Things To Do
Old City JLM
The Old City of Jerusalem has to be one of the greatest historical sites in the world. There are amazing sites within the walls of the Old City to see, including the Western “Wailing” Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Dome of the Rock. There are also other fabulous things to savor, such as the endless alleys and bazaars that are fun and very easy to get lost in, or mouth-watering culinary delights.
Western Wall JLM
The Western “Wailing” Wall, otherwise known as the Kotel in Hebrew, is one of the absolute must-sees on any visit to Jerusalem. The raw, emotional power of this huge wall (the only remnants of the famed Second Temple) is incredibly impactful. The Kotel is impressive, but its greatness is truly discovered when you descend underground to the Western Wall Tunnels. The tunnels run along approximately 488 meters of the Western Wall, giving visitors a taste for the challenge that stood before Herod the Great during this biggest of all his immense building projects—the expansion of the Temple Mount.
Mamilla Road JLM
Located just outside the Old City, the Mamilla Mall is where to go if you want top-end designer labels. This is definitely Jerusalem’s most exclusive shopping area, but it’s also an interesting place to stroll no matter your budget. There are a number of great restaurants within the mall area, some of which offer an amazing view of the Old City.
City of David JLM
This impressive site is the Jerusalem of ancient times and is located just outside the present-day Old City. The City of David is one big collection of archaeological wonders; take one of the tours for the full story of this amazing site, and feel like you’re walking through history.
The Israel Museum JLM
Comprising nearly 50,000 square meters and a six-acre sculpture garden, this complex features an impressive variety of collections from prehistoric archaeology to contemporary art. After a major refurbishment in 2010, the Israel Museum has become even more of a must-see; don’t miss the amazing Shrine of the Book, the Second Temple model, the calming and beautiful Billy Rose Art Garden, and the ever-updating collection of fine Jewish art.
Yad Vashem JLM
This official memorial site to the millions of Jews lost in the Holocaust is a must-see, simply because it provides an amazing glimpse into the soul of Israel. An experience that will humble you, Yad Vashem remembers the past and ensures its memory remains for future generations to learn about what happened, why it happened and what the meaning was behind it all.
Ben Yehuda Street JLM
Jerusalem’s pedestrian mall, Ben Yehuda, is the beating heart of the city center. This is the place to pick up some ‘only-in-Israel’ souvenirs or sit and have a coffee at one of the many open-air cafes and watch the world go by.
Mahane Yehuda Market JLM
Taste an abundance of local food from the Machne Yehuda market. Wander around the market at your own leisure and try a variety of products, flavors and aromas. Experience a special energy and ambiance here on a Friday, or enjoy Jerusalem's unique nightlife after dark.
Mount Herzl JLM
Mount Herzl is Israel’s national cemetery, housing the remains of Herzl himself. Also buried there are many of the Jewish state’s leaders over the years, and soldiers killed in battle. At the entrance to Mount Herzl is the New Herzl Museum (with an admission fee), with fascinating insights into Herzl and the history of Israel.
The First Station JLM
The First Station is an outdoor mall located on the site of the Old Train Station in Jerusalem. Using the original train station buildings, the new “First Station” is a vibrant place to eat, play and have fun. Many of Jerusalem’s festivals have events at the First Station, and it is at the beginning of a great walking/bike path.
Tel Aviv Beaches TLV
Tel Aviv’s eight-mile stretch of sandy beaches attract a diverse crowd of tourists and locals alike all year round. Stay until sunset and take in the dramatic view. Gordon, Frishman and Bograshov are the most active and lively beaches, where you can sip on a drink and hang out among the masses. Jaffa or Alma beach are best if you’re looking to chill on a southern beach away from the main central beaches.
Carmel Market TLV
This vibrant marketplace gives you a true sense of Israel’s diverse culture, filled with endless fresh products to touch, taste and smell. Stacks of dried fruits, spices and produce line the crowded walkway, and you’ll love the vendors competing (and screaming) for your business. You can find anything ranging from halva to a new pair of jeans in the Tel Aviv shuk.
Old Train Station TLV
HaTachana, Tel Aviv's old railway station has recently been transformed into a brilliant selection of cafes, restaurants, and interesting boutiques ranging from fashion, of course, to wooden games, all in an enviably realistic historic setting.
Neve Tzedek TLV
The small, narrow streets are home to small unique boutiques, design shops and other fascinating shops which you could even think are not shops. Restaurants and cafes in Neve Tzedek offer the full range of food that Tel Aviv has become known for. Shabazi Street is the main street through Neve Tzedek and, like many of the smaller side passages is lined with boutiques, galleries, and craft shops. The Suzanne Dellal Center is Tel Aviv’s dance center with a superb piazza and interesting gardens, whilst popular cafe Suzanna shouldn’t be missed.
Masada
Masada was once Herod’s Mountain Fortress and later a stronghold of the last free Jews who fought the Romans 2000 years ago. Explore its meaning in modern Israel as well as some of the outstanding efforts in recent years to renew the Roman mosaics and frescos. Hike or ride the cable car.
Dead Sea
There are a number of public beaches open along the shores of the Dead Sea. Popular beaches include the Ein Gedi Beach and the beach at the Ein Bokek resort. Some beaches charge an entry fee. There is a shuttle to the Dead Sea from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv running daily throughout the week which is the cheapest way to reach the Dead Sea.