World City Guide

Sightseeing

Sightseeing Overview
The compact size of Israel means that almost anywhere (with the exception of Eilat) is accessible for a day trip from Jerusalem. The coastal cities of Tel Aviv, Akko and Haifa can easily be visited in a day, as can the area around the Sea of Galilee and even (in a long day) the Golan Heights. There is enough to see in most of these places to merit a longer visit but, in terms of historical and religious sites, none of them can match Jerusalem. The first stop for any visitor has to be the Old City, which contains the sacred sites that have caused such turmoil and unrest marking Jerusalem’s history and still felt today. The Old City is divided into quarters (the Armenian, Christian, Jewish and Muslim) each with its unique identity and character.

When sightseeing or just exploring, visitors should be aware of the intense campaign of terrorism being waged against Israel. Popular crowded venues, such as busy street markets, restaurants and cafs, crowded buses, discos, have especially been targeted by suicide bombers. Security guards have now been posted at the doorways or entrances to most such locations and it is advisable to be wary of venues that have not put any security measures in place. To date, tourist sights have not been struck by the bombers, and Arab areas or Muslim sights are unlikely to be hit.

Tourist Information
Israeli Government Tourist Office (IGTO)
Visitors Centre, Jaffa Gate, Old City
Tel: (03) 627 1422 or (02) 26 754 811.
Website: www.infotour.co.il or www.jerusalem.muni.il
Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 0900-1630, Fri 0900-1300.

Another tourist information is the Christian Information Centre, Jaffa Gate, Old City (tel: (02) 627 2692; website: www.cicts.org). The Visitors Centre in West Jerusalem at Safra Square is temporarily closed.

Passes
A two-day pass for the no. 99 bus, which gives a guided tour of the city, will allow discounted entry to the Israel Museum, Tower of David Museum and the Biblical Zoo. It can be bought at ticket offices at these sites or from the bus drivers (see Bus Tours in Tours of the City).