Overview
The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, is a sacred site located in the Old City of Jerusalem. It is a remnant of the ancient wall that surrounded the Jewish Temple's courtyard and is considered one of the most sacred sites in Judaism.
The Western Wall is a holy site where Jews from all over the world come to pray and leave written prayers in the crevices of the wall. It is a symbol of Jewish resilience and connection to their historical homeland.
Location
Address
Old City, Jerusalem
Neighborhood: Jewish Quarter
Coordinates
31.778200, 35.235200
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and a more serene atmosphere
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Passover celebrations
- • Spring flowers
summer
Hot and dry
- • Extended visiting hours
- • Outdoor events
autumn
Warm to cool
- • High Holiday celebrations
- • Cool weather
winter
Cool to cold
- • Hanukkah celebrations
- • Fewer tourists
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Dress modestly
- Separate prayer areas for men and women
- No photography during prayers
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low to moderate
- • Uneven surfaces
- • Crowded areas
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
New Israeli Shekel (NIS)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees for both men and women), Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones, Closed-toe shoes, Shorts, Sleeveless tops, Revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but consider booking a guided tour in advance
- • Official website or reputable tour operators
- • varies by tour operator
- • Available for guided tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Western Wall Heritage Foundation
Size: 25 MB
Features: Site map, Audio guide, Prayer times, Event calendar, Information about the site's history and significance
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Western Wall Plaza, Western Wall Heritage Center, Nearby cafes and restaurants
Charging Stations: Western Wall Heritage Center, Nearby cafes and restaurants
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)
Distance: 45 km
Travel Time: 45-60 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The Western Wall is a symbol of Jewish identity and resilience, a place of deep spiritual connection and historical significance
Historical Significance: The wall is a remnant of the Second Jewish Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. It has been a place of Jewish prayer and pilgrimage for centuries
Insider Tips
- The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful experience
- Look for the special prayer notes placed in the wall's crevices
- Explore the Western Wall Tunnels for a deeper understanding of the site's history
Local Recommendations
- • Try local falafel and hummus at nearby eateries
- • Visit the nearby Jewish Quarter for historic sites and shops
- • Ask for a guided tour from a knowledgeable local guide
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Hebrew, English, Spanish, French, Russian
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Western Wall Plaza
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the wall and the people praying
Result: Stunning shots of the sacred site
Tunnels of the Western Wall
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Focus on the ancient stones and archaeological findings
Result: Unique and historic images
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Temple Mount
Distance: 100m
Walking: 2 min
Type: Religious Site
Dome of the Rock
Distance: 100m
Walking: 2 min
Type: Religious Site
Al-Aqsa Mosque
Distance: 150m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Religious Site
Jewish Quarter
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Historic Neighborhood
Cardinal Hussein Park
Distance: 500m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Park
Viaduct Bridge
Distance: 600m
Walking: 12 min
Type: Landmark
Mount of Olives
Distance: 800m
Walking: 15 min
Type: Scenic Viewpoint
Reviews
Based on 20,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Arrive early for a more peaceful experience"
- "Dress modestly and respectfully"
- "Explore the Western Wall Tunnels for a deeper understanding of the site's history"
- "Try local falafel and hummus at nearby eateries"
- "Be mindful of prayer times and services"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
142
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
20,000
Adult Entry
Free