Jerusalem Attractions — The Complete List
88 attractions in Jerusalem, updated regularly: ancient sites, world-class museums, markets, viewpoints, and family activities. 51 are open on Shabbat and 43 are completely free. Each listing includes the address, opening hours, and tickets where relevant.
Ice Box
An open-air ice skating rink operating in summer 2026 in the eastern parking lot of Teddy Stadium, as part of the Jerusalem Sports Complex summer events program. Skating shoes included, medical staff on site throughout operating hours. Open to ages 5 and up.
דרך דוד בנבנישתי 1, ירושלים
TicketsArena Park — Jerusalem Water Park
A temporary adventure water park run by the city at the Pais Arena in Malha, about 4,000 sq m: an outdoor area of inflatable slides up to 14 metres high, and a covered indoor area of wet obstacle courses.
היכל הפיס ארנה, מלחה, ירושלים
TicketsBiblical Zoo
A spacious zoo featuring animals mentioned in the Bible alongside species from around the world, with a focus on conservation and wildlife rehabilitation.
דרך אהרן שולוב 1, ירושלים
Talpaz Sports Centre
Talpaz Sports Centre, 29 David Raziel Street, Armon HaNatziv: a heated pool with a retractable roof, a toddler pool, a gym, studios and a sauna. Pool open Sun, Mon, Wed 06:00–20:30, Tue 11:00–20:30, Thu 06:00–22:00, Fri 06:00–17:00, Sat 08:00–17:00, with separate men's and women's evenings 20:30–22:00. Entry ₪60 on weekdays and ₪65 on Saturday; there are no ticket sales on site on Saturday.
רחוב דוד רזיאל 29, ארמון הנציב, ירושלים
Almaliach Park
A large neighborhood park (~45 dunams) in Gonenim, right next to the Pais Arena and the Sports Quarter. Renovated in 2021, it offers wide lawns, modern playgrounds, walking and cycling paths, shaded seating and public restrooms. The light rail passes in a tunnel beneath the park — easy to reach without a car. Always open, free entry.
שכונת גוננים (קטמונים), סמוך לפיס ארנה, ירושלים
Bloomfield Science Museum
An interactive science museum featuring hundreds of hands-on exhibits for all ages, covering physics, light, space, and technology. A popular destination for families with children in Jerusalem.
שדרת המוזיאונים 3, ירושלים
Philip Leon Sports Centre
Yuvalim Sports Centre at Philip Leon, 8 Chile Street, Kiryat HaYovel: a semi-Olympic pool, a gym, a children's gym for ages 6–14 and studio classes. Sun–Thu 06:00–22:00 (closed Tuesday 12:00–14:00), Fri 06:00–16:00, Sat 09:00–16:00. Monthly membership with no commitment ₪269; single entry ₪60.
רחוב צ'ילה 8, ירושלים
Kosell Sports Centre, Givat Ram
Kosell Sports Centre on the Hebrew University's Givat Ram campus: a gym complex, a swimming pool, a studio, a tennis club and an athletics stadium. Gym: Sun 11:00–22:30, Mon–Thu 06:15–22:30, Fri 07:00–17:00, Sat 08:00–17:00. Pool: Sun 11:00–23:00, Mon, Wed, Thu 06:00–23:00, Tue 06:00–21:30, Fri 07:00–17:00, Sat 08:00–17:00, with one men-only and one women-only hour every weekday. Membership-based.
שדרות המוזיאונים, קמפוס גבעת רם (קריית אדמונד י. ספרא), האוניברסיטה העברית, ירושלים
Denya Park
A green neighbourhood park at the foot of Ramat Denya in south-west Jerusalem, between Bayit VeGan, Kiryat HaYovel and Ramat Sharett. Several activity areas, play equipment for children, and tennis courts right beside it. Easy to reach from Golomb Street.
רחוב גולומב, רמת דניה, ירושלים
Lerner Sports Centre, Mount Scopus
Lerner Sports Centre on the Hebrew University's Mount Scopus campus, run by Kosell: a two-storey gym, a semi-Olympic pool, tennis and padel courts and a basketball hall. Sun 11:00–22:00, Mon–Thu 06:15–22:00, Fri 07:00–17:00, Sat 08:00–17:00. Separate men's and women's swimming hours every weekday. Guest tickets are sold until 15:00 on weekdays; on Friday and Saturday only 20 guest tickets are sold, by advance reservation.
רחוב צ'רצ'יל 1, הר הצופים, ירושלים
Israel Museum
Israel's leading museum, featuring comprehensive collections of art, archaeology, and Judaica, including the famous Shrine of the Book.
