and shawarma, as well as upscale dining options in the city's trendy neighborhoods.
Scenic Views: Jerusalem is situated on a series of hills, offering visitors stunning panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. The Mount of Olives, for example, provides a breathtaking vantage point overlooking the Old City and its iconic landmarks.

Overall, traveling to Jerusalem provides a unique opportunity to explore a city with a rich history, diverse culture, and spiritual significance that is unmatched anywhere else in the world.

What to know

Traveling to Jerusalem, like any destination, has its pros and cons. Some potential cons specific to Jerusalem may include:

Political Tensions: Jerusalem is a city with a long history of political tensions, particularly between Israelis and Palestinians. This can sometimes lead to demonstrations, unrest, and even violence. Travelers should stay informed about the current situation and exercise caution.
Security Concerns: Due to the political situation, security measures are often heightened in Jerusalem. Travelers may encounter checkpoints, security screenings, and a strong military presence in certain areas. It's important to follow local authorities' instructions and be aware of your surroundings.
Religious Sensitivities: Jerusalem is a holy city for multiple religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It's essential to respect religious sites, customs, and traditions while visiting. Certain areas may have strict dress codes or restrictions on photography.
Crowds and Tourist Season: Jerusalem is a popular tourist destination, especially during religious holidays and peak travel seasons. This can lead to crowded attractions, long lines, and higher prices. Planning ahead and booking accommodations in advance can help mitigate these challenges.
Weather Extremes: Jerusalem experiences hot summers and cold winters, with temperature variations throughout the year. Travelers should be prepared for these weather conditions and pack accordingly.
Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages in Jerusalem. Some locals may not be fluent in English, which can sometimes create communication challenges.
Cost of Living: Jerusalem is known to be relatively expensive compared to other cities in Israel. Travelers should budget accordingly for accommodations, dining, transportation, and attractions.

It's important to note that these cons should not deter you from visiting Jerusalem, as the city also offers incredible history, culture, and religious significance. By staying informed, respecting local customs, and planning ahead, you can have a safe and enriching travel experience in Jerusalem.

If you have any specific concerns or questions about traveling to Jerusalem, feel free to ask for more information.

Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a rich history that spans thousands of years. It is a city of great significance to the three major Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Below is a comprehensive overview of Jerusalem's history, including key events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Ancient and Biblical Periods

Early Settlement (c. 3000 BCE): Archaeological evidence suggests that the area of Jerusalem has been inhabited since the early Bronze Age.
Canaanite and Jebusite Periods (c. 2000-1000 BCE): The city was known as Jebus and was inhabited by the Jebusites before its conquest by King David.
Davidic and Solomonic Era (c. 1000-931 BCE): King David conquered the city and established it as the capital of the united Kingdom of Israel. His son, Solomon, built the First Temple, making Jerusalem the religious center for the Jewish people.

Babylonian and Persian Periods

Destruction of the First Temple (586 BCE): The Babylonians, led by King Nebuchadnezzar II, destroyed Jerusalem and the First Temple, exiling the Jewish population to Babylon.
Return and Reconstruction (538-516 BCE): After the Persian conquest of Babylon, King Cyrus allowed the Jews to return and rebuild the Temple, known as the Second Temple.

Hellenistic and Roman Periods

Hellenistic Influence (332-63 BCE): Alexander the Great's conquest brought Hellenistic culture to the region. The city later came under the control of the Seleucid Empire.
Maccabean Revolt (167-160 BCE): A Jewish revolt against Hellenistic influences led to the establishment of the Hasmonean dynasty.
Roman Conquest (63 BCE): General Pompey captured Jerusalem, and it became part of the Roman Empire.

Late Antiquity and Early Islamic Periods

Herodian Period (37 BCE-70 CE): King Herod the Great expanded the Second Temple, turning it into a magnificent structure.
Destruction of the Second Temple (70 CE): The Romans, under General Titus, destroyed the Second Temple during the First Jewish-Roman War.
Byzantine Period (4th-7th Centuries CE): Jerusalem became a center of Christian pilgrimage. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre was built during this time.
Islamic Conquest (638 CE): The city was captured by the Rashidun Caliphate, and the Dome of the Rock was built on the Temple Mount.

Crusader and Mamluk Periods

Crusader Period (1099-1187 CE): Crusaders captured Jerusalem, establishing the Kingdom of Jerusalem and transforming many Muslim sites into Christian ones.
Saladin and the Ayyubid Period (1187 CE): Saladin recaptured the city, allowing for the coexistence of Muslims, Christians, and Jews.
Mamluk Rule (1250-1517 CE): Jerusalem came under the control of the Mamluks, who restored and built many religious sites.

Ottoman Period

Ottoman Rule (1517-1917 CE): The Ottomans took control, and Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent rebuilt the city walls, much of which still stands today.

Modern Period

British Mandate (1917-1948): Following World War I, the British took control of Jerusalem. Tensions between Jewish and Arab communities grew during this period.
1948 Arab-Israeli War: Jerusalem was divided between Israel (West Jerusalem) and Jordan (East Jerusalem, including the Old City).
1967 Six-Day War: Israel captured East Jerusalem, reunifying the city under Israeli control.

Significant Landmarks

Western Wall: The last remaining wall of the Second Temple, a sacred site for Jewish prayer.
Dome of the Rock: An Islamic shrine on the Temple Mount, important in Islamic tradition.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre: Believed to be the site of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.
Al-Aqsa Mosque: The third holiest site in Islam, located on the Temple Mount.

Jerusalem remains a focal point of religious significance and political tension, with its diverse history reflecting its central role in the religious and cultural narratives of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.