How to Plan Your West Bank Day Tour from Jerusalem

If you’re planning to visit Jerusalem, a trip to the West Bank should definitely be on your list. This comprehensive full-day tour will give you the chance to explore some of the most historic places on earth, from the ancient city of Jericho to the bustling city of Ramallah. With so many sights to see, it can be overwhelming trying to plan the perfect West Bank day tour. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your trip!

Step 1: Choose the Right Tour

The first step in planning your West Bank day tour is to choose the right tour company. The best tour companies will have experienced guides who know the area well and are able to provide you with all the information you need to fully appreciate your surroundings. One great option is the day tour offered by GetYourGuide, a reputable company with years of experience in the area.

Step 2: Pack Appropriately

When you’re planning a day trip to the West Bank, it’s important to pack appropriately. This includes comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen, and a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. You may also want to bring a camera to capture all the amazing sights you’ll see!

Step 3: Explore Bethlehem and the West Bank

The tour begins in the morning when you’re picked up from your hotel in Jerusalem. From there, you’ll head out to the West Bank to discover the rich history behind this incredible region. The first stop is the ancient baptism site of Qasr el Yahud on the banks of the Jordan river. Here, you’ll be able to visit the marble steps leading into the river, said to be the very place where Jesus was baptized. After that, you’ll continue on to the city of Jericho, the oldest city in the world. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the ruins of ancient Jericho and view the nearby Mount of Temptation in the adjacent hills. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore one of the most historic places on earth!

Step 4: Visit the Ancient Baptism Site of Qasr-el-Yahud

From Jericho, you’ll move on to the ancient baptism site of Qasr-el-Yahud on the banks of the Jordan River. Here you can immerse yourself in a sea of histoical remain while enjoying the breathtaking view of nature around you.

Step 5: Explore Ramallah

After Jericho, the next stop on the tour is Ramallah. This modern city is the thriving commercial center of the West Bank and is a hub of art, culture, and entertainment. You’ll have the chance to walk the streets of Ramallah and see life in the big city in the West Bank. The tour will head to Manara Square, the thriving commercial center of the city, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Step 6: Book Your Tour

The final step in planning your West Bank day tour is to book the tour itself. The easiest way to do this is to book the tour here with GetYourGuide. This will ensure that you’re able to enjoy all the amazing sights of the West Bank with the help of an experienced guide, making your trip to Jerusalem an unforgettable experience.

Book Your Tour Now

A day trip to the West Bank is an incredible way to explore one of the most historic and culturally significant regions on earth. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be fully prepared to plan your own West Bank day tour from Jerusalem. From the ancient city of Jericho to the modern city of Ramallah, you’ll be able to explore a vast array of sights and experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime. Book your tour today and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!

FAQ about Jerusalem

Jerusalem is a holy city that is rich in history and culture. It attracts millions of tourists each year, who come to explore its ancient sites, learn about its religions, and experience its vibrant modern culture. If you are planning a trip to Jerusalem, here are some frequently asked questions that can help you prepare for your journey.

1. What is the best time to visit Jerusalem?

Jerusalem has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit the city is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, keep in mind that these are peak tourist seasons, and the city can be crowded during these times.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Jerusalem?

Jerusalem has many tourist attractions, including:

The Old City

The Old City is the historic heart of Jerusalem, and home to some of the city’s most important sites, including the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock.

The Israel Museum

The Israel Museum is one of the world’s leading art and archaeology museums, with an extensive collection of Jewish and Israeli art and artifacts.

The Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial

Yad Vashem is Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, and serves as a center for research, documentation, education, and commemoration of the Holocaust.

The Mount of Olives

The Mount of Olives is a hill located just east of the Old City, and is home to several important religious sites, including the Church of All Nations and the Garden of Gethsemane.

The Mahane Yehuda Market

The Mahane Yehuda Market is Jerusalem’s largest market, and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, fresh produce, and local food.

3. What are the religious sites in Jerusalem?

Jerusalem is a city of great religious importance, and is home to several important sites for the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths. Some of the most important religious sites in Jerusalem are:

The Western Wall

The Western Wall is the holiest site in Judaism, and is located in the Old City. It is believed to be the last remnant of the Second Temple, and is a place of prayer and pilgrimage for Jews from around the world.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of the most important sites in Christianity, and is believed to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.

The Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque

The Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque are two of the holiest sites in Islam, and are located on the Temple Mount in the Old City.

4. What are the best ways to get around Jerusalem?

Jerusalem has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trains, and light rail. Taxis are also widely available, but can be expensive. If you prefer to walk, many of the city’s major tourist attractions are located within walking distance of each other, especially in the Old City.

5. What should I wear in Jerusalem?

Jerusalem is a conservative city, and visitors are advised to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should avoid wearing skirts or shorts that are above the knee, and should cover their shoulders. Men should not wear shorts in religious sites. It is also recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, as the city’s streets can be hilly and uneven.