דרך רופין 11, ירושלים
Mamilla Avenue
An open-air shopping promenade in the heart of Jerusalem, between the Old City and new city, a short walk from Jaffa Gate. Home to dozens of shops, cafes, and restaurants alongside restored 19th-century buildings and street art, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Free to enter and a main pedestrian route toward the Old City.
שדרות ממילא 8, ירושלים (סמוך לשער יפו, בין רחוב יפו לרחוב יצחק קריב)
Armon HaNatziv Promenade
A public walking path stretching along the ridge in southeast Jerusalem between Abu Tor and Armon HaNatziv, offering some of the city's best views of the Old City, the Temple Mount, Mount of Olives, and Mount Scopus. Built in stages from the 1980s-90s, the promenade actually consists of three adjacent paths named after their donors. Free entry, ideal for family walks, running, and cycling, and popular for sunset views over the Old City.
רחוב דניאל ינובסקי, ירושלים (הכניסה הראשית לטיילת)
San Simon Park
Katamon's neighborhood park — terraced lawns, playgrounds and shaded corners around the Greek Orthodox San Simon monastery compound. Especially popular in the afternoons and on weekends thanks to the coffee cart operating in the park and the open space for kids. Always open, free entry.
רחוב חזקיהו המלך, קטמון, ירושלים
Machane Yehuda Market
Jerusalem's famous bustling market offering a rich culinary experience with food stalls, restaurants, bars, and a unique atmosphere.
רחוב אגריפס, ירושלים
Lev Smadar Cinema
Jerusalem's only continuously operating art-house cinema, housed in a historic building in the German Colony. Screens art films, world cinema, and independent Israeli films in a single renovated hall, with an adjoining cafe.
לויד ג'ורג' 4, ירושלים
Yad Vashem
Israel's national Holocaust memorial authority, featuring a historical museum, memorial monuments (including the Hall of Remembrance and Children's Memorial), the Righteous Among the Nations Garden, and a research and documentation center. Admission is free but advance booking is recommended.
הר הזיכרון, ירושלים
Western Wall Tunnels
An underground tunnel system beneath the Muslim Quarter that exposes approximately 500 additional meters of the original Western Wall. Guided tours reveal artifacts and structures from the Herodian period through the Middle Ages and modern era, including massive stone blocks, buildings, water systems, and an ancient quarry. Entry is from the Western Wall Plaza; exit is in the Muslim Quarter.
רחבת הכותל המערבי, העיר העתיקה (הכניסה מרחבת הכותל, היציאה ברובע המוסלמי)
WebsiteJerusalem Botanical Gardens
Israel's largest botanical garden, sprawling across Givat Ram-Neot neighborhood and showcasing thousands of plant species from around the world, organized by geographic regions (South Africa, Europe, North America, Australia, Asia, and the Mediterranean). Run by the Hebrew University as both a research and education center, it offers peaceful green spaces for families and plant enthusiasts, featuring a tropical greenhouse and ornamental pond. Open daily, including Saturdays.
יהודה בורלא 1, ירושלים
Tower of David
The Tower of David Museum sits in the citadel beside Jaffa Gate and tells the story of Jerusalem across more than 3,000 years. The permanent exhibition has ten galleries with interactive displays and archaeological finds, and the Phasael Tower lookout gives a 360-degree view of the city. The entrance ticket covers the galleries, the lookout and the citadel courtyard. Two sound-and-light shows are projected on the citadel walls in the evenings, the Night Spectacular and the King David show. Each runs about 40 minutes, needs no language, and suits children from age three; a show ticket is ₪69 for an adult and ₪59 for a child. The entrance is to the right of the plaza at the end of Mamilla Avenue, by the three red flags with the museum's name. The nearest car park is Karta. The museum is open on Shabbat.
שער יפו, ירושלים
Sacher Park
Jerusalem's largest urban park, spanning 160 dunams between the Nachlaot and Rehavia neighborhoods and the government complex housing the Knesset and Supreme Court. Established in the 1960s and named after Harry Sacker, a British Zionist activist, the park underwent a major renovation in 2019–2021. It features basketball, soccer, and tennis courts, a skateboard area, a Japanese peace bell, walking and cycling paths, a dog garden, and playgrounds. The expansive lawns host picnics, cultural events, and traditional celebrations like Lag B'Omer and Mimouna.
בין נחלאות, רחביה וקריית וולפסון, סמוך למתחם הכנסת ובנייני הממשלה
Jerusalem Bowling
Jerusalem's bowling centre, in the Lev Talpiot mall — lanes, parties and events. It opens on Shabbat, which makes it one of the few indoor options in the city for a Saturday with children. Booking ahead is advised.
האומן 17, קניון לב תלפיות, ירושלים
Yes Planet Jerusalem
Jerusalem's largest cinema complex, on Naomi Street. Open on Shabbat, with screenings for children and families.
רחוב נעמי 4, ירושלים
Time Elevator Jerusalem
A multi-sensory ride through 3,000 years of Jerusalem history: motion seats and 360° screens, guided by "Shalem the Jerusalemite" played by the legendary Chaim Topol — from Zedekiah and Herod to modern Jerusalem. The same complex also hosts "Journey into the Human Body". Ages 5+; arrive 15 minutes early; Hebrew and English (English by phone booking). August hours: Sun-Thu 10:40-20:00, Fri until 14:00.
קניון ממילא (המתחם המקורה), שדרות ממילא, ירושלים
Ticketsthe City of David
A national archaeological site south of the Old City, considered Jerusalem's oldest historical core. Explore ancient excavations, walk through the Hasmonean and water tunnels (Hezekiah's Tunnel), and visit the Pool of Siloam. The site combines biblical history, archaeological finds, and interactive experiences for all ages.
רחוב מעלות עיר דוד, ירושלים (סמוך לשער האשפות)
WebsiteHebrew Music Museum
At 10 Yoel Moshe Salomon Street in Nachalat Shiva, a museum of the instruments of Jewish communities around the world, presented through hands-on technology — you can hear and play as well as look. One of the most accessible museums here for a visitor without Hebrew.
יואל משה סלומון 10, נחלת שבעה, ירושלים
WebsiteRamparts Walk - Old City Walls Tour
Walk along the historic walls of the Old City, built during the Ottoman period in the 16th century, with panoramic views over the four quarters and Jerusalem's skyline. Choose between a southern route from Jaffa Gate to the Dung Gate (45 minutes) or a northern route to the Lions' Gate (90 minutes). Admission fee applies. Free audio guide available in multiple languages and augmented reality experiences included. Note: Not wheelchair or stroller accessible due to numerous stairs.
שער יפו, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים (הכניסה הראשית סמוך למודיעין התיירות בשער יפו)
The Western Wall
The Western Wall is a remnant of the retaining wall of the Temple Mount from the Second Temple period and the holiest site in Judaism for prayer. The plaza facing the wall is open to the public around the clock at no charge, welcoming visitors and worshippers from around the world. Access to the plaza is through the Dung Gate in the Old City. The site is managed by the Western Wall Heritage Foundation. Nearby, the Davidson Center and the Western Wall Tunnels offer separate paid admission with their own visiting hours.
רחוב העומר 2, ירושלים (רחבת הכותל, ליד שער האשפות, העיר העתיקה)
Lifshitz Garden
A neighbourhood garden in Makor Haim, on the edge of Baka. A quiet green corner with play equipment — one of those gardens that serves its own neighbourhood more than it draws visitors, which is exactly its charm.
רחוב מרתה במברגר, מקור חיים, ירושלים
Gravity Park Jerusalem
An indoor, air-conditioned adventure complex inside the Yes Planet Jerusalem mall, featuring trampolines, a ninja obstacle course, climbing walls, bungee jumps and slides. Suited for families with kids and birthday parties.
נעמי 4, ירושלים (מתחם יס פלאנט)
Bible Lands Museum
An archaeological museum showcasing the cultures of the ancient Near East and biblical world — Egypt, Mesopotamia, Persia, and the Land of Israel — through ancient artifacts. Located at the Museum Quarter.
שמואל סטפן וייז 21, קריית המוזאונים, ירושלים
Eden-Tamir Music Center
A veteran chamber-music center in the heart of Ein Kerem, founded in 1968 by pianists Bracha Eden and Alexander Tamir (formerly the Targ Music Center). Each season (October-July) it hosts a series of classical concerts, mostly on Saturdays and occasionally on Fridays, in its historic hall (Toya Elias Hall).
רחוב המעיין 29, עין כרם, ירושלים
High Light — The Laser Show Over Jerusalem
A laser and sound show projected across the Jerusalem sky and watched from the Armon HaNatziv Promenade, with beams reaching out over the view towards the Old City to music written for it. Each screening runs about 20 minutes and entry is free.
טיילת ארמון הנציב (דניאל ינובסקי), ירושלים
YMCA Tower Jerusalem - Observation Deck
The iconic bell tower of the International YMCA in Jerusalem, next to the King David Hotel, is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks due to its distinctive architecture and religious symbolism. From the top of the tower, at approximately 46 meters high, enjoy a panoramic view of the Old City and West Jerusalem in all directions. Admission is paid and typically requires a minimum of two visitors per entry time.
רחוב המלך דוד 26, ירושלים (King David Street 26)
WebsiteTeddy Park and the Musical Fountain
A city park at the foot of the Old City walls opposite Jaffa Gate, built around a musical fountain that runs water-and-light shows through the evening. Children run between the jets; entry is free. One of the easiest stops in the city with a family, minutes from the Old City.
רחוב יצחק קריב, מול שער יפו, ירושלים
First Station
A dining, culture, and entertainment complex housed in Jerusalem's historic railway station, built in 1892 and operational for over a century until it closed in 1998. Today it features restaurants, cafes, shops, and children's attractions alongside rotating markets and cultural events. Located near the German Colony and Emek Refaim Street, with free admission.
ככר דוד רמז 4, ירושלים
HaMesila Park (Railway Park)
A 5–7 km linear greenway built along the historic Ottoman-era Jerusalem–Jaffa railway line, which ceased operation in the late 1990s. Developed between 2010–2013, the park stretches from the original station area and the German Colony through Baka, Katamon, Mekor Hayim, Beit Safafa, and Talpiot to Malha. It features walking and cycling paths, pergolas, seating areas, and restored railway buildings converted into cafés and community spaces, making it a popular destination for family walks, jogging, and cycling.
משתרע דרך כמה שכונות: המושבה הגרמנית, בקעה, קטמון, מקור חיים, בית צפאפא וטלפיות, עד מלחה
Wohl Rose Park (Gan HaVradim)
Israel's largest rose garden — some 400 rose varieties and 1,500 bushes on wide lawns facing the Knesset. The park features a lookout over the government quarter, a waterfall and ornamental pond, and shaded seating. Open 24/7, free entry. Peak bloom is spring and early summer.
קריית הלאום, מול הכנסת, ירושלים
Gazelle Valley
Israel's largest urban nature park — 250 dunams of open valley in the heart of Jerusalem, home to a free-roaming herd of ~30 mountain gazelles, with ponds, observation hides and walking trails. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, free entry (no dogs allowed). The visitor center operates 09:00-17:00. Between Katamonim and Givat Mordechai, with coffee carts and food trucks nearby.
בין שכונת קטמונים לגבעת מרדכי, ירושלים
Nachalat Shiva
The third neighbourhood built outside the Old City walls, in 1869, and today a stone pedestrian quarter in the city centre with restaurants, bars, galleries and shops. Hundreds of coloured umbrellas hang above Yoel Moshe Salomon Street — one of the most photographed sights in Jerusalem, known to many as Umbrella Street.
יואל משה סלומון, נחלת שבעה, ירושלים
Rechavam (Zvi) Lookout - Mount of Olives Viewpoint
An open public viewpoint at the summit of the Mount of Olives, located opposite the seven Arches Hotel and above the ancient Jewish cemetery. It offers a panoramic view of Jerusalem's Old City, including the Temple Mount, the Dome of the Rock, and the Jewish Quarter. This is considered the city's most iconic sunset and sunrise viewing point. The site features a small amphitheater for seating, is free to enter, and is open 24/7.
הר הזיתים (א-טור), מזרח ירושלים
Valley of the Cross
A green open valley between Rehavia, Nayot and the National Quarter, at the foot of the 11th-century Georgian Monastery of the Cross. Huge lawns, ancient olive groves and walking paths connecting the Israel Museum with Sacher Park — one of the city's favorite picnic spots. Always open, free entry; a food truck operates at its edge.
בין רחביה לניות, למרגלות מנזר המצלבה, ירושלים
Celebration at the Farm in the Valley
A family day at the Farm in the Valley: hands-on workshops, demonstrations of ancient crafts, a food truck and a walk across the suspension bridge. Easy going, though there are steps. From 40 NIS a ticket, with slots that can be arranged in advance.
החווה בגיא, גיא בן הינום, ירושלים
WebsiteAustrian Hospice
A historic Austrian pilgrim hospice from 1863 in the heart of the Christian Quarter of the Old City, along the Via Dolorosa. Home to the well-known Cafe Triest (Austrian pastries, Wiener Schnitzel), a quiet inner garden, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views over the Old City.
ויה דולורוזה 37, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
Levantine Gallery
An independent art gallery in the Christian Quarter of the Old City, showcasing original works by local artists (including Palestinian artists), fine art prints, art photography, and handcrafted ceramics. Regarded as the only commercial art gallery in the Christian Quarter.
16 Christian Quarter Road (רחוב הנוצרים 16), הרובע הנוצרי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
Knesset Tours
The Knesset, Israel's legislative building, is located in Givat Ram and offers free guided tours to the public through the Knesset Visitors Centre. Tours showcase the building's architecture and sometimes allow visitors to observe the plenary hall where debates and votes take place. Entry requires a valid ID (passport or ID card), appropriate dress, and passage through security checks.
