Traveling to Jerusalem – 10 things you need to know
I returned from a trip to one of the holiest cities in the world, Jerusalem. A city that opened my eyes to its wonderment, it’s a place that’s leaped into my list of favorite cities. Before traveling to Jerusalem, these are the 10 things you need to know before visiting.
Traveling to Jerusalem – must know tips
1) The international airport is in Tel Aviv, not Jerusalem
When you leave Ben Gurion International Airport, there’s several options to reach Jerusalem. These include taxi, minibus and the national bus service. The cheapest option is the bus, which at the time of writing cost NIS 16 (£3.5; €4; $4.40).
It takes around one hour, depending on traffic, to reach the central bus station in Jerusalem. The 485 bus leaves every hour, 24 hours a day on Sundays to Thursdays. If you arrive on a Friday or Saturday, the bus only runs from 12am to 2pm on Fridays, and to 7pm on Saturdays.
2. Spring is colder than you might expect – Jerusalem travel tips
When I traveled to Jerusalem in late March, I’d been looking forward to plenty of sunshine and warm weather. Instead, I found myself freezing cold, more at nighttime, and wishing I’d brought my winter coat. Yes, it can get that cold. A rookie error on my part, as the romantic in me had wrongly envisioned a Mediterranean/Middle Eastern climate.
Though this can be the case for most of the year, it also gets very cold. However, from experience, be smart and pack wisely. Bring two jackets—one for the day, and one for the evening. Alternatively, keep warm by layering up. Jerusalem comes to life at night and it’s better enjoyed when warm.
3. Travel to Jerusalem – you walk a LOT when exploring the Old City
Though I’d made an error of judgement in the choice of clothing I’d packed, I did choose the right footwear. The Old City is made up of a combination of cobbled stones and some uneven pathways depending on where you visit. In some cases, ie the Tower of David, some of the stones can be slippery, and there’s some semi-steep stairs to climb. On an average day, I would clock up over 20,000 steps. It goes without saying then, that high heels are a no no.
That said, exploring the Old City is totally worth it and I wouldn’t trade in my swollen feet for anything! If you want to get to know the city like a local, taking is a tour is an excellent way to see the main sights. It’s ideal whether you travel as a family, solo, or as a couple. You’re guaranteed to learn something new, and meet like-minded people in the process!
4. Jews, Muslims and Christians live together – Things to know about Jerusalem
One thing I wasn’t expecting in the Old City was the four different quarters: Christian, Muslim, Jewish and Armenian. Each quarter has its own individuality and strong ties to its religious roots, which is easy to spot when navigating the neighborhoods. Yet what I was most (pleasantly) surprised about, was seeing the diverse groups of people living together in relative harmony. Without delving too far into Israel’s history and political landscape, it was really encouraging to see, and put my mind to ease on the next point….
5. Jerusalem is safer than what you see on the news
I’ll be honest with you: I was slightly nervous when I decided to travel to Jerusalem. Constant news about political instability, threats of terrorism and tension with neighboring countries would make anyone nervous. The reality however was completely different.
I never saw, nor felt, any signs of tension or being in danger. Probably the most unusual sight for travelers is seeing members of the Israeli army riding the bus and light rail with their guns. However rather than for security purposes, they’re just regular young people riding on public transport. As with travel to any country, or at home, err on the side of caution and always remain vigilant.
“Unsurprisingly, the church is always busy, and as with most sites in the Old City, the earlier you arrive, the better.”
FOLLOWING THE RIVERA
6. Prices are similar to Western Europe – Traveling to Jerusalem
I didn’t have much time this trip to hunt for any bargains, which was probably the best thing for my bank balance. Aside from bartering in the market in the Muslim Quarter, I found little difference in prices in Jerusalem to those you’d find in Western Europe.
To give you an idea, I ate at a trendy restaurant in the Shuk area and paid £28 (€33; $35) for a hamburger, sides and cocktail (alcoholic). I’d probably pay the same price for the equivalent in a London eatery. What’s more, the majority of locals avoid taking taxis, simply because they’re expensive, and the traffic can be bad. You can barter the price in taxis or download the ‘Gett’ (taxi) app and use this for cheaper fixed fares.
7. Jerusalem travel – you feel more spiritual
Though born and raised Catholic, I stopped practicing a while ago. There has, however, always been a side of me that believes in a greater being, and if anywhere can reinforce this, it’s Jerusalem. Its reputation as the holy city is clear when entering the old walls.
For me, I felt really moved when visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It’s the site of the crucifixion and tomb of Jesus Christ, so you can only imagine the emotion inside. Unsurprisingly, the church is always busy, and as with most sites in the Old City, the earlier you arrive, the better.
8. It’s more liberal than you might think – traveling in Jerusalem
As a travel writer, it may sound strange but I actually don’t like to read too much about a place I’ve never visited. This way, I can either be pleasantly surprised or disappointed—yes, this happens too.
I’d always imagined Jerusalem to be highly conservative, where drinking alcohol and partying is frowned upon. I’m happy to report I was completely wrong.
The nightlife in Jerusalem is open, liberal and varied. I never went to, or saw, any nightclubs, but I did visit many bars. The atmosphere is exactly as what you’d find in any European bar, and with just as many drinks on offer!
If you want to enjoy Jerusalem by night, head to the Mahane Yehuda Shuk to eat, drink and socialize.
9. Security checks take longer in Israel
Before traveling to Israel, some friends had advised to allow more time for the security checks on both ends.
From the UK side, everything is routine, and security is nothing out of the ordinary. Departing from Tel Aviv is something else. Once meeting an officer who asks you questions about your trip, you continue to the bag check.
Here, every traveler goes through a thorough bag search with an individual guard. When I say thorough, they scan everything from every item of clothing to your umbrella. Therefore, don’t spend too long neatly packing, because you’ll just have to do it all again!
10. There’s a diverse mix of people in Israel – things to know about Jerusalem
Given its geographical location, and the neighboring countries, there’s no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to identifying who’s Israeli.
“It’s encouraging to see such diversity in a country with ongoing political tensions. I only hope it stays the same when I next return.”
FOLLOWING THE RIVERA
You’ll hear, and see, many migrants from the Middle East, Africa, Europe and America all over Jerusalem.
Most people also speak Hebrew and Arabic, or can at least understand what the other is saying! It’s encouraging to see such diversity in a country with ongoing political tensions. I only hope it stays the same when I next return.
* Looking for a place to stay in central Jerusalem? The superb Bezalel Hotel is in an ideal location, and a boutique choice for flashpackers.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
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Jerusalem looks beautiful. Thank you for the tips
You’re welcome 🙂
Jerusalem is always on my list of places to visit! I’m glad to learn it is safer than one could imagine!
It is, and a great city to visit
I have friends in Jerusalem and hope to visit Israel some day. I think it would be an amazing experience both from a spiritual and personal perspective.
It really is that! I had the best time there
I’m not religious but this place looks beautiful. Do you know how wheelchair accessible it is?
Jerusalem’s a really beautiful place. In the Old City, I believe it’s possible to take your wheelchair; there are cobbled streets in places, but hopefully you should be okay 🙂
I would really love to travel through Jerusalem one day before it’s too late. I have always wanted to see the land of my Lord…how beautiful and nice tips for traveling.
You’re welcome Catherine. It’s truly a place that I’m so glad I visited, and would love to return one day
The pictures and the architecture is beautiful
Thank you
Thanks for this great travel sharing, love travel & yet to be at Jerusalem. Saved this as my future trip planning. let’s enjoy travelling ya. cheers, siennylovesdrawing
You’re welcome, hope you make it there one day!
It’s not really a place I would think to visit although I have no idea why. It looks beautiful though.
Jerusalem is really stunning, maybe you’ll consider visiting one day
Jerusalem sounds amazing…i think for anyone spiritual a place you have to visit at least once
Absolutely! It’s a wonderful city to see
Some places are underrated because of the myths surrounding them. I have heard a lot of negative reviews about Jerusalem but your post made everything clear!
I’m so glad to read that; it’s important not to believe everything we see in the media and find out for ourselves 🙂
I had a buddy who went to Jerusalem last year for research and LOVED it. He still talks about his experiences and shows me the pictures he ook.
It’s really a beautiful city to see!
