Western Wall
Western Wall
4.5
Historic SitesAncient RuinsPoints of Interest & LandmarksReligious Sites
00:00 - 23:59
Monday
00:00 - 23:59
Tuesday
00:00 - 23:59
Wednesday
00:00 - 23:59
Thursday
00:00 - 23:59
Friday
00:00 - 23:59
Saturday
00:00 - 23:59
Sunday
00:00 - 23:59
About
The remains of the Second Temple of Jerusalem and a place of prayer sacred to the Jewish people.
Duration: < 1 hour
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- george7912Dubai, United Arab Emirates128 contributionsMemorable visit to a religious siteInteresting experience at a very religious site. This was a must visit and was very interesting for a non-jewish person. You should be respectful of the security, dress code (modest) and others that are very emotional during their visit. The men and women separate to go to the wall and many women are sat in chairs close to the wall or praying against it, some were very emotional. It was a memorable experience to touch the wall and say a private prayer. Many women make a wish on a small piece of paper and put it in the cracks of the wall, come prepared if you want to do this. This is a free place of worship but depending on the time, it can be crowded to reach the wall.Visited December 2022Written 5 December 2022
- KMLondon22London, United Kingdom195 contributionsA place of history & devotionGlad to visit because of the wall's history & international significance. Others have written that they were able to walk right up to the wall, however I was stopped and did not see any other tourists do so. There is a barrier about 30 metres in front where you can observe from. Photos are also banned, there are stewards who will ask you to delete any images. I went on a Friday night and the religious devotion of the families visiting to pray was impressive (they are praying towards Temple Mount). However, I felt a bit like I was intruding on their privacy.Visited December 2022Written 13 December 2022
- BluebellplasnewyddCardiff, United Kingdom1,931 contributionsHeight of religious meaningThis is am amazing place to experience. There is a lot of security there and on the way in. It is really humbling to observe the religious devotion and even to get close to the wall yourself. On the left is an arched area that I entered, wearing one of the free hats, with trepidation. It was full of Jews in traditional dress with the scrolls visible saying prayers together and by themselves. I was largely ignored but one came and asked me where I was from. I did feel like I was intruding but if you get a chance go inside. I think it may be for men only.Visited November 2022Written 17 December 2022
- Diane B11 contributionsA Most Historical and Holy PlaceI alw.ays go to the western wall while in Jerusalem. This time I went on Shabbat on Friday evening. It was awesome watching this area fill up with worshippers and fill the square. You won't see this anywhere else in the worldVisited November 2022Written 10 January 2023
- Harry ALong Island, New York68 contributionsTHE must-see site in Israel for people of any faithI was fortunate enough to live in Jerusalem for a couple of years while studying abroad, and I’ve visited the Western Wall often. Every time I visit is always inspiring and uplifting, which is why this is the first place I went to on my summer trip to Israel. Being in a place rich with so much holiness and history never ceases to amaze me. People of any faith (or no faith) are welcome, and everyone, no matter religious affiliation, will find something that fascinates them here. Here are a few tips for new visitors to maximize your experience: If you can, come visit on Friday night at around sunset. This is when the Jewish Shabbat (Sabbath) begins, and when thousands of Jews gather to welcome in the holy day with song, dance, and prayer. It is truly a sight to see, you will not be disappointed! If you want to visit when it is not busy, come on weekdays in the late morning, early afternoon, or evening (early-mid morning and late afternoon gets a little busier, as well as during weekends). You can usually find a spot right by the wall to introspect, pray, or take pictures during these times. Be aware that during Jewish holidays, it can get VERY crowded. There is a custom to put a handwritten note into the cracks of the wall when you visit. According to Jewish tradition, God reads these notes personally, and is inclined to answer any prayer or request written on it. You do not have to be Jewish to partake in this custom, anyone can do it. It is a super uplifting experience. Make sure to pre-write your note, though, since they do not have pens and paper available. The bathrooms are newly renovated, very spacious, and very clean. Definitely use them! A few other things