A Quick Tour through Jerusalem! Tours, Hotels and Vacation Rentals

Jerusalem is packed with many important historic sites for which at least an entire week is necessary to see. Leave aside some time to walk around the bazaar, quarters and roofs of the old city. The Old City is divided into Arab, Jewish, Armenian and Christian quarters. No cars are allowed in the Old City and Museums and most other new attractions are found outside of the old walls. Religious sites can be explored for free but museums charge an entrance fee. There are a few select places that should not be missed while you are in Jerusalem.

In Jerusalem Old City:

• The Western Wall
One of Judaism’s most sacred spots where men and women slip prayers between the stones. Men and women pray separately and have separate entrances.

• Dome of the Rock
A gold dome which acts as a shrine to the rock where Mohammed rose to heaven. Non-muslims are not allowed inside but exploring the surrounding area is a powerful experience in its own. It is one of the world’s oldest Muslim structures dating back to 688.

• Stations of the Cross
Small (and easy-to-miss) bronze tablets mark the 14 noteworthy stations of Jesus’ day of trial and procession to Golgotha.

• Church of the Holy Sepulchre
The church marks the locations of Jesus’ crucifixion, death and burial.

• The Wohl Archeological Museum
Great museum of archeology

• The Upper Room
Also known as the Coenaculum or the Cenacle. This is the second-story hall where the Last Supper was said to have taken place.

Jerusalem Photo Art by Laurent Harari

Outside Jerusalem:

• Bethlehem
Passports are required to get passed the West Bank check point. This trip is one to be taken at your own risk. The U.S. Department of State strongly urges against travel to the West Bank.

• Israel Museum
Contains several fascinating displays including The Shrine of The Book – the Dead Sea Scrolls.

• Garden of Gethsemane
Caretakes say some of the olive trees here could have been saplings when Jesus prayed here during the nights following the Last Supper.

• Yad Vashem
A museum made in honor to the Holocaust victims. Exhibits include a memorial to the 1.5 million children killed in the Holocaust.