Local Customs & Etiquette in Jerusalem, Israel

1. Visiting the Western Wall

Pray at one of Judaism's holiest sites; men and women pray in separate sections.

Dress Code: Modest clothing is required, covering the knees and shoulders.
Prayer Customs: Men place notes in the Wall crevices; women may not touch or shake hands with men outside their immediate family.
Visiting Hours: Accessible 24/7, but organized prayer services are held several times a day.

Experience the tranquility of Jerusalem during Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening); businesses close, streets are quiet.

No Work: Electricity is sometimes rationed and phone service may be limited.
Community Meals: Celebrated with friends, family or at community centers.
Public Transportation: Limited availability on Shabbat; plan your travel accordingly.

Discover the third holiest site in Islam; women must wear a headscarf and long sleeves.

Manner of Dress: Long skirts or pants, shirts with sleeves required.
Prohibited Items: No shoes, food, or mobile phones allowed inside the mosque.
Visiting Hours: Vary depending on the time of year and religious holidays.

Browse traditional Christian gifts such as olive wood carvings or icons.

Haggling Skills: Vendors may expect some negotiation; respect their livelihood.
Religious Artifacts: Icons and crosses are common, but be mindful of religious sensitivities.
Bargaining Customs: Agreement on price is a mutual understanding; always confirm before paying.

Visit artisanal workshops in the picturesque village of Ein Karem.

Artisan Techniques: Learn traditional techniques like pottery, weaving, or glassblowing.
Craftsmanship Quality: Items are handmade and can be quite pricey, but of excellent quality.
Supporting Local Artisans: By purchasing their work, you help preserve these traditions.

Sample delicious Middle Eastern cuisine at this bustling market.

Food Variety: Discover falafel, shawarma, hummus, and other traditional dishes.
Cultural Exchange: Talk to locals and vendors for an authentic Jerusalem experience.
Eating Customs: Food is often shared and eaten with the right hand, so be prepared.

Experience desert life by visiting a Bedouin family in the Negev.

Respectful Engagement: Be open-minded and respectful of their customs and way of life.
Desert Survival Skills: Learn about desert survival, navigation, and traditional Bedouin cooking.
Hospitality: Expect a warm welcome and generous hospitality from your hosts.

Watch Sufis perform their mystical dance under the iconic Dome of the Rock.

Spiritual Performance: The whirling represents a spiritual journey to God.
Scheduled Performances: Check the schedule for daily performances during visiting hours.
Respectful Observation: Be mindful of your surroundings and respect the performers' space.

Enjoy a captivating show that brings the history of this ancient church to life.

Historical Reenactment: Experience Byzantine, Crusader, and Ottoman eras in a single night.
Audiovisual Experience: Explore the church's architecture through sound and light projections.
Guided Tour: Join a guided tour for insights into Hagia Sophia's rich history.

Share in the breaking of the fast with locals during Ramadan.

Breaking Fast Tradition: A communal meal that marks the end of the day's fast.
Hospitality: Expect a warm welcome and generous hospitality from your hosts.
Respectful Participation: Be mindful of the religious significance of this event.

Celebrate Hanukkah with the entire city during this vibrant festival.

Community Celebration: Jewish heritage on display through music, dance, and food.
Nighttime Procession: A candlelit procession through the Old City is a highlight of the festival.
Food & Drink Stalls: Sample traditional Hanukkah foods like sufganiyot and latkes.

Learn about the Holocaust's impact on Jewish history at this powerful museum.

Emotional Impact: Prepare yourself for a moving and thought-provoking experience.
Historical Context: Gain valuable insights into the Holocaust and its victims' stories.
Self-Guided Audio Tour: Available in multiple languages for a personalized experience.

Step inside the traditional site of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.

Religious Significance: A place of deep spiritual meaning for Christians.
Complex Architecture: Multiple denominations have contributed to the church's design.
Crowded Conditions: Prepare for large crowds, particularly during religious holidays.

Explore the historical foundations of Jerusalem's Old City.

Archaeological Discoveries: See remnants of ancient Jerusalem, including Herodian structures.
Underground Tour: Navigate narrow passageways and learn about the city's history.
Modest Dress Code: Cover your knees and shoulders out of respect for this sacred site.

Participate in the coming-of-age ceremony for Jewish boys and girls.

Cultural Significance: A milestone in a Jew's life; symbolizes their maturity and commitment to Judaism.
Community Celebration: The event often includes family, friends, and the wider community.
Traditional Practices: Familiarize yourself with the various rituals and traditions involved.