Jerusalem, Israel 4 Day Itinerary

Jerusalem Itinerary: 4 Days of History, Culture, and Spirituality

Day 1: Exploring the Old City

Morning

  • Western Wall (Kotel): Start your day with a visit to the Western Wall, one of Judaism’s most sacred sites. Watch the sunrise over the wall and take in the spiritual atmosphere.
  • Dung Gate: Enter the Old City through Dung Gate, one of the seven gates that lead into the city.

Afternoon

  • Temple Mount (Haram al-Sharif): Visit Temple Mount, a site holy to both Jews and Muslims. Be sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
  • Via Dolorosa: Walk along Via Dolorosa, also known as the Way of Sorrows, which follows the path Jesus took on his way to crucifixion.

Evening

  • Eat at: Try some traditional Middle Eastern cuisine at Abu Shukri Restaurant or grab a falafel at Moshiko.
  • Stay at: The Leonardo Plaza Hotel Jerusalem or the more budget-friendly Abraham Hostel Jerusalem are both centrally located and offer comfortable accommodations.

Day 2: History, Archaeology, and Markets

Morning

  • Israel Museum: Spend the morning exploring the Israel Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits on Israeli history and culture.
  • Shrine of the Book: Visit the Shrine of the Book, which houses the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Afternoon

  • Mahane Yehuda Market: Explore the vibrant Mahane Yehuda Market, also known as “The Shuk,” where you can find fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs.
  • Cardo: Walk along Cardo, a reconstructed Roman street that dates back to the 2nd century AD.

Evening

  • Eat at: Enjoy some traditional Israeli cuisine at Kadosh or try some delicious shawarma at Shawarma Bazaar.
  • Tips: Be sure to haggle when shopping at markets and remember to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Day 3: Mount of Olives, Gethsemane, and the City Walls

Morning

  • Mount of Olives: Take in the breathtaking views of Jerusalem from the top of the Mount of Olives.
  • Garden of Gethsemane: Visit the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prayed on the night before his crucifixion.

Afternoon

  • City Walls: Walk along the ancient city walls, which offer stunning views of the Old City and its surroundings.
  • Zion Gate: Exit the Old City through Zion Gate, one of the most photographed gates in Jerusalem.

Evening

  • Eat at: Try some delicious Middle Eastern cuisine at 1868 or enjoy a coffee at Café Yudaleh.
  • Stay at: The Mount Zion Hotel or the more budget-friendly YMCA Three Arches Hotel are both great options for accommodations.

Day 4: Yad Vashem, Ein Karem, and the German Colony

Morning

  • Yad Vashem: Spend the morning visiting Yad Vashem, Israel’s official Holocaust memorial and museum.
  • Ein Karem: Explore the charming neighborhood of Ein Karem, known for its picturesque streets, historic churches, and natural springs.

Afternoon

  • German Colony: Visit the trendy German Colony neighborhood, which offers a mix of old and new Jerusalem. Be sure to check out the beautiful Templar houses.
  • First Station: End your day at First Station, a historic train station turned entertainment complex with restaurants, bars, and shops.

Transportation

  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Jerusalem, but be sure to negotiate the fare before you start your journey.
  • Bus: The Jerusalem Light Rail is an efficient way to get around the city, or take bus number 1 or 3 for a more affordable option.
  • Walking: Jerusalem is a walkable city, and exploring on foot is a great way to discover hidden gems.

Things to Know

  • Dress modestly: When visiting religious sites, be sure to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.
  • Respect local customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially during holidays and celebrations.
  • Learn some Hebrew: While many Jerusalemites speak English, learning a few basic Hebrew phrases can go a long way in showing respect for the culture.

Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes: Jerusalem is a city best explored on foot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
  • Stay hydrated: The Israeli sun can be intense, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Be prepared for crowds: Jerusalem is a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.