25 best things to do in Jerusalem, Israel, in 3 to 5 days

Introduction

Jerusalem was the first city we discovered in Israel. It is one of those cities that stays with you long after you leave. We arrived without really knowing what to expect, and very quickly realized that this wasn’t a destination you simply “visit.” You walk, you observe, you get lost, you question things, and you constantly move between history, religion, daily life, and raw reality — sometimes all within the same street.

We spent several days exploring Jerusalem, mostly on foot, focusing on the Old City and its surroundings. What we loved most wasn’t ticking landmarks off a list, but wandering through narrow alleys, crossing from one quarter to another, watching how different religions and cultures coexist within the same walls. It’s intense at times, beautiful at others, and never boring.

Jerusalem is also a city of contrasts. Ancient stones sit next to modern cafés. Silence and chaos coexist. Three major religions share the same space, sometimes peacefully, sometimes tensely, but always with a strong sense of identity. That’s exactly what makes exploring Jerusalem so powerful.

In this guide, we’ll share the best things to do in Jerusalem based on our own experience — what we saw, what surprised us, and what we’d recommend if you have 3 to 5 days in the city. From must-see religious sites to viewpoints, markets, and an unforgettable day trip outside the city, this article is meant to help you plan a realistic, meaningful stay without rushing through it all.

As always, keep in mind that Jerusalem is a complex place. Situations can change quickly, so it’s important to stay informed and travel with awareness. That said, with a bit of preparation and an open mind, Jerusalem is one of the most powerful travel experiences you can have.

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Getting there

From the airport, you have several solid options:

• Train: This is the easiest and most efficient way. The direct high-speed train connects Ben Gurion Airport to Yitzhak Navon Station in Jerusalem in about 25 minutes. Trains run frequently, the ride is comfortable, and you avoid traffic altogether. If it’s your first time in Israel, this option keeps things stress-free.
• Taxi: A taxi will take around 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. It’s convenient if you’re arriving late or carrying a lot of luggage, but it’s noticeably more expensive.
• Shared shuttle (Nesher): These run 24/7 and drop you directly at your accommodation. They’re slower than the train but handy if you want door-to-door service.

If you’re already in Tel Aviv, trains and buses run constantly between the two cities, making Jerusalem an easy addition to any Israel itinerary.

Tip: If you arrive close to Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening), plan ahead. Public transport slows down or stops entirely during this time, and taxis become the main option.

Check all your transportation options online — from buses to trains and ferries — it makes planning so much easier.

Moving Around

Once you’re in Jerusalem, getting around is fairly straightforward, especially if you’re staying near the city center or the Old City. Many of the main things to do in Jerusalem are clustered together, so you’ll often find yourselves walking more than anything else—and honestly, that’s the best way to experience the city.

• On foot: This is how we explored most of Jerusalem. Walking lets you slow down, get lost in the streets of the Old City, stumble upon hidden courtyards, and feel how different neighborhoods shift in atmosphere within just a few steps. Expect uneven stones, stairs, and plenty of ups and downs
• Light rail (tram): The Jerusalem Light Rail runs along Jaffa Street and connects key areas like the city center, Mahane Yehuda Market, and parts of East Jerusalem. It’s modern, easy to use, and helpful when your legs start protesting.
• Buses: Jerusalem has an extensive bus network that reaches places like Mount of Olives, Mount Zion, and neighborhoods farther out. It’s cheap and efficient, but can feel confusing at first if you’re not used to the system.
• Taxis & ride apps: Taxis are everywhere and useful late at night or on Shabbat when public transport stops. Apps like Gett are commonly used.

We personally walked around all the best things to do in Jerusalem, or used tours when they were out of the city.

Tip: Wear good walking shoes. Jerusalem looks compact on a map, but between the hills, stairs, and long days, your feet will feel it fast.

When to Visit

Jerusalem can be visited year-round, but the experience changes a lot depending on the season. Because the city sits on a plateau, the weather is usually drier than you might expect, with clear skies most of the year—but temperatures and crowds vary quite a bit.

• Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit. Days are warm but not overwhelming, flowers bloom around the city, and walking through the Old City feels comfortable. This is when Jerusalem really shines, especially if you plan to explore outdoors most of the day.
• Autumn (September to November) is another great window. The heat eases, the light is beautiful, and the city feels calmer after summer. We found this season perfect for long walks, rooftop views, and wandering without rushing.
• Summer (June to August) is hot and busy. Temperatures often climb above 30°C, and walking all day can be exhausting. That said, the city is lively, evenings are pleasant, and many cultural events take place. If you visit in summer, plan early mornings and slower afternoons.
• Winter (December to February) is cooler, with temperatures sometimes dropping below 10°C, especially at night. Rain is possible, but crowds are thinner and the city feels more local. It’s a good time if you don’t mind layering up and want a quieter experience.

Tip: Always check the calendar for Jewish holidays and Shabbat. These can deeply affect transport, opening hours, and the overall rhythm of the city—but they’re also part of what makes Jerusalem so unique.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

Jerusalem has a wide range of accommodations, and choosing the right area can really shape your experience. We personally recommend staying either close to the Old City or within walking distance of Jaffa Street, so you can explore most of the main sights on foot.

• Jerusalem Hotel – A solid, budget-friendly option with a local feel. It’s simple but comfortable and well located, making it a good base if you plan to spend most of your days out exploring the city rather than hanging around your hotel.
• Mamilla View – Suites & Apt Hotel – Ideal if you want space and views. These apartments sit right near Mamilla Mall and Jaffa Gate, which means you’re just minutes from the Old City. Great if you like independence and a central location.
• The American Colony Hotel – A Jerusalem classic. This is where history, elegance, and calm come together. If you want a more refined stay with a beautiful courtyard and a peaceful atmosphere after busy days in the Old City, this is a fantastic choice.

Here are all your accommodation options in Jerusalem

What to Eat

Jerusalem is one of those cities where food is part of the experience. You don’t just eat here—you taste history, cultures, and everyday life all at once. We found ourselves eating constantly, often without planning it, just following smells and crowded counters.

You can’t miss hummus in Jerusalem. Thick, creamy, usually served warm, and often eaten for breakfast or lunch. Pair it with fresh pita, pickles, and a hard-boiled egg, and you’re set. Every neighborhood claims to have the best hummus spot, and honestly, they’re probably all right.

Street food is everywhere and perfect when you’re moving between sights. Falafel and shawarma are staples, cheap, filling, and incredibly good. We often grabbed one on the go while walking through the Old City or around Jaffa Street.

For something sweeter, look out for kanafeh, a hot, cheesy dessert soaked in syrup, especially popular in the Arab Quarter. We shared one without really knowing what we were ordering—and immediately wanted another.

If you enjoy markets, Mahane Yehuda Market is the place to eat. During the day, it’s full of spice stalls, bakeries, fresh juices, and casual lunch spots. In the evening, it turns into a lively food and bar scene. We loved sitting down somewhere simple, ordering a few plates, and watching the market come alive.

You’ll also find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, which surprised us at first but makes total sense once you’re there. From fresh salads and roasted vegetables to full plant-based menus, it’s very easy to eat well without meat.

Tip: During Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening), many places close, especially in Jewish neighborhoods. Stock up ahead of time or head to areas where restaurants stay open, like parts of East Jerusalem or around the market once it reopens.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Best Things to do in Jerusalem

Walk Along Jaffa Street

One of the easiest and most natural ways to begin exploring Jerusalem is by walking along Jaffa Street. This long, lively avenue connects modern Jerusalem directly to the Old City, making it a perfect introduction before diving into the historic core.

As you walk, you’ll share the street with locals heading to work, tourists finding their way, religious figures in traditional dress, and the steady rhythm of the tram running down the center. Shops, cafés, and small restaurants line both sides, and the atmosphere constantly shifts as you move closer to the Old City walls.

Jaffa Street doesn’t feel like an attraction in itself — it feels like real life unfolding around you. And before you even realize it, the ancient stones of Jerusalem start to appear ahead.

Tip: If you want deeper historical context from the start, joining a guided walking tour of the Old City that begins around Jaffa Street is a great option.

Browse Mahane Yehuda Market

Before heading into the Old City, make a stop at Mahane Yehuda Market. This is where Jerusalem feels raw, noisy, and completely alive. The market is packed with spice stalls, fresh produce, baked goods, nuts, sweets, and street food, all competing for your attention.

You’ll hear vendors shouting prices, see locals bargaining, and smell spices mixing with freshly baked bread. It’s the kind of place where you don’t need a plan — just walk, pause, taste, and observe. Even if you’re not hungry, it’s worth wandering through just to feel the city’s pulse.

