Jerusalem new city & nearby locations
Jerusalem’s New City offers Givat Ram’s cultural landmarks, Israel Aquarium’s marine life, and Machne Yehuda Market’s vibrant energy. Relax at the Old Train Station, visit Schindler’s grave, explore Jerusalem Botanical Gardens, and wander Mishkanot Sha’ananim & Yemin Moshe’s picturesque alleys.
Written by Zvika Gasner Koheleth 12-December-2024 (1st Edited 14-December-2020, 2nd 13-February-2021, 3rd 30-June-2021) photography by Angela Hechtfisch.
Jerusalem – A Short Historical Overview
Jerusalem, the capital of Israel, is perched on a plateau in the Judean Mountains, between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and holds profound religious significance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Throughout its long and tumultuous history, Jerusalem has been destroyed, besieged, captured, and recaptured by various empires and kingdoms.
The earliest known mention of the city appears in ancient Egyptian texts from the 14th century BCE, where it is referred to as “Urusalim”—likely meaning “City of Shalem,” a Canaanite deity. In Hebrew, one interpretation of the name is “Yeru-Shalem,” meaning “God is complete” or “City of Peace.”
During the Israelite period, major development in Jerusalem began in the 9th century BCE. By the 8th century BCE, the city had become the religious and administrative heart of the Kingdom of Judah under King David and his son, King Solomon (Shlomo in Hebrew), who expanded its influence and built the First Temple.
In 1538 CE, the current walls of the Old City were rebuilt by Suleiman the Magnificent, ruler of the Ottoman Empire. Since 1860, Jerusalem has expanded well beyond those walls. As of 2025, Jerusalem has a population of just over one million. Approximately 47% are ultra-Orthodox Jews, 24% are religious (modern Orthodox), 15% are secular Jews, and the remainder are Christians and Muslims.
Jerusalem’s Givat Ram: Israel Museum, Shrine of the Book, Knesset & Science Museum
Drive just 5 minutes from Jaffa Gate and the cozy Biazi Hotel, and you’ll land in Givat Ram—home to some of Jerusalem’s most iconic landmarks. Start at the Israel Museum, right across from the Knesset (Israel’s Parliament). Explore its highlights: walk through the stunning sculpture garden, check out the detailed 1:50 model of Second Temple-period Jerusalem, and don’t miss the rotating modern exhibitions. The real showstopper? The Shrine of the Book. It displays the Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered in the 1940s at Qumran, and the Aleppo Codex (Keter Aram Tzova)—the oldest known Hebrew Bible canonical manuscript. Love history or archaeology? This place is a must-visit.
Download the museum’s free app for audio explanations—it’s included in the NIS 45 (~$12) entry fee.
A 10-minute walk away, you’ll hit the Bloomfield Science Museum. It brings science to life with hands-on exhibits about everyday topics like sustainabity, agriculture, energy, and electricity. It’s a hit with kids (especially under age 7). Tickets cost NIS 49 for adults and NIS 35 for kids.
Jerusalem’s Israel Aquarium
Visit Jerusalem’s Israel Aquarium in the Malcha neighborhood for a fun and educational family adventure. Kids will be amazed by the vibrant marine life and learn how they can protect Israel’s unique aquatic ecosystems.
The aquarium showcases the fascinating life of Israel’s four seas — the Mediterranean, Sea of Galilee, Dead Sea, and Red Sea — each with its own distinct marine environment. Through interactive exhibits, children discover how to combat sea pollution, prevent overfishing, and understand the impact of invasive species on local sea life.
The visit takes about an hour and includes a short film about marine conservation. Tickets cost 54 ILS for adults and 45 ILS for children. While you’re in the area, you can easily add a stop at the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo, located just 1 km away.
Is this a must-visit? Absolutely — if you’re visiting with kids. But if you’re looking for a more adult-level marine experience, head to Underwater Observatory in Eilat.