6. What is the food like in Jerusalem?

Jerusalem is known for its vibrant food scene, which blends Middle Eastern, Jewish, and international influences. Some of the city’s most popular dishes include falafel, hummus, shakshuka, and knafeh. The city also has many excellent restaurants serving traditional and modern Israeli cuisine.

7. Is Jerusalem safe for tourists?

Jerusalem is generally a safe city for tourists, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. It is recommended to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially when visiting crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions. It is also recommended to avoid demonstrations or other large gatherings that may turn violent.

8. What is the local currency in Jerusalem?

The local currency in Jerusalem is the Israeli shekel. Most businesses in the city accept credit cards, and there are many ATMs located throughout the city for cash withdrawals.

9. What languages are spoken in Jerusalem?

Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages of Israel, and are widely spoken in Jerusalem. English is also widely spoken by locals in the city’s tourism industry.

10. Do I need a visa to visit Jerusalem?

Visitors from many countries do not need a visa to enter Israel for stays of up to 90 days. However, it is recommended to check with the Israeli embassy or consulate in your home country to verify the specific visa requirements for your nationality.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Jerusalem

Jerusalem, one of the oldest cities in the world with a historical and spiritual significance, attracts millions of tourists every year from all over the world. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in religion, archaeology, culture, or cuisine. In this guide, we will provide you with some essential information on how to spend your time as a tourist in Jerusalem.

1. Visit the Old City of Jerusalem

The Old City of Jerusalem is an ancient walled city that contains some of the holiest sites in the world. It is divided into four quarters: the Jewish Quarter, the Christian Quarter, the Muslim Quarter, and the Armenian Quarter. Here are some of the must-see sites in each quarter:

The Jewish Quarter

• Western Wall: One of the holiest places in Judaism where Jews pray and leave notes in the wall’s crevices.
• Hurva Synagogue: A historic synagogue that was destroyed and rebuilt twice.

The Christian Quarter

• Church of the Holy Sepulchre: A church built on the site where Jesus Christ was crucified, buried, and resurrected.
• Via Dolorosa: A street that is believed to be the path that Jesus Christ took on his way to the crucifixion.

The Muslim Quarter

• Dome of the Rock: A shrine that is considered to be one of the holiest places in Islam.
• Al-Aqsa Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in the world and the third holiest site in Islam.

The Armenian Quarter

• St. James Cathedral: A 12th-century cathedral that is the seat of the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
• Armenian Ceramics: Shops where you can find beautiful ceramics made by Armenian artisans.

2. Take a Tour of the City of David

The City of David is an archaeological site that is believed to be the original location of Jerusalem. It was excavated in the 19th century, and today, visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the city’s history. Here are some of the highlights of the City of David:

• Hezekiah’s Tunnel: A 533-meter tunnel that was built in the 8th century BCE to provide water to the city during a siege.
• Warren’s Shaft: A vertical shaft that was used to bring water up from the Gihon Spring to the city.
• The Pool of Siloam: A pool that was used for ritual purification, and was believed to be where Jesus healed the blind man.

3. Explore the Mahane Yehuda Market

The Mahane Yehuda Market, also known as “the shuk,” is a vibrant outdoor market that sells everything from fresh produce to clothing. It is a great place to see a slice of daily life in Jerusalem, and to sample some of the local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try foods at the shuk:

• Jerusalem Bagel: A fresh-baked, sesame-topped bagel that is unique to the city.
• Halva: A sweet confection made from sesame paste and sugar.
• Shakshuka: A dish made from eggs poached in a tomato sauce.

4. Visit Yad Vashem

Yad Vashem is the official memorial to the six million Jews who were killed during the Holocaust. It is a place of remembrance and education, and visitors can learn about the history of the Holocaust and honor the memory of those who perished. Here are some of the highlights of Yad Vashem:

• The Hall of Names: A memorial that honors the victims by displaying their names and personal stories.
• The Children’s Memorial: A dark chamber that is dedicated to the 1.5 million Jewish children who died during the Holocaust.
• The Avenue of the Righteous Among the Nations: A pathway that honors non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust.

5. Take in the View from the Mount of Olives

The Mount of Olives is a hill that overlooks the Old City of Jerusalem, and it provides an excellent panoramic view of the city. It is a significant site for both Jews and Christians, and it is believed to be the place where the Messiah will arrive. Here are some of the must-see sites on the Mount of Olives:

• Church of All Nations: A church that was built on the site where Jesus prayed before his crucifixion.
• The Jewish Cemetery: One of the oldest and largest Jewish cemeteries in the world.
• The Chapel of the Ascension: A small domed structure that is believed to be the spot where Jesus ascended into heaven.

Book Your Tour Now

Jerusalem is a city that is rich in history, culture, and spirituality. It has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in religion, archaeology, or cuisine. By visiting the Old City of Jerusalem, the City of David, the Mahane Yehuda Market, Yad Vashem, and the Mount of Olives, you can get a real sense of the city’s unique character and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.