Old City Gates
Step through ancient gateways into Jerusalem's storied Old City, where history whispers from every stone.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temps.
Old City Gates
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step through ancient gateways into Jerusalem's storied Old City, where history whispers from every stone.
"It's like a cultural pot, I highly recommend walking all around the old city gates, each place is amazing."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and lots of walking! :athletic_shoe: You'll thank yourself later.
Explore All the Gates
Each gate has its own charm and history. Don't just stick to the Jaffa Gate!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jaffa Gate
Western Wall
The most popular and centrally located gate, offering direct access to all four quarters of the Old City.
New Gate
Northwestern Wall
The newest of the eight gates, opened in the late 19th century, providing access to the Christian Quarter.
Zion Gate
Southwestern Wall
A significant historical gate, often bustling with activity and offering a glimpse into the Armenian and Jewish Quarters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Jerusalem's Historic Gates
Immerse Yourself in History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and lots of walking! :athletic_shoe: You'll thank yourself later.
Explore All the Gates
Each gate has its own charm and history. Don't just stick to the Jaffa Gate!
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
The Old City gets busy. Arrive early to experience the gates with fewer people.
Respect the Sacred Sites
Remember these are active religious sites. Dress modestly and be mindful of others.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and lots of walking! :athletic_shoe: You'll thank yourself later.
Explore All the Gates
Each gate has its own charm and history. Don't just stick to the Jaffa Gate!
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
The Old City gets busy. Arrive early to experience the gates with fewer people.
Respect the Sacred Sites
Remember these are active religious sites. Dress modestly and be mindful of others.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old City Gates for their profound historical significance and the immersive experience they offer. Many highlight the feeling of stepping back in time and the tangible connection to centuries of history. While some note the potential for crowds and the challenging terrain, the overall sentiment is one of awe and recommendation for history enthusiasts.
"I absolutely love old city! This is the first place adventure to once visiting Saint Augustine! Each time I’m in the area I make sure that I go there ! So beautiful and a wonderful piece of history!"
Kerrie Pruitt
"Beautiful city! U can feel the history and just try to imagine how people lived and survived back then! If you are a history lover and don’t have the means to go to overseas or put the country you should go there and experience the life! A lot of old buildings and history! Oldest wooden school, Forts, and I plan on going once a year atleast and experience a little more every time. Beautiful beaches also! Spent a lot of time on St Augustine’s beaches! Water a little strong at that time for the little ones but good waves."
D Rock
"Take a look at history as you view this original Saint Augustine city entry gate."
Brian Strom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most visitors arrive via public transport or taxi to the Jaffa Gate area, which is a central hub. From there, you can easily walk to other gates. Many tours also start here.
Yes, the gates are connected by walking paths within the Old City walls. Be prepared for stairs and uneven terrain.
Driving directly to the gates is not recommended due to pedestrian zones and limited parking. It's best to park in designated lots outside the Old City and walk in.
The New Gate is accessible by walking from the Jaffa Gate or by taking a bus to a stop near the Damascus Gate and walking from there.
The Old City is primarily a walking area. While there are no internal vehicle services, you can hire donkeys or carts for a unique experience, though this is less common.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Old City Gates themselves are free to pass through. Entry into specific sites within the Old City may require tickets.
The gates are generally open 24/7, but access to certain areas or shops within the Old City may vary. It's best to check specific site hours.
There are no entrance fees to enter the Old City itself. However, attractions like the Tower of David Museum, located near Jaffa Gate, have admission fees.
Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially on weekdays, can help you avoid the largest crowds.
For popular attractions like the Tower of David Museum, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and guarantee entry.
📸 📸 Photography
The Jaffa Gate is very photogenic, especially with the Tower of David in the background. The New Gate and Zion Gate also offer great photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, creating a warm glow and fewer harsh shadows.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be respectful of religious sites and individuals. Avoid taking photos of people without their permission.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the gates and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the grand entrances.
Drone usage is highly restricted in Jerusalem, especially over historical and religious sites. It's best to assume it's not permitted.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Near the gates, you can explore the Old City's quarters, visit historical sites like the Tower of David Museum, and enjoy local markets and food.
To truly appreciate the gates and their surroundings, allocate at least a few hours. If you plan to explore the Old City extensively, dedicate a full day.
Accessibility can be challenging due to ancient architecture, cobblestones, and stairs. Some gates and areas are more accessible than others.
Dress comfortably and respectfully. Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended, especially when near religious sites.
Yes, numerous guided tours are available, offering historical context and insights. Many start at the Jaffa Gate.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Old City itself can be crowded and has uneven terrain, focusing on a few key gates and nearby accessible areas can make it manageable. Consider a guided tour tailored for families, which can make the history more engaging for younger minds. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for lots of walking.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Don't hesitate to join a free walking tour that often starts near the gates; it's a great way to meet other travelers and gain historical context. Be open to spontaneous exploration, and remember that the Old City is a vibrant, living place, not just a museum.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Seven (and Eight) Gates of Jerusalem
These gates served not only as entry and exit points but also as defensive structures. They were crucial for trade, pilgrimage, and the daily lives of the city's inhabitants. Understanding the context of each gate provides a deeper appreciation for the strategic importance and cultural layers of Jerusalem.
From the bustling Jaffa Gate, a primary entry point for tourists, to the more secluded New Gate, each passage offers a unique perspective. Exploring these gateways is like stepping back in time, connecting you directly to the historical narratives that have shaped this ancient city.
Historical Significance and Architecture
Architecturally, the gates showcase a range of styles, from the imposing Romanesque arches to more ornate Ottoman designs. You can observe the defensive features, such as the thick stone walls and strategic placement, designed to protect the city. The Zion Gate, for example, still bears scars from past battles, a poignant reminder of its historical role.
Walking through these gates, you're not just entering a historical site; you're traversing a threshold that has been crossed by countless pilgrims, merchants, soldiers, and residents throughout millennia. The very stones seem to whisper stories of the past, making the experience profoundly evocative.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit