Old City Rooftops
Experience Jerusalem's ancient heart from above. Rooftops offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Old City, a truly unforgettable perspective.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Old City Rooftops
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Jerusalem's ancient heart from above. Rooftops offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Old City, a truly unforgettable perspective.
"The view was easily the best part — absolutely stunning."
🎯 Sunset is Prime Time
Arrive early for sunset to snag the best spots; views are spectacular!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and alleys to navigate to reach these amazing views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Notre Dame Rooftop
Notre Dame Center
Panoramic views of the Old City, Al-Aqsa Mosque, and Dome of the Rock. A truly breathtaking perspective.
Hashimi Hotel Terrace
Hashimi Hotel
Offers incredible views of the Old City, especially Al-Aqsa. A favorite for many visitors.
Dormition Abbey Rooftop
Dormition Abbey
A serene spot with impressive views, offering a different angle of the historic cityscape.
Hidden Rooftop over Temple Mount
Various locations (e.g., near Western Wall)
Experience unparalleled, close-up views of the Temple Mount and Western Wall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Navigating the Old City
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sunset is Prime Time
Arrive early for sunset to snag the best spots; views are spectacular!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and alleys to navigate to reach these amazing views.
🏨 Hotel Rooftops Offer Views
Many hotels have accessible rooftops with stunning Old City panoramas. +1
🧘♀️ Rooftop Yoga & Meditation
Experience tranquility with a yoga session overlooking the ancient city.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sunset is Prime Time
Arrive early for sunset to snag the best spots; views are spectacular!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and alleys to navigate to reach these amazing views.
🏨 Hotel Rooftops Offer Views
Many hotels have accessible rooftops with stunning Old City panoramas. +1
🧘♀️ Rooftop Yoga & Meditation
Experience tranquility with a yoga session overlooking the ancient city.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera for unforgettable photos of Jerusalem's skyline.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
While Old City rooftops offer undeniably spectacular views of Jerusalem's historic landscape, reviews indicate a mixed experience regarding food and service quality. Some visitors rave about the atmosphere and specific dishes, while others report disappointing meals and inattentive staff, often finding the price point not justified by the overall experience.
"Rooftop was a big disappointment. “Mediocre” would be the best way to describe it. The service started out well, contrary to the other reviews, so we were optimistic, and then we were essentially abandoned by our server. The music is incredibly unpleasant if you are seated by the windows (which is where the view is best!) as it’s loud, with a driving beat (not dinner music at all). The menu is full of inaccuracies - beef tartare is marked as vegan while the cabbage is not - and the server told us to just ignore everything as it was all wrong. And most importantly, the food was just not good. The sea bass was a tail portion that was overcooked and dried out, and the server informed me that all the pieces available in the kitchen were tails. The accompanying mushrooms in mirin sauce were overpowering in the flavour, while the fish itself was tasteless. The taboun cabbage was soggy rather than crispy, and the dumplings were average. After waiting 45 minutes to be asked about desert (AFTER our plates were cleared), we learned the single item we wanted - the apple dish - was not available. And yet we paid 900 shekels for 3 people. Give this place a miss."
Hannah Brandys
"We had dinner on the rooftop last night. The view was easily the best part — absolutely stunning. The appetizers were decent, nothing special but fine. Then the steaks arrived and they were a total letdown: bad quality, almost inedible and reminiscent of a mid-tier Sizzler or Outback Steakhouse.
Our waitress was sweet and pleasant But the table behind us had an even worse experience; they kept sending dishes back and eventually just asked for the check while openly calling another restaurant to try and salvage their night."
Oliver Steinberg
"Extremely disappointing experience.
We are guests of the hotel and had a reservation at the Rooftop Restaurant. We requested a specific table, but were seated somewhere cramped while a group without a reservation got a much better spot. When we asked to move, the staff were visibly annoyed and made us feel uncomfortable.
Service was very poor — no smiles, no patience, no recommendations, and everything took ages. We had to ask four times just to get the check, and at the end they even asked if we could pay in cash, which was shocking for a place of this level.
The food was surprisingly excellent, and the view is beautiful, but the atmosphere is very different (and not worth it) when the terrace is closed in “winter” (October). Sadly, even as hotel guests, we won’t be coming back."