You leave nothing out in your post! Very detailed and the photos are well taken. I would love to go there soon!
Thank you! I hope you visit too 🙂
This was such a thorough guide! I truly appreciate the effort that you put into making sure you left nothing out, and now I feel like I must visit Jerusalem! Your photos are stunning as well
Thank you so much Karin! I appreciate the feedback and glad you found it helpful too
I’m sure these tips will be very helpful for anyone planning to visit. Great post.
Thank you!
I’m a little surprised how diverse Jerusalem is . My family is extremely religious so my thoughts never made me realize that there are so many different types of cultures and religions.
There are many people living side by side, and in peace, for the most part. It’s one thing that really makes Jerusalem unique given its perception
I would love to make a spiritual journey here
It’s a great city to visit
I have never been there but ofcourse, I would love to see Jerusalem which is one of the most important places in the Bible. Thanks for sharing this tips and guidelines.
You’re welcome, I hope you get to visit one day soon
I’ve never been to but thanks for these experienced valuable tips!! Good to know 🙂
You’re welcome! Thanks for commenting
Jerusalem is high on my bucket list. I just wish that I can go there soon. Thanks for sharing these nice tips.
Welcome!
Some of my family friends made this trip earlier this year. It as a moving and enjoyable experience for them. Between their feedback and your post here, I’m considering a trip as well.
That’s wonderful Alicia, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it
I have been there. It is indeed a lovely place to explore. Very important points to remember indeed.
Thank you! It’s a great city
I would never expect Spring time to be so cold. Interesting
It was colder than I was expecting!
Some of my Christian friends have visited Jereselum and I heard some stories about this country. It will be in my bucket list after reading some interesting facts from your post. Especially the guy in the traditional clothing and head scarf selling the big bread, that pic really interest me to have a look in this country. And glad to learn that it is safe and not what we heard from the news. News is making things too big and make everyone dare not step out of their country.
From a travel and photography perspective, it’s such an interesting country to visit. Let me know if you need anymore tips x
I would love to visit there someday after reading this. I like the tips you have shared. I may have to seriously consider traveling there now.
I hope you do, I came back with an entirely new perspective x
Spring is cold…really?! That would be disappointing. Going to Jerusalem seems like an awesome experience.
Trust me, I was freezing! Jerusalem is on a higher altitude so you feel those winds much more
Jerusalem is 1000% on our bucket list! This is so helpful thank you!
You’re welcome! Hope you visit one day soon
I loved Jerusalem ! I definitely agree with all of your comments . In fact, I think there is a special energy there . You didn’t mention the food – it’s sooooo good!
Lol you’re right! I wrote a separate post on the food market there 🙂
Such a beautiful place. I would love to go someday. Thank you for the tips!
You’re welcome!
Jerusalem is a must see on our bucket list. This list is awesome and will be super helpful as we prepare to visit Israel!
That’s great to read! I hope you have a great time
Great tips about Jerusalem and it looks like an amazing place to visit. I would like to visit it someday and thanks to you that i came to know about this amazing place in the world. Keep guiding travelers, doing great job!
You’re welcome! I hope you get to visit one day
Jerusalem is so fascinating to me. I’d love to eventually visit if not just for the history.
You must, it’s an incredible city and country too
This article is very interesting. They are very useful tips for visiting a beautiful city like Jerusalem that I would love to see,
Add it to the list, I loved it!
THIS!!!! I really want to go to Jerusalem. This is high on my bucket list. I was also scared initially because of the political instability and terrorism threats. But my in-laws went there, and they really enjoyed the experience. So looking forward to this.
Yes! You have to go, it’s such an amazing city to explore x
Really, great post with the best tips and advice one can follow. This article will help me to create a To-do/checklist for the visit. Thanks & Keep writting:)
Thank you so much! Jerusalem is an excellent city and honestly is worth visiting
Heading there next month! Great tips and I’ll definitely be checking through more of your Israel posts. We will be staying a week north of Tel Aviv and weren’t sure we should stay in Jerusalem as well. Do you think it is worth staying there one night or would a day do it justice before we explore further south? Curious. Thanks for your feedback. Cheers from Copenhagen!
