Winter in Jerusalem: Weather, Things To Do + Travel Tips (2026)

Winter in Jerusalem, Israel: If you’re wondering what it’s like, weather, things to do, what to wear, travel tips and more, you’ve come to the right place!

Jerusalem in Winter is different from the rest of the year, from the weather to the holidays and festivals. While it’s cheaper to visit in Winter generally, the holidays can be more expensive and crowded. This guide will explain all the details so you can know what Jerusalem is like in Wintertime!

Why listen to me about the best time to visit Jerusalem? I lived in Israel for nearly 2 years. I also visit a lot, and have traveled all over Israel. I also worked at a TLV hostel and experienced Israel’s tourism first-hand!

Note: Always double-check dates, times and prices, as they are subject to change. Also check events as they may change during this time as well.

Winter In Jerusalem: Dates & Weather

❄️ Sun, Dec 21, 2025 – Fri, Mar 20, 2026 ❄️

Winter in Jerusalem is from December-early March, and is typically rainy and cold with occasional snow. The entire rainy season in Jerusalem lasts from October through April (summers are dry), and it snows every few years in Jerusalem on average.

Jerusalem is colder and less humid than Tel Aviv due to its elevation (809m above sea level), and this time of year is also cheaper to visit for tourists as its the slow season – but there’s still plenty to do!

👉 Read on for all the weather averages and details, pros and cons of Jerusalem in Winter, holidays and festivals, the best things to do in Jerusalem in the Winter, places to stay and more travel tips!

Weather Averages in Jerusalem for the entire Winter Season

Jerusalem Winter Temperature

Low 43°F/6°C, High 57°F/14°C

During the winter in Jerusalem, temperatures do occasionally drop below freezing but not too often or for too long. While the temperature itself might not seem that cold, the rain, wind and cloud cover can make it feel much colder.

More facts about Jerusalem weather in Winter

• Shortest day: December 21

• Longest day: January 1

• Daylight Savings in Jerusalem: Fri, Mar 27, 2026 – Sun, Oct 25, 2026

• January is the wettest and most humid month, with humidity reaching 62%

• Winter is the windiest season in Jerusalem with maximum wind gusts of 16.3km/hr or 10.1 mi/hr

Weather Averages in Jerusalem for December

Dec Avg Temperature	Low 46°F/8°C High 59°F/15°C (53°F/12°C and 57°F/14°C daytime & /43°F6°C and 46°F/8°C nighttime)
Dec Avg Rainfall	6 days of rain

Weather Averages in Jerusalem for January

Jan Avg Temperature	Low 41°F/5°C High 52°F/11°C
Jan Avg Rainfall	13 days of rain

Weather Averages in Jerusalem for February

Feb Avg Temperature	Low 43°F/6°C High 55°F/13°C
Feb Avg Rainfall	6 days of rain

Weather Averages in Jerusalem for March

March Avg Temperature	Low °F/°C, High °F/°C
March Avg Rainfall	6 days of rain

Winter in Jerusalem: Pros & Cons

Pros of Jerusalem in Winter

✔️ Cheapest time to travel

✔️ Winter holidays, especially Chanukkah, Purim and Christmas

✔️ The cooler weather

✔️ Mt Hermon, in Northern Israel has skiing, which you can only do during Wintertime

Cons of Jerusalem in Winter

✔️ Rain and some possibility of freezing rain and snow

✔️ Cold weather

✔️ Extreme flash flooding in certain areas of Southern Israel (including places like Red Canyon and Ein Gedi) which can be very dangerous (don’t go hiking in these areas)

Wondering if it’s safe to visit Jerusalem right now? Read more here!

Winter in Jerusalem: Holidays + Related Events

🇮🇱 Tips: The Jewish calendar is lunar, meaning Jewish holiday dates vary by year. Some of the holidays listed may technically occur in spring of this year, but they sometimes happen in Winter because of this.

The holidays can be a great reason to visit Jerusalem, but they can also be more crowded and expensive, so plan accordingly and in advance!

Chanukkah

Date: Typically in December (Evening of Fri, Dec 4, 2026 – Sat, Dec 12, 2026)

Description: Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, celebrates the miracle of the oil in the Jewish temple during the Maccabean Revolt. It is observed by lighting the Hanukkiah (9-branched Menorah), eating fried foods, and more.