Lea S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing Old City rooftops often involves walking through narrow streets and up stairs. Many are attached to hotels or specific landmarks like Notre Dame or Dormition Abbey. Consider using taxis or public transport to get close to the Old City entrance, then explore on foot.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Old City can be very difficult and expensive. It's generally recommended to park further away and walk or use public transport.
Yes, some guided tours may offer access to specific rooftops or provide insights into the best vantage points. Check with local tour operators for options.
You can take buses or light rail to stations near the Old City, but the final approach to many rooftops will be on foot. Plan your route accordingly.
Using a good map and being prepared to walk are key. Many TikTok creators showcase their routes, which can be helpful for visual guidance. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees vary. Some rooftops are part of hotels or religious sites and may require a fee or a reservation. Others might be freely accessible. It's best to check the specific location beforehand. +1
Opening hours differ greatly depending on the specific rooftop. Hotel rooftops often align with restaurant or bar hours, while religious sites have their own schedules. Sunset is a popular time, but check in advance.
For popular rooftop restaurants, especially during peak season or for sunset, booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
While some hotel rooftops might be exclusive to guests, certain public areas or viewpoints might offer free access. Research specific locations for the most up-to-date information.
Some rooftops may have limited access or be closed during colder months (like October) if they are primarily outdoor spaces. Inquire about seasonal availability.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers the most dramatic lighting, bathing the city in a warm glow. Early mornings are also excellent for softer light and fewer crowds. +1
You'll capture stunning panoramic views of the Old City, including the Al-Aqsa Mosque, Dome of the Rock, and the Western Wall, as well as the surrounding landscape. +1
Drone usage is often restricted in sensitive historical and religious areas like Jerusalem's Old City. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during sunset or evening.
Many rooftops offer unobstructed views. Look for vantage points that frame iconic landmarks like the Dome of the Rock or the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, several hotels and establishments in and around the Old City offer rooftop dining experiences with spectacular views. +1
Cuisine varies, but many offer a mix of local Israeli dishes and international fare. Some reviews mention burgers, steaks, and seafood.
Rooftop dining in tourist areas can be on the pricier side, with reviews mentioning costs around 900 shekels for three people.
Mamilla Rooftop is often recommended. Other popular spots include those at hotels like the Hashimi Hotel or Notre Dame Center, though food quality can be inconsistent according to reviews.
Many rooftop bars or lounges allow you to enjoy drinks with a view, even if you're not having a full meal. This can be a more budget-friendly option.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for rooftop cafes or restaurants that are more casual and accommodating to families. While some high-end establishments might not be ideal, a relaxed spot with a great view can be a memorable experience for everyone. Pack snacks and water, as options might be limited on some rooftops.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the view and a tripod for stable shots during low light conditions. Exploring different rooftops can provide varied perspectives on landmarks like the Dome of the Rock and the Western Wall. Be aware of any restrictions on drone photography, as these are common in sensitive areas.
🧘♀️ Wellness Seekers
Even without a formal practice, simply finding a quiet rooftop to sit and reflect can be a deeply rewarding experience. The elevated perspective can foster a sense of calm and mindfulness, allowing you to connect with the spiritual essence of Jerusalem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Jerusalem's Rooftops
Beyond the visual spectacle, these rooftops often provide a sense of peace and reflection. Whether it's enjoying a quiet morning coffee, practicing rooftop yoga, or simply taking a moment to absorb the surroundings, the elevated perspective offers a different way to connect with Jerusalem. Some hotels and guesthouses have capitalized on this, offering dedicated rooftop terraces or restaurants that combine culinary delights with unparalleled views.
However, it's important to note that not all rooftop experiences are created equal. While some offer exceptional food and service, reviews suggest that quality can be inconsistent, with some visitors expressing disappointment in the culinary offerings or service despite the stunning views.
Navigating Access and Experience
When planning your visit, consider the time of day. Sunset is a particularly popular time, drawing crowds eager to witness the city bathed in golden light. Arriving early is often recommended to secure a good spot. Conversely, early mornings offer a more tranquil experience with softer light and fewer people, ideal for photography or quiet contemplation.
It's also worth noting that some rooftops might have seasonal closures or altered access during colder months. Always check the specific opening hours and access policies of your chosen rooftop in advance to avoid any surprises.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit