On approaching the city of David you can only be impressed with its walls, towers and its reach history. The entrance fee was 70 sheckle each and it was well worth a visit.
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
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
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
Buy tickets for our new attraction
“Hallelujah” — A Breathtaking Jubilee Sound & Light Show
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 743 traveler reviewsNew
“Past Glory”
From ancient time Jerusalem had walls for protection from enemies.The Walls are still appearing reminisce of the past glory having 24 miles length built up of big stones which has eight gates the main gate being Golden Gate now closed and believed to be opened with Lord's second arrival.Saul's repentance...
MoreFrom ancient time Jerusalem had walls for protection from enemies.The Walls are still appearing reminisce of the past glory having 24 miles length built up of big stones which has eight gates the main gate being Golden Gate now closed and believed to be opened with Lord's second arrival.Saul's repentance took place at Damascus Gate. Herod Gate was in the name of King Herod. It was believed King of Turkey Suleiman made Lions's Gate fearing Lion's attack for own safety..Jaffa Gate, New Gate,Zion Gate and Deeng Gate were the other gates.
Less“Great Experience, Loved the Water Tunnel”
The City of David National Park is a really inexpensive, fun activity to do in Jerusalem. It's located just a short walk outside of Western Wall, and takes about an hour and a half to see everything. Make sure to bring shorts (or a skirt you can pull up), and a large bag that...
MoreThe City of David National Park is a really inexpensive, fun activity to do in Jerusalem. It's located just a short walk outside of Western Wall, and takes about an hour and a half to see everything. Make sure to bring shorts (or a skirt you can pull up), and a large bag that you can fit everything in and will stay high above your waist (like a backpack). The water can sometimes get pretty high, but it's definitely worth going through the water tunnel! The tickets were also really inexpensive, which was nice for us because we were on a pretty tight budget. It was definitely worth the money.
Less“An amazing place to visit”
“The greatest attraction in the city”
One could write a book on this attraction; come to think of it, books have been written about the City of David. Remains of monumental buildings, water shafts, tunnels, springs and water channels - and everything is underground. For those of us from North America with comparatively little history it is incredible to...
MoreOne could write a book on this attraction; come to think of it, books have been written about the City of David. Remains of monumental buildings, water shafts, tunnels, springs and water channels - and everything is underground. For those of us from North America with comparatively little history it is incredible to have our senses jolted into realizing that many of the things we see and touch in this attraction are 2-3000 years old!
Less“Definitely worth it”
Definitely worth it, but I had some trouble finding the online site to purchase the slightly discounted rate and the location was off the beaten path a bit as well. The 60 Sheckle rate includes the 3D video introduction (nicely made), the tour over the archaeological dig, and the walk through the Hekekiah Tunnel...
MoreDefinitely worth it, but I had some trouble finding the online site to purchase the slightly discounted rate and the location was off the beaten path a bit as well. The 60 Sheckle rate includes the 3D video introduction (nicely made), the tour over the archaeological dig, and the walk through the Hekekiah Tunnel area. It really did last close to 3 hrs so plan wisely to do the whole thing without rushing it. You really do need sandles or slippers and a light source, at least one. The passage is quite narrow so anyone with claustrophobia should think twice - since it's quite long- took us about 20 minutes at a swift walking pace through it. They say most groups take 25 to 30 mins. You come out to the remains of the Shiloam Pool where the blind man washed and was made to see, but it is in ruins and a tiny portion of what it must have been in New Testament times.
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