Jerusalem, Israel is a sacred place to many different religions like the Abrahamic religions Judaism and Christianity, and also Islam. These religions consider it thé holy city in Israel and it truly feels like that when visiting this unique city.
More than 4.8 million visitors visited Jeruzalem in 2019, making it the most visited city in Israel. But where should you go, and what is an absolute must-see?
Below are our favorite 5 must-sees for your visit to the holy Jerusalem;
1. The Western Wall
The Western Wall with the Masjid Qubbat As-Sakhrah in the background was one of the highlights of our trip to Jerusalem. You are here on the most sacred piece of earth in the world and it is absolutely beautiful and very scenic.
We understood quickly why the Western Wall is the most visited place in Israel. It oozes history!
You can touch the Wall and write down your wish and put it between the cracks of the stones in the wall. Note that the men and women are separated and that the men have to wear a kippah to be near the wall. If you don't have one, you can borrow one at the entrance. The entrance is free. It is a very unique experience, for both believers and non-believers! So do not just look at the Western Wall from a distance but write down your wish and tuck it into the wall.
The Western Wall is without a doubt an absolute must-see when visiting The Holy City.
2. Via Dolorosa
Via Dolorosa is an ancient street in Jerusalem, running through the old city from the Lion's Gate or St. Stephen's Gate to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. This is thé path where Jesus walked after his condemnation to Golgotha, also known as the Passion. Jesus would have according to the history books, carried his heavy cross along this street.
Along the path, you also come across an old square stone with a hollow that is said to be the imprint of Jesus' hand. Because of this religious history, the Via Dolorosa is a very popular spot, especially for the many guided tours, so it can get very crowded in de narrow streets.
Make sure to walk the Via Dolorosa at the beginning (or end) of your day so that you are ahead of the tours.
@freebirdsmagazinethis is where Jesus walked. this is Via Dolorosa in Jeruzalem! – ##jeruzalum ##jesuschrist ##viadolorosa ##freebirds ##fyp♬ Follow God – Kanye West
3. Mount of Olives (during sunset)
The Mount of Olives provides a spectacular view of Jerusalem's old town, especially during sunset and golden hour! So we advise you to relax on this mountain after a busy day strolling around in the city of Jerusalem. You can walk all the way up (which is quite a climb of 780 meters up), or take a taxi. Time your visit to the Mount of Olives well if you want to enjoy a magical sunset.
The call to prayer while the sun sets is a sight to behold…
@freebirdsmagazineOld City Jeruzalem at sunset, what a view! ##religion ##jeruzalem ##israel ##sunset ##alluhaakhbar ##freebirds♬ Paradise – Coldplay
Did we inspire you to also see this bucket list location? Lechaijm! But before you go, please don´t underestimate how important it is to have the right travel insurance. We recommend World Nomads or Safety Wings!
4. Old City
The old city of Jerusalem is wonderful to walk and wander around. There are small food markets, a covered bazaar that doesn't seem to end, and numerous food stalls or small restaurants. Stroll around, check Google Maps now and then, because you will probably get lost, but most of all you should enjoy the old and very charming streets of Jerusalem!
Sidenote; although it's a holy city and it oozes history, it seems kinda weird to us that you can buy refrigerator magnets and selfie-sticks in the same street where Jesus once walked… #touristtrap
5. Eat street food in Jerusalem Old City
The scents of herbs and freshly prepared food can be smelled all over the old town. You can get quite hungry from all that walking, so stop regularly to eat delicious Israeli and Arabic dishes.
The picture below is from the guy who has the best falafel sandwich in town. The taste is very unique and we'll let you discover if he truly has the best sandwich in Jerusalem.
More cool fun activities, events, and bucket list locations in this amazing region with GetYourGuide.
