Private Walking Tour in Jerusalem's Old City

Jerusalem, IL
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (7 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Entry Fees
  • inclusion
    Licensed Tour Guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Please bring hat, water and comfortable walking shoes.
  • exclusion
    Hot drink and a cake

Meeting Point

Meet at the stone bench at the Jaffa Gate, in the part outside the old city.

Meeting point

Jerusalem , Israel

End point

End Point

The tour will end at the hotel - Notre Dame of Jerusalem

Meeting point

HaTsanhanim St 3, Jerusalem , Israel

End point

What to expect

1
Jaffa Gate

We will begin the tour with an introduction to the walls of the Old City and the Jaffa Gate. Who built the walls, and when? Why is the Jaffa Gate called that and what is its significance? What did it look like in the past and what evidence can be found for this? Who is the guest in whose honor the wall of the city of Jerusalem was breached? And who is buried in the mysterious tombs at the Jaffa Gate?

Duration 30 minutes
2

Armenian Quarter

We will visit the courtyard of James Cathedral. We will learn why the Armenians got their own quarter, who is James, who built a wall around the quarter, and what the Armenian Patriarch did to raise funds for the renovation of the Cathedral.

Duration 20 minutes
3

Jewish Quarter

We will visit the four Sephardic synagogues and learn who built them, when and how they are related to the man who left a besieged Jerusalem in a coffin to save Judaism. We will visit the Cardo and learn its story, and we will learn the connection between the Hurva Synagogue and the Jews who came all the way from Europe to Jerusalem to wait for the return of the Jewish Messiah.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included
4

Western Wall

We will visit the largest synagogue in the world, the Western Wall. We will learn how it was built, by whom, and why this is NOT the holiest place for Jews.

Duration 20 minutes
5

Temple Mount

Temple Mount, the most sacred place for Judaism is also sacred for Islam. Since the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 AD, the Jews had no control over it until 1967, following the Six Day War. We will learn why and how the mountain was sanctified in the monotheistic religions, about the illegal excavations and the sifting project of the Temple Mount soil designed to save archaeological finds, Messianic Jews who want to build the Third Temple, and Muslim graves that are found In the holiest place for Jews.

Duration 60 minutes
6

Muslim Quarter

We will learn who built the Muslim quarter and why, we will make a stop at a local spice store to try some unique Arab sweet delights, and walk through the Arab market.

Duration 30 minutes
7

The Way of the Cross - Via Dolorosa

We will walk through some of the stations of Via Dolorosa on our way to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Duration 20 minutes
8

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

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We will visit the most sacred place for the Christian religion, the place of Jesus' crucifixion and burial. We will visit the place of the crucifixion, and his tomb and learn about the Christian faith.

Duration 45 minutes
9

Christian Quarter

We will learn about the patriarch who locked himself in his room and received food through the window, we will stop to visit an Armenian ceramics shop, eat a cake and drink coffee at a local cafe, learn about the lowest statue in Jerusalem and meet local merchants*. *depending on their availability

Duration 45 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
10

New Gate

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We will learn why the newest gate in the wall was needed and when it was built.

11

Pontifical Institute Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center

For a moment, we will leave Jerusalem and "visit" Europe. We will learn why the hotel was built here, by whom and how it is related to the Crimean War. We will go up to the roof of the hotel for a panoramic view of the new city and the old city, from where we can see the different quarters, the Temple Mount and the Mount of Olives. We will learn who blew up the hotel and why? And about 19 years in which the hotel stood on the border between Jordanian Jerusalem and Israeli Jerusalem.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Each trip can be tailor-made to your interests and needs.
  • Additional information
    Holy sites dress code: (The western wall, Church of the holy sepulcher etc.) No tank tops, Pants / skirts to the knees.
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    On Fridays, the four Sephardic synagogues will be replaced with another synagogue.
  • Additional information
    Please note that Temple Mount (Including Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque) is closed for visitors every Friday, Saturday and during various Muslim and Jewish Holidays. Instead, a visit of a view point overlooking the Temple Mount will be included.
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Temple Mt. Dress code: Men - pants - under the knees, T-shirt. Women - long skirt / pants (not skinny), long sleeves shirt , no cleavage. Please make sure NOT to bring with you: Holy books and sacred objects, Any kind of weapon (including Lederman) , Laptops, tablets or iPads, Alcohol or musical instruments. In case you don’t have a cover, you’ll be given a skirt by the workers there.
  • Additional information
    The tour can be adopted for a wheelchair.
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Orna Simchi

What our experts say

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    Start early to avoid crowds.
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    Wear comfortable walking shoes.
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    Try local sweets in the Muslim Quarter.
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    Respect dress codes at holy sites.
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    Visit nearby cafes for refreshments.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Welcome to a private walking tour of Jerusalem's Old City! Join the experienced and licensed tour guide, Orna, on a journey through the rich history and cultural tapestry of this ancient city. With over 10 years of experience and a deep knowledge of Jerusalem's past and present, Orna will provide you with a captivating and enlightening experience.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to explore the four quarters of the Old City and the iconic Temple Mount. Orna will guide you through the fascinating stories and traditions of the three monotheistic religions that call Jerusalem home. You'll have the opportunity to visit sacred sites and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of each religious community.

Who is this for?

This tour is designed for anyone who wants to delve into the history, culture, and spirituality of Jerusalem's Old City. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a religious pilgrim, or simply curious about different cultures, this experience is for you. Orna's inclusive approach ensures that people of all backgrounds and beliefs will feel welcome and engaged throughout the tour.

Why book this?

What sets this private walking tour apart is Orna's expertise and genuine passion for sharing the stories of Jerusalem. With her extensive knowledge and personal connections in the city, she offers a unique perspective that goes beyond the surface level. By booking this tour, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Jerusalem's complex history and its significance to people around the world.

Good to know

As part of this tour, all entry fees are included, saving you the hassle of purchasing tickets separately. It's recommended to bring a hat, water, and comfortable walking shoes to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to stop for a hot drink and a cake, providing a chance to rest and recharge before continuing your exploration.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced this private walking tour with Orna rave about her knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to make history come alive. Many have appreciated the personalized approach and the opportunity to interact with local people and communities. Overall, guests have left with a deep appreciation for Jerusalem's Old City and its rich cultural heritage. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to explore the heart of Jerusalem with Orna as your guide.

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