12 MUST SEE attractions in Jerusalem & The Dead Sea
Explore the Wonders of Jerusalem and the Dead Sea
Explore one of the world’s most iconic regions — where ancient history meets natural wonder.
This unique area offers an unforgettable blend of sacred heritage, vibrant culture, and surreal landscapes.
Jerusalem, one of the oldest and most spiritually significant cities on Earth, invites you to walk in the footsteps of prophets, kings, and pilgrims. From the Western Wall to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, every alleyway echoes with centuries of faith, struggle, and inspiration.
Just an hour to the southeast, the Dead Sea presents a dramatic shift — a place where you can float effortlessly in hypersaline waters, rejuvenate in mineral-rich mud, and marvel at the stark beauty of the Judean Desert. It’s the perfect counterbalance to the intensity of Jerusalem, offering relaxation, reflection, and awe-inspiring scenery.
Here are 12 must-see attractions that capture the essence of Jerusalem and the Dead Sea — landmarks that belong on every traveler’s bucket list.
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1. The Old City of Jerusalem
The Old City of Jerusalem is a captivating mosaic of history, spirituality, and culture. Enclosed within majestic stone walls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is divided into four unique quarters: Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian. Each quarter presents a distinctive blend of traditions, architecture, and daily life that reflects centuries of coexistence and conflict.
Wander through narrow alleyways filled with colorful markets, incense-scented shops, and ancient holy sites. Highlights include the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock.
Whether you’re following the Via Dolorosa, savoring street food, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Old City invites exploration and reflection. It’s a place where past and present merge — where every stone has a story.
This area is not just a historical landmark; it’s a living testament to faith, resilience, and human spirit.
2. The Western Wall
The Western Wall (Kotel) is the holiest site where Jews are permitted to pray. It is the last remaining retaining wall of the Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE, and has become a universal symbol of Jewish faith and perseverance.
Located in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City, the Wall is a powerful place of prayer, emotion, and reflection. Thousands of visitors place handwritten notes in the crevices of its massive limestone blocks, carrying prayers and hopes from around the globe.
The plaza around the Wall is a center for Jewish ceremonies, national observances, and personal milestones like Bar/Bat Mitzvahs. Nearby, you can explore the Western Wall Tunnels, revealing hidden layers of Jerusalem’s ancient past.
Whether you’re religious or secular, the atmosphere is deeply moving. Standing before the Wall, you feel the weight of centuries, the endurance of a people, and the silence that speaks volumes.
3. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is among the most sacred sites in all of Christianity. Believed to be the location of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection, it draws millions of pilgrims and tourists each year.
Situated in the Christian Quarter of the Old City, the church was originally built in the 4th century by Emperor Constantine and has undergone many renovations. Inside, you’ll find the Stone of Anointing, the Hill of Calvary (Golgotha), and the Aedicule – the small chapel housing Jesus’ tomb.
Six Christian denominations share custodianship of the church, each with their own chapels and rituals. Despite the complexity, the site remains a powerful place of unity, worship, and devotion.
Visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is more than a religious experience — it’s a profound moment of connection with history, spirituality, and the enduring power of faith.
4. Mount of Olives Viewpoint
The Mount of Olives offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Jerusalem. From its summit, you can see the golden Dome of the Rock, the Old City walls, and the timeless skyline that has captivated hearts for generations.
Rich in religious significance, the Mount of Olives is considered sacred in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It hosts the oldest Jewish cemetery in the world, with graves dating back thousands of years. In Christian tradition, this is where Jesus ascended to heaven.
Visitors can explore important sites such as the Church of All Nations, the Garden of Gethsemane, and the Chapel of the Ascension. Walking along its paths, you’re not just enjoying the view — you’re retracing steps that shaped the course of religious history.
The Mount of Olives is a place for both contemplation and awe. Whether you’re watching the sunrise or listening to church bells echo through the valley, it leaves a lasting impression.
5. The Israel Museum
The Israel Museum in Jerusalem is the nation’s premier cultural institution and one of the world’s leading museums of archaeology, history, and fine arts. It offers an immersive journey through the evolution of civilization, both within Israel and beyond.
The museum’s crown jewel is the Shrine of the Book, which houses the Dead Sea Scrolls, some of the oldest biblical manuscripts ever discovered. Adjacent to it, a large model of Second Temple-era Jerusalem gives visitors a powerful visual of the city as it once stood.
Inside, you’ll find collections ranging from prehistoric artifacts and ancient mosaics to modern Israeli art and global masterpieces. The museum also boasts expansive outdoor sculpture gardens, hands-on exhibits, and engaging programs for all ages.
A visit to the Israel Museum isn’t just educational — it’s deeply inspiring. It reveals the layers of a land that has shaped human culture for millennia, all under one roof.
6. Mahane Yehuda Market
Mahane Yehuda Market, or “The Shuk,” is a lively and colorful marketplace at the heart of Jerusalem’s modern city center. By day, it’s a bustling arena of flavors, aromas, and energy, where locals shop for everything from fresh produce and fragrant spices to artisanal cheeses, pastries, and specialty coffee.
Strolling through the market is a feast for the senses. Vendors shout out deals, shoppers haggle, and the scent of baked goods and sizzling street food fills the air. You’ll find traditional stalls alongside trendy boutiques, cafés, and juice bars — a reflection of Jerusalem’s evolving culinary scene.
