Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ₪90–180 | ₪350–700 |
| Food | ₪50–90 | ₪130–230 |
| Transport | ₪15–30 | ₪50–100 |
| Activities | ₪0–50 | ₪100–200 |
| Drinks | ₪15–30 | ₪50–100 |
| Daily Total | ₪170–380 | ₪680–1,330 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Visa & Entry
- Most Western nationalities enter visa-free for 90 days. You receive a paper entry slip (no passport stamp) — keep it throughout your stay
- Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is 50km from Jerusalem. Nesher sherut (shared taxi, ₪64) or bus 485 (₪16) to the city centre
- Security at Ben Gurion is thorough — arrive 3 hours early for departure. Expect detailed questioning about your visit
Health & Safety
- No vaccinations required. Tap water is safe. Healthcare is excellent but expensive — travel insurance is essential
- Jerusalem is generally safe for tourists. The Old City can feel intense but crime against tourists is rare
- Check security advisories before travel. Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings. Register with your embassy
Getting Around
- Jerusalem Light Rail runs one main line through the city — ₪5.90 per ride with Rav-Kav card. Connects key sites
- Egged buses cover the city and intercity routes. Bus 405 to Tel Aviv (₪16, 1 hour). Buses stop on Shabbat
- The Old City is walking-only. Gett app for taxis elsewhere. Taxis metered — ₪12 start + ₪3.40/km
Connectivity
- Israeli tourist SIMs at Ben Gurion Airport — ₪60–100 for 30 days with 10–20GB. Cellcom, Partner, and Pelephone available
- Free WiFi in most hostels, cafes, and restaurants. Coverage is good throughout the city including the Old City
- Download offline maps — the Old City's thick walls can disrupt GPS. Maps.me has excellent Old City detail
Money
- Israeli Shekel (₪/ILS). ATMs widespread. Airport exchange rates are poor — use city ATMs or change shops on Jaffa Street
- Cards accepted at most restaurants and shops. Cash essential in the Old City souks and for small eateries
- Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants. No tipping at street food stalls. Round up taxi fares
Packing Tips
- Conservative clothing is essential — cover shoulders and knees at ALL religious sites (Western Wall, churches, mosques, Temple Mount)
- Women: carry a scarf for head covering at the Western Wall and mosques. Men: kippah provided free at the Western Wall
- Comfortable walking shoes — the Old City has uneven stone streets and many steps. Sunscreen, hat, and water bottle year-round
Cultural tips
Shabbat
Friday sunset to Saturday sunset. Public transport stops, most shops close. The Old City stays accessible on foot. The Western Wall on Friday evening is joyful — singing and dancing welcome the Sabbath.
Temple Mount Access
Non-Muslim visiting hours are limited (typically mornings Sun–Thu). Dress conservatively — no shorts, tank tops, or visible religious symbols. No prayer permitted for non-Muslims. Times change frequently.
Dress Code
Conservative clothing at all times in the Old City and religious sites. Shoulders and knees covered. Women need a head covering at the Western Wall and inside mosques. Men need a kippah at the Western Wall (provided free).
Sensitivity
Jerusalem is sacred to three religions and politically complex. Be respectful at all sites. Avoid political discussions unless invited. Listen more than you speak. Treat all communities with equal respect.
Photography
No photography on Shabbat near the Western Wall. Ask permission before photographing worshippers anywhere. No photography inside the Tomb of Christ. Temple Mount security may restrict cameras.
Security
Bag checks at the Western Wall, Temple Mount entrance, and major public buildings. Metal detectors are routine. Don't leave bags unattended. Police and military presence is normal and for safety.
