Ancient city gate unveiled
After three years of restoration, Jerusalem has inaugurated the "Ancient City Gate" beneath Damascus Gate — an archaeological site shedding light on the clash between the Roman Empire and the Jewish people in the 2nd century CE. The gate marks the Roman transformation of Jerusalem into the pagan city Aelia Capitolina. Visitors can watch a multimedia presentation and view a historical exhibit that connects past to present.
Old City ramparts walk
The ramparts walk along the Old City walls remains one of Jerusalem’s top attractions. Split into northern and southern sections, it offers panoramic views of ancient and modern Jerusalem, along with insight into its neighborhoods and historic sites. Open daily with paid entry. Note: the route includes many stairs and is not wheelchair accessible.
Ammunition Hill
Ammunition Hill is one of Israel’s most significant heritage sites, commemorating the battle for the reunification of Jerusalem during the 1967 Six-Day War. The site combines historical education with a look toward future unity, offering sweeping views of modern Jerusalem.
Pick a museum—or several
Jerusalem is home to some of Israel’s top museums, including:
- Yad Vashem
- Israel Museum
- Tower of David
- City of David
For younger visitors, the Bloomfield Science Museum and Hebrew Music Museum are great options. Also worth a visit is the Academy of the Hebrew Language in Givat Ram, which offers group experiences exploring the history of the Hebrew language. Open events for the public are occasionally held.
Western Wall Tunnels
Beneath the Muslim Quarter of the Old City lies a network of underground tunnels stretching along the Western Wall. The complex features ruins from the Second Temple period, the Middle Ages and modern times. The immersive walking path is one of Israel’s most visited tourist sites. Managed by the Western Wall Heritage Foundation.
Nature walks and urban markets
Jerusalem offers several outdoor trails, including:
- Nahal Zimri Park
- Gazelle Valley Park
- Self-guided tours of community gardens
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In town, don’t miss the Bezalel Arts Fair, held every Friday until early afternoon. Artists sell original work, alongside stalls from social initiatives.
The Machane Yehuda Market is another must-see: one of Israel’s oldest food and clothing markets, it’s also a nightlife hotspot. By day, it features street food and local cuisine; by night, it's filled with bars, cafes and upscale restaurants. Note: shops close Friday evenings, Saturdays and holidays.
Montefiore Windmill
The historic Montefiore Windmill, built by British Jewish philanthropist Moses Montefiore, now functions as a leisure complex. Located in Yemin Moshe, it houses the Jerusalem Wineries visitor center, a coffee and pastry cart, and a scenic lookout facing the Old City walls.
Silent disco walking tour
Looking for something more energetic? Simba Tours offers a wireless headphone party walk from downtown Jerusalem to Jaffa Gate. With music in your ears and the city at your feet, this mobile dance tour brings a new rhythm to sightseeing.
Food spots
Tmol Shilshom
In the heart of the 1869 Nachalat Shiva neighborhood, this literary café was founded by author and activist David Ehrlich. Since 1994, it’s hosted writers, musicians and artists. Lonely Planet once ranked its shakshuka among the world’s top ten breakfasts.
Beit Ha’am
Located at the front plaza of the Jerusalem Arts Campus, this venue serves morning pastries, health-conscious lunches and upscale dinners—all kosher and affordable. The campus blends nightlife, culture and academia.
Notre Dame Center Rooftop Restaurant
On the fourth floor of the Notre Dame Hotel, this restaurant offers sweeping views of the Old City and Dome of the Rock. Its menu includes fine wines, gourmet cheeses and a mix of Middle Eastern and meat dishes. The restaurant, operated by a Christian organization, caters largely to English-speaking visitors.
Hotels
Jako Boutique Hotel
Located between Machane Yehuda Market and Nachalat Shiva, this small boutique hotel is run by Amir Beit Aryeh, a reserve unit commander with nearly 300 reserve duty days this year alone. Set in the historic Sidis House — once home to the legendary Pink Restaurant visited by David Ben Gurion and Nathan Alterman—the hotel reopened in August 2023.
It has six double rooms (some with balconies) and one deluxe room for up to seven guests. Located next to Ma’afe Yehuda, a popular breakfast spot. Reservists can use Defense Ministry benefits for stays. Special rates available for Jerusalem Day.
Hotel Yehuda
A four-star family hotel nestled in a wooded area just 10–15 minutes from downtown. Spread over 3 acres (12 dunams), it features a garden, swimming pool, gym, modern spa (4,300 sq. ft. or 400 sq. m) inspired by Zen design and spacious public areas. The hotel offers 129 rooms, including a presidential suite and four accessible rooms. Free parking is available.
Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem
Built on the site of the historic Palace Hotel, this luxury property offers 226 rooms, including 29 suites, several gourmet restaurants, a Guerlain spa, wellness center and a 33-meter (108-foot) indoor lap pool with jets. The breakfast is especially renowned for its variety and refined service.