Jerusalem Israel

Mediterranean with continental influence

• Airport

  Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) · 50 km northwest of Jerusalem

• Transfers

  Nesher Sherut (60 min, ₪64 (~$18)) · Train + Bus (90 min, ₪21 (~$6)) · Bus 405 (75 min, ₪16 (~$4.50)) · Private Taxi (50 min, ₪300-350 (~$85-100))

• Transit

  Light Rail, Bus

• Tips

  No service on Shabbat except some Arab bus lines · Light rail connects major sites · Old City walkable but hilly · Dress modestly in religious areas

• Walkability

  high

• Language

  Hebrew, Arabic. English common in tourist areas

• Currency

  New Israeli Shekel (₪, NIS)

• Customs

  Three religions, many cultures · Conservative compared to Tel Aviv · Shabbat strictly observed · Dress modestly in religious areas · Holy city to Judaism, Christianity, Islam

• Etiquette

  Modest dress essential - cover knees and shoulders · Respect religious sites and customs · Remove hat at Western Wall for men · Women cover head at Western Wall · Different quarters have different customs

• Visa

  Visa-free for US/Canada/Australia/UK/EU for 90 days

• Power

  230V, 50Hz · C, H

• Healthcare

  Excellent healthcare. Travel insurance recommended.

• Safety

  MODERATE · More complex security than Tel Aviv · Old City generally safe but tensions exist · Avoid demonstrations and gatherings · Friday afternoons at Temple Mount can be tense · Follow security instructions · Be aware of surroundings in Muslim Quarter · Respect religious sensitivities

• Emergency

  Police 100 · Ambulance 101