Daily costs per person in Israeli Shekel (₪). Jerusalem's greatest treasures — the sacred sites — are mostly free. Food and accommodation are the main expenses.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: ILS (Shekel) (1 USD ≈ 3.6 ILS)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ₪90–180 | ₪350–700 | ₪1,200+ | Hostels & pilgrim houses → boutique hotels → 5-star Old City |
| Food | ₪50–90 | ₪130–230 | ₪350+ | Street food & markets → restaurants → Machneyuda & fine dining |
| Transport | ₪15–30 | ₪50–100 | ₪200+ | Light rail & bus → taxi/Gett → private guide |
| Activities | ₪0–50 | ₪100–200 | ₪400+ | Free sites & walks → museums & tunnels → guided tours & day trips |
| Drinks | ₪15–30 | ₪50–100 | ₪180+ | Tea & juice → café & beer → cocktail bars |
| Daily Total | ₪170–380 | ₪680–1,330 | ₪2,330+ | $47–106 → $189–369 → $647+ |
Money-saving tips
Sacred sites are free
The Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Temple Mount, Mount of Olives, and Garden of Gethsemane are all free. Jerusalem's greatest experiences cost nothing.
Street food feast
Hummus (₪25–35), falafel (₪15–25), and sabich (₪30–35) are filling and delicious. Abu Shukri, Lina, and Abu Hassan serve legendary dishes at budget prices.
Light rail & bus
Rav-Kav card works on the Jerusalem Light Rail (₪5.90) and buses. Daily pass ₪13.50. The light rail connects Damascus Gate, Mahane Yehuda, and Yad Vashem.
Hostel dorms
Abraham Hostel (₪120–180/night) is one of the world's best hostels — great bar, free events, Shabbat dinner experience (₪85), and day trips. Citadel Youth Hostel is cheaper at ₪90.
Free walking tours
Sandemans and Abraham Tours run free walking tours of the Old City (tip-based). Excellent for orientation and history. Book at Abraham Hostel reception.
Shabbat planning
Friday sunset to Saturday sunset: public transport stops, most shops close. Walk the Old City (always alive), attend a synagogue Shabbat service, or join Abraham Hostel's Shabbat dinner.
