Jerusalem 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Old City

Morning

  • Start at the Western Wall (HaKotel HaMa’aravi), a sacred site in Judaism
  • Visit the Temple Mount (Haram al-Sharif), a holy site for Muslims, Jews, and Christians
  • Explore the Muslim Quarter, one of the four quarters of the Old City

Afternoon

  • Walk along the Via Dolorosa, following the path Jesus took to his crucifixion
  • Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a major pilgrimage site for Christians
  • Explore the Christian Quarter, home to many Christian denominations

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Abu Shukri, a popular restaurant serving Middle Eastern cuisine
  • Stay overnight at The Post Hostel, a budget-friendly option in the heart of the city

Things to Know

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Be prepared for security checks at entrances to holy sites
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Transportation

  • Take bus #1 or #38 from the Central Bus Station to the Old City
  • Walk or take a taxi between sites within the Old City

Tips

  • Hire a guide to get the most out of your visit
  • Bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes for walking

Day 2: Yad Vashem and Ein Karem

Morning

  • Visit Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center (free admission)
  • Learn about the history of the Holocaust and its victims

Afternoon

  • Head to Ein Karem, a picturesque neighborhood with a rich history
  • Visit the Church of John the Baptist, built on the site where John the Baptist was born
  • Explore the charming streets, shops, and cafes of Ein Karem

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Rosie’s, a cozy restaurant serving international cuisine
  • Stay overnight at The Ein Karem Hotel, a comfortable option with a relaxing atmosphere

Things to Know

  • Yad Vashem is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays
  • Ein Karem has limited parking; consider taking a taxi or bus

Transportation

  • Take bus #10 from the Central Bus Station to Yad Vashem
  • Take bus #28 from Yad Vashem to Ein Karem

Tips

  • Plan your visit to Yad Vashem according to their opening hours
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking in Ein Karem’s hilly terrain

Day 3: Mount of Olives and the Garden Tomb

Morning

  • Visit the Mount of Olives, offering breathtaking views of Jerusalem
  • Explore the Church of All Nations, also known as the Basilica of the Agony
  • Stop by the Garden Tomb, a peaceful oasis with a beautiful garden

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll along the Olive Walk, a scenic path lined with olive trees
  • Visit the Dominus Flevit Church, built on the site where Jesus wept over Jerusalem

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Askadinya, a popular restaurant serving Middle Eastern cuisine
  • Stay overnight at The Olive Tree Hotel, a comfortable option with a beautiful view of the Old City

Things to Know

  • The Mount of Olives is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the Olive Walk

Transportation

  • Take bus #1 or #38 from the Central Bus Station to the Mount of Olives
  • Walk or take a taxi between sites on the Mount of Olives

Tips

  • Bring binoculars to enhance your view from the Mount of Olives
  • Respect the serene atmosphere at the Garden Tomb

Day 4: Western Jerusalem

Morning

  • Visit the Israel Museum, home to a vast collection of Israeli art and artifacts (free admission on Saturdays)
  • Explore the Bible Lands Museum, showcasing the history and culture of the biblical lands

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll through the Rehavia neighborhood, known for its beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere
  • Visit the Ben Yehuda Street, a popular pedestrian mall lined with shops and cafes

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Machneyuda, a trendy restaurant serving creative Israeli cuisine
  • Stay overnight at The Leonardo Plaza Hotel, a luxurious option in the heart of Western Jerusalem

Things to Know

  • The Israel Museum is closed on Mondays and Jewish holidays
  • Ben Yehuda Street can get crowded, especially on weekends

Transportation

  • Take bus #9 or #17 from the Central Bus Station to the Israel Museum
  • Walk or take a taxi between sites in Western Jerusalem

Tips

  • Plan your visit to the Israel Museum according to their opening hours
  • Bring cash for shopping at Ben Yehuda Street’s markets and shops

Day 5: Bethlehem and Hebron

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to Bethlehem, located in the West Bank (approximately 1-hour drive)
  • Visit the Church of the Nativity, built on the site where Jesus was born
  • Explore the Manger Square, surrounded by historic churches and buildings

Afternoon

  • Head to Hebron, a city in the West Bank known for its rich history and Cave of the Patriarchs (approximately 1.5-hour drive)
  • Visit the Cave of the Patriarchs, a sacred site for Jews, Muslims, and Christians
  • Explore the Old City of Hebron, with its ancient streets and buildings

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Afteem, a popular restaurant serving Middle Eastern cuisine in Bethlehem
  • Return to Jerusalem and stay overnight at The Mount Zion Hotel, a comfortable option with a beautiful view of the Old City

Things to Know

  • Travel restrictions may apply for visitors to Bethlehem and Hebron; check current regulations before planning your trip
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting these cities

Transportation

  • Take a guided tour or private transportation to Bethlehem and Hebron
  • Follow instructions from your guide or driver regarding border crossings and security checks

Tips

  • Plan your visit according to the opening hours of the sites in Bethlehem and Hebron
  • Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen for the day-long trip