We found this to be the perfect starting point before heading into the Old City. From here, walking back down Jaffa Street feels like a smooth transition from everyday Jerusalem into its ancient heart.

Our Favorite Hotels in Jerusalem

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Jerusalem Hotel

Mamilla View- Suites & Apt Hotel

The American Colony Hotel

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Snap a Photo at the I Love Jerusalem sign

Right before entering the Old City, you’ll spot the famous “I Love Jerusalem” sign. It’s touristy, yes — but it also feels like a small milestone. You’re standing at the threshold between modern Jerusalem and one of the most historically dense places on earth.

It’s a quick stop, but a fun one. From here, you can already see the Old City walls rising just behind the sign, and it’s hard not to feel a bit of excitement before stepping inside.

A few meters further, the real journey begins.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring a good camera, such as the SONY A7 — it makes all the difference for capturing those unforgettable moments.

Enter the Old City Through Jaffa Gate

Jaffa Gate is one of the main entrances to Jerusalem’s Old City — and arguably the most impressive one to enter through. Built in the 16th century, the gate has a distinctive L-shaped design that once served defensive purposes, forcing invaders to slow down before entering.

Today, it’s a busy crossing point where tour groups gather, street musicians play, and travelers funnel into the Old City’s maze of streets. You’ll notice a large opening next to the original gate — this was added later to allow vehicles through, which makes the contrast between old and new even more striking.

Once you pass through Jaffa Gate, the noise shifts. The streets narrow, the stones feel older under your feet, and suddenly Jerusalem feels very different. This is where the city starts to reveal its layers — religious, cultural, and historical — all at once.

From here, most of the best things to do in Jerusalem unfold within walking distance.

Walk the Old City Walls

Just after entering through Jaffa Gate, look to your left and you’ll spot the stairs leading up to the ramparts. Walking the Old City walls is one of those experiences that instantly gives you perspective — literally and historically.

Before heading up, note that there’s a public toilet nearby, which is handy because once you’re on the walls, there’s no quick exit. You’ll need a ticket, sold a couple of buildings down the street. Once inside, you can choose which section of the walls to walk.

We recommend starting at Jaffa Gate and walking toward Damascus Gate. This stretch offers some of the best views over both the Old City and the newer neighborhoods outside the walls.

From above, Jerusalem’s layout suddenly makes sense: quarters blend into one another, minarets rise next to church domes, and daily life unfolds beneath you. It’s calm up there compared to the streets below, and it’s one of the most affordable and rewarding things to do in Jerusalem.

Here are all your accommodation options in Jerusalem

Make Your Way to the Western Wall

Once you descend near Damascus Gate, head south through the Arabic Quarter. This is where Jerusalem really pulls you in. The streets are narrow, busy, sometimes chaotic, and full of small shops, food stalls, and local life. Getting a little lost here isn’t a problem — it’s part of the experience.

As you approach the Western Wall, you’ll pass through a security checkpoint where bags are checked. Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered are expected, and carrying a light scarf is always a good idea.

Then the space opens up — and suddenly you’re standing in front of one of the most sacred places in the world.

The Western Wall is divided into separate prayer areas for men and women, something many visitors don’t expect at first. Once inside, you’ll see people praying, rocking gently back and forth, whispering, crying, celebrating. It’s deeply personal and surprisingly powerful, even if you’re not religious.

This wall is the last remaining part of the Second Temple complex, destroyed nearly 2,000 years ago. Today, it’s the closest place where Jewish people can pray to what was once their holiest site. Standing there, you feel the weight of history — not in a museum way, but in a very real, lived one.

Get Lost in the Old City Streets

One of the best things you can do in Jerusalem is… nothing planned at all. Once you leave the Western Wall area, let yourself drift through the Old City’s maze of alleys. This is where Jerusalem feels most alive.

You’ll walk through changing atmospheres without even realizing it — quiet corners suddenly turning into busy souks, incense smells mixing with fresh bread, shopkeepers calling out prices while pilgrims move silently past. You’ll pass tiny bakeries, spice stalls, religious shops, and courtyards hidden behind heavy wooden doors.

This is where Jerusalem’s layers truly overlap. Jewish, Christian, and Muslim quarters sit side by side, not separated by signs but by subtle shifts in sound, smell, and rhythm. Getting lost here isn’t frustrating — it’s the experience itself.