רחוב קפלן 1, קריית הממשלה, גבעת רם, ירושלים
The King David Light and Sound Show
An innovative light and sound production depicting the legendary figure of King David, projected against the backdrop of the Tower of David and Jerusalem's night sky. The show includes a virtual tour of works by artists such as Chagall and Michelangelo, combining sound and visuals for a unique viewing experience.
מגדל דוד (מצודת דוד), שער יפו, ירושלים 9114001
WebsiteIndependence Park
One of Jerusalem's largest and most central parks, located between Agron, King George, and Hillel streets near the Mamilla neighborhood. Established in 1959, the park features the historic Mamilla Pool, a water reservoir that once supplied Jerusalem's water system. Today it serves as a recreational green space for locals and city center workers, ideal for relaxing, picnicking, and leisure activities.
בין רחובות אגרון, המלך ג'ורג' והלל, מרכז העיר ירושלים (לגן אין כתובת רחוב יחידה - הוא משתרע בין מספר רחובות)
The Archaeological Experience — Emek Tzurim National Park
Sifting finds from the excavations of ancient Jerusalem: visitors are handed a bucket of excavated earth, wash it through a sieve and pull out potsherds, mosaic tesserae and coins themselves. About an hour and a half, easy, suitable for families and wheelchair accessible.
גן לאומי עמק צורים, ירושלים
WebsiteYemin Moshe
One of Jerusalem's oldest neighborhoods built outside the Old City walls, established in 1891 by the Montefiore Foundation as part of the movement beyond the walls. Built with charming stone houses and paved alleyways offering open views of the Old City walls, Yemin Moshe has transformed from a poor neighborhood into an upscale area home to artists and writers, now a popular tourist destination. The neighborhood is highlighted by Montefiore's Windmill, which has become a small museum and observation point.
רחוב ימין משה, מול חומות העיר העתיקה (שכונה מגורים פתוחה, ללא כתובת מוסדית יחידה)
Jerusalem Bird Observatory (JBO)
A small urban nature reserve and bird-ringing research station in the heart of Jerusalem, next to the Knesset and the Supreme Court. The observation grounds are free and open to the public around the clock, including on Shabbat, while the indoor Guttman visitor center operates on weekdays only.
רחוב רוטשילד, ירושלים (סמוך לכנסת ולגן הוורדים, גבעת רם)
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
One of Christianity's holiest sites, built over the location where Jesus was crucified, buried, and rose again according to Christian tradition. The church is shared by several Christian denominations—Greek Orthodox, Catholic Franciscan, Armenian, and others—who worship side by side under an arrangement known as the Status Quo. Free admission, no advance booking needed. Open daily, including Saturdays.
Christian Quarter Road (רחוב הנוצרים), הרובע הנוצרי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
Balian - Armenian Ceramics of Jerusalem
An Armenian ceramics workshop and shop run by the Balian family since 1922, on Nablus Road just outside the Old City walls. You can buy handmade tiles and vessels, watch the painting being done, and commission bespoke work — the craft that gave Jerusalem its distinctive blue-and-white street signs.
דרך שכם 75, ירושלים
The L.A. Mayer Museum of Islamic Art
Located near the neighborhoods of Talbiya, Kiryat Shmuel, and Old Katamon, this museum houses a remarkable collection of Islamic art spanning from Spain to India, including ceramics, jewelry, textiles, and Muslim artwork across the centuries. It's particularly renowned for its impressive collection of antique clocks, considered one of the three most important collections of its kind in the world, featuring works by the renowned clockmaker Abraham-Louis Breguet. Founded in 1974 by Vera Bryce Solomons in memory of Professor Leon Arie Mayer.
רחוב הפלמ"ח 2, ירושלים
The Friends of Zion Museum
The Friends of Zion Museum occupies a stone building on Yosef Rivlin Street in Nachalat Shiva, in downtown Jerusalem, and tells the story of non-Jews who acted on behalf of the Jewish people and the founding of the State of Israel. Visits are by guided tour only: about an hour, booked in advance, through multimedia halls — the Hall of Visionaries, the Hall of Dreamers, the Hall of the Brave, the Promise Theater, Lights in the Darkness, the Land of the Promise and the Founders — plus the Prime Ministers' Holograms Exhibit. Most tours run in Hebrew or English, and the museum offers the tour in 16 languages in all. Arrive 15 minutes before your tour. The building also houses the Ambassador Institute, a communication centre and the Neil Folberg photography gallery.
יוסף ריבלין 20, נחלת שבעה, ירושלים
TicketsJerusalem Cinematheque
The city's cinematheque, on the slope facing the Old City: four screens, the Israeli Film Archive, and a programme that runs on Shabbat as well. Home of the Jerusalem Film Festival and of the films that never reach the multiplex.
