Whenever I think about Jerusalem, vivid pictures of the narrow streets of the ancient city, the shimmer of the mosque’s golden dome, and the friendly faces of the locals come to mind. Jerusalem is undoubtedly all of that and much more.
Finding a place to stay will be one of the top priorities when planning a trip to Jerusalem. There are various options to choose from based on your budget. If you’re looking for quality accommodations with all the amenities, the King David Hotel is an excellent choice that offers a touch of luxury. It’s centrally located, making it easy to explore the city’s attractions.
One of the most sacred and must-see places in Jerusalem is the esplanade of the mosques at Temple Mount. Situated within the Old City of Jerusalem, next to the Wailing Wall, this place is stunning, like almost every sacred site in the city.
Another essential stop is the Mehane Yehuda market. With numerous shops and even some restaurants, it is one of the city’s main activity hubs. You’ll find souvenirs and various other products at reasonable prices.
The old city of Jerusalem was once the walled city of Jerusalem. It originally had 8 gates. The Damascus Gate, the main gate facing north, was built between 1537 and 1542. It provides access to the Muslim area, bustling with a busy market and small restaurants perfect for enjoying some hummus.
Another well-known gate is the Jaffa Gate. However, the most intriguing of the eight gates is the Golden Gate, or Gate of Mercy, which has been sealed since 1541. If you’re interested, you can take a guided tour atop the wall to see gates like the Jaffa Gate. This tour takes you from one gate to another and offers a fantastic view of the Old City from above.
Lastly, don’t miss a nighttime visit to the Mount of Olives. The view of the old city of Jerusalem at night is simply breathtaking. The area around the Mount of Olives is filled with historic tombs, adding to its significance.
Make sure to also experience Jerusalem during the snowfall and visit its many places of prayer and religious grounds.