Hi Erin! I spent most of the time in Jerusalem, and 1 day in Tel Aviv. There’s plenty to see in the Old City, and I highly recommend staying one night so you can get the most out of it. Tel Aviv is incredible too; hope my other posts can be of some help to you too!
Thank you for changing my understanding about Jerusalem with the 10 things to know before traveling to the city. Just like you, I have always thought it will be a very conservative place where everything is all about religion. Good to know that the political unrest we do hear about is actually not affecting their living together in harmony.
You’re welcome! It’s such an interesting and spiritual city, and it’s also good to debunk any media myths!
Wow! Thank you so much for sharing ? So much of it I already expected, like the fact that it’s safer than the media puts on, but there are also things I didn’t know, like the fact that security check departing Tel Aviv is such a thorough process! Also, I too have been surprised by cold weather on my travels, so I know what a bummer it is when you didn’t pack anything warm.
I was so surprised! But it’s useful information I can pass on to others who are also visiting for the first time 🙂
Jerusalem is a city where history lives. A place which seems to have been frozen in time. But it is nice to know that irrespective of political tensions the different ethnic groups live in harmony. This is such an informative article which will surely stand the first time visitor to Jerusalem in good stead.
Thank you so much! And yes, I agree. It’s far from perfect, but when I was there, people lived in harmony, and that’s the main thing. I do encourage others to visit; it’s very special.
Great article! I agree with you on all points. I just loved Jerusalem, especially the mix of cultures living there right next to each other in old town Jerusalem; it gives a really special feeling and atmosphere. I went here last year and didn’t feel unsafe as well, it’s definitely a magnificent destination which is worth a visit thanks to its rich history and culture.
It’s so nice to read another person’s positive experience 🙂 I guess we were both lucky there!
If you are planning to go to Jordan by land from Jerusalem do not make our mistake and think you can get a visa at the border. You have to do it in advance. It was a costly error As we had to travel to Tel Aviv and then fly which was not cheap. Also the traffic was terrible so we almost missed the flight.
Thanks for the tip Anne! I didn’t make it to Jordan, but would love to visit one day. I appreciate you sharing this with me.
I like that you emphasized that it’s safer than what some “news” outlets put out and that the population is far more liberal than one would expect. I wonder how things are now since the American embassy was moved.
I honestly have no idea. I really had an incredible experience, and was lucky.
Jerusalem must be such an interesting place to visit. It is also must be a place where I assume you should be quite prepared. So this post is so good for that. Very easy to read through and figure out the basic information. It is good that it is safe, it is not exactly on the Gaza strip, that would be a place I would stay away from. I hope I get to visit Jerusalem soon 😀
I did stay away! Some travellers on the same trip actually went to Palestine, but I didn’t want to venture there just yet! Hope you visit one day, it’s an amazing place.
Of all the country I’ve been to, this is actually my dream country to visit. It has long been my dream to traipse my feet here since I was still in grade school, and hopefully I’ll get the chance to come here soon. I truly love how you were able to give us a complete guide for I can set my expectation right. Reading your blog post about Jerusalem made me even more excited and I can’t wait. Thank you so much for this, oh by the way would love to experience the spring, it must be very cold.
You’re very welcome! It makes me happy to know I’ve covered a country you’re really keen on visiting. I found it very cold, but everyone’s different 🙂 I still recommend to pack more layers than none, the nights got very chilly.
I love the fact that different religions co-exist peacefully and I am also surprised that they have a good nightlife in Jerusalem, that is certainly not the impression I had of the place. Also, they do not have their own airport and the closest one is in Tel Aviv, that’s not something I knew either. Good to know so much more about a place which is not a very popular tourist destination.
Thank you! It’s a wonderful destination with many, many, surprises 😀
wow I actually had no idea that Jerusalem is so close to Tel Aviv! Good to know ! Ive always wanted to visit this place as I know its full of history! I am a bit surprise just like you about this nightclubs and bars. To be honest I though its gonna be one of those places where you won’t find alcohol.
Trust me, it’s more common than you think! I loved my time in Jerusalem and would like to see Tel Aviv again!