Celebrations & Observances: On Chanukkah in Israel, things stay open (unlike other holidays). Attend a Menorah lighting event and all the latkes and sufganiyot (jelly donuts) you can eat!

Things to do in Winter in Jerusalem: Chanukkah

• Daily FREE menorah lighting ceremony at the Kotel (Western Wall)

• Events at the Israel Museum, including a one-night only Hanukkah Evening, called A Museum in a Different Light

• Special Hanukkah guided tours at Yad Vashem

• Ein Yael at the archaeological site (reservations required) has experiential Hanukkah tours and a Hanukkah Festival with olive oil pressing, candle-making, archery, and more. Tours every 45 minutes from 9am-12 noon, 35NIS per person

• The Herzl Museum hosts a menorah lighting every night of Hanukkah with a visit of the museum included

• Beit Avi Chai Cultural Center has a theater show and more for children

• The Bloomfield Science Museum has special activities for the family for Chanukkah

• Special Hanukkah tour at the National Library of Israel

• Chanukalaim Festival in the Old City

• Underwater Experience for Hanukkah at the Israel Aquarium

• The Old Yishuv Court Museum has special events & tours for Hanukkah

• The Hebrew Music Museum Jerusalem has special Hanukkah activities

• The Biblical Lands Museum has special Hanukkah tours

• Hanukkah Events at the First Station Complex

• The U. Nahon Museum of Italian Jewish Art has special Chanukkah displays, a game for families, a workshop for kids, and free holiday tour days at noon: Dec 15-25

• The Hasmonean Experience at The Roman Town Square (30-35NIS)

• The Tower of David Hanukkah activities and events

• ‘Oliver!’ by Beit Hillel (English-language production) at Hebrew University’s Mount Scopus campus: 100NIS per person (reserved seating)

• Al HaNissim Interactive Pop-Up Exhibition with Instagram-worthy and interactive displays with the theme of everyday miracles, in the Artists’ Colony: 50NIS per person (discounts for groups)

Christmas

Date: December 25th

Description: Christmas is celebrated by Christians in Jerusalem and around the world to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Many Christian denominations have special church services and processions.

Celebrations & Observances: For Christmas in Jerusalem, the Old City’s Christian and Armenian Quarters are decorated and it’s a great time to visit and walk the Via Dolorosa. There are Christamas services, concerts and more events as well.

Things to do in Winter in Jerusalem: Christmas

• Christmas services at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Pontifical Institute, Jerusalem YMCA and more places

• YMCA Christmas Market around a Christmas tree

• Christmas Concert at the YMCA: Performances by over 80 singers and musicians including the Jerusalem Street Orchestra, Oratorio Jerusalem Choir, the Jerusalem Youth Choir & the YMCA Academy Orchestra

• Christian Quarter Christmas Market with Winter Food Fair, decorations, gifts, live entertainment, tours and more: 30NIS per person (tours and concerts – free parking in Safra Square lot from 7pm)

• Christmas Day in the Christian Quarter on the Tower of David’s English tour with holiday history, shopping, Santa Claus, Christmas trees, food and more (reservations required): 80NIS includes tastings (not kosher)

• Winter Lights Festival at the Botanical Gardens: Light displays designed by lighting artist Gil Teichman and his team: Adults 50NIS, Children (5-12) & soldiers 35NIS (Free for members of the garden)

Tu b’Shvat (New Year of Trees)

Date: January (Evening of Sun, Feb 1, 2026 – Mon, Feb 2, 2026)

Description: Also called Chag Ha’ilanot, the Festival of Trees and Chag Haperot, the Festival of Fruit, Tu b’Shvat is a celebration of the time in winter when plants start to show themselves. The Garden of Eden in the Creation story is cited a lot with the reminder that humans are meant to take care of the earth.

Celebrations & Observances: In Israel, many people have Tu b’Shvat Seders. While this isn’t commanded in the Torah, it’s been going on since the 1500s when it began in Safed, Israel. The Seder is modeled after Passover. Tree planting ceremonies are held in Jerusalem as well, especially by children.

