Jerusalem in Winter: What to Wear

Got a winter trip planned to Jerusalem, Israel? Jerusalem can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 61°F (that's 16°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Jerusalem, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Jerusalem in winter—whether you're visiting the Western Wall, exploring the Old City, touring the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, or visiting the Mount of Olives.

🔗 What should women wear in Jerusalem in winter?

Jerusalem in winter is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: pashmina, sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, denim jacket, and lightweight comfortable shoes. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Jerusalem has to offer.

🔗 Pashmina

A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to Jerusalem. They can be used as a scarf, sarong, blanket, or even a headscarf. They are light and easy to pack, yet they provide warmth and color to any outfit. Pashminas come in a variety of colors and patterns, so it's easy to find one that compliments your personal style. When choosing a pashmina, look for one that is made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere. These fibers are not only more durable, but they will also breathe better and keep you covered without making you sweat.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Jerusalem. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Jerusalem, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

🔗 Denim jacket

A denim jacket is great to have in Jerusalem. They are stylish and can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion. Denim jackets are also very versatile. They can be worn over a dress for a night out or with jeans and a t-shirt for a casual day exploring. Best of all, denim jackets are lightweight and easy to pack, making them ideal for travel. When choosing a denim jacket for Jerusalem, look for one that is comfortable and flattering. A classic denim jacket will never go out of style and can be worn year after year. For a more unique look, try a distressed denim jacket or one with embellishments such as embroidery or beads.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Lightweight comfortable shoes

Traveling can be tough on your feet. You're constantly on the move, walking through airports and down crowded streets. And even if you're just sitting on a plane or in a car, your feet can start to swell after hours of being confined in one position. That's why it's important to pack comfortable, lightweight shoes that won't add too much weight to your luggage. But how do you know which shoes are right for Jerusalem? Look for ones made from breathable materials like mesh or canvas. They should also have good arch support and a cushioned sole to help reduce fatigue.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 What should men wear in Jerusalem in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: jeans, cardigans, stylish hat, collared shirts, and loafers or dress shoes. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Jerusalem in comfort and style.

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Jerusalem, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

These would be perfect:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Jerusalem in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Jerusalem trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Jerusalem, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 Collared shirts

A lot of people think that collared shirts are only for work, but they can actually be really handy when traveling too. For one thing, they can help you dress up if you need to go someplace nice for dinner or a show. But how can you tell which collared shirts are worth packing? You can never go wrong with ones that are made from light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Loafers or dress shoes

While most people focus on packing their casual clothes and shoes for travel, it's important to remember to pack a pair or two of dressier shoes as well. Loafers and dress shoes can come in handy for a number of different occasions, from wedding receptions to nights out on the town. And while you might not want to spend a lot of money on shoes that you'll only be wearing occasionally, it's still worth investing in a good quality pair that will be comfortable and last for years to come.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Jerusalem will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Jerusalem has to offer!