As usual, don’t believe the media because the majority of it’s overblown as always. It looks like you had an amazing time regardless of not packing clothes for the season. I will say, it always amazes me how often I see girls pack and wear high heels for a place like Jerusalem full of cobblestones and old stairs and buildings. Hopefully, some will read your article and heed the warning 🙂
I’m totally with you! I never bring heels to this kind of destination, not just because of the cobbled streets, but also because it’s too cold! Glad you don’t believe the hype 😀
It’s good to know there is a lot of walking involved so you pack the right shoes! Nothing worse than having flip flops only or uncomfortable shoes thinking you will be taking taxis everywhere! It’s also so true that it is safer than what the news make it look like. We have heard so many good things, we can’t wait to go visit!
That’s great to read! It’s a wonderful city, and a real must see. But yes, comfortable shoes are a must, and a warm jacket too 😀
Ohh Jerusalem! Ever since Easyjet has put Tel aviv as one of their destination I have seen my friends pictures of Israel showing up on facebook all the the time. I really really want to go there but I still cant convince my husband that is not as dangerous as we might think, as you mention above. But if he ever change his mind I am glad that I stumble upon your post. There are great tips for being prepared for Jerusalem! I will pin it!
I promise you it’s not as dangerous as the media presents it to be. It’s a wonderful country, and I’d like to return one day.
I also felt really moved by that church. I felt a very strong presence in there which was a bit unnerving. I loved Jerusalem so much but highly recommend combining with the Dead Sea
That’s definitely on my list for when I return! I loved Jerusalem too, and it’s good to meet someone else who enjoyed it as much.
Hi Lisa – You did it again! Another great post with the best tips and advice one can follow 🙂 You read my mind, I was actually looking for Israel related posts to read and start my research early for my 2018 travel plans. I am planing to go around September of the upcoming year. Thank you for sharing! I’ll save your post to use when I start officially planing this trip. 🙂 – Ella
That’s brilliant to read Ella! I had such a great time in Jerusalem, and would honestly like to return to see more of Tel Aviv and the Dead Sea 🙂
This was a very helpful post especially when you say that spring is cold and it is safer than you think. One can avoid being perturbed since you mentioned security checks take time. It is interesting to know that Christians, Jews and Muslims live together. Israel sounds good.
It’s a great place, and I’m happy to be of help to other travellers. I hope you get to visit one day!
Great tips indeed. Thank you. I’ve been wanted to head to Israel and the feeling has been strong since about a year. Hope I’ll get to go next year. Esp., I relate to your tip that its safe that media represents it, coz, many a times that’s the case with India too! Its sad that main stream media is hell bent on exaggerating & scaring people!!
Jerusalem and Israel ase really high on my bucket list. It looks like the perfect place to get lost and I love the fact that there is so much history that you can learn about. I could walk there for hours…
It’s really that kind of place! I loved my time there so much, and want to return to see Tel Aviv and the dead sea!
Great tips and ones that break down some misconceptions that people might have about Jerusalem. Thanks for the update on the weather because I would have imaged it to be towards the warmer side all year round. A little disappointed that the prices are similar to Western Europe, but I guess when we travel it is okay to splurge a little.
It’s cold there in spring, and yes, it’s expensive too! I was surprised, and fairly disappointed by this 😀
Israel is still on the top of my list of places to visit. Thanks for the tip about the weather. I would have hated to be cold on that trip! Also, I echo your comment about having comfortable shoes on any trip. Walking for hours in any cobblestoned city can cause some seriously sore feet.
Glad you agree! It’s an amazing country and Jerusalem is so fascinating 🙂
I’m so glad you said something about the weather because I, too, assumed it would be warm year-round. I wouldn’t think to bring a coat. I’ve seen a couple of documentaries that feature present-day Jerusalem. Good to know that you felt safe!
Jerusalem’s a real must visit in my books now I’ve been. Don’t be too scared by the media portrayals; it’s not as bad as it makes out! But I was cold there, very cold!
You have listed some great tips before heading to Jerusalem. There are many perception about this place but your post is an eye opener. It is good to know that this place is safe and people of different religions live with unity. Feeling more spiritual is the most important feature of this place. Thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome! Jerusalem’s incredible, and breaking the perceptions is half the fun, or not sometimes, of travelling!
