If you’re interested in seeing some of the more historic areas of the beautiful capital of Israel, there are several free walking tours that can help you find all the best landmarks in the city.
This post covers some of the most interesting free tours Jerusalem has to offer, including how these tours work and what you can expect to see or experience on each outing.
Overview + Schedules
Free walking tours are guided tours of a city or specific area where participants are not charged a fixed fee but are encouraged to provide a voluntary tip to the guide.
You can also join such fascinating walking tours to explore Jerusalem's historic areas, discover landmarks, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Most of these tours start right at the Jaffa Gate. Moreover, the best time to get on to your Jerusalem Tour and the tickets prices are also shared.
In Jerusalem, the free tour options include Old City Tours, Christian History Tours, and Food & Markets Tours.
The Old City Tours cover the Armenian, Christian, Muslim, and Jewish quarters.
Christian History Tours focus on biblical sites like the Holy Sepulchre Church.
Food & Markets Tours take you through lively markets such as Machane Yehuda Market to see the various foods and other items you can find in the area.
Each tour provides unique insights into Jerusalem's history, religious significance, and culinary delights. Temple Mount is just an example of all these experiences.
Explore the charm of this historic and ancient city through these enriching free walking tours.
Jerusalem Old Town Tours
Jerusalem Old Town Tours offer a captivating exploration of the city's history and cultural wonders within the Old City Walls.
These tours provide an immersive journey through the city's fascinating history and showcase its top sights for tourists.
Some of the most common attractions included in these tours are:
- The Western Wall (Wailing Wall)
- Church of The Holy Sepulcher
- The Tower of David
- The City of David
- The David Street
- The Via Dolorosa
- The Cardo (Ancient Roman street)
- The Mount of Olives
Walkative
Walkative offers a fascinating Old Town excursion that provides an insightful perspective on Jerusalem's rich heritage and main attractions.
Experience the Old City of Jerusalem with a licensed guide, exploring all four quarters.
The tour is typically available throughout the week. Instead of being available full-day, it lasts approximately 2-3 hours.
Abraham’s Tours
Abraham's Tours also offers an introductory free walking tour of Jerusalem.
You will enjoy stunning views of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Western Wall, the Holy Sepulchre Church, and the Dome of the Rock,
It also includes an overview of all four quarters. The tour is available on selected days, usually lasting around 2 hours.
Christian History in Jerusalem Tours
These outings offer a captivating exploration of the city's important sites associated with Christianity.
These tours provide insights into Jerusalem's history and religious significance, focusing on the top Christian landmarks.
Embark on these tours to deepen your understanding and appreciation of Jerusalem's history.
Some of the common attractions included in these tours are:
- The Holy Sepulchre Church
- Church of All Nations
- Garden of Gethsemane
- Mount Zion
- Via Dolorosa (Stations of the Cross)
- Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu
Walkative
Walkative offers an enlightening Christian Jerusalem tour, allowing you to explore the city's religious heritage.
The tour is usually available throughout the week, lasting approximately 2-3 hours. More details and booking information can be found here.
Eli’s Tours
Eli's Tours also provides a Holy Jerusalem Christian History and Religion tour.
Join this outing to explore the critical Christian sites of Jerusalem and deepen your understanding of their spiritual significance.
The tour lasts for 3.5 hours, but the availability may differ. So, checking the details on their page is advisable. You can book this tour with a large number of visitors whenever you visit Tel Aviv.
Jerusalem Food and Markets Tours
These outings are a delightful exploration of the city's culinary scene, vibrant markets, and the world's holiest place.
Experience Jerusalem's rich flavors and diverse dishes while immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of its renowned markets.
If you want an international culinary experience, join this free walking tour on your visit to Jerusalem.
David’s Tours
Compared to the other self-guided walking tours, your local tour guide David provides an engaging "Stories of the Market" tour, explicitly focusing on the famous Machane Yehuda Shuk.
While availability is currently limited, David’s Tours offers an insider's perspective on the market, its history, and the unique stories behind its vendors and food.
You will also learn about the history of the Crusaders and Romans.
For more information and updates on availability, you can visit their page.
How long does it take to walk around the Old City of Jerusalem?
In general, it takes roughly 40 mins to walk around the old city of Jerusalem.
It's a famous walking area, and you will likely find more people while on your excursion.
What should you wear on a tour of Old City Jerusalem?
The old city of Jerusalem is a religious place; you must wear a fully covered dress, whether man or woman.
You must not wear half sleeves or shorts.
Can you walk around Jerusalem on your own?
Yes, for sure. You can walk around Jerusalem, specifically the old city, alone.
Everything is within walking distance like Jaffa Gate and Yehuda Market is just a mile away.