West Jerusalem or “New Jerusalem” represents the commercial heart of the city. It is located at King George Street and Jaffa Road. West Jerusalem is home to Israel’s Supreme Court, The Knesset, Israel Museum, Mount Herzl and a variety of unique shopping and dining establishments.

While many tourists flock to the attractions of the historic Old City, West Jerusalem concentrates more on the present day. Visitors can take a guided tour of The Knesset, Israel’s Parliament Building. Parliamentary sessions can be observed three times a week when booked in advance. Next door to the Knesset lies the Supreme Court of Israel, it is possible to stroll around at ease, or take a guide to learn more about its history. The Israel Museum is a short walk away. Explore fascinating Jewish history in five wings of the museum. See replicas of synagogues from around the world and discover a collection of Jewish ceremonial treasures and artefacts. The museum’s highlights are the Dead Sea Scrolls, considered by many historians to be one of the world’s greatest discoveries. Visitors looking to pick up a souvenir of their stay in Israel can head for the main shopping areas of Ben Yehuda Street, Jaffa Road or King George Street. Alternatively, to gain a more authentic retail experience Mahane Yehuda Market offers a vast array of stalls sprinkled among a labyrinth of narrow streets. West Jerusalem has many dining options, choose from vegetarian to Mediterranean and Israeli cuisine.

Navigating West Jerusalem is easy. Many landmarks are less than a 20-minute walk of one another. It takes less than an hour to walk to the attractions of the Old City. Buses operate throughout the district from Central Bus Station stopping close to The Knesset, Mahane Yehuda Market, Monastery of the Cross, The Israel Museum and Bible Lands Museum. Light Rail networks run to Mount Herzl via the Old City, Jaffa Road, Mehane Yehuda and Central Station. Taxis and Uber are also in operation throughout the region.

West Jerusalem became the focus for development following Israel’s independence in 1948 to the city’s reunification in 1967. Although much of the district is more contemporary than other areas of Jerusalem, parts still date to the late 19th century. These days West Jerusalem is home to Israel’s politics, parks, museums, shopping and fine dining.