19 best things to do in Jerusalem in 3 days
Welcome to our Best Things to Do in Jerusalem! Jerusalem, located in Israel, is a city steeped in history, where ancient walls and vibrant cultures come together to create a truly unique experience. On our first day, we explored the heart of the city, starting at the Yehuda Market and wandering down Jaffa Street. This led us directly to the Old City, where we delved into its rich history, discovering some of its most iconic attractions, such as the City of David and the Mount of Olives.
What we particularly loved was getting lost within the narrow, winding streets of the Old City. As we explored, we could feel the pulse of Jerusalem’s diverse civilizations, cultures, and religions blending together, all within the embrace of the ancient stone walls and stunning architecture.
On our second day, we continued our exploration of the Old City, deciding to focus on the Tower of David and Mount Zion, while leaving room for the Garden Tomb if time permitted. Our day began with a walk to the Yehuda Market and down Jaffa Street, which provided us with a delightful and scenic route to the Old City.
On our third day, we ventured outside the city to the Dead Sea, visiting iconic sites like Masada and the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve.
This guide will help you navigate the best things to do in Jerusalem, from its historical landmarks to hidden gems. Let’s dive into the heart of this ancient and magical city!
Table of Contents
Where to stay in Jerusalem
Jerusalem is a stunning city and has some super great accommodations:
- (€): Jerusalem Hotel
- (€€): Biazi Hotel
- (€€€): Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem
- Unique Stay: Above The Spring
When to visit Jerusalem
The best time to visit Jerusalem depends on your preferences, but generally, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the most pleasant seasons. During these months, the weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor sites, such as the Old City, Mount of Olives, and Yad Vashem. The temperatures are comfortable for walking, and the crowds are less intense than during peak summer months.
Winter (December to February) is also an option if you prefer cooler weather, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). However, it can get chilly, especially at night, and there may be occasional rain, so pack accordingly. This is a great time to experience the city with fewer tourists.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Jerusalem. While the weather is hot (temperatures often exceed 30°C or 86°F), the city comes alive with festivals, events, and cultural experiences. However, the summer heat can be intense, especially for outdoor sightseeing, so it’s best to stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned spaces.
In short, spring and autumn offer the best combination of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making them the ideal times for a visit to Jerusalem.
How to reach Jerusalem
To get to Jerusalem, you have a few options depending on your starting point. The easiest is to fly to Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV). Jerusalem is about a 45-minute drive (about 50 kilometers) from Ben Gurion Airport, which is Israel’s main international gateway in Tel Aviv. From the airport, you can reach Jerusalem by:
- Taxi: A taxi ride from Ben Gurion to Jerusalem costs around 250-300 ILS (~70-85 USD).
- Shuttle Bus: There are several shuttle buses (like Nesher Shuttle), which take about 45-60 minutes to reach central Jerusalem. Prices are around 60 ILS (~17 USD) per person.
- Public Bus: You can take bus lines 480 or 485 from the airport, which take about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Jerusalem. The price is about 16 ILS (~4.5 USD).
- There is a direct train from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem’s Yitzhak Navon station in the city center. The train takes around 20 minutes and runs frequently. Tickets cost about 18 ILS (~5 USD). It’s one of the most convenient and efficient ways to get to the city.
If you are first staying in Tel Aviv, then you can also consider taking a Bus from Tel Aviv’s central bus station (Arlozorov Terminal) to Jerusalem. The buses depart frequently, and the journey takes about 1 hour to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Bus tickets cost about 16-18 ILS (~4.5-5 USD).
If you want to find the best deals on flight tickets, we recommend checking booking.com flights.
Day 1 in Jerusalem
First, in Jerusalem, most of the best things to do in Jerusalem are located around the historical city center within the old walls. On this first day, we will start by reaching the Yehuda market in order to begin our journey along Jaffa Street.
Second, Jaffa Street will lead us to the Old City of Jerusalem, where we will explore some of its main attractions, including the most iconic landmarks of the region.
Third, we will head to the City of David and Mount of Olives before returning to the city.