דרך חברון 11, ירושלים
Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem
A cultural and educational institution built to advance mutual understanding and respect between people, faiths and cultures. It sits in the centre of town beside the Jerusalem Theatre and combines exhibitions with a programme of performances and public events.
רחוב הלל 32, ירושלים
WebsiteJerusalem Artists' House
A historic art institution in the centre of town, in the building that housed the Bezalel school and later served as the national museum before the Israel Museum was built. It shows changing exhibitions by Jerusalem artists.
רחוב שמואל הנגיד 12, ירושלים
Mardigian Museum of Armenian Art and Culture
A museum on the history, art and culture of Jerusalem's Armenian community, located within the Armenian Patriarchate compound in the Armenian Quarter of the Old City. Reopened in November 2022 after years of closure for renovation, it displays historic manuscripts, jewelry, ceramics and coins.
מתחם הפטריארכיה הארמנית, הרובע הארמני, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
Knesset Museum
The Knesset Museum occupies Frumin House, home of Israel's parliament from 1950 to 1966 — the chamber where presidents and prime ministers were sworn in and the decisions that shaped the young state were taken. The visit is a sound-and-light journey through the building's own story.
קינג ג׳ורג׳ 24, ירושלים
WebsiteU. Nahon Museum of Italian Jewish Art
The U. Nahon Museum of Italian Jewish Art sits at 25 Hillel Street in downtown Jerusalem, in a building put up by the German Catholic Society in 1886–1887. Its heart is the synagogue of Conegliano Veneto, a town about eighty kilometres north of Venice: the gilded, carved wooden ark and the furnishings around it were brought over whole from Italy in 1951. It is not only an exhibit — Jews of Italian origin still pray there on Friday, Shabbat and holidays, in the Italian (Roman) rite, one of the oldest Jewish liturgies. The collection holds close to 3,000 items from the Jewish communities of Italy: Hanukkah lamps, Torah finials and crowns, Esther scrolls, marriage contracts, textiles and letters by Herzl, among them the oldest Torah ark in Israel, from 1543, and a Torah curtain from 1572. On the ground floor a vaulted hall, painted in 1893 with biblical scenes and verses in six languages, hosts concerts and lectures. A visit takes in the synagogue and the painted hall, and guided tours are available in several languages. A few minutes' walk from the Jaffa Center light rail stop.
הלל 25, ירושלים
TicketsAgripas 12 Gallery
A cooperative contemporary art gallery founded in 2004 by fifteen artists, in the centre of town beside Machane Yehuda market. It runs as a non-profit and shows changing exhibitions by independent artists.
אגריפס 12, ירושלים (הכניסה מכיכר אבן ישראל)
Garden Tomb
A Christian site located outside the Old City walls near the Damascus Gate, featuring an ancient rock-cut tomb that many Protestant Christian groups believe to be the possible location of Jesus's burial and resurrection, as an alternative to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Now managed as a peaceful, well-maintained garden by a British-Israeli organization, it opened to the public in the late 19th century and welcomes pilgrims and visitors from around the world for prayer and reflection. Admission is free.
רחוב קונרד שיק (Conrad Schick Street), ירושלים
Marie Gallery
A cooperative art and culture gallery founded in 2017 in a historic stone building in the heart of the city. It runs as a non-profit and shows changing exhibitions by around fifteen member artists.
אגריפס 12, ירושלים (הכניסה מסמטת אלבוחר)
Damascus Gate
The grandest of the Old City gates — built in its present form under Suleiman the Magnificent in 1537, above the remains of a Roman gate from the time of Hadrian. Busy on both sides: outside, the crowded stepped plaza; inside, the start of the Muslim Quarter market. An excellent starting point for a walk around the city.
שער שכם, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
Gan HaTut (Mulberry Garden)
A small paved square in the heart of Nachlaot, dominated by an old mulberry tree whose twisting trunk throws shade across almost the whole plaza. Benches, street lamps and a neighbourhood noticeboard ring it — a place people sit in rather than pass through, with children climbing the leaning trunk. At its edge stands the community centre building, preserved from 1894. Not a ticketed attraction: it is a neighbourhood square that walkers in the Nachlaot lanes stumble on, and find is the pleasantest place to stop mid-day.
שכונת נחלאות, ירושלים
Koom-Koom Theater
A puppet theater and performing-arts center for children and families in the Talpiot area, staging puppet shows, interactive performances and creative workshops, including regular weekend and Saturday shows.
יד חרוצים 4, קומה 4, ירושלים
Vic Lepejian - Armenian Ceramics
A traditional Armenian ceramics studio and shop run by Vic Lepejian, operating since 1975 near Jaffa Gate in the Armenian Quarter of the Old City. Visitors can watch the artist (and now his son) at work and purchase handmade pottery and ceramics.