More than any single attraction, these streets show you how different cultures and religions have coexisted for centuries within the same walls.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Eventually, almost without trying, you’ll find yourself standing in front of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It doesn’t look grand from the outside, but step inside and everything changes.

This is one of Christianity’s most sacred sites, believed to mark both the crucifixion and the tomb of Jesus Christ. The atmosphere inside is intense — dark, crowded, emotional. Pilgrims kneel, touch stones, whisper prayers, and wait patiently in long lines.

If you want to see the tomb itself, be prepared to queue. The line moves slowly, and the moment inside is brief. If you’re not religious, the experience might feel overwhelming rather than moving — and that’s okay. Even without personal faith, it’s impossible not to feel the importance of the place to millions of people.

What really stands out is how shared this space is. Different Christian denominations coexist inside the same church, each with specific rights, areas, and rituals. It’s complex, sometimes tense, but also fascinating — a perfect reflection of Jerusalem itself.

Here are all your accommodation options in Jerusalem

Explore the City of David

From the Old City, head south toward Dung Gate and the City of David. This is where Jerusalem’s story goes underground — literally.

You don’t need to book far in advance; you can usually join the next available guided tour on arrival. The highlight here is the underground water system, especially Hezekiah’s Tunnel.

A quick but important tip: bring sandals or flip-flops. You’ll walk through cold water, sometimes up to your knees, inside a narrow stone tunnel carved thousands of years ago. A flashlight helps, but your phone light is enough if you’re careful.

The tunnel walk is unforgettable. You’re following the same path water once took to protect the city during sieges, and it’s one of the most immersive ways to connect with Jerusalem’s ancient past. When you finally emerge back into daylight, it’s hard not to feel impressed by the engineering — and a little proud you did it.

Visit the Tomb of the Virgin Mary

Once you exit the Old City walls, head toward the Kidron Valley. The walk itself already feels calmer, and before you know it, you’ll reach the entrance to the Tomb of the Virgin.

From the outside, the site is surprisingly discreet. You pass through a gate, then descend a long stone staircase into an underground church. The temperature drops, the noise fades, and the atmosphere becomes heavy and quiet.

According to Christian tradition, this is where Mary, the mother of Jesus, was buried. As with many places in Jerusalem, there’s no historical proof — but that almost feels beside the point. What stays with you is the mood: dim candlelight, thick stone walls, whispered prayers, and pilgrims standing silently around the tomb.

Even if you’re not religious, the visit feels intimate and powerful. It’s not a place you rush through. You slow down naturally, speak less, and simply observe.

Dress modestly here — shoulders covered, respectful behavior — and take a moment before heading back outside into the light.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Walk Through Garden of Gethsemane

Just across the road from the Tomb of the Virgin lies Gethsemane — and the contrast is striking.

After the darkness underground, you suddenly find yourself in a peaceful olive garden framed by ancient trees. This is believed to be the place where Jesus prayed the night before his arrest, according to the Gospels.

The garden itself is small but beautifully maintained. Some of the olive trees are said to be over 2,000 years old, and whether or not that’s fully accurate, standing among them feels special. It’s one of the quietest places you’ll encounter around the Old City.

Next to the garden stands the Church of All Nations, also known as the Basilica of the Agony. Inside, the light is intentionally dim, reinforcing the reflective atmosphere. You don’t need to stay long — even a short visit feels meaningful.

This stop works perfectly as a pause between more intense visits. Sit on a bench, breathe, and let the city slow down for a moment. Jerusalem rarely gives you silence — Gethsemane is one of the few places that does.

Climb the Mount of Olives

From Gethsemane, it’s time to head uphill. The walk to the Mount of Olives isn’t long, but it’s steady — and yes, you’ll feel it in your legs, especially after a full day of walking the Old City. Still, it’s absolutely worth the effort.

As you climb, the atmosphere changes again. The road passes through one of the oldest cemeteries in the world, stretching across the hillside. Thousands of tombstones face the Old City, creating a powerful and slightly surreal landscape. It’s quiet up here, broken only by footsteps and the occasional call to prayer drifting up from below.

When you reach the viewpoints, Jerusalem opens up in front of you. The Old City walls, the Dome of the Rock, the dense rooftops, and the valleys in between — it’s one of those views that instantly puts everything you’ve seen into perspective.

This is one of the best spots in Jerusalem to pause. You don’t need long explanations or plaques here. Just stand still, take it in, and let the layers of history sink in. Sunrise and sunset are especially beautiful, but even in the middle of the day, the view is unforgettable.

