Archaeological site · Silwan, Jerusalem

City of David

City of David
Photo: Ricardo Tulio Gandelman from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

The site covers the oldest part of Jerusalem, on a ridge sloping toward the Kidron Valley. You can wade through Hezekiah's Tunnel, a water channel thought to date to around 700 BC. It sits within the Palestinian neighbourhood of Silwan, and its management is politically contested.

Updated November 8, 2026On day 1 of Jerusalem in 3 Days

Visiting City of David: what to know

Tickets
Paid; book online, check current prices
Time needed
2.5 to 3 hours
Best time
Afternoon on a weekday
Getting there
Short walk from the Dung Gate

Jerusalem itineraries with City of David

Day 1 of Jerusalem in 3 Days

Temple Mount and David

How City of David fits into a day.
  1. 7:00Temple MountOld City
  2. 10:00Mount of OlivesEast Jerusalem
  3. 11:30Garden of GethsemaneKidron Valley
  4. 13:00Lunch near Jaffa GateMamilla
  5. 14:30City of DavidSilwan
See all 3 days
Advertisement
Ad space · 728 × 90

City of David FAQs

Do I get wet in Hezekiah's Tunnel?

Yes, water can reach knee height. Bring water shoes and a torch.

Is there a dry route?

Yes, a dry Canaanite tunnel is an alternative.

Should I book ahead?

Yes, especially for guided tours.

More places on this trip