Top 10 Free Things to do in Jerusalem

The Western Wall, By Galasso – Wikipedia

Top 10 Free Things to do in Jerusalem

Jerusalem is an amazing city to visit, however, the visits are not expensive. This article details 10 free things to do in Jerusalem, with magnificent history and culture. However, the Top 10 free things to do in Jerusalem include the following;

1. Visit the Western Wall

The Western Wall is sometimes called “The Wailing Wall”, and is known throughout the world as a Jewish place of prayer. Jews have been praying here for centuries, still weeping over the destruction of the Temple. Or reciting ancient prayers, looking for the Messiah. Many write their prayers on paper and stuff them in the cracks of the wall to keep their prayers continually before God.

If you are planning a trip to Israel, you are mostly recommended to visit the Western Wall, as it’s an awe-inspiring location. 

2. Visit Yad Vashem

Yad Vashem is Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. It is dedicated to preserving the memory of the Jews who were murdered; honoring Jews who fought against their Nazi oppressors and Gentiles who selflessly aided Jews in need; and researching the phenomenon of the Holocaust in particular and genocide in general, to avoid such events in the future.

 The Museum of Holocaust Art, sculptures, outdoor commemorative sites such as the Valley of the Communities, and a synagogue. It’s an impressive, fascinating, and deeply emotive museum that is free to enter.

3. Explore the Botanical Garden

View of lake and café, Jerusalem Botanical Gardens, By Adiel lo – Wikipedia

The Jerusalem Botanical Gardens was originally planned as the successor to the National Botanic Garden of Israel on Mount Scopus which, nevertheless, still exists as a separate entity, it is located in the neighborhood of Nayot in Jerusalem, on the southeastern edge of the Givat Ram campus of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The garden is arranged in phytogeographic sections, featuring flora of various regions around the world. The Jerusalem Botanical Gardens opened to the public in 1985. The tropical conservatory opened in 1986 and the South Africa section was planted in 1989. The Hank Greenspan Entrance Plaza, Dvorsky Visitors’ Centre, and restaurant were built in 1990. It is free to explore the Botanical garden of the Hebrew University and you can also stroll through the lush Givat Ram campus.

4. Walkthrough the Mamilla Mall

Mamilla Mall is also called Alrov Mamilla Avenue, it is an upscale shopping street and the only open-air mall in West Jerusalem. It is located northwest of Jaffa Gate, the mall consists of a 2,000-foot (610 m) pedestrian promenade called Alrov Mamilla Avenue lined with 140 stores, restaurants, cafes, and office space on the upper floors. It sits atop a multi-story parking garage for 1,600 cars and buses, and a bus terminal. 

It was designed by Moshe Safdie and developed by Alrov Properties and Lodgings Ltd. of Tel Aviv, the mall incorporates the facades of 19th-century buildings from the original Mamilla Street, as well as the original structures of the Convent of St. 

5. Visit Ein Kerem

It is a beautiful tranquil village and neighborhood in the west of Jerusalem, that is surrounded by beautiful natural groves and the breathtaking landscape provided by the Jerusalem hills. It is worlds away from the bustling Centre of  Jerusalem. The pretty houses are made of local Jerusalem limestone, cobbled narrow streets, and sit in the shadow of the pretty churches. 

Ein Kerem is an important site for Christians as it was the birthplace of John the Baptist and it is incredibly famous among Israelis seeking to escape the city.

6. Head to Sataf

Remains of Sataf village, By Ori~ Wikipedia

Sataf is a beautiful nature reserve in the hills outside Jerusalem hikes along the beautiful trails which pass along terraces made thousands of years ago by farmers. It is located in the Jerusalem Hills. It is famous for its hiking trails and natural beauty, which is set in one of Israel’s most incredible and powerful landscapes. Sataf is an incredibly popular spot with hikers, runners, and families, out for a barbecue. 

It is free to enter and open during daylight hours. There is a great café at the site, a great place to cool off and relax after your hike. Alternatively, if you prefer, there are benches along the trails for picnics. At weekends and during holiday periods Sataf can become busy, although this is the price of beauty.

7. Go east into the Judean Desert

The Judean Desert is known as one of the smallest and most unique desert regions in the world. People pass through it as they descend from Jerusalem. It is a fascinating region to visit and explore as it is full of fun outdoor activities and rich history in addition to the fascinating geography and geology.

8. Explore the church of the Sepulchre

For Christian believers from across the world, and of all denominations, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the holiest place of the Christian faith. This site has been recognized since the early Byzantine era as the place where Jesus Christ’s crucifixion took place. Today, this church, marking the crucifixion site, remains one of the world’s major pilgrimage destinations.

9. Visit the Bezalel Arts Fair

The Bezalel Arts Fair in Jerusalem features the works of artists in Jerusalem. It takes place every Friday in the pedestrian area of Bezalel street. 

It is also usually an opportunity for students and upcoming artists to showcase their work. The items at the fair include handmade items. There is also live music and performances showcasing the diversity of the art community in Jerusalem. The admissions are usually free.

10. Walkthrough Nachlaot

Street in Nachlaot, By User: Football kick it, Wikipedia

Nachlaot is one of the most interesting Jerusalem neighborhoods. It is a cluster of neighborhoods in the Centre of the city. It is distinguished by its narrow, windy lanes, quaint, stone houses, and pretty hidden-away courtyards that were originally built in the 1870s by the Jew.

At the festival time, Nachlaot is usually a more fascinating place to walk, with ornaments decorating the streets.