Jerusalem’s Machne Yehuda market
Jerusalem’s Machne Yehuda Market is a must-visit! Over the past 20 years, it transformed into a hipster hotspot packed with tourists. You’ll discover hidden pubs, oriental cookie shops, and exotic stalls with mind-blowing flavors. We grabbed a table at “Mordoch,” a legendary Jewish Iraqi/Kurdish kitchen, and devoured their unique Kube soup—it blew our minds. Expect a 15-minute line during peak hours, but trust me, it’s worth it. A meal for two costs around $35, and the service? Super friendly and welcoming.
Don’t leave Machne Yehuda market without eating at “Ishtabach” (Hebrew for “A man who cooks”)—they bake fresh “HasheMvorach” pastries in a taboon, stuffed with crazy delicious fillings. Pure yum! Another must-try is “Sima,” a classic Middle Eastern grill restaurant that serves juicy meats you’ll crave long after.
Jerusalem Old Train Station
Jerusalem’s Old Train Station, known as “The Tahana,” is a vibrant spot you just can’t miss! Nestled between Hebron and Bethlehem Roads, near the German Colony, it once served the Jaffa–Jerusalem railway until closing in 1998. After years of neglect, it got a fresh new life in 2013 and now buzzes with festivals, concerts, art exhibitions (like Da Vinci’s 500th anniversary), and more. This open-air hotspot is buzzing with cafés, restaurants, and cultural events — second only to Machne Yehuda’s legendary vibe.
“Adom” is the crown jewel—if you’re in Jerusalem, it’s a must! The Tahana is open all week, so there’s always something happening.
The Jerusalem Botanical Gardens
The Jerusalem Botanical Gardens (JBG), Israel’s largest, is a green gem right in the heart of the city. It’s not just a garden—it’s a hub for conservation, education, and community life. You’ll stroll through plant zones from around the world: Southern Africa, Europe, North America, Australia, Asia, the Mediterranean, plus tropical greenhouses and desert-dry zones. The garden mimics each region’s natural vibe, so there’s always something blooming, no matter when you visit.
We arrived in February and hit the jackpot—the entrance pond was alive with frogs in full mating concert (jumping and croaking non-stop!). The cherry blossoms were in full bloom, two months ahead of Japan, so we took a quiet moment in the onsite Buddhist shrine for a peace wish. And yes, you could enjoy one at the garden’s outdoor cafés or at the indoor café by the entrance.
Entrance is 35 shekels per adult, open daily. Plan for a 1-3 hour relaxed walk. Guided English tours for small groups are available—just book ahead. Nature lovers, this place is a must!
“Oskar Schindler’s” grave
Just outside Jerusalem’s Old City, near Zion Gate, we visited Oskar Schindler’s grave at the Roman Catholic cemetery on Ma’aleh HaShalom Road. You know the story—Schindler, the German industrialist from Schindler’s List, who risked everything to save 1,200 Jews during WWII by employing them in his factories.
In 1944, as the Nazis began shutting down camps and sending prisoners to Auschwitz, Schindler pulled off a miracle. He convinced SS commander Amon Göth to transfer his Jewish workers and factory to Brněnec, Moravia, saving them from certain death. He protected them until the war’s end in May 1945.
Schindler was recognized as “Righteous Among the Nations” and was laid to rest here in 1974. The cemetery itself is sadly neglected, but standing by his grave is a humbling experience. This hero deserves a proper memorial—hopefully, the authorities will step up soon.
Jerusalem German Templer’s colony
We kept strolling southwest, just a 10-minute walk downhill from Schindler’s grave and then a short climb up towards the Old Ottoman Train Station. The area is buzzing with restaurants and cafés. We grabbed dinner at “Adom” — and wow, it was worth every shekel! A meal for two came to 250 shekels, and we left happy and full.
Right after the station, you’ll find Emek Refaim Street (which means “Ghost Valley” in Hebrew). This charming street was once the heart of Jerusalem’s German Templer Colony, one of seven such colonies in Israel. Wandering here is a treat—there’s so much history mixed with modern vibes. You can read more in our detailed post about the Templers!
