Jerusalem tours

Things to do in Jerusalem

Jerusalem unfolds as a complex blend of history and spiritual resonance, where ancient stones narrate sacred stories and bustling markets exude life. Here, the air is infused with the aromas of spices and the harmonies of prayers. As you navigate the Old City's intricate alleys, your local guide transforms Jerusalem tours into personal time travels. You might embark on a private walking tour to discover hidden treasures, or indulge in a food and wine tour from the lively Mahane Yehuda to intimate local eateries. With your guide's expertise, you bypass the lines to grasp Jerusalem's multifaceted beauty, uncovering its mysteries like a seasoned explorer. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Jerusalem. Explore Jerusalem your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Jerusalem tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Jerusalem for every interest, including: History tours: Climb the Old City ramparts with your guide for views over centuries of fortifications, then explore the City of David and, if you like, wade through Hezekiah’s Tunnel before finishing at the Israel Museum’s Shrine of the Book to see the Dead Sea Scrolls. Religious Sites tours: Spend time at the Western Wall and, with pre-booked tickets, walk the Western Wall Tunnels, then follow the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre; your guide can also time entry to the Temple Mount and take you to the Mount of Olives lookout and the Garden of Gethsemane. Nature and Wildlife tours: Watch seasonal migration at the Jerusalem Bird Observatory near the Knesset, then hike the spring-fed terraces at Sataf in the Jerusalem Hills; you can also add a day trip to Ein Gedi to spot ibex and hyrax before a float in the Dead Sea. The Old City and central neighbourhoods are best explored on foot, and the light rail and city buses connect major areas; for distant sites or a smoother day, you can book chauffeured tours or tours with private transportation, or ask your local guide about arranging a private vehicle. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Jerusalem inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Embark on a private walking tour through Jerusalem and discover its neighborhoods with a local guide who knows the city inside out. - Old City: A must-visit for cultural tourists, this historic area is divided into four quarters, each offering unique experiences. From ancient religious sites to lively markets, it's a place where history feels alive and relevant. - Mahane Yehuda: Known for its vibrant market, this neighborhood is perfect for foodies and families. By day, shop for spices and sweets; by night, enjoy its energetic nightlife and local music scene. - Ein Kerem: Ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape, this picturesque village setting offers quaint cafes, beautiful churches, and artistic studios. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll with stunning views. Day trip ideas from Jerusalem From Jerusalem, it is easy to plan day trips to nearby cities and nature spots, and shape your tour around history, food, art, or quiet nature without a long drive. These day trips work well as private tours, so you set the pace and choose the stops that match your interests. Dead Sea, Masada, and Ein Gedi: Float in the Dead Sea, walk the ruins at Masada, then cool off on a short trail to Ein Gedi’s springs. Good if you like archaeology, big desert views, and light hiking, and your tour can pace the day to avoid midday heat. Bethlehem: See the Church of the Nativity and Manger Square, then try fresh baked goods and coffee in the old city. Strong pick for faith sites and local life, and if street art interests you, the murals add a different lens on the place; bring your passport for the checkpoint. Tel Aviv and Jaffa: Trade stone lanes for beach air, Bauhaus architecture, and Jaffa’s old port. Food fans can graze markets like Carmel, design lovers can explore White City streets and neighbourhoods like Neve Tzedek, and a seaside stroll adds an easy, modern contrast to Jerusalem. Akko and Haifa: In Akko, explore crusader halls and the sea walls, then head to Haifa for harbour views from the Louis Promenade and the German Colony. It fits history buffs, photographers, and anyone who wants a slower coastal vibe with fresh seafood and easy walks. Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee: Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation and the old market, then circle the lake for Capernaum’s ruins and quiet shoreline stops. Ideal for faith heritage, simple countryside views, and a relaxed lunch with regional dishes. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Jerusalem most travellers miss.