Wish 1: Meet the spirits of Emek Refaim – the Ein Yael night tour
One of the most elusive and enchanting tours in Jerusalem takes place just once a month at the Ein Yael archaeological garden, tucked between Gilo and the Refaim stream. The rare, almost mythical guided night tour transforms the ancient Roman-era site into a nighttime dreamscape of sound, movement and light.
Kinetic art installations—created specifically for the space—evoke a modern tribute to ancient contemplative gardens. Visitors walk among ancient stones under the open sky, encountering sculptures, flickering lights and the artistic presence of the Anata Cultural Center.
Best for: Art and nature lovers drawn to mystery and atmosphere.
Booking: Via the Ein Yael or Anata Cultural Center websites.
Cost: NIS 55
When: Once a month—check Anata's Facebook page for updates.
Wish 2: Sleep in Jerusalem like a tourist
Most Jerusalemites have never stayed in a hotel in their own city. But several new boutique hotels make a strong case for a staycation—each blending local heritage with stylish comfort.
Hotel Biazi, located in Nachlaot, is built on the site of the Biazi family’s historic home. The family once ran the beloved Maadan pastry shop on Yeshayahu Street. Guests can hear the story of the place from Mimi Biazi herself and enjoy rooftop views toward the Knesset.
Hotel Ramban, opened by celebrity chef Assaf Granit, marks his return to the city. Located in Rehavia next to Giraffe Park, the site once housed the famed 1930s-era Café Rehavia — a haunt for intellectuals and British officers.
Today, it includes dairy café Ramban and the meat-centric Janjariya restaurant, named after the neighborhood's historic name. Even if you're not staying the night, breakfast here is worth the visit.
Find them online: “Hotel Biazi” or “Hotel Ramban”
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Wish 3: Hear the sounds of Jerusalem
From church bells to muezzins, prayers to pop songs, Jerusalem’s soundscape is unlike any other. The “Singing Bus,” launched by tour guide and performer Tali Shoshani, offers a musical tour with live performances and storytelling.
The rolling concert includes lively folk tales, historical anecdotes and classic Jerusalem songs performed with guitar accompaniment. Designed as an accessible alternative for those who struggle with the city's many hills, the tour includes stops at key sites.
Best for: Groups, families or anyone who prefers singing over walking.
How to find: Search "The Singing Bus Jerusalem"
Cost: Yes, by reservation only.
Wish 4: Visit the home studio of Bracha Cohen
In Jerusalem’s ultra-Orthodox Bayit VeGan neighborhood, artist Bracha Cohen works quietly, far from the digital world. A mother of 12, she transforms found objects—shoes, brushes, sponges—into intricate artworks inspired by Jerusalem.
An old shoe becomes a pilgrimage scene, paintbrush bristles turn into feathers, a sponge becomes a loaf of bread in tribute to the nearby Angel Bakery. Cohen’s studio is open only to those who manage to reach her directly, under the name “Birkat Hakohen.”
How to visit: Contact details at the “Women & Stories in Jerusalem” site.
Cost: Yes
Wish 5: Walk the Old City walls in a day
The Old City spans just one square kilometer (0.39 square miles), yet its surrounding wall stretches over 4 kilometers (2.5 miles)—a testament to Jerusalem’s winding logic.
Walking the ramparts along all four quarters in a single day is a challenge requiring decent fitness, as the route includes many staircases and one closed section (between Dung Gate and Lion’s Gate). Still, the panoramic views are spectacular—some of the best photo spots in the city.
How to visit: Start at Jaffa Gate via the north or south wall.
Cost: Yes, tickets available via the East Jerusalem Development Company
Prep: Wear walking shoes, bring water, a hat and a camera. Consider tracking your steps for bragging rights.
Wish 6: Discover Jerusalem’s hidden gardens
In recent years, over 70 community gardens have quietly flourished across 16 neighborhoods. These urban oases, planted and maintained by residents, offer everything from fresh herbs and vegetables to fruit trees and shaded seating.
They provide green spaces for neighbors to meet, connect with nature and transform neglected plots into neighborhood landmarks.
The Jerusalem Municipality’s community gardening team, in partnership with digital tour company GoBeeTravel, has created a free, self-guided mobile tour highlighting several of these gardens.
Cost: Free
How to join: Visit www.gobeetravel.com on your phone and follow the Jerusalem garden tour.