Around the Mount of Olives, you’ll also find important religious landmarks like the Chapel of the Ascension and the Tomb of the Prophets. You don’t have to visit them all — the walk itself and the panorama already make this one of the most rewarding things to do in Jerusalem.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring a good camera, such as the SONY A7 — it makes all the difference for capturing those unforgettable moments.

Explore the Tower of David

Start your second day by diving deeper into Jerusalem’s story at the Tower of David, right next to Jaffa Gate. Even if you’ve already wandered the Old City streets, this place helps everything click.

Inside, the museum walks you through more than 4,000 years of history — from ancient kingdoms to Ottoman rule — without feeling dry or overwhelming. You move room by room, era by era, and suddenly all those places you saw yesterday have context.

One of the highlights is heading up to the rooftop. From there, you get a full 360° view over the Old City, with domes, minarets, churches, and rooftops packed tightly together. If you can, linger a bit up there — it’s one of the best viewpoints in Jerusalem and a great way to understand how compact (and complex) the city really is.

You don’t need a guide to enjoy it, but if one is giving explanations nearby, it’s worth listening in for a few minutes. This visit sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Here are all your accommodation options in Jerusalem

Walk through Zion Gate & visit the Franciscan Monastery

From the Tower of David, head south toward Mount Zion and pass through Zion Gate. The atmosphere changes almost immediately — fewer crowds, quieter streets, and a slower pace.

Just inside the Mount Zion area, you’ll reach the Franciscan Monastery. This place is special because it sits right on top of several key sites: the Room of the Last Supper and King David’s Tomb. Even if you’re not deeply religious, the historical weight of the area is undeniable.

The Franciscans have played a major role in preserving Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, and walking through the monastery feels calm and respectful, especially compared to the busier parts of the Old City. It’s a good moment to slow down, read a bit, and absorb where you are.

Step inside the Room of the Last Supper

Just above King David’s Tomb sits one of the most symbolic rooms in Jerusalem: the Room of the Last Supper, also known as the Cenacle. This is believed to be the place where Jesus shared his final meal with his disciples before his arrest.

The space itself is surprisingly simple. Stone walls, soft light, and very little decoration. Architecturally, what you see today is not from the time of Jesus — the room has been rebuilt and modified many times over the centuries — but standing there still feels powerful. You’re in a place layered with belief, memory, and history.

It’s usually calm compared to other major sites in Jerusalem, which makes the visit even more striking. People tend to whisper, pause, and look around quietly. Whether you’re religious or not, this is one of those moments where Jerusalem’s spiritual weight really hits.

Take a few minutes, read the plaques, and let the atmosphere sink in before heading downstairs.

Visit King David’s Tomb

Directly below the Cenacle lies King David’s Tomb, one of the most important Jewish pilgrimage sites in Jerusalem. According to tradition, this is the burial place of King David, the biblical figure who conquered Jerusalem and made it the capital of Israel.

The space is divided, with separate prayer areas for men and women, and you’ll often see locals praying, reading psalms, or leaving notes. The atmosphere is very different from upstairs — more intense, more devotional, and deeply rooted in Jewish tradition.

Historically, the exact burial place of King David is debated, but the significance of the site is unquestionable. This is one of the rare places in Jerusalem where you feel how closely Jewish, Christian, and Muslim histories overlap — literally stacked on top of each other.

It’s worth slowing down here, observing quietly, and respecting the customs. Even a short visit gives you a deeper understanding of how central faith is to everyday life in Jerusalem.

Our Favorite Hotels in Jerusalem

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Jerusalem Hotel

Mamilla View- Suites & Apt Hotel

The American Colony Hotel

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Visit Dormition Abbey

Just a few steps from the Room of the Last Supper, you will find the Dormition Abbey in the middle of Mount Zion. According to Christian tradition, this is where the Virgin Mary fell asleep (the “Dormition”) before her assumption into heaven.

The church you see today was built in the early 20th century on top of earlier Byzantine ruins. Inside, the space is circular, calm, and surprisingly bright. If you head downstairs, you’ll find a crypt with a statue of Mary surrounded by candles — quiet, simple, and very atmospheric.

What makes this stop special is how uncrowded it usually is. After the intensity of the Old City, Dormition Abbey offers a moment to breathe. Even if you’re not deeply religious, it’s worth stepping inside just for the calm and the sense of history layered beneath your feet.

