Exploring the Gems of Jerusalem: Must-Visit Places in the Holy City
Jerusalem is a diverse, spirited and bustling city, which combines both old and new in a multifaceted way. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history that spans over 4,000 years. It is considered a holy city by three major religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The city is home to numerous religious sites, including the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock.
It’s also full of little gems scattered all throughout its winding streets that are a must-see for world travelers and locals alike. Here is our Jerusalem bucket list of some must-see, must-dos and must-eats in this incredible city:
#1 Culinary in Jerusalem:
From street eats to fine dining, Jerusalem has developed its culinary offerings to please all palates. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for kosher cuisine or just authentic and vibrant flavors. Jerusalem has an endless list of options to please. The growing scene has developed over the years and you will certainly not be disappointed! Here are a few fine-dining restaurant recommendations:
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Machneyuda – Beit Ya’akov St 10, Jerusalem – One of Jerusalem’s most coveted eating experiences – be sure to make a reservation!
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Seoul House – Chabad St 34, Jewish Quarter, Jerusalem Old City – Authentic (Kosher) Korean cuisine
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Lavan Restaurant – 11 Hebron Road | Inside the Cinematheque, Jerusalem – try their pizzas!
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Luciana – 8 Mamilla, Jerusalem – Upmarket Mediterranean restaurant overlooking the Old City walls
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#2 Visit the Kotel (Western Wall):
In order to get the full experience of Jerusalem, a visit to the Kotel is essential. A brief stroll through the Old City of Jerusalem will guide you to the most sacred place for the Jewish faith revered location. Don't forget to write down your heartfelt wishes or personal notes on a piece of paper and carefully tuck them into the crevices of the wall, a tradition that has endured for countless years. The Kotel serves as the vibrant heart of the historically remarkable Old City of Jerusalem.
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#3 Wonder in the Old City:
If you’re already visiting the Western Wall, you should definitely go on a tour in the Old City! Why not make a day out of landmark-hopping?
While you stroll through the Old City, pick up a pair of handmade leather sandals, or a gorgeous ceramic bowl. These along with spices, candies, trinkets, and sweets are all worth purchasing from the Old City market. After taking a guided tour (because we don’t want you to get too lost), to have a real Jerusalem experience, return to the Old City on your own to truly get lost in its winding alleys.
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#4 Go to Jerusalem’s Museums and Israeli Art Galleries:
Whether you’re a first time visitor or a seasoned veteran, when looking for things to do in Jerusalem, it’s impossible to conquer every artifact in Jewish history, Jerusalem restaurant, and under-the-radar site. Throw in Jewish art galleries and top tier museums in Israel and you’re looking at an Israeli culture overload, in the best of ways. The Israel Museum, the Shrine of the Book and the Friends of Zion are just examples of some of the fascinating locations you should visit!
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#5 Mount of Olives:
Overloaded with churches and home to the oldest continually used cemetery in the world, the Mount of Olives holds particular interest to religious pilgrim travelers to Jerusalem, but even the non-devout can appreciate the spectacular Old City panoramas from the peak.
This sacred hill is believed to be the place where God will begin rising the dead on Judgement Day. For Christian believers, this is also where Jesus ascended to heaven after his crucifixion and subsequent resurrection.
The Church of the Ascension on the top of the mount dates from 1910 and has the best views across Jerusalem. Walking down the slope, you come to the Church of the Pater Noster built next to the site where, according to tradition, Jesus instructed his disciples.
Farther down, the Church of Dominus Flevit is claimed to be built over the site where Jesus wept for Jerusalem, and farther along is the onion-domed Russian Church of Mary Magdalene. The Gardens of Gethsemane (where Jesus was arrested) and the Church of All Nations are next, while the Tomb of the Virgin Mary is the last big attraction on the Mount of Olives.