Old City Markets

Jerusalem

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DESTINATIONS israel jerusalem Shopping Old City Markets

Old City Markets

The Old City teems with stalls and vendors selling a wide array of typical items: religious items such as rosaries and crucifixes, nativity sets and Christmas decorations, wood-carved chess, semi-precious stones and much more. The restored Cardo used to be the city's main street during Roman times, and today its stalls sell souvenirs and Judaica ceremonial art; you will also find jewellery and artwork, well-made but often high-priced. The Jewish Quarter is filled with bronze menorahs, kippahs and other traditional craftwork.

Shopping

Typical art, craftwork and souvenirs can be found in the touristic areas of the Old City and the Mahane Yehuda Market, as well as the Downtown triangle — especially Ben Yehuda Street. Look for clothing, jewellery, local pottery (the Armenian tradition is particularly beautiful), Palestinian embroidery, and so on. Of course, there's plenty of religious craft work from different faiths: along with crucifixes and nativities, you'll find menorahs (typical seven-branched Hebrew lamps), mezuzahs (parchments with verses from the Torah), and Judaica (Jewish ceremonial art). Nearby King David Street hosts a plethora of art galleries exhibiting works by local talents, many of which graduated from Jerusalem's Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design. The Hutzot Hayotzer Artists Colony is another good spot for visual artwork. Those into fashion should head to Bezalel Street and Shatz Street, where they will find the best of Israeli design and international galleries. The Mamilla Avenue, between the Old City and the Downtown area, is a well-furnished shopping centre. Prices can vary from shop to shop and, since most sellers don't accept returns, it's better to compare prices before buying an item. Bargaining — in a polite way — is a common practice at most tourist shops.

Old City Markets

Old City Markets

The Old City teems with stalls and vendors selling a wide array of typical items: religious items such as rosaries and crucifixes, nativity sets and Christmas decorations, wood-carved chess, semi-precious stones and much more. The restored Cardo used to be the city's main street during Roman times, and today its stalls sell souvenirs and Judaica …

Alrov Mamilla Avenue

Alrov Mamilla Avenue

This big, fancy open air shopping mall is located close to the Old City, and offers a huge range of stores — from locally owned boutiques and Israeli design to high end fashion brands and affordable stores like Zara and Mango. The street is full of street artists, painters and musicians, and there's plenty …

Hutzot Hayotzer Artists Colony

Hutzot Hayotzer Artists Colony

Established in 1967, this lane hosts more than 20 art shops: come for a variety of handmade craft products, including jewellery, metal art, paintings, sculptures, photography, and pottery. You can meet the creators in a lively environment, and find both traditional and modern items. The Collective is found near the Mamilla Mall and on …

Baltinester Bros. Jewelry

Baltinester Bros. Jewelry

For an unique, luxury souvenir of your trip, visit one of the most loved jewellery shops in Jerusalem. Baltinester Bros. have been working since 1949: they create custom pieces of jewellery, greeting every customer with friendly and knowledgeable service. They also sell …

Ophir

Don't miss a visit to Ophir: open since 1956, this shop is an institution. Their jewellery is hand-crafted and draws inspiration from the European Victorian and Art Deco eras, as well as from Middle Eastern tradition. The collection of antiques is curious, unusual and well-selected. Prices are high, but …

Sunbula

Traditional Palestinian embroidery bristles with bright colours and fascinating motives: shop the best pieces at Sunbula, a non-profit fair trade organisation that sells a wide range of beautiful craft products. Here you will find rugs, pillowcases, tablecloths, napkins and gift ideas, and you'll be able to order pieces of clothing. Come for an ethical …

Dorin Frankfurt

Dorin Frankfurt

An Israeli fashion brand with a well-defined vision and personality, Dorin Frankfurt radiates classic, effortless elegance. The collections include ready-to-wear clothing, handbags, and shoes. The garments are manufactured in an ecological open-space factory. Extra care is dedicated to choosing quality fabrics and achieving perfect …

Naama Bezalel

This Jerusarem-born fashion designer has made a name for herself thanks to her retro inspired aesthetic, reinterpreted in a nostalgic and romantic style. With an eye for sustainability and a focus on comfortable and flattering cuts, Naama's collections are charming and diverse. For affordable prices, check the nearby outlet, across the …

Sofia

Another interesting spot for fashion lovers, this stylish gallery boasts a carefully selected collection of clothing and accessories from local brands. Quality materials and exciting design are showcased in a tastefully decorated interior, and the staff is ready to give help and …

Bassem Gallery & Cafe

Bassem Gallery & Cafe

While visiting the Via Dolorosa, in the Old City, stopping at Bassem's is recommended. Its interiors are a burst of red and golden Middle-Eastern decor, and every corner is full of interesting items to buy. While enjoying the coffee and music, take a look at the books and ask for some tips to the …

Holzer Books

Every available shelf at Holzer Books is packed with volumes, both new and second hand: this atmospheric bookshop near the Old City has an impressive selection of texts in Hebrew, English, and more languages. Cultural events, talks and laboratories are frequently held in the cosy reading area …