Discover the Hurva Synagogue

Tucked inside the Jewish Quarter, the Hurva Synagogue stands out immediately with its bright stone façade and massive dome. It’s one of Jerusalem’s most important synagogues — and one with a turbulent history.

Originally built in the 18th century, destroyed, rebuilt, destroyed again, and finally restored in 2010, the Hurva is a symbol of resilience. Inside, the space is grand but balanced, with elegant arches and a strong sense of symmetry.

You won’t access the main prayer hall freely, but the visit is designed as a self-guided route. You’ll walk through different levels of the building, learn about its destruction and rebirth, and eventually reach the rooftop. From there, you get one of the most underrated views over the Jewish Quarter and nearby rooftops.

It’s an easy visit to combine with a walk through the Old City — and a great way to understand the Jewish history of Jerusalem beyond the Western Wall.

Visit the Garden Tomb

If you still have a bit of energy after exploring the Old City, the Garden Tomb makes for a surprising and peaceful stop. To get there, you leave the Old City through Damascus Gate, cross a lively local area, and suddenly… everything slows down.

Unlike the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, this site feels quiet and intimate. Some Christians believe this could be the actual burial place of Jesus, based on biblical descriptions — though this remains debated. What really stands out isn’t the claim itself, but the atmosphere. The garden is beautifully maintained, with olive trees, shaded benches, and a calm that feels worlds away from the crowds inside the Old City.

You can step inside the tomb, sit in the garden, or simply take a break. Whether or not you connect with the religious meaning, it’s a refreshing pause and a very different take on Jerusalem’s spiritual side.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Explore Masada

Masada is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave Israel. Rising dramatically from the Judean Desert near the Dead Sea, this ancient fortress tells one of the most powerful — and tragic — stories in Jewish history.

You can reach the top either by cable car or by hiking the Snake Path before sunrise (tough, but unforgettable). Once up there, you walk through the ruins of King Herod’s palace, ancient storage rooms, bathhouses, and defensive walls — all perched high above the desert.

What makes Masada special isn’t just the ruins, but the setting. Standing there, looking out over the desert, it’s easy to understand why this place became a symbol of resistance and endurance. If you’re visiting Jerusalem for several days, Masada is absolutely worth dedicating one full day to — especially when combined with Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea.

Tip: Check out the highly-rated Masada & Dead Sea Full Day Tour with Pick Up

Hike in Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

After Masada, Ein Gedi feels like stepping into another world. Nestled between the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea, this lush oasis is one of the most refreshing places you can visit from Jerusalem.

Here, you trade stone walls and ancient cities for waterfalls, shaded trails, and surprising greenery. The hikes are well marked and accessible, even if you’re not a hardcore hiker. As you walk through the reserve, you’ll pass streams, small pools, and viewpoints overlooking the desert. If you’re lucky, you might spot ibexes casually crossing the path or hiding in the cliffs.

Ein Gedi is the perfect contrast to Jerusalem’s intensity — calmer, quieter, and deeply connected to nature. It’s also a great place to cool down before heading to the Dead Sea.

Tip: Check out the highly-rated Masada & Dead Sea Full Day Tour with Pick Up

Float in the Dead Sea

No trip to Israel feels complete without experiencing the Dead Sea. Sitting at the lowest point on Earth, this surreal body of water is famous for one simple reason: you float without trying.

When you arrive, the landscape already feels unreal — dry hills, sharp light, and thick, salty air. Once in the water, floating becomes effortless. It’s strange, fun, and oddly relaxing all at once. Just remember: don’t splash, don’t shave beforehand, and absolutely don’t get water in your eyes (you’ll regret it instantly).

Many beaches also offer mud straight from the Dead Sea, which you can apply and let dry in the sun before rinsing off. Tourist gimmick or not, it’s part of the experience — and a pretty fun one.

This stop is less about history and more about sensation. After days of walking, thinking, and absorbing Jerusalem’s layers, the Dead Sea feels like a reset button.

Tip: Check out the highly-rated Masada & Dead Sea Full Day Tour with Pick Up

Visit the Temple Mount

The Temple Mount is one of the most sensitive, complex, and fascinating places you can visit in Jerusalem. It’s sacred to three religions at once and sits right above the Western Wall, which already gives you an idea of how layered — and tense — this place can feel.

