Areas and neighborhoods to avoid in Jerusalem and the safest places to stay

As a city sacred to three monotheistic religions, Jerusalem attracts millions of visitors each year.

However, with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, some neighborhoods in Jerusalem are unfortunately experiencing higher than average levels of crime.

As a traveler, it is important to know these risk areas in order to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety during your stay.

In this article, I will guide you through the different neighborhoods of Jerusalem, telling you which ones to avoid but also the list of the safest neighborhoods to stay in the holy city.

Is it dangerous to go to Jerusalem right now?

Yes, according to many governments such as that of France, Canada or the United States, it is not advisable to go to Israel and therefore to Jerusalem either.

Reminder of the recommendations given by France Diplomacy to travelers to Israel:

“Faced with the risks of military escalation in the Middle East, it remains formally recommended to French nationals, except for imperative reasons, not to travel to Israel and the Palestinian Territories, including for tourist and family visits. »

However, the crime rate in Jerusalem is relatively low. According to statistics, the overall crime index in Israel is 36.99, which is considered quite low. In comparison on Numbeo.com, Jerusalem is less criminal than Istanbul, ou Athens.

In fact, the risk for tourists going to Jerusalem is linked to terrorism, political and religious tensions and territorial conflicts.

Dangerous areas around Jerusalem

The border regions around Jerusalem present significant risks:

Border with Gaza: This area is particularly dangerous due to frequent tensions and clashes.
Golan Heights: The border with Syria in the Golan Heights is unstable and cross-border shooting can occur without warning.
Border with Lebanon: This region is also considered high risk.
West Bank: The situation in the West Bank, which surrounds Jerusalem, remains unpredictable and tense. Violent clashes between Israeli settlers, Palestinians and Israeli security forces are frequent there.

Neighborhoods to avoid in Jerusalem

If you still have to stay in Jerusalem, here is the list of neighborhoods in Jerusalem that are strongly recommended to avoid due to their insecurity:

Shuafat
Silwan
Muslim quarters of the Old City
Valley of Jehoshaphat
Mea Shearim
Geula

It is important to note that the security situation can change quickly in Jerusalem. I therefore recommend that you check with local and national authorities before your visit for the latest information on areas to avoid.

Areas to Avoid in the Old City of Jerusalem

The Old City of Jerusalem is a complex place that requires some caution when visiting, due to the political and religious tensions there.

Certain areas of the old town are considered more sensitive:

The Mosque/Temple Mount plaza is a particularly delicate area, especially during periods of religious holidays or heightened tensions.
Palestinian neighborhoods like Silwan, At-Tour and Ras al-Amoud regularly experience incidents.
The areas surrounding the holy places of different religions can be the scene of friction, particularly on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at the end of the day during prayers.

Tips for tourists to minimize risks

Here are some tips for enjoying your visit to Jerusalem while limiting the risks:

Stay vigilant in public places, especially during celebrations and religious holidays.
Keep your personal belongings safe and avoid showing off your wealth.
Travel in groups and dress conservatively, especially in the old town.
Avoid the neighborhoods listed above.
Keep up to date with local news and follow the advice of the authorities.

Safer neighborhoods to stay in the city

Although some neighborhoods in Jerusalem are high risk, the city also has safer areas to stay:

The Ville Nouvelle : Neighborhoods like Rehavia, Talpiot and Baka are generally considered safer and more welcoming to visitors.
Mount of Olives : Offering breathtaking views of the Old City, the Mount of Olives is a peaceful and secure place.
West Jerusalem notably the Nachlaot, Yemin Moshe and Mishkenot Sha'ananim neighborhoods.

Which hotel to stay in a safe place?

Here are 2 hotels located in areas deemed safer where visitors can stay:

King Solomon Hotel (Cassia Hotel Jerusalem): Located in West Jerusalem near the lively Yemin Moshe neighborhood, this hotel offers an excellent location in the heart of nightlife while remaining within walking distance of the Old City.

See this hotel on Booking

Herbert Samuel Jerusalem : This 5-star hotel is located in the modern city center, close to restaurants, shops and public transport. Just 800 m from the old town, the location is ideal for a luxurious stay in a lively area.