רחוב הפטריארכיה הארמנית 77, הרובע הארמני, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
Ohel Moshe Great Synagogue
The great synagogue of Ohel Moshe, one of the first neighbourhoods built outside the Old City walls. The sign above its gate tells the story in two lines: founded in 5643 (1882/3), and named for Sir Moses Montefiore, whose fund paid for the neighbourhood itself. It stands in a narrow lane among Jerusalem stone houses, with wrought-iron stairs, a rooftop pergola and the neighbours' laundry opposite. Not a museum piece but a working neighbourhood synagogue, in the same spot for nearly a hundred and fifty years.
שכונת אהל משה, נחלאות, ירושלים
Deir es-Sultan — The Ethiopian Monastery on the Roof of the Holy Sepulchre
One of the Old City's hidden corners: an Ethiopian monastery sitting on the roof of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre itself, with monks' cells, Coptic and Ethiopian chapels and an otherworldly atmosphere. The entrance is through the courtyard by the Ninth Station of the Via Dolorosa, and the passage through it leads down into the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Free.
גג כנסיית הקבר, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
The Spice Market (Souq al-Attarin)
The historic market street of the perfume and spice sellers, along the line of the Roman Cardo. Colourful mounds of spices, the smell of cardamom and roasted coffee, and a rhythm of trade that hasn't changed in centuries. Part of the trio of covered markets — al-Attarin, al-Lahhamin and al-Khawajat.
סוק אל-עטארין, הרובע המוסלמי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
Christ Church and Heritage Centre
The first Protestant church in the Middle East, right inside Jaffa Gate. The compound also holds a heritage centre with 19th-century architectural models and displays on the site's history, a guesthouse, a courtyard cafe and a college. The heritage centre offers free tours. Sunday service at 9:30, and a Hebrew-language gathering on Saturday.
עומר אבן אל-ח'טאב, שער יפו, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
The Imperial Hotel — the historic building on Omar Ibn al-Khattab Square
A striking stone building from 1884 standing on the square just inside Jaffa Gate, with cast-iron balconies and columns along its facade. An inscription in Greek commemorates the patriarchs Nicodemus and Euthymius. Shops and a cafe operate on the ground floor, and Versavee sits in the inner courtyard behind.
כיכר עומר אבן אל-ח'טאב, שער יפו, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
The Church of the Redeemer
A Lutheran Protestant church in the Muristan, a few steps from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, consecrated in 1898 in the presence of the German Kaiser Wilhelm II. A neo-Romanesque facade with a large rose window, above it a forty-metre bell tower that is one of the clearest landmarks on the Old City skyline. You can climb to the top of the tower for one of the best views in the city — over the quarters, the Dome of the Rock and the Mount of Olives.
מוריסטן, הרובע הנוצרי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
Light and Jerusalem — Lantern Walk on the Armon HaNatziv Promenade
An evening lantern walk along the Armon HaNatziv Promenade and through the Peace Forest, stopping at viewpoints over the city at night — including a vantage on the laser show. About two hours, easy to moderate, suitable for families.
יער השלום, טיילת ארמון הנציב, ירושלים
WebsiteThinkers Distillery
A Jerusalem distillery operating since 2018 on the edge of Mahane Yehuda market, with a visitor centre running guided tours and tastings. They make two gins, a bourbon, and a vodka that took a double gold at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Two tours: Thinkers Essentials (45 minutes, ₪95, Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 19:00) and Deep Dive (90 minutes, ₪150), the latter including all the products, two mixologist cocktails, cheeses and breads from the market. Both kosher, up to 25 people.
אגריפס 88, ירושלים
WebsiteThe Four Sephardic Synagogues
A complex of four connected synagogues from the 16th to 18th centuries — Rabban Yochanan ben Zakkai, the Middle Synagogue, Eliyahu HaNavi and the Istanbuli — which were the centre of Jerusalem's Sephardic community. Restored after 1967 and active today.
מעלה החכמים, הרובע היהודי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
The Hurva Synagogue
The central synagogue of the Jewish Quarter, rebuilt and rededicated in 2010 on the ruins of the 19th-century building. A striking prayer hall with an unusually tall ark, wall paintings and archaeological finds. The visit also includes a 360-degree viewpoint from the upper gallery and an underground passage. The entrance is level with the Cardo, up a few steps.
היהודים 91, כיכר החורבה, הרובע היהודי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
WebsiteThe Ramban Synagogue
The oldest active synagogue in Jerusalem, dating to the 13th century and attributed to Nachmanides, who settled in the city in 1267. Restored, and still in use as a synagogue today.
היהודים, הרובע היהודי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
The Kotel Company House — Alone on the Walls
A memorial and exhibition telling the story of the Jewish Quarter's last days in the War of Independence and its fall in 1948, from the point of view of the young fighters who defended it.