Access for non-Muslim visitors is limited and highly controlled. You enter through the Mughrabi Bridge near the Western Wall plaza, passing airport-style security checks. Opening hours change frequently and are usually restricted to short morning and early afternoon windows, so timing matters a lot here.

Once inside, the atmosphere shifts instantly. The open esplanade is vast and surprisingly calm, especially compared to the busy streets below. You can walk around freely but you’re not allowed to pray, kneel, or show religious symbols if you’re not Muslim — rules are strictly enforced.

The two landmarks you’ll immediately notice are the Dome of the Rock, with its golden dome, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites. While non-Muslims can’t enter the buildings, simply seeing them up close is powerful. The Dome of the Rock, in particular, feels almost unreal in person.

Visit Nazareth

Nazareth is one of those places you visit knowing its importance, but still end up surprised by how alive it feels. Beyond its biblical significance, this is a real, busy city with markets, cafés, traffic, and daily life unfolding all around you.

The main reason to come is the Basilica of the Annunciation, built on the site where the Angel Gabriel is said to have announced the birth of Jesus to Mary. It’s massive, modern, and very different from what you might expect from such an ancient story. Inside, what really stands out is the collection of artworks from around the world, each depicting Mary in a different cultural style.

Walking through Nazareth also means wandering small streets filled with spice shops, bakeries, and local restaurants. It’s a great place to slow down, sit for a coffee, and observe everyday life. Compared to Jerusalem, it feels less overwhelming and more grounded — a place where faith and normal life coexist very naturally.

Here are all your accommodation options in Jerusalem

Cross into Bethlehem

Visiting Bethlehem feels different from everything else on this itinerary — not just culturally, but emotionally too. The city sits in the West Bank, and getting there already gives you a glimpse into the region’s political reality.

The main highlight is the Church of the Nativity, built over the cave believed to be the birthplace of Jesus. From the outside, the church is surprisingly plain. Inside, it’s dim, ancient, and heavy with history. To reach the grotto, you’ll likely queue, descend into a low-ceilinged space, and briefly stand at the spot marked as Jesus’ birthplace.

What makes Bethlehem special isn’t just the site itself, but everything around it. Walking through the streets, you’ll notice street art, political murals, and a very different atmosphere compared to Jerusalem. It’s raw, eye-opening, and important to see if you want a fuller understanding of the region.

Most visitors come on a half-day trip from Jerusalem, often with a guide, which makes crossing checkpoints and understanding the context much easier. It’s not always comfortable, but it’s meaningful — and it stays with you long after you leave.

Jerusalem Itinerary

Day 1 – Walk Into the Heart of Jerusalem. This day is all about slowly entering the Old City and letting Jerusalem unfold step by step.

• Start at Yehuda Market for breakfast and local life
• Walk down Jaffa Street, following the tram toward the Old City
• Stop at the I Love Jerusalem sign before entering through Jaffa Gate
• Wander the Old City of Jerusalem and get lost in its alleys
• Walk along the ramparts with Walls of Jerusalem
• Visit the Western Wall
• Explore the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Head south to the City of David and its underground tunnels
• Visit the Tomb of the Virgin
• Walk through Gethsemane
• Finish the day at the Mount of Olives for sunset

Day 2 – History, Faith & Hidden Corners. A deeper dive into Jerusalem’s layers of history, from Jewish heritage to early Christianity.

• Explore the Tower of David
• Enter the Old City through Zion Gate
• Visit the Franciscan Monastery
• See the Room of the Last Supper
• Visit King David’s Tomb
• Stop at Dormition Abbey
• Explore the Hurva Synagogue
• End the day at the peaceful Garden Tomb

Day 3 – Desert Wonders: Masada & the Dead Sea. A full-day escape from the city into raw desert landscapes.

• Visit Masada (hike or cable car)
• Stop at Ein Gedi for waterfalls and desert trails
• Float in the Dead Sea

Day 4 – Nazareth Day Trip. A day focused on biblical history and everyday life in northern Israel.

• Visit Nazareth
• Explore the Basilica of the Annunciation
• Walk through the old town and local markets

Day 5 – Bethlehem. A powerful and moving half- or full-day trip.

• Visit Bethlehem
• Explore the Church of the Nativity
• Walk through Manger Square and the old streets

Our Favorite Hotels in Jerusalem

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Jerusalem Hotel

Mamilla View- Suites & Apt Hotel

The American Colony Hotel

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