Old City

Winding streets, important religious structures and ancient architecture all help to make Jerusalem’s Old City one of the most interesting destinations in Israel.

The Old City is a compact area in the center of Jerusalem, surrounded by ancient walls and places of religious importance. Divided into four quarters, each area has its own ambiance. Explore each one to build up a picture of the neighbourhood as a whole. Walk around admiring religious monuments, browsing traditional stores and sampling the aromatic street food that the Old City is famed for.

The Jewish Quarter is home to the Western Wall, the holiest Jewish site in the world. Regardless of their own personal beliefs, many visitors write a short prayer on a piece of paper to place in a crack in the wall. Book a guided tour to explore the Western Wall Tunnels below the main plaza.

Located directly to the north is the Muslim Quarter, the largest area of the Old City. Pick up souvenirs at the Shuk, a traditional marketplace where you can barter with vendors. The Dome of the Rock sits on Temple Mount, above the Western Wall. Only Muslims may step inside, but the exterior of the structure can be admired by all.

To the west lies the Christian Quarter, home to over 40 holy sites. Perhaps the most visited of all these is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Jesus is said to have been crucified and buried. Find the Armenian Quarter directly to the south. Here, the atmosphere once again changes dramatically.

The walled city can be entered by one of seven gates, with the Jaffa Gate being the most popular. This is due to its proximity to the Tower of David Museum. Here, you can learn all about the history of this diverse city. Come after dark to enjoy the evening sound and light show, an audio-visual presentation that takes place several times per night.

Explore the Old City of Jerusalem to gain a better understanding of the different religious influences at work in the city. As you wander these historic streets, enjoy unearthing the history of this culturally rich area.

Explore the best attractions in Old City
Point of Interest

Visit this holy place to learn about its significance for Muslim, Jewish and Christian people and to enjoy panoramic views of Jerusalem. 
Point of Interest

This 2,000-year-old structure is one of the world’s holiest sites, where hundreds of praying worshippers make for a stirring sight.
Point of Interest

Enter through this unfortunately named gate, one of eight in Jerusalem’s Old City walls, for access to the Jewish Quarter and the Western Wall. 
Point of Interest

Part of the sacred Temple Mount site, this lead-domed structure is a fully functioning mosque. It is among the holiest sites in the Islamic world. 
Point of Interest

This famous church stands at the site where, according to Christian belief, Jesus was killed, buried and later raised from the dead.  
Point of Interest

An iconic symbol of the city, this shrine topped by a gold dome is of special significance to people of Jewish, Christian and Muslim faiths. 
Point of Interest

Offering more than just historical exhibitions, this museum housed in Jerusalem’s ancient citadel provides all the context needed to understand this great city.
Point of Interest

Enter the Jewish Quarter through this historic, battle-scarred gate, one of a series of entranceways built as part of Jerusalem’s 16th-century walls.