Things to do in Winter in Jerusalem: Tu b’Shvat

• City Of David National Park – The Farm in the Valley FREE harvest festival, one day in February

• Tower of David Night Vision light show

• Ramat Rachel Kibbutz Tourism Complex, which has a hotel, farm, country club, spa and more, and they have a Tu Bishvat produce celebration with gifts including succulents, handmade natural liqueurs from ONA winery, local olive oil and honey from the Kibbutz, and more.

Shushan Purim

Date: Typically in February or March (Evening of Tue, Mar 3, 2026 – Wed, Mar 4, 2026)

Note: Shushan Purim in Jerusalem takes place one day later than the rest of Israel and the rest of the world!

You can easily participate in Purim celebrations in Tel Aviv the night before, then travel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem for Shushan Purim the next day!

Description: Purim celebrates the salvation of the Jewish people from attempted genocide in ancient Persia. It involves costumes, reading the Book of Esther, and sharing gifts and food with friends and neighbors and eating Hamantaschen!

Celebrations & Observances:

The Megillah will be read at synagogues and community centers throughout the city, there are street parties and other parties. Everyone wears elaborate costumes!

Things to do in Winter in Jerusalem for Purim:

• Shushan Purim at Safra Square: Free of charge, March 8th, 11am–2pm

• The Biblical Zoo has a carnival for families with children

• The Israel Aquarium has a Purim event

• The Israel Museum has a costume party with a DJ, food and drinks for additional charge, and more, with free entry into the archaeology wing until 11pm to get an exclusive preview of the “Dressed Forever” exhibition (adults only): March 2, 9pm 110NIS

• The Israel Museum also has a family-friendly Purim event with art workshops, storytelling, dance performances and more

• The City of David has a special Purim nighttime light show

• The Jerusalem Cinematheque has a Purim festival with film screenings, Green Screen area, makeup, and more activities for families

• The National Library of Israel, Givat Ram Campus has a special Purim tour with Esther Scrolls, a death mask, a Purim poem and more: March 2, 6pm, 20NIS (15NIS for senior citizens)

• The Mamilla Hotel’s Mirror Bar has a Noir-style Purim Party with specialty cocktails and more: March 6-7, 9pm, min. order of 100NIS per person

• The Herzl Museum has an event where you can dress up inspired by Herzl’s era and enter for free (with pre-registration): March 5-7

• Abraham Hostel Jerusalem has Purim events for guests only!

Ramadan

Date: Varies each year based on the Islamic lunar calendar (Evening of Tue, Feb 17, 2026 – Thu, Mar 19, 2026)

Description: Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and community.

Winter in Jerusalem: More Festivals & Events

• Jewish Film Festival (December)
• Jerusalem Jazz Festival (December)
• Shaon Horef Festival (February)
• International Book Fair (every other year in February)
• Jerusalem Marathon (March)

Map of things to do in Jerusalem

More Things to do in the Winter in Jerusalem, Israel: Tours & Day Trips

Tour the Old City

This Private Guided Tour in old city Jerusalem is a great way to see all four quarters of the old city, the Jaffa Gate, Hurva Synagogue, The Four Sephardic Synagogues, Al Masjid Al Aqsa and more sites!

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Jodie_L:
“Our guide could not have been better! She was so knowledgeable and attentive and made our experience perfect! I have been to Israel before, but she showed us things that were new to me and so interesting. Her English was perfect and she clearly knows her history!!! We feel so blessed that we had this amazing experience!”

🐪 Check out this Private Guided Tour in old city Jerusalem Here

A Holy Christmas in Jerusalem & Bethlehem with Dinner

A Holy Christmas in Jerusalem & Bethlehem with Dinner includes a tour of Jerusalem’s Old City and a trip to Bethlehem for a festive Christmas dinner and Midnight Mass at the local church.

🇮🇱 Learn More About A Holy Christmas in Jerusalem & Bethlehem with Dinner Here

Check out even more tour options to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv here.

Volunteer on an Archaeological Dig

In Jerusalem, you can participate in the Temple Mount Sifting Project throughout the year.

Most archaeological excavations take place in the summer in Israel, but Masada (in Southern Israel) is one that happens during the Winter because it genuinely gets too hot in the summer. I participated in this dig and I highly recommend it!

Skiing in Mt Hermon

Mt Hermon has the only ski resort in Israel! It’s a 3-hour drive from Jerusalem.

The Holiday of Holidays Festival in Haifa

You can take a day trip to Haifa for the Holiday of Holidays, which takes place during the weekends of December (Thurs-Sat). The fun events mark the tolerance and unity of the three religions, which Haifa is known for!

For even more things to do while you’re in Jerusalem at any time of year, check out my guide here.

If you want even more things to do and explanations on the Old City’s 4 Quarters, check out my complete guide here.

Where to stay in Jerusalem on any Budget

✅ Budget Option: Abraham Hostel Jerusalem

Abraham Hostel is arguably the best hostel in Jerusalem – and, it’s a chain with other locations around Israel! They also have a bar, game room, and events and more.

You can book a dorm, private room, double room or apartment.

🛏️ Check Availability at Abraham Hostel Jerusalem Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: Bezalel Hotel (an Atlas Boutique Hotel)

Bezalel Hotel is a newer, mid-tier hotel with excellent ratings. Just steps away from the Mahane Yehuda Market, the building is historic with amazing decor as well as breakfast and more amenities.

🛏️ Check Availability at Bezalel Hotel Here

✅ Luxury Option: The American Colony Hotel

The American Colony Hotel is the highest-rated Luxury Hotel in Jerusalem. It’s a boutique hotel in a historic building and has a pool, fitness center, bar, walking tours and much more.

🛏️ Check Availability at The American Colony Hotel Here

Winter in Jerusalem: FAQs

👉 How cold does it get in Jerusalem in the winter?

Daytime temperatures in Jerusalem during the winter months (December-February) typically range from around 50°F (10°C) to 60°F (15°C). However, there can be occasional cooler days where temperatures stay below 50°F (10°C).

Nighttime temperatures in Jerusalem tend to be cooler, ranging from 36°F (2°C) to 46°F (8°C). There can be occasional nights when temperatures drop below freezing, but this is relatively rare.

Jerusalem may also experience occasional rainfall during the winter months, so it’s advisable to bring appropriate clothing, including a jacket and rain gear, if you plan to visit during this time.

While it does get cold, especially in the evenings, it’s generally not as frigid as many other winter destinations, and snowfall is infrequent in the city, although it can happen on rare occasions.

👉 What is the coldest month in Jerusalem?

The coldest month in Jerusalem is typically January, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 57°F (14°C) and nighttime temperatures ranging from 36°F (2°C) to 44°F (7°C).

👉 What is Jerusalem like in the winter?

In the winter, Jerusalem has a cool and often damp climate with daytime temperatures averaging between 50°F (10°C) and 60°F (15°C), occasionally dropping to cooler temperatures at night. While snowfall is relatively rare, the city can experience occasional rainfall, and it takes on a picturesque charm as historic sites and the surrounding hills may be dusted with light snow when the weather permits.

Jerusalem comes alive in winter during the holidays, making it one of the best times to visit (though holidays are more crowded and expensive than the rest of winter, which is cheaper). Holidays include Hanukkah, Christmas, Purim, Tu Bishvat, and Ramadan.

👉 What is the coldest place in Israel?

The coldest place in Israel is usually Mount Hermon, located in the far north of the country. This mountain, which is part of the Anti-Lebanon mountain range, experiences cold temperatures and receives significant snowfall during the winter months, making it a popular destination for winter sports.

👉 What is the warmest city in Israel winter?

Eilat is the warmest city in Israel during the winter. Located at the southernmost tip of the country, along the shores of the Red Sea, Eilat enjoys a warm and pleasant wintertime climate with daytime temperatures often reaching into the 70s and even low 80s F (20-30°C), making it a popular winter destination for tourists seeking sunshine and mild weather.

👉 What is the warmest part of Israel?

The warmest part of Israel is typically the southernmost region, which includes the city of Eilat and the surrounding area. Eilat, located on the shores of the Red Sea, experiences extremely hot and dry desert temperatures during the summer months, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F (37°C) or higher. This area is known for its year-round warmth and is a popular destination for those seeking a hot and sunny climate.

👉 What is the best month to travel to Israel?

The best month to travel to Israel is typically April-May and October-November, but other times can be great, too – it depends on your preferences.

👉 How many days do you need in Jerusalem?

You’ll need at least 2-3 days in Jerusalem to see the major sites, but I recommend up to a week, if you have the time, to explore further and even do some day trips!

👉 What is the cheapest time to go to Israel?