One thing that we particularly enjoyed was strolling around and getting lost within the Old City. This was the best of all the attractions as we discovered how different civilizations, cultures, and religions have coexisted for centuries, surrounded by the stunning walls and ancient architecture of the city. The best things to do in Jerusalem often lie in its vibrant streets, where history comes alive at every corner.
Mapping the day
- Accommodation
- Yahuda Market et Jaffa Street
- I Love Jerusalem
- Jaffa gate
- Damascus Gate
- Western Wall
- Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- Dun gate
- City of David and tour of the tunnels
- Tomb of the Virgin
- Gethsemane
- Mount of Olives
Jaffa Street
We started our day by reaching Jaffa Street, one of the main and longest streets in Jerusalem. It connects the Old City walls to downtown Jerusalem, making it a central artery in the city. Like most major streets, it features a tram line running the length of the street and is lined with a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses. As we walked, we could see both locals and tourists bustling around, making it a lively introduction to the best things to do in Jerusalem.
Tip: If you want to get to know more about Jerusalem, consider the Jerusalem: Guided Walking Tour of the Old City
I love Jerusalem & Jaffa Gate
At the end of Jaffa street and prior to the old city walls, we found a touristic sign “I Love Jerusalem”, a nice spot for a picture before entering the historical holy city using one of the main entrance, Jaffa gate which is right behind it.
Jaffa gate is one of the seventh gates of the old city of Jerusalem. The gate has a L shape for defence reasons. Later a bigger opening was done in the old wall right behind the gate to allow cars in.
Walking the wall
After passing through the gate, we spotted a set of stairs to the left leading us up to the ramparts, offering the chance to walk along the top of the Old City’s ancient walls. Before entering, there is a public toilet, making it convenient to use before starting your journey on the ramparts. However, keep in mind that a ticket is required for entry, which can be purchased just a short walk down the street, two buildings away. If you wish to explore the ramparts, here are the working hours:
- Sunday – Thursday: 9 AM – 4 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 4 PM
- Friday: 9 AM – 2 PM
The cost for entry is NIS 16 (around 4.1€) for adults, and NIS 8 (around 2.05€) for children.
It’s important to note that there are multiple sections of ramparts that you can walk along. We explored the section from Jaffa Gate, passing by New Gate, and all the way to Damascus Gate, where we decided to descend. The walk on the ramparts was one of the best things to do in Jerusalem—affordable and offering incredible views of the Old City. It allowed us to gain a unique perspective of Jerusalem’s layout and history, making it a must-do experience for any visitor.
Reaching the Western wall
From Damascus Gate, we walked south toward the center of the Old City within the vibrant Arabic Quarter of Jerusalem. As we ventured through the narrow, winding streets, it was impossible not to feel the weight of history surrounding us. The cobbled paths, ancient buildings, and religious landmarks made for a breath-taking experience. Simply strolling around and soaking in the holy city’s ambiance was one of the best things to do in Jerusalem.
However, one surprising aspect was the city’s cleanliness—unfortunately, there was visible litter scattered on the streets, which was a bit of a shock in such an iconic, historical place. Despite this, the experience was still amazing and completely worth it.
To reach the Western Wall, you must pass through a security checkpoint where police officers will check your belongings. It’s also important to note that proper attire is required for visiting the Western Wall—both men and women are expected to dress modestly. We highly recommend always carrying a scarf with you to cover your shoulders, ensuring smooth entry into this sacred site.
Western wall
We now found ourselves within one of the most sacred places on earth: the Western Wall. One thing we hadn’t realized is that men and women are separated for prayer. As we tried to approach the wall, some people quickly alerted us that women must go to the designated area on the opposite side, while men can access the wall from this side. This is a fascinating tradition and part of what makes the Western Wall experience one of the best things to do in Jerusalem.
Inside the wall area, we witnessed various Jewish traditions and ceremonies. While we didn’t fully understand every practice, we learned a lot about their customs. One ritual that stood out was the act of people shaking their heads and moving their chests forward while praying. This is a gesture that emphasizes the intensity and devotion of their prayers.
