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Shopping in Jerusalem

The markets of the Old City, where religious paraphernalia, souvenirs and spices are displayed are one of the city’s biggest attractions. At the other end, Jerusalem is also home to the biggest mall in the country.

Key areas

The main shopping areas are the Old City for religious items, souvenirs and handicrafts. The Old City's Jewish Quarter, the Cardo, has several exclusive shops selling clothing and art.

Markets

The busy bazaars that weave through the Old City are one of the highlights of a visit. Leading down from Jaffa Gate is David Street market along which souvenirs, art, crafts and religious artefacts are sold. The Muslim Quarter is home to active market streets that form an important part of daily life, where bakeries, hummus eateries and jewellery shops vie for space. Two streets, El Wad Street and Souk Khan El-Zeit, lead down from Damascus Gate.

The covered Mahane Yehuda Market is the city’s main fruit and vegetable market. Though it’s always bustling, Friday mornings are particularly busy as residents prepare for Shabbat. Nestled amidst the countless stalls are small rustic eateries, where Middle Eastern dishes and traditional home cooking have turned the market into one of the best spots to eat in the city. The market is open Saturday to Thursday 0800 to 1200 and 0700 to 1600 on Fridays.

Shopping centres

The open-air Mamilla Mall is located just outside of the Old City walls near Jaffa Gate and has a wide range of high-end shops. Malha Mall, a large indoor mall near the Jerusalem Malha railway station is also a popular destination for shoppers.

Opening hours

Opening hours are generally Sunday to Thursday 0900-1900. Jewish-owned businesses close Friday afternoons and Saturday for Shabbat. Trading on Friday, the Muslim holy day, is also quite restrained. Christian-owned shops close on Sundays.

Souvenirs

Tiny open-fronted shops sell souvenirs of olive wood, silverwork, mother-of-pearl, leather, hand-blown glass, pottery and religious artefacts. Arabic sweets and pastries are also plentiful and delicious.

Tax information

Value Added Tax (VAT) of 17% is quoted in the price of all goods and services. Tourists buying goods at shops listed by the Ministry of Tourism may be entitled to claim the tax back, provided the purchase cost is US$100 or more. Shoppers must obtain a special invoice to be submitted at the airport.

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Featured Hotels

King Solomon Hotel

This 5-star in the centre of Jerusalem caters to religious Jewish travellers by offering its own synagogue, a Glatt Kosher menu and Shabbat lights in the bedrooms. The stunning views overlooking the Judean hills make up for the slightly outdated décor. The centrepiece of the lobby is a globe-shaped metal sculpture of Jerusalem by the English-born artist Frank Meisler. The hotel is just 10 minutes' walk from the Jaffa Gate of the Old City.

King David

Situated in an elevated position, this landmark hotel is one of Israel's most luxurious and prestigious hotels, boasting a guest list of world leaders, royalty and celebrities. The majestic King David was built in the 1930s and has all modern facilities, with fine views towards the Old City. It’s also a historic building in its own right – in 1946 when used during the British mandate as the British Army HQ, it was the scene of a dramatic anti-British bombing by militant Zionists.

Harmony Hotel

The Harmony Hotel is part of the fast-growing Atlas chain. With a bright and very kitsch chic atmosphere, it makes for an unusual stay in the Holy City. It is located in the trendy and historic Nahalat Shiva neighbourhood, a short 10-minute walk to the Old City, and with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. It offers spacious, funky rooms designed by local artists, an impressive breakfast, and excellent views from the roof.

Prima Royale Hotel

Outside the Old City and close to Jerusalem’s Downtown Triangle, Prima Royale is an affordable and attractive hotel with one special draw: its goal of introducing guests to Jerusalem’s artistry. Each floor is dedicated to a specific artist, writer, or poet who drew inspiration from the city. Classical music plays in the morning, and jazz serenades you in the afternoon. The breakfast is also delicious.

Hashimi Hotel

The Old City’s ‘newest’ hotel is set in a 400-year-old building right in the heart of the Old City. It’s the perfect base to explore the Dome of the Rock, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Western Wall and Jerusalem’s many other famous sights. The 40 rooms are spread over three floors and the rooftop terrace overlooks some of the best views in town.

David Citadel Hotel

This modern 385-room hotel is a short walk from both the Old City and the new city centre and is just around the corner from the trendy Mamilla Mall. A standout feature is the terrace overlooking the pool, a great spot to indulge in Israel’s trademark big breakfast while gazing over the city. After a day’s sightseeing, the L’Occitane spa is a tranquil spot for a restorative massage.

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