to keep in mind: Being that this is the holiest site in Judaism, visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully. This means that men must wear a head covering (any head covering works), and women must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Kippas and scarves are available for those who need. There are usually a few beggars around. Some could get a little aggressive, but none are dangerous. If you do happen to have some spare change, however, you could really make their day. They really do need it. All entrances to the Western Wall are guarded by heavy security. It doesn’t usually take long to get through, but be prepared to empty your pockets and have your bag searched before you enter. I can’t recommend visiting the western wall enough. If you happen to be in Israel for any reason, go. It is a life-changing experience.Visited June 2022Travelled soloWritten 15 January 2023
- Jen KSingapore, Singapore254 contributionsA Moving ExperienceA deeply moving experience. It is not to be missed. Our wonderful guide Nabir enhanced the experience with his profound knowledge and interesting gems of history. Shout out to the tour and guide company that planned my Holy Trail journey - Pomegranate. Excellent itinerary. The wall was not too busy as it was a little rainy but it did not stop the sorrows and praises of worshippers and it was really moving to see the expressions of worship and to hear the collective wail of repenting prayers. Definitely must go. Also it helped that our guide knew shortcuts and the ins and outs of the area so we were not left in long queues.Visited February 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 6 February 2023
- malbikBognor Regis, United Kingdom106 contributionsGood oneFor myself it was the best place in whole Jerusalem. Not as crowded as Churches and I could see holy place for Jewish people. Different entry for women and men. My 10 yo boy could go with me.Visited February 2023Travelled with familyWritten 26 February 2023
- WorldTravellerSoonCanada362 contributionsExperience the historyWestern Wall is a significant symbol in history. It is heavily guarded at the the entrance. There are separate sides for men and women. People pray in front of the Wall so be respectful. Just to be there and experience the atmosphere is well worth the visit.Visited February 2023Written 8 March 2023
- Brian RBakersfield, California190 contributionsA must visit spot in JerusalemThis is a very exciting and moving place to visit with many people. It's of insignificant importance to Christians, but being that it's one of the walls to the Holy City it is significant for that standpoint. It's impressive to visit, and the crowd will be large. You can pre-write a prayer to stick in one of the cracks in the walls which is a nice touch. For those that are aged or are having trouble walking it quite a track from the closest gate the dung gate to actually get to the western wall and you will go through significant security. It's a trip worth making.Visited March 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 8 March 2023
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Jeffry b
Essendon, Australia13,789 contributions
Sep 2023 • Friends
The Western Wall is the last remaining section of the Second Temple. The. Western Wall abuts the Temple Mount. It is especially important to religious Jews. Many people write a wish on a piece of paper, which is placed in the cracks in the wall. Pious Jews believe that this message will go straight to God. The Western Wall is also known as the Wailing Wall. The Western Wall is one of the holiest shrines in Judaism.
Written 24 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gisUk
London, UK295 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
A must visit. There is a sense of history and even tragedy given some of the events of the recent past. You get access to Temple Mount in the same area.
Written 22 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan E
Philadelphia, PA1,041 contributions
Nov 2022 • Family
There were many people who were very fascinating to watch and photograph in this area. We were even fortunate enough to see a rainbow in the distance.
Written 10 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vanessa M
London, UK161 contributions
Sep 2023 • Friends
A highlight of the trip to Israel. Based in Jerusalem’s old city, I recommend entering via Damascus Gate and meandering through the different markets/quarters. When you arrive at the Gate ensure your head is covered and you’re wearing conservative attire. I was in a loose floor length stress with a head scarf. Women and men pray separately. Very moving experience to be at the wailing wall. Highlight of the Israel trip.
