Jerusalem Travel Guide
Though Jerusalem is a place of pilgrimage for the Muslim, Christian and Jewish faiths, people from all over the world are drawn to the destination regardless of their religious beliefs. The relatively small area of the Old City is arguably one of the most atmospheric ancient enclaves remaining in the world, and is characterised by winding old streets, ancient fortifications and an almost tangible sense of history. Most who holiday in Jerusalem come to immerse themselves in the religious and historic attractions of this ancient city, including iconic religious sites such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Temple Mount and the Western Wall.
Jerusalem is also not without modern attractions and the city has many world-class museums and art galleries, and hosts a number of cultural festivals. The city is well located to be a springboard to some of Israel's most remarkable landscapes and attractions.
Best time to visit Jerusalem
Summers in Jerusalem are hot, but the months of July and August remain high season for a Jerusalem holiday, despite accommodation being more expensive and queues longer. Both spring and autumn (around May and September) are great seasons to travel to visit, as the days are sunny and warm. For budget travellers, the least expensive is the cool (but wet) winter, between November and March. Many facilities are closed during the Jewish Passover and some other religious holidays.
What to see in Jerusalem
-Pay tribute at Yad Vashem, Israel's moving Holocaust memorial.
-Visit the Israel Museum to learn about the Holy Land from the prehistoric to the present.
-Stroll around the famous Citadel of David, admiring the views, the exhibits and the ancient architecture.
-See where Jesus was born just outside of Jerusalem, in Bethlehem.
What to do in Jerusalem
- Explore the ancient Hezekiah's Tunnel, which winds beneath the city.
- Float in the unique, healing waters of the Dead Sea.
- Take an excursion to Masada, one of Israel's most famous tourist attractions.
- Walk the footsteps of Jesus on the Via Dolorosa, or the Way of the Cross, through Old Jerusalem.
Beyond Jerusalem
Israel is not a big country and Jerusalem is a great base for excursions to other famous sites and tourist attractions, such as Masada, the Roman Crater and The Dead Sea. Tel Aviv, the coastal city known as the heart of Israel's contemporary nightlife and shopping scene, is within easy reach and complements the more sombre and ancient treasures of Jerusalem with its young, hip atmosphere.
Getting there
International flights to Jerusalem and Tel Aviv land at Ben-Gurion International Airport, which is situated nine miles (14km) southeast of Tel Aviv, and 30 miles (50km) west of Jerusalem. It takes about 40 minutes to drive from the airport to Jerusalem and there are buses and taxis available.
Did you know?
-The city of Jerusalem is over 3,000 years old.
-Considering the number of people, of various religions, who hold Jerusalem sacred, it can be called the most holy city in the world.
-Jerusalem has more than 2,000 archaeological sites.