Best tours of Jerusalem

Jerusalem is not only the capital of Israel and one of the most hotly contested territories in the Middle East due to its historical importance for the followers of the three monotheistic religions, it is also one of the most fascinating destinations in the world with its ancient heritage. With a wide range of religious and cultural offerings, the variety of activities offered by the city's guided tours will allow you to discover its unique spirit.

Some of the best things to do in Jerusalem include taking a tour of the Orthodox Jewish Quarter, touring the city's landmarks on a tourist bus, visiting the Holy City on a guided tour, hiking the Mount of Olives and discovering the Judean Desert on an off-road vehicle adventure tour.

If you want to discover the essence of Jerusalem during your trip, a visit to the Orthodox Jewish Quarter is a must. This tour will take you through the narrow cobblestone streets of this historic district and give you an insight into one of the earliest Hebrew settlements in the region. In the heart of this neighbourhood you can explore old synagogues, some of which were built in the 19th century to house the local Jewish population, which was a minority at the time.

During these experiences, you can usually interact with the local community, learning about their customs, rituals and lifestyle. You can also enjoy kosher cuisine in small family-run restaurants, where every dish will allow you to discover the heritage and cultural roots of this district. If you plan to visit Jerusalem during the winter, you can also experience the religious holidays of the season, such as Hanukkah.

The itinerary of these tours will not only give you an in-depth insight into daily life in Mea Shearim, as it is called in Hebrew, but will also reveal the rich history that has shaped this place over the centuries. With the assistance of an expert local guide, this tour will take you on a journey back in time, revealing the best-kept secrets of a neighbourhood that has stood the test of time to become a priceless cultural treasure.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 41 euros per person.
• Duration: about 2 hours and a half.
• Advantages of these tours: you will be able to visit one of the most emblematic sites in Jerusalem and the epicentre of Jewish culture in the Israeli capital.
• Disadvantages of these tours: they are very intensive tours, so you won't have much free time to explore the site on your own.

One of the best ways to tour Jerusalem in an orderly fashion is to opt for the full-day sightseeing bus. This convenient option allows you to enjoy the sights of Jerusalem from the comfort of a spacious, air-conditioned bus, while being assisted by an expert local guide and taking in the panoramic views of the city.

During the tour, the itinerary usually takes you through Jerusalem's rich history and cultural diversity. From the Mount of Olives you will get a sweeping view of the Old City, before continuing the tour to iconic sites such as the Wailing Wall, the Via Dolorosa and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

In addition, the bus tour will take you through vibrant and modern neighbourhoods, giving you a comprehensive insight into contemporary life in Jerusalem, which is not just confined to its ancient religious sites. From bustling markets to cobblestone streets bustling with youthful activity, each site will give you a different and eclectic picture of the Israeli capital.

You'll also learn about Jerusalem's best museums on these tours, although please note that this tour does not include stops, so you'll have to visit them on your own outside of the bus itinerary.

Useful details

• Price: approximately 67 euros per person.
• Duration: about 8 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: You will have access to a neat and tidy itinerary through one of the most famous cities in the Middle East, which is noted for the variety of attractions it has to offer.
• Disadvantages of these tours: it is an experience that does not include free stops, so you will have to respect the itinerary proposed by the service provider.

You can't say you've experienced Jerusalem until you enter the narrow streets of the Holy City, and one of the best ways to do this is to opt for a guided tour. During these experiences, you will be able to explore this site surrounded by ancient walls and ancient religious buildings.

On this tour, you will also discover Jerusalem's past on a journey that will take you from the bustling Souk and the Dome of the Rock to the serene esplanade of the Western Wall, and the Synagogue of the Cardo. Each stop on this itinerary will reveal fascinating chapters in the history of this city that attracts pilgrims, historians and culture lovers alike.

You will also find free time during these walks to browse the markets offering traditional products, giving you a different perspective of a city that is often shrouded in mystery due to its religious veneration.

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 47 euros per person.
• Duration: about 3 hours.
• Advantages of these excursions: you will be able to see the main religious buildings of the city on a tour with the assistance of an expert local guide.
• Disadvantages of these excursions: the tour includes a very strenuous walk, which can be a bit uncomfortable during hot summer days and is not usually recommended for the elderly or people with reduced mobility.

The Mount of Olives is one of the most famous scenic sites in Jerusalem, but it is also one of the sacred sites included in the biblical tour of the city. From the top of this hill you can discover the skyline of the Old City and understand its spiritual, cultural and historical significance.

On this tour you will usually visit iconic sites such as the Chapel of the Ascension and the Church of All Nations. These temples not only provide architectural testimony, but also harbour millennia-old stories that have shaped Jerusalem's identity.

The historical significance of the Mount of Olives, on the other hand, dates back to Antiquity, making it a silent witness to the evolution of Jerusalem over the centuries. During the tour, expert guides will share with you stories about the different cultures and events that have left their mark on this site, and your exploration will take you along the same paths that are described in the Bible.

From the Mount of Olives, on clear days, you will also have access to sweeping views over the West Bank, one of the most popular destinations for the best tours from Jerusalem.

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 36 euros per person.
• Duration: about 3 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will discover the best panoramic views of the city from one of the highest points in the historic centre of Jerusalem.
• Disadvantages of these tours: the guided tour does not include a visit to Gethsemane, located at the foot of the Mount of Olives.

If you think an adventure experience in Jerusalem isn't possible, it's because you haven't opted for the Judean desert off-road vehicle tours. These truck tours allow you to discover the beauty of this arid and ancient landscape in a fun and less solemn way compared to the religious tours that characterise the region.

In recent times, these adventure tours have become a popular choice for those looking to explore off the beaten track and discover the wilderness of the region. The Judean Desert, with its vastness and mystery, is a testament to biblical history and a unique setting that piques the curiosity of the most inquisitive travellers.

These experiences take you into rugged terrain and dazzling landscapes, revealing ancient wonders such as hidden oases, unexplored caves and unique rock formations. In addition, these adventures will allow you to explore a desert that has witnessed historical events and sacred narratives throughout the centuries.

This tour can also be part of a larger itinerary that includes a visit to Masada and the Dead Sea, as it is on the way from Jerusalem. Combining these destinations on the best tours from the Israeli capital will give you a complete experience that combines the natural magnitude of Jerusalem's surroundings with the historical narrative.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 79 euros per person.
• Duration: about 4 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will get to experience an adventure just minutes away from the Old City of Jerusalem and see a historical site around the Israeli capital in a different way.
• Disadvantages of these tours: does not include stops in the desert or sunset tours, only in the morning and early afternoon.

You can book any of the Jerusalem tours in advance online or opt to book them once you are in the city. If you plan to visit Israel's capital for 3 days or less, I advise you to book before you arrive to secure your place in the experience and save money, as you will be able to freeze the rate, which is usually dynamic.

I also recommend that you organise an itinerary before your visit, and booking in advance will also help you to get the most out of your travel plan and get an organised tour of one of the most visited sites in the Middle East, which is known for its wealth of attractions and activities for visitors.

Jerusalem is an ancient city, combining many years of history with a religious community that has its origins in Christianity, Islam and Judaism, so I advise you to explore this destination from different perspectives. On your tour you will see Christian churches, mosques and synagogues, as well as the diverse neighbourhoods that gave birth to the city.

On the other hand, if adventure is among your priorities, don't miss the opportunity to take an off-road vehicle tour of the Judean Desert. Be sure to bring comfortable clothing and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense in this region, especially during the summer. Also, consider including a visit to Bethlehem, Jericho, Masada or the Dead Sea in your itinerary for a complete experience that also takes in the natural wonders.

Also, when exploring the Holy City and its surroundings, don't forget to mingle with the local culture. Interact with the inhabitants of the Orthodox Jewish Quarter, sample kosher cuisine and take the opportunity to discover unique handicrafts and souvenirs at the street markets. All in all, planning ahead, staying flexible and being open to new experiences are vital tips for enjoying a tour of Jerusalem.

Exploring Jerusalem on a guided tour is highly recommended because of the unique richness this city has to offer. This destination is a complex crossroads of cultures, religions and histories, making it an ideal place for those looking to delve into the cultural and spiritual diversity that a guided tour can help you unravel.

Jerusalem's historical significance is also undeniable, as it is home to iconic sites such as the Old City. A tour of this site, the only way to get to know it in depth, will allow you to discover its mysteries and attractions, ranging from the Mount of Olives to the Western Wall.

On the other hand, the comfort and efficiency of a tour are also key factors. With expert guides and organised transport, you can optimise your time and concentrate fully on the experience, which is ideal in a place that often presents language difficulties.

Opting for a guided tour when exploring the sites of Jerusalem offers numerous advantages that enrich your travel experience. The city is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, and having a knowledgeable local guide will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the history and significance of each site more effectively than a visit on your own would.

Efficiency, therefore, is a significant advantage of guided tours. A well-planned itinerary will allow you to optimise your time and tour a variety of iconic sites in a short time, which could be ideal for your trip, especially if you plan to visit Jerusalem during a short stay of 3 days or even less.

On the other hand, safety and comfort are also very important considerations when choosing a guided tour. Jerusalem can be overwhelming for visitors, but a local guide who knows the best routes and can give you recommendations will smooth the way for you to discover the Israeli capital without a hitch.