Written 8 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dilly6396
England, UK172 contributions
Jan 2023 • Friends
If you dont look the part the be prepared to feel threatened and maybe turned away. You have to dress like tourist and not like a muslim to gain entry which is very sad
Written 4 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lister C
British Columbia, Canada20 contributions
Mar 2023 • Friends
Approaching the famed wall. Writing out a prayer to insert in the wall. Touching and praying there with friends
Written 23 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I visited this place🇬🇷🇨🇭🇬🇧🇳🇱🇺🇸
Israel14,766 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
PROS
* The number one visited tourist spot in Israel
* Certainly one of the most spectacular famous and significant tourist sites in the world
* A most holy and spiritual place- traditionally the resting place of the Holy Spirit- this place can (and does) exude spirituality par excellence
* Very special and spiritual one-of-a-kind attraction
* Site of Jewish religious prayer devotion and pilgrimage
* Cumulative history of almost 4000 years with perfectly intact archaeological remnant built 2000+ years ago
* The only remaining remnant of the ancient Jewish Temple that was defiled and destroyed and decimated and burnt by the barbarous nefarious idol-worshipping gluttonous Romans in the year 70, corresponding to the date that I visited
* The world's largest (and only) open air synagogue
* Witness Bar Mitzva life events on Monday and Wednesday mornings (and also other specified special holy days of the year, such as this commemoration of its destruction, which we noted on this visit)
* Imbibe the serenity of the Jewish Sabbath at the holy place and immerse yourself in ancient history of Jews, Judea and Israel
* The ultimate demonstration of the Jewish people's firm iron clad resolve to return to the ancient ancestral homeland- it is the symbol of the Jewish people's return to and sovereignty in their homeland
* Incredible open-air display of the most ancient and significant history of the foundations of society and the world- free for exploration
• Close-up and personal observation and exposure to unique Jewish prayer religious culture and rituals- see and learn about the devotions of the religious Jews
• Mingle with those who observe Jewish prayer rituals at this sacred site
* Sometimes see soldiers at prayer or battalions pledging allegiance to the State of Israel and commitment to defending the survival of the Jewish people in its land
• Open 24/7
• Visit to Israel incomplete without it
CONS
• It can be crowded and congested and very disorganized, and that can be sisorienting or confusing, but is always very very safe
* It is not uncommon to be approached or called by an older beggar asking for money- it's benign and not dangerous nor threatening
* A strange combination of intense spirituality in the prayer rituals and those fervent supplicants at the Wall as compared to the sometimes and often holiday festive atmosphere in the plaza, as tour groups and family and friends meet and socialize- such is the Jewish life style experience
* Airplane type security inspection prior to admission to the broad Western Wall Plaza.
"I VISITED THIS PLACE"...
... again with those same two teenagers for the annual commemoration day of the destruction of the Jewish Holy Temple that used to stand behind this wall 2000 years ago.
We did this while fasting 25 hours from food and drink, as mandated by Jewish tradition.
There were dozens of simultaneous prayer groups- possibly 20,000 people.
We did not participate this year, because we had already donned the black boxes earlier in the afternoon.
There obviously was a complete cacophony of competing and interfering sounds and noises of all the different and various prayer groups.
I took many "helpful" candid photos (including men and boys with those black forehead and arm boxes), all of which I am posting attached to this review here.
WOULD I VISIT HERE AGAIN?
Sure- I've visited many hundreds of times during the past 45 years- at all hours of day and night, during all festivals, celebrations, commemorations and ceremonies.
ADVICES
* When one visits Israel, one must visit this number one tourist attraction, asitt is an unforgettable place
* Respectful appropriately dressed non Jews are welcome (men/women separate)- to come and observe but don't invade a "personal space" of those doing the rituals and those praying fervently
* Quiet piety in the inner prayer area
* Feel the serenity and peace by visiting in the middle of the night
* Do not disturb those engaged in their fervent prayer devotions
* Approaching the Wall is possible for all, but in my hundreds of visits there, I only touched it once in 1978 for a second, and immediately regretted it: it's too holy. I recommend not touching it
* You can bring a pen and paper or a pre written note, but that business about leaving a note in the wall is for tourists: we never did it and never do it, but the notes do become holy and are cleared twice a year and given a burial on the Mount of Olives.
* Be thoughtful and discrete and unobtrusive when you take photos (of others) here- and not on the Sabbath and holidays.
* It is extremely safe 24/7- both from "security incidents" and physical or petty crime (pickpockets), but there are a few beggars at the holy site
* I hope that you find my interesting candid photos of participants to be "helpful."
