Things to do in East Jerusalem
East Jerusalem is one of Asia's best places for beach, city trips. Long shorelines, slow lunches and water you can see your feet in. Here's how we'd actually spend the time — what to book, what to skip, and the small choices that make the difference.
- 01
Spend a full morning on the best-rated beach — get there before 10
- 02
Book one boat trip or snorkel tour, even if you don't normally
- 03
Find the beach club locals actually go to (not the one in the brochure)
- 04
Eat seafood at a place with paper tablecloths and no English menu
- 05
Stay out for sunset at least once with a drink in hand
- 06
Walk the marquee neighbourhood first, then a quieter one the next day
- 07
Eat in the neighbourhood you're staying in, not the centre, for one meal
- 08
Book the museum/gallery online — skip the queue
- 09
Find the rooftop or viewpoint locals like, not just the tourist one
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East Jerusalem FAQs
- What are the must-do things in East Jerusalem?
- In East Jerusalem, lean into what the place is famous for — beach experiences first, then a slower day to find the neighbourhoods most visitors miss. Build the trip around one big day and one easy day.
- How many days do you need in East Jerusalem?
- Three days is enough to see the headlines, five days is the sweet spot, and seven lets you add a day trip or a slow morning without rushing. See our 3-, 5- and 7-day itineraries for East Jerusalem.
- Is East Jerusalem expensive?
- Hotels in East Jerusalem start from around $185/night on Booking.com. Eating and getting around is reasonable if you avoid the most touristy streets — locals' favourites are usually a third the price and twice the food.
- What's the best area to stay in East Jerusalem?
- Stay close to where you'll actually spend time — a central neighbourhood saves an hour a day. We pick the area based on what kind of beach trip you're after; the full East Jerusalem guide breaks it down.
- Is East Jerusalem worth visiting?
- Yes — East Jerusalem is one of Asia's best places for beach, city trips. Long shorelines, slow lunches and water you can see your feet in.