Mishkanot Sha’ananim & Yemin Moshe
We wrapped up our walking tour at Mishkanot Sha’ananim and Yemin Moshe, the first Jewish neighborhoods built outside Jerusalem’s Old City walls. Founded in 1862 by Sir Moses Montefiore, these areas tell the story of Jerusalem’s early expansion. Montefiore’s most iconic contribution—the windmill—still stands tall, just a 250-meter stroll from the German Colony.
Montefiore was a true 19th-century celebrity philanthropist who supported Jewish communities worldwide, especially during his 7th visit to Israel, focusing on the four holy cities: Jerusalem, Tiberias, Safed, and Hebron.
Ein Karem Village
Ein Karem, meaning “Spring of the Vineyard,” is a dreamy village with over 4,000 years of history, now part of Jerusalem. It’s a place where biblical stories and beautiful landscapes meet. According to tradition, Saint John the Baptist was born here, and it’s also where Virgin Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth. You’ll find charming churches like St. John BaHarim (believed to be John’s birthplace) and the Church of Visitation, where Mary and Elizabeth shared their blessings.
Ein Karem’s Mary’s Spring, with its ancient water flow, attracts millions of visitors. This beautifully kept fountain is the 4th Christian secret location worldwide. This spring has a running flow estimated for 2,000 years and longer, BUT a new hotel that is planned to be built nearby proclaims a severe threat to this continuous water flow. Local activists are fighting to protect it. Want to join the cause? Check out the “Save Ein Karem” initiative.
Don’t leave Ein Karem without seeing the Gorny (Moscobia) Russian Monastery topped with its iconic five golden tear-drops (completed in 2007). You can enter it directly through the Hadassah Ein Karem Hospital nurse campus, and the Ein Karem the boutique shops, chocolate workshops, and top restaurants like “Brasserie” and “Karma.” Ein Karem Pro Tip: Ein Karem on weekends = parking mission impossible
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Ein Karem Churches – A Spiritual Must-Visit
But the journey doesn’t end there — Church of St. John BaHarim (John in the Mountains) went through a full restoration. Pilgrims and tourists eager to connect with John the Baptist’s legacy always make this Church a must-visit.
Just a short walk away, the Church of the Visitation is a true gem. It’s split into two levels: The lower part holds an ancient Byzantine crypt with a well that, according to tradition, sprang up when Mary and Elizabeth met. You’ll also find a rock where Elizabeth is said to have hidden baby John the Baptist during Herod’s brutal decree to kill all newborns.
Outside, on the southern wall, you’ll see 70 beautiful plaques with the Magnificat—Mary’s song of praise—each in a different language. It’s a powerful moment to stand there and read her words, knowing they’ve echoed through centuries:
The Magnificat – Mary’s song of praise
Mary’s Song of Praise (The Magnificat), Luke 1:46-55:
My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
And his mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
In 1937, the Franciscans started digging up what is now the upper level of the Church of Visitation. The stunning structure you see today, with its intricate frescoes (and yes, one where the artist is rocking a butterfly tie!), was completed in 1955 by Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi.
Before you finish your church-hopping, don’t miss Notre-Dame de Sion at the top of Ein Karem’s hill. The view is breathtaking, the gardens are immaculate, and there’s a peaceful vibe you’ll instantly feel. They offer a pilgrim guesthouse (simple but charming), but if you’re after a boutique luxury stay, the Alegra Hotel is your perfect spot.
Herodium – King Herod’s Desert Fortress
Just 10 km southeast of Jerusalem stands Herodium, a cone-shaped hill packed with history and breathtaking views. Keep in mind: about 5 km of the drive crosses into West Bank Zone A (under Israeli military control), so it’s something to be aware of, but absolutely doable. Once you get there, you’ll see why it’s worth it—history buffs and view-chasers will love this place. Entrance is 30 shekels per adult, open every day.
Herodium was built by King Herod between 23-15 BC as his luxury summer palace and safe haven away from Jerusalem’s busy life. According to the historian Josephus Flavius, this is also where Herod chose to be buried—and he made sure it would be grand.
