Jerusalem’s historical and sacred heart is the Old City, and to a great extent also Mount of Olives . If you have toured these parts of Jerusalem already, or just want to have a different tour experience, we can reocmmend a selection of attractions in Western Jeruselam.
No tour of Jerusalem or Israel is compelet with out this Museum. Founded in 1965, the Israel Museum, exhibits some of the most significant archaeological discoveries made in the Holy Land. It also has a Judaica wing displaying the biggest collection in the world of Jewish Illustrated Manuscripts. Don’t miss also the Sculptures Garden, the model of Jerusalem 2,000 years ago, and the special display of the Dead Sea Scrolls – Shrine of the Book. If reserved in advance, following the Israel Museum you can also join a group tour of Israeli Parlaiment building (Knesset), and the Supreme Court Building.
Next, drive into Mea Shearim, Jerusalem’s most traditional ultra-Orthodox neighborhood, where daily life follows centuries-old customs. Passing through its narrow streets, you will see modest stone buildings adorned with Hebrew signs, and residents dressed in distinctive attire reflecting deep religious heritage. Your guide will explain the community’s traditions, its emphasis on Talmud study, and its separation from modern influences. This is a rare opportunity to experience the vivid contrasts of Jerusalem’s bustling modern quarters.
From there, continue to Mahane Yehuda, Jerusalem’s vibrant open-air market bursting with colors, aromas, and lively chatter. Stroll among stalls overflowing with spices, fresh produce, baked goods, and street food, each telling a story of the city’s diverse cultures. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the market’s popular eateries, where local flavors meet creative twists. Afterward, treat yourself to a sweet pastry or fresh juice while soaking in the atmosphere of this beloved Jerusalem gathering place.
Mount Herzl was established in the 1950’s as a combined national monument. Aside the tomb of Theodor Herzl, It is also burial site for many state leaders, a military cemetery, and the location of the national memorial of the Holocaust – Yad Vashem. You can either be led by your guide or at your own pace through the new main museum of this institution, and later drive and appreciate some of the memorials spread around the mountain. While being a very unusual and disturbing exprience, you can really understand Israel and the Israelis with out a visit to this site. And if you wish to get a better understanding of Herzl and the inception of the Zionist movement, we recommend the Herzl Museum near the tomb of Herzl.
For lunch go to the picturesque village nearby of Ein Karem. By Christian tradition, this village is also the hometown of John the Baptist. The churches of John Baharim Church and the Chruch of the Visitation are both impressive landmarks in the village. If you are an art lover, a short drive away, you can appreciate the Chagall windows in the nearby Hadassah Hospital.
