Imagine stepping into a world where ancient history and vibrant nightlife blend seamlessly. That’s exactly what you’ll find when exploring the bars in Jerusalem’s Old City. Here, stone walls whisper stories of the past, while lively music and laughter fill the air.
Often overlooked by tourists, Jerusalem’s nightlife is as captivating as its day-time attractions. From cozy wine bars tucked away in narrow alleys to rooftop lounges offering panoramic views of the city, there’s something for everyone. So let’s dive in, and discover the hidden gems of Jerusalem’s nightlife together.
Overview of Jerusalem’s Old City Nightlife
Immersed in millennial history, Jerusalem’s Old City has a unique appeal that extends well into the evening hours. Bars and lounges hidden within its labyrinthine streets create an exclusive nocturnal atmosphere. The nightlife here is an underexplored treasure trove waiting to catch the visitor’s attention.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Jerusalem’s Old City nightlife is not just about drinks and great views. Each bar, tucked behind the stone walls, echoes centuries of history and countless cultural influences. Being in them, one gets a special feeling — of being enveloped in heritage while simultaneously savoring modern amusements.
For instance, at the Cave Bar of the Hotel Beit Shmuel, you can sip world-class wines in an actual cave that dates back over 2000 years. Its stone arches and dim lighting make it feel like you’re stepping back in time.
Unique Atmosphere After Dark
Once the sun sets, Jerusalem’s Old City transforms. The hustle of daytime tourists is replaced by twinkling stars and mellow lights from the cozy bars dotting its narrow alleys.
The Rooftop Lounge at the Mamilla Hotel offers an exceptional example of this transformation. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the illuminated city walls against the dark sky— a sight only accentuated by the soothing live music and excellent cocktails.
In all, Jerusalem’s Old City at night offers an unmatchable combination: drinking in ancient settings with the modern thrill of nightlife. A potent blend of the old and new, it is a unique experience that should not be missed.
Types of Bars in the Old City
Delving deeper into the after-dark side of Jerusalem’s Old City, we’ll unearth the heart of its bar scene. Spanning from craft beer spots to wine bars, and all the way to cocktail lounges and themed pubs, the bars in the Old City impressively cater to varied tastes.
Craft Beer Spots
Quenching your thirst for artisanal brews, the craft beer spots in the Old City offer unique flavors in each pint. For instance, BeerBazaar, located in the heart of the city, houses more than 100 local Israeli craft beers, each with its distinct taste and story. Whereas, Biratenu, another popular spot, is not just a bar but a boutique microbrewery. There, you’ll get the chance to experience Israeli beer culture firsthand, and maybe even catch a brewing session!
Wine Bars with Local and International Choices
Should a glass of wine be more to your inclination, an array of wine bars with local and international choices have you covered. Take the Wine Bar in the Mamilla Hotel, with a vast selection of wines hailing from Israel’s best vineyards as well as prominent wine regions globally. Then there’s the renowned Tmol Shilshom, aside from being a famed literary cafe, it houses a diverse assortment of delightful wines.
Cocktail Lounges and Themed Pubs
In contrast, if you’re looking for something a bit more upbeat, cocktail lounges and themed pubs stand out as a dynamic part of the Old City’s nightlife. For instance, Hashchena with its ’60s-’70s ambiance or the cosy Gatsby Cocktail Room with its Roaring ’20s theme. Don’t bypass the Western saloon-inspired The Barrel Pub, either. Each delivers their own twist on the city’s history, creating a nightlife experience that’s as vast and varied as the Old City’s past.
In short, the Old City’s bars display a wonderful blend of the old and new, crafting a nightlife scene that’s as enticing as it’s unique. One could argue that the real charm of Jerusalem uncovers itself once the sun sets, and the city’s bars light up, each offering a different historical tale with every drink.
Popular Bars to Visit in Jerusalem’s Old City
Getting into the festive spirit, I’m about to enumerate some incredible bars dotted around in Jerusalem’s Old City.
Must-Visit Historical Bars
Start your nightlife exploration at these historical bars which breathed life into Jerusalem’s nightlife. The “American Colony’s The Cellar,” stands as the oldest of them all, narrating tales from a century back. Decades old “Imperial Craft Cocktail Bar” serves exotic reimagined cocktails inside a charmingly furnished century-old room.
Trendy Spots for Young Crowds
Appealing to the lively young crowds, bars like “BeerBazaar Jerusalem” and the “Gatsby Cocktail Room”, offer a dynamic and energetic atmosphere. The former, BeerBazaar, with around 100 kinds of local craft beer, often hosts live music. Gatsby, on the other hand, crafts avant-garde cocktails in a luxe, 1920s-themed setting.
Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Locales
Venturing off the beaten track pays dividends with spots like “HaSchena Bar” and “Hansen House”. HaSchena, an enchanting venue, doubles as an art and cultural center by day. The Hansen House bar, resting in Jerusalem’s first leprosy asylum, offers artisan beer amidst an artful, tranquil ambiance.
Tips for Enjoying Nightlife Safely in the Old City
Best Times to Go Out
The crux of experiencing Jerusalem’s nightlife lies not only in where you go, but also in when you decide to set foot outside. It’s common knowledge that bars and pubs attract the most crowd between 9 PM to 1 AM. But in the Old City of Jerusalem, the atmosphere varies with business hours, public holidays, and special events. For a conventional night out, Thursdays and Saturdays buzz with maximum activity, as locals and tourists alike flock to the bars. During religious holidays, based on the bar’s location and significance, the timings may experience a shift. Festivals such as Purim and Sukkot drastically change the nightlife scene, transforming even the most serene bars into lively hubs.
Safety Tips for Tourists
Navigating through the Old City’s labyrinthine streets after sundown calls for a set of precautionary measures. Here are some safety tips worth remembering:
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: The winding lanes and alleys of the Old City exude historic aura but can be tricky to navigate, especially at night. Keep a map handy. A GPS-enabled device can be a lifesaver if you’re venturing off the beaten path.
- Travel in Groups: There’s truth in the adage, “there’s safety in numbers.” If possible, keep evening bar-hops to a group activity.
- Keep an Eye on Your Belongings: While enjoying your night out, remember to keep your belongings close. Avoid leaving your wallet, phone, or drinks unattended.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: Over-indulging can impair judgment, making you vulnerable. It’s crucial to know your limits and adhere to them.
Remember, an enjoyable night in the Old City hinges on balancing revelry with responsibility. Enjoy the city’s vibrant, unique nightlife, but also prioritize safety, ensuring your memories of Jerusalem remain pleasant.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Jerusalem’s Old City is not just about ancient history and religious sites. It’s a place where you can also enjoy a vibrant nightlife, from historical bars like The Cellar to trendy spots like BeerBazaar Jerusalem. Don’t forget those hidden gems like HaSchena Bar that add an extra layer of charm to the city. Remember, the best nights to head out are usually Thursdays and Saturdays, but always check for special events and holidays.
And I can’t stress this enough: safety first, folks! Keep your wits about you, stick with your group, and don’t overdo the alcohol. That way, you’ll have a memorable night out in this extraordinary city. So, next time you’re in Jerusalem, why not give its nightlife a whirl? I promise, it’s worth it!
