City Tours in Jerusalem

The ancient city of Jerusalem in Israel is rich in culture, history and religion. It’s also known as the Holy Land as three major religions — Judaism, Christianity and Islam — often journey here on pilgrimage.

Whether you're looking for a religious experience or want to explore one of the oldest and holiest places in the world, a Jerusalem city tour is one of the best ways to understand this complex destination.

Here's all you need to know about city tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing tours in Jerusalem.

What are the best city tours in Jerusalem?

Visitors are drawn to Jerusalem's Old City, which has many popular historic sites like Mount Zion, the Western Wall, and the Temple Mount. The New City is also very popular with a host of museums, markets, cafes, restaurants and bars to visit.

Self-guided app tour of the Old City

If you prefer exploring by yourself but don't want to miss any of the historical facts, this self-guided walking tour of Jerusalem is ideal. The tour uses the DGuide platform, an app that you can download on your device, which allows you explore Jerusalem's Old City at your own pace while listening to the commentary.

You can follow the suggested route or go off the path to whatever catches your fancy, and then get back on the tour path when you're ready. The Dguide App is free, but you will still need to purchase the tour for a coupon code to access the Classic Jerusalem Old City Tour.

Highlights on this tour include the Tower of David Museum, a picture-perfect spot that offers panoramic city views. Mount Zion is home to several historic sites, including the Dormition Abbey, the Upper Room (or Room of the Last Supper) and the tomb of King David. Other attractions include the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Wohl Archaeological Museum.

Full-day city tour of Jerusalem

This full-day city tour offers a comprehensive experience as you'll visit the historic highlights of the Old City and can take in Jerusalem New City. At the first stop, Mount Scopus, you can take in excellent scenic views of the city below. At the Old City, you will see the Western Wall, Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock. You'll also be able to explore the Jewish and Armenian Quarters and walk on the recently restored Roman road of the Cardo.

In the New City, you’ll go to the Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum, Israel's powerful memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. And if you have the time, there's also the Hall of Remembrance and the Hall of Names. The Holocaust Museum is closed on Friday, Saturday and for Jewish holidays. This tour does not take children under the age of 4, and you have to be over 10 years of age to enter the Holocaust Museum.

Half-day private Old City tour in Jerusalem

If you're traveling in a tour group on holiday with a large family, this private tour of the Old City could be a great option for you.

Take in the Western Wall, see the Western Wall Tunnels and discover more about Jerusalem’s archaeological wealth. Next up is the City of David National Park, which has a gorgeous panoramic view of the surrounding area. Then you’ll continue to Dr Mazar’s Palace Excavation, the Royal Acropolis and have a chance to check out remnants of homes from the Biblical Period.

The tour ends with a walk through the Christian and Muslim Quarters. In the Christian Quarter, you'll see the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and learn more about the area's history, while in the Muslim Quarter you can browse at the Arab market.

Which places are visited?

There are numerous popular religious sites all over the Old City so be prepared for lots of walking and wear comfortable shoes.

The Western Wall

The Western Wall or Wailing Wall is Judaism’s holiest place in Jerusalem. The wall and the plaza in front of it are a permanent place of worship. You can also write down your petitions at the wall and place them between the huge stones.

Mount Zion

Mount Zion, a broad low hill next to the south side of Jerusalem's Old City, is an important symbol in the Holy Lands. On Mount Zion, you can also see a small memorial dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust and a museum dedicated to Israeli sculptor David Palombo. There’s also a Protestant and Catholic cemetery. Mount Zion is home to numerous religiously significant sites listed below.

Dormition Abbey

This is one of the largest structures on Mount Zion. This Catholic abbey belongs to the Benedictine Order in Jerusalem. The abbey stands where Jesus’s mother, Mary, is thought to have died.

The Upper Room

The Upper Room, also known as the Room of the Last Supper, was built in the 12th century. At one time it was also a mosque dedicated to the Prophet David. You can spot the minaret above the building, a prayer niche and Koran passages on the stained glass windows.

How much do city tours in Jerusalem cost?

City tours of Jerusalem are offered at various price points starting from US$30 to US$680 for a group tour. Longer and more in-depth tours will cost more.

A self-guided app tour of the old city will cost around US$30 and it will run for between 2 to 4 hours, depending on how long your self-exploration will take.

A full-day city tour of Jerusalem costs US$80 per person. This 10-hour-long tour is offered in English, French, German or Spanish. A half-day private old city tour in Jerusalem costs US$680 for a group of 15 travelers. This tour runs for 4 to 6 hours and some snacks are provided.

What is included?

A pickup from your hotel can be requested, otherwise there is a central meeting point for the city tours in Jerusalem. Entry fees to the sites are included in most tours, however, entrance tickets to some of the museums are an extra cost.

Transportation is generally done in an air-conditioned bus with a professional tour guide who will share historic and interesting facts. Most tours will offer stops at between four to eight locations. The tours generally don't include lunch but some tour operators do offer snacks.

Where does it start?

A hotel pickup can be arranged depending on the tour operator, otherwise, travelers are requested to meet at a central meeting point. You can check your tour booking to find out more details about where to meet.

How long does it last?

A city tour of Jerusalem runs from 2 to 10 hours depending on the tour selected and the number of attractions that will be visited. If you want a more detailed tour and would like to explore both the Old and New cities, a longer full-day tour is a better option.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

All tour options listed here are not wheelchair friendly. However, extensive renovations have been done to the majority of the streets in the Old City to make the streets wheelchair and stroller accessible. Double check with the tour operator to make sure you book the right tour for you.

When is the best time for a city tour in Jerusalem?

The best time for a city tour in Jerusalem is in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to November). These are the most pleasant months in terms of weather. The temperatures are moderate, and there's less rainfall compared to the winter months.

Keep in mind that during major religious holidays, the city can be particularly busy, and some sites might have restricted access.

Travel tips

• Jerusalem contains sacred sites for three major religions. Always dress modestly when exploring the city, especially in religious places. Covering your shoulders and knees is a general rule. For women, carrying a scarf can be handy for quickly covering up if needed.
• Many popular sites can get crowded as the day progresses. Starting your tour early can help you avoid the largest crowds and the midday heat during warmer months.
• Remember that Jerusalem is not just a tourist site. It's a living city with deep spiritual significance for many. Always show respect, especially during religious observances or in places of worship.
• You'll do a lot of walking on various terrains, including cobblestones in the Old City. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must. Carry a water bottle, especially in the summer.