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Jerusalem Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 3-5 days

Best Time: May/ October Read More

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"Unraveling Mystic Jerusalem"

Jerusalem Tourism

Jerusalem emanates spirituality and historical magnetism, suspended between the past and present. Central to three great monotheistic religions - Judaism, Christianity and Islam, the city is like a state of mind - a constant anxiety between followers of different faiths. The Old City and New City fathom depths of the old and new, while the Old City Walls embrace the riveting past that Jerusalem stood witness too, the New City is advancing towards a more contemporary set up in close quarters with Tel Aviv. A tour of this Israeli capital might move you or provoke you or even rejuvenate your soul - in one way or the other this city will remain etched in your heart.

Hallowed is the air of Jerusalem, much revered by almost half the human race. The Jews have always regarded the city to be their spiritual crossroad, the Western Wall dominating the city landscape, is the only remnant of the Temple Period. Islamic tradition advocates Jerusalem as the masjid al-aqsa, the "farthermost place," from which Mohammad ascended to heaven, while Christians venerate Jerusalem as the place of death, burial and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. A walk through the narrow cobblestone alleys of the Old City is an assault on the senses - the sounds of the church bells or azaan echoing from the mosques resonating across lanes and bylanes; the wafting aromas of turmeric, fresh mint, wild sage, and cardamom-spiced coffee; the sights of travelers and pilgrims or even the street vendors; with an aura of spirituality. Beyond the archaic Old City Walls, rests the powerful yet moving Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial and the spectacular Israel Museum in a backdrop of contemporary Jerusalem. Quaint neighborhoods, some of them restored, fine restaurants, boutique hotels, markets all characterize seemingly cosmopolitan West Jerusalem. Let the visit to the Jerusalem of Gold continue to intrigue you while you think you almost demystified it!

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Currency in Jerusalem

All major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, Access Eurocard and American Express are widely accepted and can be used to withdraw money from ATMs. However, small vendors and open markets accept only cash, hence it is advisable to carry cash with you. US Dollars and Euros can be used for making major payments and purchases.

Shopping in Jerusalem

Shopping in Jerusalem is for all budgets ranging from outdoor shopping promenades, indoor malls or the shuks, open air markets. Ben Yehuda is a pedestrian street full of shops recently renovated for a more chic outlook. Highlights of this place include the Dead Sea beauty porduct shop, selling bathing salts and soaps made from the minerals of the Dead Sea; and another leather shoe store. Some of the shops here also have an interesting collection of Judaica and Christian soiuveniors. The Mammila Mall and the Jerusalem Malcha Mall house some international brand names as well as Israeli stores. The Cardo in the Jewish quarter is a one of a kind experience for any visitor. The series of luxury shops sell intriguing Jerusalem souveniors with unique backdrops, ofcourse at higher prices. However in Jerusalem, the Shuk experience is a must - especially the Mahane Yehuda Shuk. On display is a variety of local ware along with food - fresh produce, nuts, olives, spices, teas, dried fruits, tahini, cheese, bread and pastries. Judaica pottery and jewellery, that make great souveniors are sold here at reasonable rates as compared to Ben Yehuda. This bustling market place is truly a spectacle for the first time visitor.

Nightlife in Jerusalem

Jerusalem definitely does not have a nightlife like its neighbouring Tel Aviv. There are few scattered pubs and nightclubs, which alternate between live nights or techno music.

Language of Jerusalem

Hebrew, Arabic, Englidh Tourist venues, shops and eateries have staff that speak English fluently. Most street signs are also translated to English.

Jerusalem Customs

Dressing appropriately in the religious areas of Jerusalem is important. Women should have their arms coverered and wear dresses or skirts, while men should wear long sleeves with pants. On Shabbath days,public transportation does not operate and only taxis ply. Usually shops and establishments in Jewish areas remain shut, although major restaurants, bars, movie theatres remain open. A custom of tipping 10 - 15% of the total bill on dine in restaurants is prevalent, though tipping for cab services is not compulsory.

Religion of Jerusalem

Judaism, Christianity and Islam

Daily Budget for Jerusalem

Jerusalem is an expensive city, but that is not to say it cannot be done on a shoe string budget at all. Expect to spend roundabout USD 35 - USD 40 inclusive of food, beverages, local transportation, tips, entertainment and other incidental expenses. Even on a low budget, Israel is worth every bit - dining at the market eateries, free walking tours and using light rail as transport.

