the excavations of the city of David takes you back 3000 years. amazing findings of the 2D king of Israel well organized , experienced guides. wonderful!
City of David
Introducing Ancient Jerusalem
City of David attracts nearly half a million visitors every year, making it a must-see attraction and one of the most important and popular points of interest in Jerusalem. City of David is an archeological site that reveals the place where Jerusalem was born. King David left his beloved city of Hebron 3000 years ago and headed to Jerusalem with one clear objective – turning Jerusalem into the political, religious and spiritual capital of the nation of Israel. The site provides its visitors with a unique opportunity to experience ancient Jerusalem; watch how the beloved biblical stories return to their natural shape and come back to life right in front of our eyes.
Israel’s Most Important Archeological Site
City of David is located under an Arab Village called Silwan, adjacent to the Western Wall, and south-east of the Old City. This ancient city serves as one the most important archeological sites in the biblical research of the Land of Israel. Excavations and new fascinating findings are constantly taking place in the area, and so far this site was visited by the largest number of archaeological delegations in Israel.
A Wide Variety of Tours & Attractions
The visitors’ center at City of David National Park offers tours, attractions, and many surprises that cannot be found anywhere else: an extra-ordinary archaeological experience at the Emek Tzurim Sifting Project; guided Segway tours at the Peace Forest; fascinating tours at “The Petra of Jerusalem” situated at the foot of the mighty monuments of Kidron Valley, known in the Bible as the “King’s Valley”; and even a unique tour to the city of kings and prophets where more than half of the biblical books were written, and most biblical Jerusalem stories took place.
The Revival of the City of David – A New Jewish Settlement
Ir David Foundation, also known as Elad, a Hebrew acronym meaning “to the city of David”, was founded in1986 with the purpose of strengthening the Jewish connection to Jerusalem. The foundation aims to establish and renew the Jewish community in the City of David, and does so through tourism, archeological excavations, education and research, and the purchasing of houses and land from the nearby Arab neighborhood – Silwan. In 1991, a new Jewish community has emerged in the City of David and as of today, there are approximately 30 Jewish families living side by side with the Arab families at the City of David.
Photos courtesy of the City of David Archive
Tickets and Prices
City of David Entrance Fees
Museum Admission – Adults: 28 ILS, Children (5-18)/Soldiers/Seniors: 14 ILS
3D Movie Admission – Adults: 13 ILS, Children (5-18)/Soldiers/Seniors: 13 ILS
Group rates per person in a group of 30 or more
Museum Admission – Adults: 23 ILS, Children (5-18)/Soldiers/Seniors: 13 ILS
3D Movie Admission – Adults: 13 ILS, Children (5-18)/Soldiers/Seniors: 13 ILS
*Advance registration is required for groups ** 3D movie tickets are available only in addition to the museum entrance ticket.
Tours at the City of David
The Emek Tzurim Sifting Project – An Archeological Tour
Become an archeologist for a day! The Emek Tzurim Sifting Project at City of David National Park offers a unique activity for the whole... Read more
Tour In The Biblical City of David
Join a magical journey and discover ancient shafts, walls and fortresses in ancient Jerusalem. Come and find out where and how it all started! Read more
From the City of David to the Western Wall Tour
When was the last time you travelled back in time? Discover the Herodian Jerusalem and the Second Temple period at the City of David. Read more
Segway Tours at the Peace Forest
Experience the urban nature of Jerusalem – on Segway! Watch breathtaking views of the Old City from Haas Promenade and The Peace Forest. ... Read more
Buy tickets for our new attraction
“Hallelujah” — A Breathtaking Jubilee Sound & Light ShowThu Oct 19 | 8:15PM
The City of David invites you to celebrate 50 years of a unified Jerusalem with a breathtaking sound and light show... Read more
TripAdvisor Reviews
Based on 754 traveler reviews“Very inspiring and enriching experience ”
We booked the Haleluya night show and the tour that includes a walk in Nikbat Hashilo'ach. Both were amazing and we have learned so much about the history of Jerusalem in its different periods. The tour guides (Ofir and Hadasa) were very knowledgeable and the tours were interesting even for kids. The walk through Nikbat Hashilo'ach...
MoreWe booked the Haleluya night show and the tour that includes a walk in Nikbat Hashilo'ach. Both were amazing and we have learned so much about the history of Jerusalem in its different periods. The tour guides (Ofir and Hadasa) were very knowledgeable and the tours were interesting even for kids. The walk through Nikbat Hashilo'ach was very exciting for both kids and adults.
Less“amazing”
“City of David”
The national park has thousands of tombs and graves emanating back 100s of years. In addition there are synagogues and several museums of interest plus there is access to the external walls of old Jerusalem. The museums on the grounds are well worth the visit.
“A great Experience”
The attraction is located just outside the Old city walls. it is amazing to see the excavation that has been done and the new discoveries that continue to be made.
“What an Experience!”
Booked our tour through TripAdvisor and it was quite an experience. Our tour guide Avi was very informative and thorough. It's a must experience when in Jerusalem, especially going through the Hezekiah tunnel was totally amazing!