A bit of history: the Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, Kotel, or Buraq Wall, is actually only a small portion of the complete wall that was built during the Second Temple period. This site is sacred not only because of its historical significance but also because of its connection to the Temple Mount. The Temple Mount, now home to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, was the location of the Second Temple, the holiest site in Judaism, over 2,000 years ago. This sacred connection makes the Western Wall the holiest place where Jews can pray today, despite the political and religious tensions surrounding it.
Exploring the Western Wall and its surroundings is a must for anyone visiting Jerusalem, offering a deep connection to the city’s history and religious significance.
Street of Jerusalem
We can never get enough of the streets, markets, bazaars, and wonders of Jerusalem. As we wandered through the narrow, winding alleys, we got a bit lost, immersing ourselves in the hustle and bustle of the city. We bought spices, bargained for a good price, and soaked in the vibrant atmosphere. Luckily, our wandering led us to one of the most significant sites in Jerusalem: the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, according to tradition, dates back to the 4th century and is one of the most sacred places in Christianity. It is believed to be the site where Jesus Christ was crucified (Calvary or Golgotha) and where His tomb lies, the place of His burial and resurrection. The church, built in the 4th century, houses the Aedicula, a 19th-century shrine that encloses the tomb of Jesus Christ.
This is one of the most important things to do in Jerusalem for anyone visiting, especially for those who are passionate about Christian history. The church is fascinating, not only for its deep religious significance but also for its historical and architectural beauty. However, be aware that this place is extremely crowded, especially around the shrine where Jesus’s tomb is located. If you wish to see the tomb, expect to wait in a long line with other visitors, and you might need to be patient.
We decided to wait and see what it was like inside the shrine, but to be honest, if you’re not a believer, it can feel less spectacular. The site’s spiritual significance is deeply meaningful to many, but if you’re just exploring, it might not resonate the same way.
While we were waiting, an interesting incident occurred: A nun took a photo of the entrance to the shrine, which caught the attention of a church official. He immediately reprimanded her, pointing out that taking pictures was forbidden, and reminding her that as a nun, she should know better. In an unexpected moment of humility, the nun knelt before the father, but his decision was final. It wasn’t until a few people nearby kindly intervened and asked for mercy that the official allowed her in. It was a close call, and it reminded us how sacred the site is to so many.
Visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Jerusalem, and it’s a place that will leave you with a sense of the profound history and deep spirituality that fills the city.
City of David
From there, we headed south toward the Dung Gate and the City of David, as we had heard that the tunnel walk was a must-see experience. To reach the City of David, we simply followed the signs and found the ticket office once inside. We didn’t make a reservation; we just asked for tickets for the next available tour. The tour we took was called “City of David – Tours of Biblical Jerusalem.”
We hadn’t thought much about the tunnel and, as a result, didn’t bring flip-flops, which is definitely a must! You will be walking in the tunnel, which can have up to 70 cm of water. They also recommend bringing a torch, but your phone flashlight will work perfectly fine—unless you’re prone to dropping things, in which case you can buy a small torch at the souvenir shop on-site. The tour lasts around 3 hours. First, you watch a short video before heading out with your guide and group to explore:
- Dr. Mazar’s Palace Excavation, a structure dating from the period of the Judean kings.
- The Royal Acropolis and the ruins of homes from the Biblical period.
- The Underground Water System from the time of Abraham.
- Hezekiah’s Tunnel (Shiloah Tunnel), the famous tunnel that was used to bring water into Jerusalem. There’s also an option to walk through a dry tunnel.
Once the tour concludes, it’s a short 10-15 minute walk back to the entrance. The City of David Tour is an incredible experience, and without a doubt, the highlight is walking through the tunnel that was used centuries ago to conquer Jerusalem and avoid conflict with the ramparts. It’s a fascinating look into the city’s history and an essential part of the best things to do in Jerusalem!
Tomb of the Virgin and Gethsemane
Now that we were outside the old city walls, we walked toward the Tomb of the Virgin. We followed the main road and took a side path that seemed uncertain at first, but turned out to be a real shortcut.