As night falls, the Shuk transforms. Shutters come down and vibrant graffiti art is revealed, while bars, live music venues, and restaurants spring to life. It’s not just a market — it’s a cultural phenomenon and a must-experience slice of local life.
Whether you’re after a falafel, a craft cocktail, or just an unforgettable atmosphere, Mahane Yehuda delivers.
7. Yad Vashem
Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, is a profoundly moving institution dedicated to documenting the history of the Holocaust and preserving the memory of its victims. Located on the western slope of Mount Herzl, the site serves as both a memorial and an educational center.
The museum takes visitors through the harrowing events of the Holocaust using personal stories, original artifacts, photographs, and video testimonies. Key elements include the Hall of Names, the Children’s Memorial, and the Avenue of the Righteous Among the Nations, which honors non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust.
Yad Vashem is more than a museum — it’s a place of moral reflection, a reminder of the consequences of hatred, and a call to uphold human dignity and justice. Every visit is powerful, sobering, and unforgettable.
It’s an essential part of any journey to Jerusalem.
8. Judean Vineyards
The Judean Hills region, just a short drive from Jerusalem, is one of Israel’s most scenic and fertile wine regions. Steeped in biblical history and blessed with a Mediterranean climate, it’s home to a thriving wine culture that dates back thousands of years.
Visitors can explore boutique wineries that blend ancient terroir with modern techniques. Many offer tastings, guided vineyard tours, and farm-to-table dining experiences set against rolling hills and olive groves. Notable stops include Tzora, Flam, Castel, and Sphera wineries.
Wine lovers and casual travelers alike will enjoy the opportunity to sip award-winning vintages while learning about the land’s agricultural and spiritual roots. Whether you’re after a robust red, a crisp white, or a unique local blend, Judea’s wineries deliver both quality and character.
It’s an ideal day trip that pairs well with history, scenery, and a good glass of wine.
9. Masada
Masada is a dramatic mountain fortress rising above the Judean Desert, overlooking the Dead Sea. It is one of Israel’s most iconic archaeological sites and a symbol of Jewish heroism and resistance.
Built by King Herod in the 1st century BCE as a palace complex, Masada later became the final stronghold of Jewish rebels during the Great Revolt against Rome. In 73 CE, facing defeat, the rebels famously chose death over surrender — a story that continues to inspire.
Visitors can reach the summit via a cable car or by hiking the historic Snake Path. At the top, explore well-preserved ruins including palaces, storerooms, Roman baths, and a synagogue. The views of the Dead Sea and desert are breathtaking, especially at sunrise.
Masada is more than a historic ruin — it is a place of memory, identity, and national pride. It’s a must-visit site for history buffs and anyone seeking a profound encounter with the past.
10. Floating in the Dead Sea
Floating in the Dead Sea is a surreal and unforgettable experience — something every visitor to Israel should try at least once. As the lowest point on Earth, over 430 meters below sea level, the Dead Sea is unlike any other body of water in the world. Its incredibly high salt content means you can float effortlessly, as if weightless, without any effort at all.
The sensation of drifting on the dense, mineral-rich water is both relaxing and otherworldly. Many visitors also indulge in the famous Dead Sea mud, known for its therapeutic properties and used in skincare for centuries.
For the best experience, we recommend visiting the beach next to the Ein Bokek hotel area, which offers well-maintained facilities including showers, changing rooms, shaded lounging areas, and safe access to the water. This beach is public, free, and ideal for first-timers and families.
Bring water shoes to protect your feet from sharp salt crystals, and be sure not to shave right before your visit — the salt will let you know! Floating in the Dead Sea is a highlight of any trip, offering a unique combination of relaxation, natural wonder, and healing.
11. Qumran Caves
The Qumran Caves, nestled in the cliffs above the Dead Sea, are home to one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century — the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Discovered in the 1940s and 50s, these ancient manuscripts include some of the oldest known biblical texts, shedding new light on Jewish life and beliefs during the Second Temple period. The scrolls were found in caves near the ruins of an Essene settlement, a Jewish sect that once lived in the area.
Visitors can explore the Qumran National Park, where you’ll see the archaeological site, view reconstructions of ancient structures, and take in views of the surrounding desert cliffs where the scrolls were hidden. Interpretive centers and exhibits provide fascinating context to the discovery.
A visit to Qumran is a journey into both biblical history and the spirit of ancient scholarship. It’s a treasure trove for those interested in archaeology, religion, and the mysteries of the past.
12. Qasr al-Yahud
Qasr al-Yahud, located on the banks of the Jordan River near Jericho, is one of the most significant baptismal sites in Christianity. It is traditionally believed to be the location where John the Baptist baptized Jesus, marking the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry.
The site, situated near the border with Jordan and just north of the Dead Sea, is visited by Christian pilgrims from around the world. Many choose to wade into the river’s waters, a symbolic and spiritual act of renewal.
In addition to its Christian significance, Qasr al-Yahud also has deep Jewish roots. Some traditions associate it with the place where the Israelites crossed into the Promised Land.
The site has been beautifully restored with shaded paths, prayer spaces, and visitor facilities. It’s a peaceful, reflective location where faith and history meet — offering a meaningful stop on any tour through the region.