הרובע היהודי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
WebsiteThe Burnt House
A dwelling from the end of the Second Temple period, burned in the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE. The excavations uncovered ritual baths, water cisterns and many stone vessels — evidence that the household, of the priestly Katros family, kept the laws of purity. It is presented today as a museum with a sound-and-light show.
תפארת ישראל, הרובע היהודי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
WebsiteThe Archaeological Park — Davidson Center
The archaeological park at the foot of the Temple Mount, with the remains of the Herodian street, the pilgrimage steps, the Western Wall stones toppled at the destruction, and a visitor centre with a virtual reconstruction of Jerusalem in the Second Temple period.
מעלות הרב שלמה גורן, ליד הכותל המערבי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
WebsiteThe Cardo
The main artery of Byzantine Jerusalem, twenty-two metres wide, excavated and partly reconstructed. One stretch is open to the street and another is roofed, with shops and galleries along it. Free entry.
הקרדו, הרובע היהודי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
The Herodian Quarter — Wohl Archaeological Museum
An underground complex where the homes of the wealthy priestly families of the Second Temple period were uncovered — mosaic floors, ritual baths, frescoes and stone vessels, six metres below today's street.
הקראים 1, הרובע היהודי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
WebsiteThe Broad Wall — Hezekiah's Wall
A sound-and-light presentation telling the story of Hezekiah's Wall, from First Temple times. One of the six heritage sites of the Jewish Quarter.
תפארת ישראל, הרובע היהודי, העיר העתיקה, ירושלים
Website06:29 – From Darkness to Light, at the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem
An interactive exhibition at the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem about 7 October 2023, named for the minute that day began. In a darkened hall, life-size LED screens carry the testimonies of 35 women from across Israeli society — touch a screen and the speaker steps forward to meet you — alongside photographs by Ziv Koren, and at the end a lit room: the acts of kindness and mutual responsibility that followed. Created by documentary filmmakers Noam Shalev and Kobi Sitt, curated by Malki Shem Tov. Hebrew, English and Arabic. Entry is by guided tour only: one ticket covers a tour of about 90 minutes through the museum's three current exhibitions. Ages 16 and up. The exhibition deals with sensitive subjects and includes photographs and testimonies that may be hard to watch.
רחוב הלל 32, ירושלים
TicketsRetroshalayim Antiques & Collectibles Fair
An antiques, collectibles, vintage and second-hand fair on the Clal Building plaza at the corner of Jaffa and Kiach streets — two minutes from the Machane Yehuda market. Dozens of collectors, and on the tables: crystal and porcelain, coins, stamps and banknotes, silver and copperware, lamps and shades, wristwatches and clocks, silver and gold jewellery, records, postcards, tapestries and rugs, Israeliana and second-hand clothes. Thursday 08:00–19:00 and Friday 07:30–15:00. In winter: Thursday until 18:00, Friday until 14:00. The light rail stops right next to the plaza.
רחבת בניין כלל, יפו 97, ירושלים
Bezalel Arts Fair
Friday morning in the city centre, before everything shuts for Shabbat: some thirty artists and makers set up stalls along the Bezalel and Shatz pedestrian streets — a Jerusalem weekend tradition for years. The rule is handmade only — textiles, wood, glass, jewellery, photography and design — with local musicians and street performers playing between the stalls. Every Friday, 09:00–15:00 in summer and 09:00–14:00 in winter. Parking: the Menorah (Beit Ha'am) car park or the Migdal Ha'ir car park, plus blue-and-white street parking nearby.
מדרחוב בצלאל (בצלאל 10), ירושלים
Jerusalem Attractions — FAQ
What are the must-see attractions in Jerusalem?
First-timers should start with the Old City — the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Ramparts Walk — then Machane Yehuda Market, the Tower of David, Yad Vashem, and the Israel Museum. Two to three full days cover the essentials.
Which Jerusalem attractions are open on Shabbat (Saturday)?
The Old City sites, most viewpoints and parks, the Garden Tomb area, and several museums remain accessible on Saturday. Public transport doesn't run, so plan to walk or take a taxi. Each attraction below is marked if it's open on Shabbat.
What can you do in Jerusalem for free?
Plenty: the Western Wall and Old City quarters, Machane Yehuda Market, the Haas Promenade viewpoint, Sacher Park, HaMesila Park, and Jerusalem's street festivals. Free attractions below are tagged accordingly.
Is Jerusalem good for kids?
Very — the Biblical Zoo, the Bloomfield Science Museum, the seasonal Ice Box skating rink, and the First Station compound are all built for families, alongside kid-friendly routes in the Old City.
See also: Viewpoints · Things to do in Jerusalem · What's on today · This weekend
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