Jerusalem, Israel

Destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over its existence, Jerusalem is the picture of endurance and tradition. One of the holiest cities in the world, this Middle Eastern metropolis draws millions of visitors each year from all over the world for its sacred sites and flourishing contemporary culture.

The King David Hotel’s position at the intersection of Jerusalem’s Old City and dynamic New Jerusalem offers guests stunning skyline views and easy access to popular points of interest.

A spiritual center for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world, dating to the 4th millennium BCE. Situated between the Mediterranean and Dead Sea, the City of David is divided into four sections—known since the early 19th century as the Jewish, Christian, Armenian, and Muslim Quarters—each with its own distinct offerings and history. Whether exploring ancient archeological sites and sacred shrines, eating shawarma sandwiches on Agrippa Street, or attending a concert at the Bible Lands Museum, you are sure to enjoy your stay in this holy city steeped in tradition and modern magnetism.

Quick Facts

Suggested Airport
David Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV)
Currency
New Israeli Shekel
Language
Hebrew and Arabic
Time Zone
7 hours ahead of New York
Average Temperature
Summer 83℉, winter 42℉

Destination Highlights

The Western Wall

The holiest site in Judaism, the Western Wall is all that remains of the ancient temple that once stood at the top of the Temple Mount. Visitors, separated by gender, say prayers and press paper notes into the stone crevices. Plan your visit for a Friday night when Shabbat celebrations often include spontaneous song and dance.
Dome of the Rock

The glistening dome of this Islamic shrine can be seen from any viewpoint in Jerusalem. Built in 691 CE, it is a stunning architectural achievement and is said by some scholars to be the place where Muhammad ascended to heaven. The beautiful mosaics covering the outside are visible to visitors in the plaza, but only Muslims can enter the building itself.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Situated in the Christian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem, this church contains two of the holiest sites for Christians, the place where Jesus was crucified and his empty tomb. Also known as the Church of the Resurrection, the destination has been a draw for Christian pilgrims since its construction in 335 CE.
Masada

Built between 37 and 31 BCE as a palace for King Herod, the ancient fortification was the refuge of the last survivors of the Jewish revolt. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is located on the eastern edge of the Judaean Desert overlooking the Dead Sea, about 1.5 hours from Jerusalem. Among the ruins are the palace, a Roman-style bathhouse, and museum.
Mahane Yehudah Market

Wander the stalls of this market, where vendors sell everything from fresh fruits to world-class desserts and tourists and locals come together to sample local treats like halva (sesame nougat) and chocolate rugelach (rolled pastry) and do their shopping. In the evenings, the street transforms into a trendy restaurant hub.
Yad Vashem

A monument to the six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust, Yad Vashem offers a poignant walk through history. The Holocaust History Museum comprises a series of nine galleries, while the rest of the complex contains additional museums and memorials, such as the Children’s Memorial, the Museum of Holocaust Art, and the Garden of the Righteous Among the Nations.