* The number one visited tourist spot in Israel
* Certainly one of the most spectacular famous and significant tourist sites in the world
* A most holy and spiritual place- traditionally the resting place of the Holy Spirit- this place can (and does) exude spirituality par excellence
* Very special and spiritual one-of-a-kind attraction
* Site of Jewish religious prayer devotion and pilgrimage
* Cumulative history of almost 4000 years with perfectly intact archaeological remnant built 2000+ years ago
* The only remaining remnant of the ancient Jewish Temple that was defiled and destroyed and decimated and burnt by the barbarous nefarious idol-worshipping gluttonous Romans in the year 70, corresponding to the date that I visited
* The world's largest (and only) open air synagogue
* Witness Bar Mitzva life events on Monday and Wednesday mornings (and also other specified special holy days of the year, such as this commemoration of its destruction, which we noted on this visit)
* Imbibe the serenity of the Jewish Sabbath at the holy place and immerse yourself in ancient history of Jews, Judea and Israel
* The ultimate demonstration of the Jewish people's firm iron clad resolve to return to the ancient ancestral homeland- it is the symbol of the Jewish people's return to and sovereignty in their homeland
* Incredible open-air display of the most ancient and significant history of the foundations of society and the world- free for exploration
• Close-up and personal observation and exposure to unique Jewish prayer religious culture and rituals- see and learn about the devotions of the religious Jews
• Mingle with those who observe Jewish prayer rituals at this sacred site
* Sometimes see soldiers at prayer or battalions pledging allegiance to the State of Israel and commitment to defending the survival of the Jewish people in its land
• Open 24/7
• Visit to Israel incomplete without it
CONS
• It can be crowded and congested and very disorganized, and that can be sisorienting or confusing, but is always very very safe
* It is not uncommon to be approached or called by an older beggar asking for money- it's benign and not dangerous nor threatening
* A strange combination of intense spirituality in the prayer rituals and those fervent supplicants at the Wall as compared to the sometimes and often holiday festive atmosphere in the plaza, as tour groups and family and friends meet and socialize- such is the Jewish life style experience
* Airplane type security inspection prior to admission to the broad Western Wall Plaza.
"I VISITED THIS PLACE"...
... again with those same two teenagers for the annual commemoration day of the destruction of the Jewish Holy Temple that used to stand behind this wall 2000 years ago.
We did this while fasting 25 hours from food and drink, as mandated by Jewish tradition.
There were dozens of simultaneous prayer groups- possibly 20,000 people.
We did not participate this year, because we had already donned the black boxes earlier in the afternoon.
There obviously was a complete cacophony of competing and interfering sounds and noises of all the different and various prayer groups.
I took many "helpful" candid photos (including men and boys with those black forehead and arm boxes), all of which I am posting attached to this review here.
WOULD I VISIT HERE AGAIN?
Sure- I've visited many hundreds of times during the past 45 years- at all hours of day and night, during all festivals, celebrations, commemorations and ceremonies.
ADVICES
* When one visits Israel, one must visit this number one tourist attraction, asitt is an unforgettable place
* Respectful appropriately dressed non Jews are welcome (men/women separate)- to come and observe but don't invade a "personal space" of those doing the rituals and those praying fervently
* Quiet piety in the inner prayer area
* Feel the serenity and peace by visiting in the middle of the night
* Do not disturb those engaged in their fervent prayer devotions
* Approaching the Wall is possible for all, but in my hundreds of visits there, I only touched it once in 1978 for a second, and immediately regretted it: it's too holy. I recommend not touching it
* You can bring a pen and paper or a pre written note, but that business about leaving a note in the wall is for tourists: we never did it and never do it, but the notes do become holy and are cleared twice a year and given a burial on the Mount of Olives.
* Be thoughtful and discrete and unobtrusive when you take photos (of others) here- and not on the Sabbath and holidays.
* It is extremely safe 24/7- both from "security incidents" and physical or petty crime (pickpockets), but there are a few beggars at the holy site
* I hope that you find my interesting candid photos of participants to be "helpful."
Written 29 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dario C
Bologna, Italy255 contributions
Apr 2023
At the Western Wall, you can feel the power of tradition. Women have a reserved part on the right, and men on the left. Unfortunately was not possible to reach the esplanade of the mosques. April 2023 was not the best time.
Written 15 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mohzan h
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia385 contributions
Mar 2023 • Friends
Also known as the Wailing Wall . The Jewish come here to pray . Men on the right and women on the left side. Jerusalem is unique !! The other side of the wall is the muslim Buraq mosque, its where Prophet Mohamad ( peace be upon him ) tied his buraq ( horse like animal he rode on his way to meet GOD)
Muslims are allowed near the area of the Wall, though entrance are guarded by armed Israel soldiers . Jewish would pray very closed to the wall and must wear the tiny cap on their head, women must wear a veil to cover their hair / head. A very unique experiance for one to visit the old city of Jerusalem.
Muslims are allowed near the area of the Wall, though entrance are guarded by armed Israel soldiers . Jewish would pray very closed to the wall and must wear the tiny cap on their head, women must wear a veil to cover their hair / head. A very unique experiance for one to visit the old city of Jerusalem.
