The Best Spots in Jerusalem to Avoid Tourist Crowds
A whopping 3.4 million tourists visit Jerusalem every year, and anyone who has spent time in the city can confirm that it is positively heaving with people all year round. Add this to the sweltering heat of the Middle Eastern summer, and you may need to find a quiet spot in order to give yourself a chance to reflect on the amazing sights and history that Jerusalem has to offer. Culture Trip has found some of the best places to avoid the crowds.
The Austrian Hospice
Hostel, Guesthouse
The American Colony Hotel
Hotel
Situated beyond the bustle of East Jerusalem’s Salah al-Din Street lies the peaceful haven of the American Colony Hotel. A mainstay of foreign journalists and media types, enjoy people watching over a coffee or fresh juice in their tiled courtyard, complete with a trickling fountain. On summer evenings, come and enjoy a candlelit drink in their enchanting leafy garden. An extensive selection of beer, wine and spirits is served – but watch the price tag.
Church of Our Lady of Sorrows
Not to be confused with the Armenian Tavern, the Armenian Catholic church of Our Lady of Sorrows (also known as Church of Our Lady of the Spasm and Saint Mary of Agony) dates back to 1881 and is a UNESCO protected world heritage site. Situated on the Via Dolorosa near station 4, where Jesus is said to have encountered Mary on his way to crucifixion, this spot is enshrouded in rich historical significance. However the church and its courtyard offer a peaceful haven from the hustle and bustle of the Old City. Take time to reflect in the elegant and bright church interior, before taking a seat in the courtyard café serving tasty Middle Eastern dishes, with beer and wine also available.
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Opposite Austrian Hospice, Via Dolorosa, Jerusalem, +972 54-567-3887
Keshet Hahurva
Synagogue
Tucked away in a leafy corner of the Hahurva square, in the Jewish quarter of the Old City, lies this charming Israeli café. Situated just across from the historic and architecturally stunning Hurva synagogue, sit and watch the multitudes of people coming and going, while enjoying a cold beer, or choose from the tasty tapas-style menu, all while shaded from the oppressive summer heat and the swarming crowds.
The Ramparts Walk
Ascend above the tourist crowds clogging the narrow streets Old City and enjoy the view from above. The ramparts walk makes it possible to walk along the Ottoman-era city walls taking in spectacular aerial views of the various souqs and monuments down below, and the Mount of Olives and the outer city in the distance. Begin the walk just outside Jaffa Gate – find detailed instructions on how to find the entrance here. Head out in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and be warned – there are many stairs to ascend and descend, so wear sensible, grippy shoes.
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WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
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I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
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