The city of Jerusalem is unique in its importance, for the type of tourism and the type of attractions it offers.
Jerusalem unites the three great monotheistic religions: Christianity, Islam and Judaism, and its importance makes it a destination for millions of pilgrims throughout the year. Jerusalem is not comparable to any other city in the world: its spiritual and historical magnetism attracts tourists from all over the world. But Jerusalem is not just history or religion, it is a lively and captivating city, it offers citizens and tourists unique, fun, cultural events, a unique atmosphere of its kind.
Old City
When we talk about complexity and richness in a small area, we are talking about the Old City of Jerusalem. This is ancient Jerusalem, built about three thousand years ago by King David. The Holy City was the backdrop of the Jewish Temple; the meeting places of Jesus with his disciples; the place where Muhammad’s ascension to Paradise took place. The visit of the city must start from the four districts of the Old City (Jewish, Christian, Muslim and Armenian): walk through the alleys, thinking of those who have walked on the same stones before you, along the millenary streets between Synagogues, Churches and Mosques; buy small souvenirs at the Arab souk; observe the diversity of people who live and visit the Old City, in these alleys is concentrated half of our world. Stop and contemplate the Western Wall(also called the Kotel), enter the extraordinary Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher and stroll on the Esplanade of the Mosques, where the famous Dome of the Rock is located.
That said, the Old Town also offers a variety of typical restaurants and bars, as well as entertainment of all kinds, from live music to light shows, for all ages and all year round.
Among the museums we mention: the Tower of David, the Davidson Center and the Wall Tunnel , the citadel of David (just outside the Walls).
Jerusalem Old City at Night, Israel
Attractions of the New City
Jerusalem boasts over 200 attractions, including more than 60 museums. To name a few: Jewish and international art exhibits at the Israel Museum and the Bible lands Museum; see animals and vegetation up close, including those mentioned in the bible, at the biblical zoo; appreciate the delights and flavors of the Mahane Yehuda market and the nearby Nachlaot district. You can also focus your visit on the capital’s institutions – the Knesset (the Israeli parliament) and the supreme court. These are just a few examples of the unforgettable experiences Jerusalem has to offer.
As for holy places, Jerusalem has hundreds, even outside the Old City, places of worship for all faiths.
For those who love nature, in Jerusalem there are some nature reserves suitable for families, but also parks and playgrounds such as the deer park, the bird refuge, Gan Sacher, the botanical gardens, Liberty Bell Park and Independence Park.
A few minutes from the city are two accessible and important sites: Bethlehem, with the Church of the Nativity, and the nearby tomb of Rachel.
Since the distances are minimal, it is easy to organize day trips to various destinations: the Judean Hills, Samaria, the Dead Sea, Masada and Ein Gedi. Even Tel Aviv is only 40 minutes away.
Entertainment and Restaurants
Jerusalem is influenced by both local, Middle Eastern and international cuisine, an influence that can be seen in the restaurants and clubs of the city. The variety, in fact, is not lacking: from the numerous falafel or shwarma kiosks, to the numerous sushi and oriental cuisine restaurants, to grilled meat, to the numerous Italian restaurants, there are choices for all tastes and budgets.
As for culture, you only have to choose between dance, theater and cinema throughout the year and the numerous museums open every day.