Written 14 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aqusite
California1,579 contributions
Jun 2023
What can I say? I broke down and cried while praying here. It was an overpowering experience for a Jewish person from the US. I came and prayed many times. There was a sense of welcoming towards me by the usually more reserved Orthodox women.
It was one of the most powerful and transcendental experiences of my life and so I came back many times as I was staying not that far away.
It feels curious to review it but a shame to say nothing at all.
It was one of the most powerful and transcendental experiences of my life and so I came back many times as I was staying not that far away.
It feels curious to review it but a shame to say nothing at all.
Written 1 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Avmar
Miami, FL3 contributions
Is there wi-fi at the western wall in Jerusalem?
Is there wi-fi service at the egalitarian section of the western wall?
DrJazz123
Montreal, Canada22 contributions
How do I book a guided tour of the Western Wall and the underground tunnels ?
David G
Gedera, Israel1,413 contributions
Educated guess - Ask the hotel that you are staying at for recommendations - e-mail them in advance , OR there is a ministry of tourism office 20 meters inside from the Jaffa gate ( of the old city ) , where you can ask in person for details etc
Massimo Valentino
Gorgonzola, Italy1 contribution
Hi. How much time is recommended to plan for a good visit to the Western Wall?
Maurisans
Este, Italy47 contributions
Se non ci sono particolari ricorrenze religiose non molto, 15-20 minuti. L'ingresso è controllato con varchi con metal detector e militari, e può capitare che si faccia un pò di coda.
nanon74
Lyon, France119 contributions
Pour voir le Kotel, les femmes doivent porter un foulard sur la tête comment doit être ce foulard
?
Mss
Paris, France16 contributions
c'est surtout par respect pour le lieu et pour les femmes religieuses qui fréquentent le kotel et y prient. même s'il n'existe pas une "loi" ou une obligation impérieuse qui y contraint.
tucsonfolks
Fountain Hills, AZ212 contributions
will be staying at inbal Jerusalem. want to go to Friday night sabbath at the western wall .
so do people walk to this?? is it safe for two older ladies to walk to this?
(have no sense of geography in Jerusalem yet.)
thank you so much!
judy in az
guybeau2016
Athens, Greece159 contributions
Yes. Keep in mind that women and men are separated.
Somasundaram G
Johannesburg, South Africa14 contributions
Hi ,
I am Tamil ( Hindu) from India, can i touch the wall and pray ?
Vasant Sanzgiri
Mumbai, India195 contributions
Yes you can. There are no restrictions
Aspergillius
Carlsbad, CA
Is there wifi and mobile phone reception at the wall?
Vasant Sanzgiri
Mumbai, India195 contributions
I am not sure about wifi but the signal on the mobile phone is good.
Aspergillius
Carlsbad, CA
Is there wifi available at the wall?
Pmussert
18 contributions
No you should use your own cell
Juju
New York City, NY1 contribution
Good Morning!
Thank you guys for the previous input regarding my trip in January to Israel-Jordan and Egypt.
I was wondering if anyone can indicate a tour from Jerusalem to Bethlehem all day tour that it’s not a rush kind the tour and also a all day tour to the Red Sea and Masada, all the tours that I’ve been checking seems a little on the rush side .
Thank you again .
Zickles
Brisbane, Australia46 contributions
Sorry, I just saw your question now. If you still need help let me know.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Western Wall
- Hotels near Western Wall:
- (0.06 km) Chain Gate Hostel
- (0.19 km) Appartement Penthouse David
- (0.19 km) Abrahams Tent Jewish Hostel
- (0.19 km) Litov Kotel Hotel - A Jewish Orthodox Hotel
- (0.42 km) Ecce Homo Convent
- Restaurants near Western Wall:
- (0.21 km) The Quarter Cafe
- (0.12 km) Simcha Hall at the Kotel
- (0.41 km) Bassem’s Gallery & Cafe
- (0.29 km) Holy Cafe
- (0.38 km) Abu Shukri
- Attractions near Western Wall:
- (0.01 km) Chabad Of The Western Wall
- (0.01 km) Believeland Tours
- (0.06 km) America Israel Tours
- (0.14 km) Elinor - Guida turistica in Israele
- (0.08 km) The Western Wall Tunnels