THINGS TO DO
EXPLORE JERUSALEM THE OLD CITY OF JERUSALEM
Much of Liam’s Bar Mitzva weekend will be centered around the holy and ancient Old City of Jerusalem. This is a 0.9-square-kilometer walled area that is one of the world's most spiritually and historically significant places. Old City is divided into four main quarters: Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian.
01
Jewish Quarter
Located in the southeastern part of the Old City, the Jewish Quarter was rebuilt after the 1967 Six-Day War and is known for its archaeological sites. The Western Wall: A remnant of the Second Jewish Temple and the holiest site in the world for Jews. It has been a long-standing tradition to place slips of paper containing written prayers or wishes into the cracks of the Western Wall. Western Wall Tunnels: An underground excavation of sections of the Western Wall. This area also houses a section of the Western Wall that is believed to be closest to the Holy of Holies. The Holy of Holies, also known as the Qodesh HaKodashim in Hebrew, was the most sacred inner sanctuary of the ancient Tabernacle and later the Temples in Jerusalem. It was the place where God's presence was believed to reside on Earth. The Cardo: The restored main street of Byzantine-era Jerusalem, lined with shops and archaeological remains. Hurva Synagogue: The tallest building in the Jewish Quarter , offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
02
This quarter is in the northwestern part of the Old City, with its main entrance at the Jaffa Gate. •Church of the Holy Sepulchre: Traditionally considered the site of Jesus's crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. The key to the church has been held by two Muslim families for centuries. •Via Dolorosa: A street believed to be the path Jesus walked on his way to his crucifixion, marked by the 14 Stations of the Cross. •Lutheran Church of the Redeemer: An impressive church whose bell tower provides some of the best panoramic views of the Old City.
03
Located in the southwestern part of the Old City, this is the smallest and quietest of the four quarters. •St. James Cathedral: The main cathedral of the Armenian community, known for its ornate interior and serene atmosphere. •Armenian Ceramics: The community is famous for its vibrant, decorative ceramic work, a tradition brought to Jerusalem in the early 20th century.
04
The largest and most densely populated of the quarters is in the northeastern part of the Old City, and it is known for its bustling markets. •Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque: These two prominent Islamic structures are on the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif. The Dome of the Rock, with its golden dome, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Jerusalem. Access to the dome and mosque is restricted to Muslims. •Old City Bazaar: A lively market or shuk where vendors sell a mix of fresh produce, spices, household goods, jewelry, and souvenirs.
05
Mahane Yehuda Market
A bustling market with fresh food, local flavors, and lively atmosphere. A must-see in Jerusalem. Also, this is THE place to be on a Saturday night – the shops are closed, but the bars and restaurants are open and turn into a party scene.
06
Open-air shopping and dining with easy access to the Old City
07
known locally as the "Midrachov" (pedestrian mall), is one of Jerusalem's most famous thoroughfares, serving as the heart of the city's central tourist district. The street is a bustling hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
08
Mt. Herzl
Israel’s national cemetery and memorial honoring the country’s heroes, leaders and fallen soldiers.
09
Yad Vashem
The Holocaust memorial and museum, a moving and educational experience.
10
- Guided tours of ancient tunnels and ruins at the heart of Jerusalem’s history. Close walking distance to David Citadel hotel.
SUGGESTED CAFES & RESTAURANTS
01
Aroma Espresso Bar
located in Mamilla mall right down the street from the David Citadel Hotel
02
A well-known cafe with a varied menu of salads, pastas, and sandwiches. It features an outdoor terrace with views of the Old City walls. https://www.caferimon.co.il/
03
Fresh pastries
https://www.roladin.co.il/
04
Outrageous restaurant where the table is set with dozens of fresh Middle Eastern salads before you even get a menu. Excellent grilled meats, fresh pita and Laffa bread and local cuisine. Located in the Talpiot neighborhood of Jerusalem, which is a cab ride away. https://www.ezragrill.com/
05
Machneyuda Restaurant
a popular and lively modern Israeli restaurant located near Machne Yehuda Market, known for its creative dishes and vibrant atmosphere, and excellent service. Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended. https://en.machneyuda.co.il/
06
A popular restaurant with great cocktails and Middle Eastern fusion cuisine.
https://jackosstreet.co.il/?lang=en
07
One of the most picturesque restaurants in Jerusalem, located in the Jerusalem's Artist's Quarter. Cuisine is a modern interpretations of biblical cuisine by chef Moshe Basson. https://www.the-eucalyptus.com/
08
A fine-dining experience blending classic European technique with modern Israeli ingredients. https://1868.co.il/home-zuta-en/restaurant-menu-en/
09
Piccolino
Italian food in a lively setting with live music in Music Square - amazing option for August evenings in Jerusalem. https://kikar-hamusica.com/restaurants/en/piccolino-en/
10
This is an uber-casual, greasy spoon, located in a gas station with outstanding Shwarma. Worth the cab ride