Jerusalem 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Jerusalem Itinerary:

Day 1: Arriving in the Old City

  • Morning: Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) & take a shuttle/taxi to Jerusalem (approx. 45 min - 1 hour drive). Check into your hotel in the Old City for an immersive experience.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Jewish Quarter, including the Western Wall, the Hurva Synagogue (rebuilt!), and the Cardo, a Roman-era marketplace.
  • Evening: Dinner at The Eucalyptus, a charming restaurant in the heart of the Old City known for its delicious Mediterranean food and rooftop views.

Things to know:

  • Currency: The currency in Israel is the Israeli Shekel (ILS).
  • Language: Hebrew is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
  • Dress code: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Language of the Day: Cover shoulders and knees at all times while inside and within a certain radius of holy sites.

Day 2: Mount of Olives & Beyond the Walls

  • Morning: Visit the Mount of Olives, starting with the Church of All Nations and enjoying panoramic views of Jerusalem.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus is said to have prayed before his arrest, and walk down the Kidron Valley.

  • Evening: Dine at Abu Shukri, a beloved local eatery known for its authentic hummus and falafel in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City.

  • Things to know: The Old City has many restaurants catering to tourists. For a more local & budget-friendly experience, consider smaller eateries.

Day 3:

  • Morning: Explore the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a site revered as the location of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the charming alleys of the Christian Quarter, visit the Armenian Patriarchate and soak in the historical atmosphere.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Jerusalem dinner at The Eucalyptus.

Things to know: The Old City is a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for crowds.

Day 4: Food & Culture

  • Day Trip: Explore the vibrant Mahane Yehuda Market (Shuk), experiencing the bustling energy and sampling local delicacies.

  • Eat: Indulge in a delicious lunch at Falafel Ben Sira, known for its flavorful street food.

  • Things to know:

    • Negotiating prices is common practice in the Shuk.
    • Try new things! The best way to experience the local culture is through their food. Don’t be afraid to ask vendors for recommendations and try something you’ve never had before.

Day 4: Food & History

  • Eat: Enjoy a delicious lunch at Abu Shuk, a popular spot in the Christian Quarter known for its traditional Palestinian cuisine.
  • Activity: Immerse yourself in history with a visit to the Israel Museum to see the Dead Sea Scrolls and explore Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center.

Day 5: The Walls of Jerusalem

  • Activity: Take a guided tour of the Western Wall Plaza and learn about its historical & religious significance for Jews.
  • Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening with a picnic dinner at the Mount of Olives, overlooking the Old City.

Things to know:

  • The Western Wall is a sacred site for Jewish people, and it’s important to be respectful of those praying.
  • Jerusalem’s walls are a powerful symbol of the city’s history. They were built by different civilizations over centuries, and each section reflects its builder’s unique culture and beliefs.

Day 6: Exploring the City

  • Activity: Wander through the Western Wall Tunnels for an up-close look at the ancient stones and the remnants of the city walls that are hidden beneath the ground.
  • Things to know: The tunnels are a fascinating way to explore the history of Jerusalem, but they can be narrow & crowded in places.

Day 7: Food & Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy breakfast at Cafe Rimon, a popular spot known for its Israeli breakfast options before heading back to the Old City.

  • Activity: Spend the morning exploring the historical sites within the Jewish Quarter, such as the Western Wall Plaza and the Jewish Quarter Archaeology Park.

  • Things to do: The Kotel Tunnels tour, a visit to the Tower of David Museum, or a walk through the Armenian Cemetery.

  • Things to know:

    • The Old City is a great place to grab a traditional breakfast or lunch.
    • There are many other restaurants in the Old City that serve delicious food from all over the region.
    • Remember to drink plenty of water, especially if you’re visiting in the summer, as it can get very hot and sunny in Jerusalem.

Things to know:

  • This itinerary is just a starting point. You may want to adjust it based on your interests & the amount of time you have.
  • Consider using public transportation, like buses or the light rail, to explore the city. The Jerusalem Bus Line (Egged) offers efficient and affordable transportation throughout the city.

Things to know:

  • Beyond the Old City: Explore the rest of Jerusalem! There are many other fascinating sites outside the walls. Consider:

    • The Western Wall: It’s a popular site, so expect crowds & security checks.
    • Yad Vashem: This is a powerful and moving experience. Allow plenty of time for reflection.

  • Respectful attire: As a sign of respect, dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Day 7:

For the rest of your trip:

  • Day 6: Beyond the Old City
    • Explore the Old City with respect for its historical and religious significance.

Things to know:

  • The Dead Sea Scrolls: This are a collection of ancient Jewish texts, found in caves near the Dead Sea, that are considered sacred by many.
  • Respectful behavior: Be mindful of noise levels & cultural sensitivities. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially at holy sites outside the Old City,

Day 5: The Food Scene

  • Day 6:

  • The Old City:

  • Day 6: Armenian Quarter

    • Traditional food is a key part of experiencing the cultural diversity of Jerusalem.

Enjoy the rest of your trip!

This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it to fit your interests & time.

Things to consider: