Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Jerusalem
Experience authentic local culture on a shoestring budget with hostels, street food, and public transport
Daily Budget: $43-117 per day
Complete breakdown of costs for budget/backpacker travel in Jerusalem
Accommodation
$20-45 per night
Dorm beds in hostels, basic guesthouses, shared facilities, budget neighborhoods
Food & Dining
$15-35 per day
Street food, local markets, falafel stands, self-catering, bakeries, casual eateries
Transportation
$3-12 per day
Public buses, walking, occasional shared taxis, city light rail
Activities
$5-25 per day
Free walking tours, religious sites, public viewpoints, markets, some paid museums
Currency: ₪ Israeli New Shekel (ILS) - approximately 3.7 ILS = $1 USD, though exchange rates fluctuate
Money-Saving Tips
Eat at local markets and Arab Quarter establishments instead of tourist zones (typically 40-60% cheaper)
Use public buses and light rail instead of taxis for 70-80% savings on transportation
Visit free religious sites and viewpoints rather than paid attractions (save $20-40 daily)
Stay in neighborhoods like German Colony or Nachlaot rather than Old City hotels (typically 30-50% less)
Buy groceries and prepare some meals if accommodation has kitchen facilities (reduce food costs by 50%)
Book accommodation 2-3 months in advance for 20-35% discounts
Travel during shoulder seasons for 25-40% savings on hotels and tours
Common Budget Mistakes to Avoid
Taking taxis everywhere instead of using excellent public transport system (costs 4-5x more)
Eating only in tourist areas around major sites (typically 100-150% markup over local neighborhoods)
Booking last-minute accommodation during religious holidays (can cost 200-300% more than advance booking)
Not researching free religious and cultural sites (many significant attractions cost nothing to visit)