There are several valuable resources of information for tourists visiting Jerusalem as well as the Old City.
Tourists visiting the Old City will do well to stop by at the Tourist Information Center run by the Ministry of Tourism. The Center, located at Jaffa Gate, offers free maps, brochures, information on tours and advice from informed staff.
Christian pilgrims and travelers can also gain a wealth of information from the Christian Information Center, situated opposite the Tower of David Museum near Jaffa Gate. The Center provides mass times as well as recommendations for Christian-oriented accommodation, Christian tours and pilgrimage sites.
Before you arrive in Jerusalem, you can explore all about the city by checking available travel options, getting your hands on a visitor’s guide booklet and reading our numerous travel articles. You'll swiftly be able to make Jerusalem an easy getaway vacation destination. You can also find out more on our general tourist information page.
Contact details
Tourist Information Center - Jaffa Gate
This is an official tourist information center run by the Israeli government. In addition to information about the Old City, they can also give you information about anywhere in Israel.
Address: 1 Omer Ben el-Hatab St, Jerusalem (near Jaffa Gate)
Phone: +972-2-627-1422
Website: goisrael.com
Opening hours:Sunday-Thursday and Saturday: 8:30 AM - 5 PM, Friday and holiday evenings: 8:30 AM 1:30 PM
Christian Information Center
Address: Opposite Tower of David Museum
Phone: +972-2-627-2692
Website: cicts.org
Service Centers
The Municipal Hotline
Jerusalem Municipality Website:
Emergency Municipal Center
Phone: 106
Accessibility
Jaffa Gate is the only access point through which it is possible to enter on a vehicle. The checkpoint at the Jaffa Gate is operated by the Department of Transport and Infrastructure Development.
The checkpoint is open on Sunday-Thursday from 09:00 to 18:00, on Friday and Holiday eves from 09:00 to 13:00. During these hours the travel route becomes a public transport route. Transit permit is granted for shuttles up to 24 seats, wheelchairs with a disability permit, residents of the Old City and workers of the institutions.
The checkpoint is operated following the Ministry of Transport guidelines.
Tours of the Old City of Jerusalem
If you enjoy walking and sightseeing at some of Jerusalem’s major religious and cultural sites, then consider going on one of our guided tours. The Old City of Jerusalem is a highly recommended half day tour that will take you through the highlights and the history of one of the most significant places in the world.
A tour of the Via Dolorosa, the lively markets or Kotel Tunnel tours give you the ability to understand the stories, history and heritage of this culturally rich walled area.
Photo: Courtesy of Jerusalem Municipality/Daniel Biton