What to See
5 highlights📍 Tap the pin for directions
Western Wall (Kotel)
The holiest site in Judaism — the surviving western retaining wall of the Second Temple complex, destroyed by Rome in 70 AD. People pray here continuously, day and night. The plaza in front is open to all visitors at all times (modest dress required). The men's and women's sections are separated. Slips of paper with prayers can be placed in the wall's cracks — a practice observed by visitors of all faiths.
Temple Mount (Haram al-Sharif) & Dome of the Rock
The same hilltop is the most contested and sacred site in the world for multiple faiths. The Dome of the Rock (691 AD) is one of Islam's oldest and most beautiful structures — the golden dome is the defining image of Jerusalem's skyline. Non-Muslim visitors can access the Temple Mount plaza (not the mosques) through the Mughrabi Gate, with separate visiting hours. Check access status before visiting — it changes based on security conditions.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Built over the site identified by Christians as Golgotha and the tomb of Jesus — one of the most important sites in Christianity. The interior is complex, shared by six different Christian denominations who each maintain sections. It's simultaneously moving and chaotic. Go in the early morning to experience it with more quiet.
The Old City — Four Quarters
Jerusalem's Old City is divided into four quarters: Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Armenian. Walking from one to another in a single afternoon is one of the most extraordinary things you can do anywhere in the world — the shift in culture, language, food, and sound between adjacent neighborhoods is immediate and profound. The souk (market) in the Muslim Quarter is a labyrinth of spices, dried fruit, and textiles. The Armenian Quarter is the quietest and least visited — worth lingering in.
Yad Vashem — Holocaust Memorial
Israel's official memorial and museum to the Holocaust is one of the most important historical institutions in the world. The main museum building by Moshe Safdie is architecturally extraordinary. The experience is profound and necessary. Allow a minimum of 3 hours. Free entry. Located on the outskirts of Jerusalem.