Jerusalem’s First Station is a relatively new cultural and entertainment center in Jerusalem. It is set in the former Ottoman railway station of Jerusalem, at one of the prime locations in western Jerusalem.

History of the First Station

Jerusalem’s First Station (Hatachana Harishona) was the city’s first train terminal. Opened in 1892, in Ottoman times, the railway station connected Jerusalem with Jaffa and the coast in a 4-hour train ride. Jewish banker and entrepreneur Joseph Navon initiated this project operated for over a century until 1998. After several years of neglect, Jerusalem’s Municipality reopened the stations in 2013 as a commercial, cultural, and entertainment center. They conserved the 19th-century building, turning its terminal halls into restaurants, bars, and shops.  The First station became an entertainment and cultural hub, offering fine dining options, unique souvenir shops, Segway and bicycle tours, and more.  It is also one of the few places open in Jerusalem on the weekends.

Visiting the First Station

The First Station is about 1 km southwest of the Old City and next to a few of Jerusalem’s leading hotels. It is open every day of the week and is popular among locals and tourists alike.

A visit to the site can be combined with a Day Tour of Jerusalem.