Israel is home to some of the holiest sites in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and millions of pilgrims and visitors come each year to connect with these sacred places. Showing respect through your dress, behavior, and awareness of local customs is not just polite but essential to having a meaningful experience. This guide covers the etiquette you need to know for the most visited religious sites in Israel.
General Guidelines for All Holy Sites
Regardless of the specific site or faith tradition, several universal principles apply.
Dress Modestly
Modest dress is required at virtually all holy sites in Israel. The specific standards may vary, but as a general rule:
- Shoulders must be covered: No tank tops, sleeveless shirts, or spaghetti straps
- Knees must be covered: Wear long pants, a long skirt, or a dress that falls below the knee
- Avoid tight or revealing clothing: Loose, comfortable clothing is preferable
- Footwear: Some sites require removing shoes; others require closed-toe shoes. Check in advance
Carry a lightweight scarf or shawl that you can drape over your shoulders or wrap around your waist as a makeshift skirt. This simple accessory solves most dress code issues on the spot.
Behave Respectfully
- Keep your voice low and avoid loud conversations
- Turn off or silence your phone
- Follow posted rules about photography (many sites prohibit flash; some ban photography entirely during services)
- Do not eat or drink inside sacred spaces
- Follow directional signs and do not enter restricted areas
- Be patient and wait your turn at popular spots
Jewish Holy Sites
The Western Wall (Kotel)
The Western Wall in Jerusalem is the holiest site where Jews are permitted to pray. It is divided into separate men’s and women’s sections.
- Men: Must wear a head covering. Free kippot (skullcaps) are available at the entrance if you do not have one.
- Women: Modest dress is required but head covering is not mandatory (though some women choose to cover their heads).
- Approaching the wall: Walk forward respectfully. Many people pray, cry, or place written prayers into the crevices between the stones. You are welcome to do the same or simply stand quietly.
- Leaving the wall: It is customary to walk backward when departing the wall rather than turning your back to it.
- Shabbat and holidays: Photography and use of electronic devices are not permitted in the prayer area during Shabbat and Jewish holidays.
Synagogues
If you visit an active synagogue, men should wear a kippah and may be offered a tallit (prayer shawl). Women typically sit in a separate section. Do not enter during services unless you intend to be a respectful observer or participant. Turn off your phone and avoid talking.
Christian Holy Sites
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Located in Jerusalem’s Old City, this is considered the holiest site in Christianity, believed to contain both the site of Jesus’s crucifixion and his tomb.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered
- Photography is generally permitted but use discretion and never use flash
- The church is shared among several Christian denominations, each controlling specific areas. Respect roped-off sections and do not interfere with ongoing services
- Expect crowds and be patient, especially at the Edicule (the tomb structure) where wait times can be significant
- Remove hats (for men) when entering the church
Church of the Nativity (Bethlehem)
- Similar dress codes apply as at other churches
- The entrance is intentionally low (called the Door of Humility), requiring visitors to bow to enter
- The Grotto of the Nativity beneath the church is a small space with limited capacity, so be prepared to wait
Church of the Annunciation (Nazareth)
- Modest dress required
- The church features two levels; the lower grotto is the most sacred area
- Respect any ongoing services and follow church guidelines
Islamic Holy Sites
The Temple Mount / Haram al-Sharif
The Temple Mount, known as Haram al-Sharif in Arabic, is home to the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque. It is one of the most sensitive sites in the world.
- Access for non-Muslims is limited: Non-Muslims may visit during specific hours (typically Sunday through Thursday, morning hours only) through the Mughrabi Gate near the Western Wall. Hours can change without notice.
- Dress very modestly: Both men and women must be fully covered. Long pants and long sleeves are required. Coverings may be provided if your clothing is deemed insufficient.
- Non-Muslims may not enter the mosques: You can walk the grounds but cannot enter the Dome of the Rock or Al-Aqsa Mosque.
- Do not bring religious items from other faiths: Bibles, prayer books, or religious symbols from other faiths should not be visibly displayed.
- No prayer or religious gestures: Non-Muslims are not permitted to pray or perform religious gestures on the Temple Mount.
- Photography: Check current rules, as restrictions can change. Avoid photographing worshippers without their permission.
Baha’i Holy Sites
Baha’i Gardens (Haifa)
The stunning terraced gardens on Mount Carmel are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Baha’i pilgrimage destination.
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
- Maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke in the gardens
- Stay on designated paths
- Photography of the gardens is permitted but not inside the Shrine of the Bab
Practical Tips for Holy Site Visits
- Visit early: Arrive at popular sites early in the morning for smaller crowds and a more contemplative atmosphere.
- Carry water: Many sites involve significant walking outdoors. Stay hydrated but consume water outside the sacred spaces.
- Guided tours: A knowledgeable guide can provide historical context and help you navigate etiquette requirements. Group tours with established operators are particularly helpful for first-time visitors.
- Be aware of prayer times: Services and prayer times can affect access. Check schedules in advance.
- Photography etiquette: Always ask before photographing individuals, especially those engaged in prayer. When in doubt, put the camera away.
By approaching these sacred spaces with awareness and respect, you honor the communities that hold them dear and deepen your own experience of Israel’s remarkable spiritual heritage.
