Why visit
Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. A practical starting point for museums, food, and onward routes into the country.
Israel at a glance
Country center
31.5°, 35.1°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
20,770 km²
8,019 mi²
Country population
9.8 million
470/km²
Subregion
Western Asia
Currency
Israeli new shekel (₪)
ILS
Dial
+972
Languages
Arabic, Hebrew
Demonym
Israeli
Internet
.il
UN
Member state
ISO code
IL / ISR
Where in the world
31.5° · 35.1°
Israel
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Did you know
- Tel Aviv has more vegan restaurants per capita than any other city in the world.
- The Bahá'í Gardens in Haifa are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most-visited places in Israel.
- Israel is the only country in the world with more trees at the end of the 20th century than at the beginning.
Bordering Israel
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Jerusalem
What currency is used in Jerusalem?
Jerusalem uses the Israeli new shekel (₪), ISO code ILS.
What languages are spoken in Israel?
The primary languages are Arabic and Hebrew.
What is the international calling code for Israel?
The calling code is +972.
Other Asia destinations
Jaipur
Jaipur is the Pink City. Hawa Mahal's facade, Amber Fort on the hill, City Palace, and Rajasthani textile bazaars that anchor Golden Triangle trips.
Mumbai
Mumbai is India's financial and film capital. Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, Dhobi Ghat's outdoor laundry, Colaba's colonial streets, and Bollywood studios.
Varanasi
Varanasi is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Ganges-side ghats, dawn boat rides, evening aarti ceremonies, and Buddhist Sarnath nearby.
Pokhara
Pokhara is lakeside with Machapuchare rising behind. The Annapurna trek hub, paragliding capital, and quieter alternative to Kathmandu.
Dubai
Dubai is Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab skyline, Dubai Mall + Dubai Fountain, the Gold Souk, Jumeirah beach resorts, and desert safaris 40 minutes out.
Petra
Petra is the Rose City carved into sandstone. The Treasury (from Indiana Jones), the Monastery at the top of 800 steps, and the High Place of Sacrifice.