Very useful tips. Especially telling that Spring can be colder than you imagine. I had been in that situation number of times before. And always cursed me for not researching enough.
My gosh, it was so cold! At times I felt a bit miserable, but it was my fault completely for not coming better prepared. There are plenty of shops of course, but I had no time to look!
Oh such a great guide. I’m desperate to visit Jerusalem! I can’t imagine how many steps I’d clock up walking around the old city. Worth every moment and the later pain of swollen feet.
It’s so great in reality, just like most places of course! The swollen feet and the cold weather was totally worth it!
I am dying to visit Jerusalem! I am going next year (hopefully) 🙂 I’ll save your pins for sure. Thanks for sharing! Safe travels. – Mariella
I hope you have as good a time as I did! Thanks for your comments.
I’m so happy you brought some sterotypes to the light! Like how anyone could be from there and you not know, and how much safer it is than it’s portrayed. The media does some crazy things to turn you off of a place. I love hearing the real things about a place instead! Love it. I have a friend in Tel Aviv who I desperately want to visit!
You have to go! Tel Aviv is so stunning and I only spent half a day there. I definitely want to go back, and don’t let stereotypes put you off!
This article basically busted all myths that surrounds Israel. I never knew Israel was such a safe place or that people of all religions live together in complete harmony. I would love to visit Israel someday, though I am quite afraid of the security officers. Previously I read they are anything but friendly.
They’re definitely stern, but don’t let this put you off. Every travel has an experience that’s not great, but it all adds up to experience!
‘You may feel more spiritual’ at least not religious. To think that four different religious groups coexist peacefully is Amazing. With your post, I’m reassured that Jerusalem is safe.
That’s so great to hear Lydia! I hope you get to visit for yourself one day.
I definitely want to visit this place soon!
I hope you do soon
I visited Jerusalem in the winter and it was freezing, not what I expected but I’d say it was better than too hot. I experienced the same as you, when flying from the UK, there wasn’t much security, only questions about any stamps in the passport from countries which are not allies. When leaving it was intense, an interview then each bag checked and checked very thoroughly, I agree that Jerusalem is well worth visiting though!
I’m so happy to hear you had a good time too! I think I actually went at a good time, temperature wise, but I do know what you mean about it being too hot too! You can’t win!
I am dreaming of visit in Jerusalem with my boyfriend, and I don’t need visa. Your guide will be a great help to us.
That’s good to know!
Jerusalem is definitely one of the countries I would love to visit. I love that it’s so atmospheric and spiritual. Thanks for mentioning that there are a lot of cobble-stoned paths in the city. I had a few minor incidents when I walked around London on those slippery side streets. It really pays to watch where you’re going and to wear the right footwear!
Hehe, yes Suzanne, you’re so welcome! I really love Jerusalem, and I’d advise to strongly bring an extra jacket/ scarf, as it can get cold, especially at nighttime!
This is very interesting! A few things that stood out to me, one being that soo many religions stay here! I though that would hold a great lot of tension! Also then how you said you felt safe considering the news always go on about how dangerous the place is! A very good article! Thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome David! Jerusalem is waaaay up there on my favourite places I’ve been to, mainly because I wasn’t expecting to have as good a time as I did! Hope you get to visit one day for yourself.
I would love to go here. I never knew that the airport would be Tel Aviv but it is good that it is nice and cheap to get to the final destination which is always a bonus. Never expected it to be cold in spring either!
Thanks Tasha, I believe they’ll be building a fast train line linking the 2 big cities which will be great for everyone! And yes, it’s very cold in spring!
I’ve learnt alot about Jerusalem thanks to you was abit surprised the Muslims Christians and Jews people all living together
Thanks Gina, yes it’s so different when you’re there from what you see on the news! Jerusalem is honestly amazing, and worth visiting!
This is one place I’ve always wanted to see. Now you have made it even more interesting!
Thanks Patti, it’s a very interesting place to visit 🙂
I have always wanted to go to Jerusalem. Thank you for these helpful tips.
You’re welcome
Jerusalem sounds so captivating! Glad to know it’s a wanderer-friendly city!
It is! Such a shame about what just happened, but please don’t be put off from visiting!