To reach the tomb, we passed through a large gate and immediately descended into an underground church where the tomb of the Virgin is located. The structure is quite impressive and is believed to be the burial site of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ. However, as with many historical sites, there’s no definitive proof of its authenticity, and some remain unsure about the facts.
Across the street, we discovered a lovely building with a garden, Gethsemane, an olive garden and significant pilgrimage site. According to the four Gospels of the New Testament, this is the place where Jesus endured the agony in the garden and was arrested the night before his crucifixion.
This stop is another one of the best things to do in Jerusalem, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a connection to key biblical events.
Mount of Olives
Mount of Olives, located right behind Gethsemane, was once covered in olive trees, but today it serves as a cemetery and necropolis. Reaching the top requires a short hike along the road, but it is definitely worth the effort. From the summit, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the Old City of Jerusalem, making it one of the best places to appreciate the city’s beauty and historical significance.
This area is a significant religious site with many important landmarks, including the Chapel of Ascension and the Tomb of the Prophets, making it an essential part of any Jerusalem itinerary.
Recommendation
Make sure to bring plenty of water with you, as it can get quite hot, especially during the hike. As soon as you run out, be sure to refill or purchase a new bottle to stay hydrated. Additionally, sun cream is essential, as the sun can be really strong, especially during midday.
Note: Our visit took place in May 2019, so the conditions may vary depending on the time of year.
Day 2 in Jerusalem
On our second day in the Holy City, we decided to continue exploring the Old City, as we truly enjoyed its unique charm. We planned to visit the Tower of David and Mount, and if time allowed, we hoped to also see the Garden Tomb.
We started our day by walking to the Yehuda Market and then made our way down Jaffa Street, which was the easiest and most pleasant route to reach the Old City. The vibrant atmosphere of the market and the bustling street made for an enjoyable start to the day.
Mapping the day
- Yehuda Market
- Jaffa Gate
- Tower of David
- Zion gate
- Franciscan Monastery
- King David’s Tomb
- Dormition Abbey
- Room of the last supper
- Hurva synagogue
- The garden tomb
Tower of David
We started our day by diving deeper into the rich history of Jerusalem, and the Tower of David was the perfect place to do so. Also known as the Citadel of Jerusalem, this ancient fortified structure dates back to the Mamluk and Ottoman periods.
Today, the Tower of David serves as a museum that takes you through the 4,000-year history of Jerusalem. As we moved from room to room, we uncovered the city’s evolution—from its initial establishment to its transition through Christian, Muslim, and other periods.
While we didn’t have a guide, we joined a tour group on the rooftop of the Citadel, where we were treated to stunning panoramic views of the city. Things to do in Jerusalem also includes exploring the museum’s various exhibits and learning about the city’s dynamic past.
The admission fee is 40 NIS (around 10.3€), and the museum is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, except on Fridays when it closes at 2 PM for Shabbat. Be sure to check for any changes before your visit, though! 😊
Zion gate & Franciscan Monastery
From there, we headed south toward Mount Zion, where we discovered the Franciscan Monastery, which is not only a convent but also the site of two significant events in Christian history: the Last Supper of Jesus Christ and the Tomb of King David.
The monastery, built in the 14th century by the Franciscan order, was established to protect Jerusalem and its holy sites. The location was chosen due to Mount Zion’s importance in Christian tradition.
But who were the Franciscans? Founded by Saint Francis of Assisi, an Italian monk from the late 12th century, the Franciscan Order was dedicated to humility, poverty, and service. In 1342, Pope Clement VI declared the Franciscans as the official custodians of the Holy places, which is when they first arrived in Jerusalem.
Our best things to do in Jerusalem wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this historic site, offering both spiritual significance and a glimpse into the region’s rich Christian heritage.
Room of the Last Supper & King David's Tomb
Now that we were on site, we discovered that the Room of the Last Supper (also called the Cenacle) was located one floor above King David’s Tomb. We followed the signs and arrived at what is believed to be the room where Jesus Christ shared his final meal with his disciples before being betrayed and crucified.