Climbing up the 80 “Arch Stairs,” you’ll reach the upper palace. Below, you can still visit a 400-seat theater, where VIP guests had their own private suite. You can even see remnants of decorative pillars and wall paintings, including a mural of a crocodile basking on the Nile—still visible today thanks to the desert’s dry air.
At the top, the upper palace reveals more surprises: ancient Roman-style baths with hot and cold rooms, a small garden courtyard, and even a synagogue that was later used by Jewish rebels during the Great Revolt (66-71 CE) and the Bar Kochba Revolt in 132-135 CE.
In 2007, archaeologist Prof. Ehud Netzer announced he had discovered Herod’s actual tomb here. The base of the mausoleum has since been uncovered and is open for visitors to see. The original sarcophagus fragments—massive barrel stones—are now displayed in the Israel Museum in Jerusalem.
Don’t miss the lower part of the site, where Herod built a gigantic recreational pool surrounded by elegant columns. Imagine ancient pool parties fit for a king!
St. George’s Monastery – Wadi Qelt’s Hidden Treasure
St. George’s Monastery, a stunning Greek Orthodox gem, clings to the cliffs of Wadi Qelt in the Prat River National Park near Jericho. Reaching it is an adventure! First, you’ll drive from Jerusalem towards the Dead Sea on Route #1. After about 15 minutes, turn left just before entering the Jewish settlement of Mitzpe Jericho. At the T-junction, hang a right and continue for another 5 minutes on a narrow desert road.
Keep your eyes open—the first or second hill marked with an iron cross is your cue to park. From there, the real journey begins: a scenic footpath that winds its way down to the monastery, rewarding you with breathtaking views along the way.
St. George’s Monastery – A Cliffside Journey into History
St. George’s Monastery has stood in Wadi Qelt since the Byzantine period. It started in the 5th century as a cooperative (Quinobion) monastery—where monks lived in solitude during the week and gathered only on weekends. Look up, and you’ll spot tiny caves carved into the cliffs—these are where the monks retreated to seek enlightenment in complete isolation. In the 6th century, a monk named Georgius (George) of Koziba expanded the monastery, giving it the name we know today.
Christian tradition says this very hillside is where Joachim, the gr
andfather of Jesus, received the divine news that his wife Hannah would miraculously give birth to Mary. Jewish tradition adds its own twist, claiming the prophet Elijah (Eliyahu) hid in these caves, nourished by water and bread brought by crows.
Over the centuries, the monastery has seen its share of destruction. The Persians destroyed it in 614 CE, Crusaders rebuilt it 400 years later, only for it to be ruined again by Arab forces. Thankfully, it was restored in the 19th century, and it stands proudly today.
Before you start your hike, take a moment on the porch next to the parking lot (you’ll recognize it by the second iron cross on the white gate). The view is absolutely jaw-dropping and worth every step of this adventure. From there, a 750-meter trail leads you to the monastery entrance.
An Important NOTE: The monastery is located in West Bank’s Zone C, under Israeli control, but we highly recommend visiting with a group for extra safety. On your way, you’ll likely meet Bedouin locals selling hats, fresh juice, and dates. Please treat them with kindness and respect—they add to the charm of this unforgettable journey.
Where to Stay in – Jerusalem Hotels Tips You’ll Love
Jerusalem can’t be done in a day. With so much to see, staying a few nights is a must! We stayed at the Biazi Boutique Hotel, just a 15-minute stroll from Jaffa Gate and one of Jeruslam hotels finest . Fun fact: this cozy spot used to be a bakery, and all the suites are named after cakes. We picked the “Honey Cake” suite—luxurious, quiet, and definitely a sweet deal for the price.
If you’re in the mood to spoil yourself, the Orient Jerusalem in the German Colony is the place to be. It’s quiet, tucked away, and pure indulgence, yet still close to all the action. Looking for more hotel options? Here’s a list of Jerusalem hotels best stays, with deals for Christmas, Easter, and year-round offers.