Exchanging Money in Jerusalem

It is advisable to convert currency to Shekels in Israel itself to avail better exchange rates and lower commissions. Currency and travelers cheques can be exchanged at the airport, banks, exchange booths, post office and even at some hotels, on showing your passport. Some banks have automatic currency exchange machines, which are accesible 24 hours. However, these generally charge high transaction fees. The private commission free change offices in tourist areas provide the best deals. Damascus Gate and Jaffa Gate, in the Old City; Ben Yehuda Street, Jaffa Street and Ben Sira Stree in the City Center, all have multiple exchange offices.

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Jerusalem Photos

Jerusalem, Israel

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FAQs on Jerusalem

What is the local food in Jerusalem?

Jerusalem isn't all falafel and hummus, well for a significant part, it is, but its only fair to say that this city has a lot more to offer for your palate. Israel is an ethnic melting pot of culture, religion and immigrants, result of which Israeli culinary scene has evolved and diversified manifolds. Jerusalem has an array of dining options ranging from chef restaurants, French, Italian and Japanese eateries, cafes and ofcourse the Middle Eastern cuisine restaurants. Another interesting aspect is the observance of Kashruth dietary laws. These restaurants use the meat of only kosher animals (pork meat, flesh eating birds, shell fish are prohibited) which are salughtered in a particular manner and do not mix meat and milk in the preparations. Chefs devise unique alternatives to act as substitutes. Typical Israeli food comprises flat bread, lentils, fresh fruits and nuts, raw vegetables, lamb, beef and dairy products, including goat cheese and different types of yoghurt. Popular favourites are stews, blintzes(cheese filled crepes), matzo balls(dumplings) and latkes(potato pancakes). A lot of Meditarranean salads and spreads are eaten, like the fava bean spread and Tahini, lemon flavoured sesame seed based sauce. Falafels and shawarmas sold by the street vendors, although fast food are yet quite wholesome. Israeli breakfast used to once be a heavy affair and is served by hotels and cafes to the tourists now. The spread is a sumptuous one with breads, olives, cheese and vegetables. Kunafeh is the much savoured dessert, typically a cheese pastry soaked in sweet, sugar based syrup.
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What are the places near Jerusalem?

The top places near to Jerusalem are Tel aviv which is 53 km from Jerusalem, Amman which is located 70 km from Jerusalem, Petra which is located 161 km from Jerusalem, Beirut which is located 237 km from Jerusalem, Aqaba which is located 249 km from Jerusalem

What are the things to do in Jerusalem?

The top things to do in Jerusalem are City of David, Church of Holy Sepulchre, Dome of Rock and Temple of Mount, Israel Museum, Western Wall, Tower of David. You can see all the places to visit in Jerusalem here

What are the top hotels in Jerusalem?

There are 791 in Jerusalem which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Jerusalem are Colony Suites - Hildesheimer St., Luxury Two-Bedroom Apartment With Terrace Over Old City View, Amazing Location 2 BDR 2 Bath, Ruth Suite, Amazing apartement in the heart of Jerusalem, Agron 12: Best location in the center of Jerusalem!. You can see all the hotels in Jerusalem here

How much does a package cost for Jerusalem?

The packages for Jerusalem start at INR 110000 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here

What is the best time to visit Jerusalem?

The best time to visit Jerusalem is any time between April-May and September-November. The average temperature during April-May is around 22 degrees Celsius, and the average temperature during September-November is 24.7 degrees Celsius. These months can be counted as the shoulder season in Jerusalem as the weather is comfortable enough for touring out and also, streets and hotels of Jerusalem are the least crowded. Also, the accommodation costs are lower as well as the airfares than that of the peak tourist months of June- September. This is the high season in Jerusalem, and hence, there are unruly crowds on the streets during these months, and also the room rates are skyrocketing. The winter months of December-March is all about unpredictable weather conditions and low tourist rates. These months are considered to be the low season in Jerusalem solely because of the weather conditions. At times, it’s sunny during the day, and at times it’s chilly and gloomy. The average temperature during the winter season is 13 degrees Celsius, and it’s also the wettest season in Jerusalem with a precipitation rate of 8.4 mm. So, in case you wish to travel there during winters, make sure you carry a raincoat along with your woollens as precipitation is common.
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