Jerusalem is Israel’s historical and religious city that could captivate a large number of tourists every year who would like to discover the old-times atmosphere. However, the charms of that city may be costly starting from the place to stay to everything during your stay. Despite the recent promotion of Israel as an inexpensive country for tourists, it is essential to note that tourists always experience some unexpected and additional costs. Here is how to plan your cheap trip to Jerusalem to avoid spending much money.
1. Budget-Friendly Tours
Since there are so many archaeological sites in Jerusalem, it is best to take a guided walking tour, on the downside, private tours are costly. Rather, settle for the cheaper group tours, yet give you rich information on what you are touring. Some operators organize free walking tours, and such tours are usually provided by guides who work without pay: in this case, it is mandatory to tip the guide at least a token sum.
The Old City fully justified the tradition of friendly orientation, as it is an exciting maze of historical and religious sights. Wed plan our tour in such a manner that we should find cheap ways to make it practical and more enjoyable.
Pro Tip: Eager to explore Jerusalem’s hidden gems? Save big on private or group tours with Bein Harim Tours discount codes and make your dream trip a reality.
Western Wall, Jerusalem, Israel
2. Dining on a Budget
Matter of fact we now know that eating can become fast and potentially a very large expense when we are eating at these restaurants around tourist attractions. For example, restaurants inside the Old City area costs a little more than restaurants outside the Old City walls. To cut food costs, try local street foods as they are delicious and cheap from most vendors. Choose between regaled Falafel, Hummus, Bourekas, shawarma, and Sabich and other popular foods from the Holy Land.
Places like the Mahane Yehuda, therefore, can be ideal places when in search of exotic foodstuffs, fresh vegetables, and fruits among others at an attractive price. This also means that one should not purchase bottled water in regions popular with tourists as this is relatively expensive. However, it is recommended that one should carry his or her water bottle to benefit from the free Water dispensers located in almost all corners of Jerusalem. The water supply in the city is safe to drink right now and there is nothing wrong with the water.
Hummus
3. Souvenirs and Memorabilia: Shop Wisely
This is why it is always highly advisable to learn how to carefully budget for souvenirs since they can easily catch up with you faster than the blink of any eye. The prices for things in shops located in those areas are usually higher, so inspect everything and use your right to haggle in most places. Try to avoid using foreign currencies preferring instead the Israeli shekel to avoid poor exchange rates.
For its own accessories and distinct and quality products, it is recommended to venture away from areas mostly frequented by tourists and explore local stores’ recommendations. Such places even tend to give you better prices, higher quality workmanship, and real services.
Souvenirs in the Old City Market, Jerusalem
4. Getting Cheap or Low-Cost Accommodation
The price for accommodations may vary depending on several factors and generally, it’s the single biggest cost to visitors, particularly to those who travel to Jerusalem at peak travel times. Accommodation near the Old City can be very comfortable in some hotels but may not be cheap whereas remaining in the city center via Airbnb, although affordable, may be a little expensive. Despite being located further away from the center, one has to pay a couple bucks extra for transport and the disadvantage of easiness of access to some major landmarks.
Encourage hostel, sublet or get an accommodation during the off seasons if you are stretching your budget. If ever the masses will be the primary consideration, staying near major landmarks will prove to be historically useful while at the same time providing the mood of Jerusalem’s bustle at the least expensive. Read more on how to save on accommodations in Jerusalem.
5. Affordable Transportation
The public transport system in Jerusalem is quite well developed and therefore can be easily navigated on a shoestring. The buses and light rail are cheap, clean, and efficient, moreover, they take you almost all over the must-see attractions in the city. It is quite helpful for going to attraction venues such as Mount Herzl or Pisgat Ze’ev.
For taxis, you should make sure that the driver sets his / her taximeter to avoid being cheated. Please be advised that all public transportation practically does not operate from Friday afternoon to Saturday evening due to Shabbat.
The light rail in Jerusalem
6. Currency and Exchange Tips
To avoid spending extra money on commissions that are given in purchasing foreign currency near the places that attract tourists, it is wise to exchange currency in other places. Don’t go for any service provider without comparing the rates on several locations. Try not to buy something for the Israeli new shekel even if the merchants advertised their prices in foreign currency because they would most likely rip off the foreigner.
7. Enjoy Free Attractions
There are many free things to do in Jerusalem where tourists and visitors can visit and learn about this city’s past and culture. Highlights include:
- Yad Vashem: Israel’s holocaust memorial and museum, a place with so much educative/historical and emotional appeal.
- Mahane Yehuda Market: A vibrant bustling market where one can immerse oneself via their eyes, nose, mouth, etc., and get an authentic Asakusa culture.
- Wohl Rose Garden and Jerusalem Botanical Garden: Beautiful locations with beautiful flowers in simple and calm scenery.
- Haas Promenade: An attractive location with the scenic outlook of the Old City of Jerusalem.
If carefully planned, a visit to Jerusalem is quite affordable while imparting compact knowledge of this city’s rich past and ever-growing culture. Several ideas regarding where and how a traveler can save can help; from choosing cheap lodging to visiting many free sights, a tourist with a limited amount of money still can have an amazing time in Jerusalem.