Things to do in West Jerusalem

Explore the historic market of Machane Yehuda to get a feel for the energetic, commercial face of Jerusalem. The market is particularly famous for food, and is home to all kinds of stalls and vendors. If you’re after a traditional Levantine meal, choose one of the many shawarma or falafel stands. For dessert, try a regional favorite like halva or baklava.

The Israel Museum is among the country’s most acclaimed cultural institutions. Discover exhibits ranging from ancient Holy Land artifacts to contemporary art collections and displays detailing important chapters from Israeli history.

Mount Zion is located directly outside the walls of Jerusalem’s Old City and can be accessed via the Zion Gate. Its importance in the history of Christianity, Islam and Judaism is demonstrated through the many attractions that are located on top of the hill. Visit sites such as the Last Supper Room, King David’s Tomb, the Dormition Abbey and the grave of Oskar Schindler.

King David’s Tomb is one of the most important sacred sites in Jerusalem. Make the trip, regardless of your faith, to experience its air of religious significance. It sits on Mount Zion, a hill to the south of the Old City.

Yad Vashem, taken from the book of Isaiah and meaning “a memorial and a name,” is a memorial complex devoted to documenting the events of the Holocaust and the history of the Jewish people. Explore the on-site museum, reflect at the moving Children’s Memorial and ponder the fate of concentration camp prisoners at the Hall of Remembrance.