What is open in Jerusalem during the Passover holiday period?

Jerusalem during the Passover intermediate days offers a rare blend of spring renewal, religious traditions, and an atmosphere unlike any other city in the world. This year, despite the security situation and ongoing challenges, Israel’s capital embraces the holiday spirit and opens its gates with a wide range of activities suited for families, culture enthusiasts, and travelers. From panoramic tours at the newly renovated Tower of David to a variety of experiences across the city, Jerusalem provides protected spaces, inspiring heritage sites, and urban nature gems that simply should not be missed. We’ve gathered all the places that continue to maintain a festive routine, so you can enjoy a safe, enriching, and inspiring holiday in the very heart of history.

Sites with Designated Protected Areas

These locations are equipped to safely accommodate visitors and are considered the preferred choice during periods of heightened security:

• Bible Lands Museum: Advance registration required. More information and Passover musical celebration events >
• Tower of David Museum: The citadel has undergone extensive renovations, including improved accessibility and the addition of protected areas within the historic structures. The site operates under strict supervision. More information and opening hours >
• Bloomfield Science Museum: Includes standard protected areas. Entry is limited to a set number of visitors. Advance ticket reservation is required. More information and opening hours >
• Yad Vashem: All visitor centers and the historical museum are underground concrete structures that function as protected spaces. Opening hours >
• Time Elevator (entrance from Mamilla pedestrian promenade): Tickets and more information >
• Mamilla Mall: The mall includes spacious underground parking areas that serve as protected spaces.

Sites Without Designated Protected Areas (or with Limited Protection)

In these locations, in the event of a siren, the general instruction is usually to seek the “best available protection” (lying flat on the ground or entering the nearest building). Therefore, they are considered more sensitive:

• Western Wall: Visits are limited to up to 50 people at a time, with restricted time slots for each group of worshippers to allow as many visitors as possible. Entry is only via Sha'ar HaGai Street (from the Muslim Quarter). Please note that waiting times for entry to prayer and visits may be very long. The Western Wall tourist sites (the Western Wall Tunnels and the Chain of Generations Center) are closed to visitors. It is recommended to check for updated information before your visit by calling: 5958* or 02-627-1333.
• City of David: Activities are available during the Passover intermediate days at Havat HaGai, and the site is open to visitors. While part of the experience takes place in underground tunnels, some routes pass through open areas along the City of David ridge and are not protected.
• Israel Museum: Closed until further notice.
• Biblical Zoo: Closed until further notice. This is a large open area. Although there are a few buildings, most exhibit areas do not have nearby protected spaces that can be reached within 90 seconds.
• Jerusalem Botanical Gardens (Givat Ram): Completely open space. In the event of a siren, visitors should lie flat on the ground away from trees or temporary structures.
• Gazelle Valley: Closed until further notice. An urban nature site with no protection.
• Ramparts Walk: Closed until further notice.
• Zedekiah’s Cave: Closed until further notice.
• Kiftzuba: Closed until further notice.
• Museum for Islamic Art: Closed until further notice.

Plan Ahead: If you are visiting with young children or elderly individuals, prioritize the sites listed in the first section (the established museums).

Backup Plan: Always check the venue’s Facebook page or official website on the morning of your visit.