Shabbat in Jerusalem

Shabbat in Jerusalem is a truly special experience, but it often raises many practical questions about what to do, where to eat, and how to get around. As one of the holiest cities on earth, Shabbat in Jerusalem holds particular significance, perhaps more so than any other city in Israel. This creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, with certain considerations to keep in mind when visiting Jerusalem over the weekend.

What Is Shabbat?

people praying at the western wall in jerusalem israel

Shabbat, also known as the Sabbath, is the Jewish day of rest. It begins at sundown on Friday and ends at sundown on Saturday as the new week begins. Observant Jews do not work during Shabbat and this extends to using electronic equipment, driving cars, and cooking. The start of the 24 hours of Shabbat is welcomed by lighting candles and attending synagogue for prayers, followed by the Shabbat dinner, a festive family affair.

On Shabbat morning, observant Jews return to synagogue for a morning service, and again in the evening for the ‘Havdalah’ service which marks the end of Shabbat and the start of a new week.

What Changes During Shabbat in Jerusalem?

In Jerusalem, Shabbat is a unique experience. Starting from early Friday afternoon, businesses, shops, and most restaurants begin to close. A few non-Kosher restaurants, some of the best restaurants in Israel, remain open during Shabbat, as do a limited number of businesses in the West of the city.

Public transportation (buses and railways) do not run at all in Jerusalem during Shabbat, and all these services stop in the hours leading up to sunset. Shared taxis and private taxis, however, continue to operate.

When Do Things Close for Shabbat in Jerusalem?

Because the time of sunset varies throughout the year, the time that Shabbat begins and ends changes every week. There are several websites where one can check the times each week. In the winter, businesses close around lunchtime, with some restaurants not opening at all for lunch. In the summer, businesses close later. Each establishment has its own specific rules pertaining to this.

When Do Things Open After Shabbat?

Saturday evenings after Shabbat are called ‘Motzei Shabbat’ and many businesses and malls tend to open again, usually around one hour after the end of Shabbat, staying open extra late so people can shop before the start of the new week. Bus services start almost immediately after the end of Shabbat, and the railway slightly later.

What Can I Do During Shabbat in Jerusalem?

While most businesses in Jerusalem are closed, Shabbat offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the city at its most peaceful, with streets quieter than usual and almost no traffic. The Old City, of course, remains open as always, and it’s a particularly fascinating sight to witness religious Jews marking the start of Shabbat at the Western Wall on Friday evening. Some of Jerusalem’s museums are open on Saturday, including the Israel Museum, though others, such as Yad Vashem are closed.

How Do I Get Around on Shabbat in Jerusalem?

With no buses, it might seem impossible, but Jerusalem is not a huge city, so walking is the best way. There are still private taxis available, and with quiet streets, renting a bike is a great possibility. Of course, renting a car is always a good idea if you’re planning to leave the city.

If you need to travel from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv and don’t have access to a car, there are private transfer options, such as shared taxis (sheruts) running throughout Shabbat.

Where Can I Eat on Shabbat in Jerusalem?

Eating in Jerusalem during Shabbat in the Western part of the city can be tricky, although there are some places in Jerusalem open on Shabbat. In the Old City, the Arab Souk remains open as usual, as do businesses in East Jerusalem.

Additionally, if you happen to be in Tel Aviv on a Saturday, we recommend reading about Shabbat in Tel Aviv.

Explore Israel Beyond Jerusalem

If you’re eager to pack your schedule with unique Israeli adventures, Shabbat is the perfect day to take a break from the city to see other places throughout the country. Many tours depart from Jerusalem on Saturday mornings, offering a chance to discover other remarkable destinations across the country.

Ultimately, the best way to explore all of Israel’s impressive sites is through our Israel Package Tours. Plus, we plan all your inclusive transfers, beautiful hotels, exciting activities, and expert tour guides, ensuring you enjoy the perfect, stress-free vacation.

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