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Jerusalem tours and excursions

Jerusalem tours

Segway tours

Segway tours are an excellent and low-energy way to see large parts of Jerusalem. There are several companies offering tours outside of the Old City in areas such as the Armon Hanatziv Promenade and the area around the Knesset (government buildings), along with night tours through the Jaffa Gate and into the Old City.

Tel: +972 2 566 1441; +972 58 648 0334.
Website: http://jerusalemsegwaytours.com

Walking tours

There are dozens of walking tours, and some of the most worthwhile are around the Old City. Leaflets and information can be found at the Tourist Information Center at Jaffa Gate, Old City. Recommended tour companies include Zion Walking Tours and Sandeman’s free New Jerusalem Tour. The tourist office also offers downloadable pamphlets for self-guided walks of Jerusalem’s key sights on their website.

Tel: +972 2 627 7588; +49 30 510 50030
Website: http://www.zionwt.dpages.co.il

Jerusalem excursions

Masada

A guided dawn trek to watch the sunrise over Masada, King Herod’s mighty mountaintop fortress, is an unforgettable experience. Walking up the winding ‘snake path’, followed by the cable car back down, allows you to enjoy the views of the Dead Sea and to witness the mountain’s extensive ruins, which include Herod's Palace, the synagogue, the fortress, and an elaborate bathhouse.

Tel: +972 8 658 4207
Website: http://www.parks.org.il

Ein Gedi, Dead Sea

A high spot, or to be technically correct, the low point, of any trip to Israel is floating in the Dead Sea. The lowest point on earth at 430m (1,412ft) below sea level, the salty, mineral-rich waters make it impossible to sink. There are public beaches, but it’s easiest to take an excursion to Ein Gedi Sea of Spa resort with its sulphur pools, private access to the sea and changing facilities.

Tel: +972 8 620 1030
Website: http://www.eingediseaofspa.com

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Featured Hotels

Prima Royale Hotel

Outside the Old City and close to Jerusalem’s Downtown Triangle, Prima Royale is an affordable and attractive hotel with one special draw: its goal of introducing guests to Jerusalem’s artistry. Each floor is dedicated to a specific artist, writer, or poet who drew inspiration from the city. Classical music plays in the morning, and jazz serenades you in the afternoon. The breakfast is also delicious.

Hashimi Hotel

The Old City’s ‘newest’ hotel is set in a 400-year-old building right in the heart of the Old City. It’s the perfect base to explore the Dome of the Rock, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Western Wall and Jerusalem’s many other famous sights. The 40 rooms are spread over three floors and the rooftop terrace overlooks some of the best views in town.

David Citadel Hotel

This modern 385-room hotel is a short walk from both the Old City and the new city centre and is just around the corner from the trendy Mamilla Mall. A standout feature is the terrace overlooking the pool, a great spot to indulge in Israel’s trademark big breakfast while gazing over the city. After a day’s sightseeing, the L’Occitane spa is a tranquil spot for a restorative massage.

Little House in Bakah

Set in a renovated 1930s Ottoman-style mansion in the old Bakah neighbourhood, this 33-room boutique property is big on charm with its high ceilings, arched windows and rustic décor. Rooms are simple and comfortable, and there’s free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee 24/7 and breakfast included. The hotel is just around the corner from the hip cafés of Bethlehem Road and Emek Refaim Street.

Knight's Palace

A former theological seminary with some parts dating back to the 11th-century, this lovely hotel is nestled in a quiet corner of the Muslim Quarter. It is steeped in Old City elegance with vaulted ceilings, arched windows and exposed stone. Despite being close to both the New Gate and Jaffa Gate, its location on a quiet cobbled lane means it is just out of reach of the hustle and bustle. It has comfortable rooms, a nice restaurant and bar, Wi-Fi throughout, AC and cable TV.

King Solomon Hotel

This 5-star in the centre of Jerusalem caters to religious Jewish travellers by offering its own synagogue, a Glatt Kosher menu and Shabbat lights in the bedrooms. The stunning views overlooking the Judean hills make up for the slightly outdated décor. The centrepiece of the lobby is a globe-shaped metal sculpture of Jerusalem by the English-born artist Frank Meisler. The hotel is just 10 minutes' walk from the Jaffa Gate of the Old City.

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