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Why?  Jerusalem, the Holy City, is a place of pilgrimage for the Muslim, Christian and Jewish religions; but whatever their spirituality, people from all over the world are drawn to holiday in Jerusalem, the city with a sacred heart. The relatively small area of the Old City is arguably one of the most atmospheric ancient walled enclaves remaining in the world, the main reason why so many travel to Jerusalem.

When?  Summers are very hot in Jerusalem, but the months of July and August remain high season for a Jerusalem holiday, when accommodation is at premium rates and queues form at attractions. Sunny and warm spring and autumn are better seasons to travel to Jerusalem, and for budget travellers the least expensive is the cool (but perhaps wet) winter, between November and March. During the Jewish Passover many facilities are closed.

Who for?  Most who holiday in Jerusalem come to immerse themselves in the religious and historic sites of this ancient city.

More Info:  Those planning to travel to Jerusalem can consult our up-to-date Jerusalem travel guide, which provides a host of information about the attractions, events and excursions available in the city as well as current basic information such as entry requirements, safety reports and how to get around the city.

Overview

Israel's capital city occupies an important place in the hearts and minds of Muslims, Christians and Jews alike. The walled section comprising the Old City of Jerusalem is an area rich in the historical traditions of these three religions. It is home to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Dome of the Rock and the Al Aksa Mosque on the Temple Mount. The Western Wall provides the focal point for Jewish worship and stands as an enduring symbol of the Jewish homeland.

The Old City can be accessed through seven of the eight gates punctuating the ancient walls enveloping it. Within these walls are the separate quarters of the Muslim, Jewish, Christian and Armenian communities. A dazzling array of merchandise can be purchased from the lively Arab souk (open-air market), and meandering through the narrow corridors and cobbled pavements of the ancient centre inevitably provides a feast of sensations.

For an orientation of the Old City it is best to set off along the Ramparts Walk, originally designed for watchmen, or to climb the Citadel of David for a panoramic vista of the eternally fascinating city of Jerusalem.