Jerusalem, Israel-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Jerusalem, Israel

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the Old City

  • Morning: Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport and take a taxi or bus (approximately 45 minutes) to your hotel in Jerusalem.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Western Wall (Kotel), one of Judaism’s most sacred sites. Explore the Old City, wandering through its narrow streets and alleys, taking in the sights and sounds.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Machane Yehuda Market, a bustling marketplace with plenty of food options.

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Israel Museum, home to the Dead Sea Scrolls and an impressive collection of Israeli art and artifacts.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, a powerful tribute to the victims of the Holocaust.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Middle Eastern cuisine at Abu Shukri restaurant.

Day 3: Christianity in Jerusalem

  • Morning: Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of Christianity’s most sacred sites, believed to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus took on his way to crucifixion, lined with Stations of the Cross.
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner at The Austrian Hospice, a historic guesthouse with a beautiful courtyard.

Day 4: Jewish Heritage

  • Morning: Visit the Tower of David Museum, which tells the story of Jerusalem’s history through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Mea Shearim neighborhood, one of the oldest and most traditional Haredi (Ultra-Orthodox) communities in Jerusalem.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at HaAchim, a popular kosher restaurant.

Day 5: Nature and Scenic Views

  • Morning: Take a short bus ride to the Mount of Olives, offering breathtaking views of the Old City.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Garden Tomb, a peaceful oasis with beautiful gardens and scenic views.
  • Evening: Enjoy a romantic dinner at The Rooftop restaurant, with stunning views of the city.

Day 6: Modern Jerusalem

  • Morning: Explore the Mahane Yehuda Market, a bustling marketplace with fresh produce, baked goods, and souvenirs.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Knesset, Israel’s parliament building, for a guided tour (must be arranged in advance).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Mama’s, a popular restaurant serving modern Israeli cuisine.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or visiting any sites you missed earlier in the trip.
  • Afternoon: Depart for Ben Gurion Airport and your return journey home.

Accommodation

  • Hotel Recommendations:
    • The Leonardo Plaza Hotel Jerusalem
    • The Inbal Jerusalem Hotel
    • The King David Jerusalem Hotel

Transportation

  • Airport Transfers: Taxis, buses (Egged or Superbus), and private transfers available.
  • Getting Around: Walk, take taxis, or use public transportation (buses) to get around the city.

Tips and Essentials

  • Dress Modestly: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.
  • Respect Local Customs: Remove your shoes when entering mosques or homes.
  • Learn Some Hebrew: Greet locals with “Shalom” (hello), “Todah” (thank you), and “L’hitraot” (goodbye).
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during hot summer months.
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular sites can be crowded; plan accordingly.

Other Things to Know

  • Security: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Follow local instructions and guidance from authorities.
  • Currency: Israeli Shekel (NIS); credit cards widely accepted.
  • Language: Hebrew and Arabic are official languages, but many locals speak English.
  • Time Zone: Israel Standard Time (IST) is 2 hours ahead of GMT.

Additional Resources

Remember to stay open-minded, respectful, and curious during your travels in Jerusalem. Shalom!