The most budget-friendly period to travel to Israel is during the winter months, although it coincides with the rainy season.

If you’re looking for a balance between affordability and weather, consider the shoulder seasons of April-May and October-November, which offer reasonable prices compared to the peak summer tourist season, and you can still enjoy relatively pleasant weather.

Summer tends to be the most expensive time to visit, especially during major Jewish holidays, so plan accordingly to save on your trip.

👉 What is the rainiest month in Jerusalem?

In Jerusalem, Israel, January stands out as the wettest month of the year, with an average precipitation of approximately 1.8 inches. Additionally, there are occasional snowfall events during this month, adding to the city’s winter climate.

Travel Planning Tips for Visiting Jerusalem in the Winter Months

👉 Travel Resources

For flights, WayAway is a flight aggregator that helps you find the cheapest flights. Use the code MUKI-TRAVELS for 10% off WayAway Plus.

👉 If you rent a car, just be prepared, especially for driving in Jerusalem. You’ll need to be an aggressive driver. To rent a car in Israel, Discover Cars is a great tool to use.

👉 Use the apps Moovit (for public transporation) and Waze (for driving directions).

👉 Here’s what to pack for Jerusalem and Israel in Winter.

👉 Find more tips on things like travel insurance, what to pack, and more on my travel resources page.

All In All: Jerusalem In Wintertime

As winter descends upon Jerusalem, the city takes on a unique and enchanting character. With its mild daytime temperatures, occasional snowfall, and a sense of historical wonder in the air, visiting Jerusalem during this season promises a memorable and authentic experience, even though there will be some rain and cloudy days.

From the Old City’s timeless alleys to the beauty of modern Jerusalem draped in winter’s charm, there’s no better time to explore the rich tapestry of this ancient city. Whether you’re here for the religious significance, cultural heritage, or simply to savor the cozy atmosphere, winter in Jerusalem is an experience like no other.

Check out these posts for more info on Israel & Middle East travel

👉 Four Quarters In Jerusalem Old City: 29 Places To Visit (With Map + History)
👉 What To Pack For Israel In Winter (Dec-Feb)
👉 What To Pack For Israel In Spring (March-May)
👉 What To Pack For Israel In Summer (June-Sept)
👉 What To Pack For Israel In Fall (Oct-Nov)
👉 Is Jerusalem Worth Visiting? 26 Things To Do To Make Your Trip Worthwhile (with pros & cons)
👉 Is Israel Safe For Travel? Important Advice Amidst War
👉 8 Best Tours From Tel Aviv To Jerusalem To Check Out
👉 The 41 Best Photography Spots In Jerusalem with Map + Ideas
👉 Jerusalem to Galilee / Galilee to Jerusalem: All You Need To Know
👉 Tel Aviv to Jerusalem / Jerusalem to Tel Aviv: All You Need To Know
👉 Jerusalem to Egypt / Egypt to Jerusalem: All You Need To Know
👉 Jordan to Jerusalem / Jerusalem to Jordan: All You Need To Know
👉 Rome to Jerusalem / Jerusalem to Rome: All You Need To Know
👉 31+ Best Things To Do In Tel Aviv (With Map)
👉 The Best Time To Visit Tel Aviv
👉 Renting A Car In Tel Aviv: Everything You Need To Know
👉 Where To Stay In Tel Aviv: Best Places for Every Budget (Neighborhoods, Hotels + More)
👉 The 20 best day trips from Tel Aviv
👉 Is Tel Aviv Worth Visiting? 18 Ways To Make Your Trip Worthwhile (+ Pros & Cons)
👉 Is Haifa Worth Visiting? 38 Ways To Make Your Trip Worthwhile (+ Pros & Cons)
👉 Israel Archaeology: Volunteer On An Excavation
👉 Israel Archaeology List: learn about famous sites
👉 Israel & Palestine, and the Conflict: A Beginner’s Guide (History, Maps & Resources)
👉 The 17 Best Israel Souvenirs
👉 Top 25 Biblical Sites In Israel
👉 Captivating Scenes: A Photo Journey Through Historic Jerusalem
👉 10+ Unique and Captivating Photos of Tel Aviv, Israel

👉 Also check out this post on Cairo (or this one) for more Middle East travel!
👉 For more International Travel guides, check out this page.