The current architecture, however, is not from the time of Jesus but was built over the original structure as time passed. The Cenacle has undergone many renovations over the centuries, adding layers of history to the building.
On the lower floor, beneath the Room of the Last Supper, lies the Tomb of King David. This is thought to be the burial site of the biblical King of Israel, though not everyone agrees with this claim.
King David was the third king of the United Monarchy of Israel and Judah. Originally a humble shepherd, he rose to fame as a musician before defeating the giant Goliath. David became a favorite of King Saul and his son, Jonathan. Following their deaths in battle, David ascended to the throne and conquered Jerusalem, making it the capital of Israel.
This site is one of the best things to do in Jerusalem if you are interested in both Christian and Jewish history, as it represents significant moments in both religious traditions.
Dormition Abbey
A few meters from all of this is the Dormition Abbey, a significant Christian monument built atop the ruins of a Byzantine church, marking the site where the Virgin Mary is believed to have died.
In the basement of the abbey lies a shrine, said to be the exact spot where Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, passed away. This site is deeply important for Christians, as it symbolizes the final moments of Mary’s earthly life.
The Dormition Abbey is not only a beautiful structure but also a place of great significance in Christianity. Its serene beauty and historical importance make it one of the best things to do in Jerusalem, especially for those seeking a deeper understanding of Christian heritage.
Hurva synagogue
Now, let’s head toward a synagogue—a must-visit when in Jerusalem. We chose the Hurva Synagogue, a historically significant site located in the Jewish Quarter, and fortunately, it was nearby.
Founded in the 18th century, the Hurva Synagogue, like many buildings in Jerusalem, was destroyed and rebuilt. It eventually became Jerusalem’s main Ashkenazic synagogue. The entrance fee was modest, and upon purchasing our ticket, we were given a brief history of the site, including a look at the prayer area—although we couldn’t access it directly.
However, we were allowed to visit the upper floors, where we had a beautiful view of the main prayer area, along with parts of the building. The synagogue was designed as a self-guided tour, with a clear path that led us from one section to another. We ended up on the roof, which offered a stunning perspective of the surrounding area before returning to the basement, where remnants of the original structure could still be seen.
This visit was one of the best things to do in Jerusalem, offering insight into the city’s rich Jewish heritage and its layered history.
the garden tomb
With some extra time on our hands, we decided to visit the mysterious Garden Tomb. At first, we weren’t sure what to expect, but it turned out to be quite a surprise!
We headed north, crossing through the Old City and exiting through the Damascus Gate. Outside, we stumbled upon a local street market, and after a short walk, we reached the Garden Tomb.
The entrance is free, and to our surprise, this location is also believed to be the tomb of Jesus Christ. Yes, there are two possible tombs associated with him—the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which is built on the original site, and this one. While both locations fit the description in the Bible, no one has been able to prove definitively which one is the actual tomb.
The Garden Tomb is incredibly peaceful and beautifully maintained. The garden surrounding it is serene, and there’s a lovely seating area under the olive trees where we took a break before exploring the open tomb. It’s a peaceful spot with a lot of history and significance.
The site also offers WC facilities and a small souvenir shop, making it a comfortable place to reflect. The Garden Tomb is truly one of the best things to do in Jerusalem, especially if you’re interested in exploring both the spiritual and historical sides of the city.
Day 3: Tour to Masada, Ein Gedi and the dead sea
On our third day in Jerusalem, we embarked on a memorable journey to the Dead Sea, one of Israel’s natural wonders. We joined a day tour with Abraham Tours, which took us to some of the most iconic sites in the region, including the Masada Fortress, the stunning Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, and of course, the famous Dead Sea.
Unfortunately, the tour we took at that time doesn’t exist, but we would consider Masada, Ein Gedi, and Dead Sea Day Tour
Read more: How to visit the dead sea, Masada, Ein Gedi from Jerusalem
Want More?
We didn’t have more time, but we missed one thing while we were there and it was a visit to Bethlehem. For that your best option is the From Jerusalem: Half-Day Bethlehem Guided Tour
“Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all of one’s lifetime.” – Mark Twain
