Things To Do
in Giv‘at Shemu’él

Giv‘at Shemu’él is a charming neighborhood situated in the outskirts of Jerusalem, known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic views of the surrounding hills. The area is primarily residential, offering a mix of modern amenities and a warm community feel. It serves as a great base for exploring the historical and cultural riches of Jerusalem while providing a quieter retreat.

With its proximity to various parks and natural landscapes, Giv‘at Shemu’él is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local farmer's market where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial to understand Israel's history. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and exhibitions.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine and enjoy traditional music performances.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby Jerusalem Forest, where you can enjoy the serene environment and wildlife. A packed lunch can be enjoyed at one of the scenic spots.

afternoon
:

Head back to Giv‘at Shemu’él and explore local art galleries or participate in a pottery workshop.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a casual dinner at a popular pizzeria, followed by a stroll through the neighborhood to soak in the evening ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🥙Falafel Sandwich$5
Coffee$3
🍕Pizza Slice$4
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
🚕Taxi Ride (within city)$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and parks.
  • Close proximity to Jerusalem's historical sites.
  • Family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport can be less frequent.
  • Hot summers may not be comfortable for everyone.
  • "שָׁלוֹם" - Hello
  • "תודה" - Thank you
  • "בבקשה" - Please
  • "כמה זה עולה?" - How much does it cost?
  • "איפה השירותים?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Giv‘at Shemu’él

Visit one of these nice places.

Jerusalem Forest

A beautiful natural landscape perfect for capturing the essence of nature and panoramic views.

Yad Vashem

The architecture and sculptures offer unique photography opportunities that convey deep emotions.

Sunset Over Giv‘at Shemu’él

The neighborhood's hills provide stunning sunset views, ideal for capturing vibrant colors.

Culinary Guide

Food in Giv‘at Shemu’él

Giv‘at Shemu’él offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Israeli and Middle Eastern flavors that reflect its cultural diversity.

Giv‘at Shemu’él Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shakshuka

A flavorful dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, often served with bread.

Must-Try!

Falafel

Crispy chickpea balls served in pita bread with salad and tahini.

Hummus

A creamy dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice, commonly enjoyed with pita.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Machane Yehuda Market

A vibrant market in Jerusalem filled with fresh produce, spices, and street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Giv‘at Shemu’él is influenced by its Mediterranean location. Summers are typically hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters are mild and wet, with temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F). Spring and autumn bring pleasant weather, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Religion

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be aware of local customs.

Greeting

A friendly handshake or a nod is usual; using 'Shalom' (hello) is appreciated.

Dining

It's polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Safety Guide

Safety

Giv‘at Shemu’él is generally considered safe for visitors, but it is advisable to remain aware of your surroundings and follow local advice. Emergency numbers are 100 for police, 101 for ambulance, and 102 for fire services. It’s recommended to avoid demonstrations and political gatherings.

Tipping in Giv‘at Shemu’él

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

It's customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash for small vendors or markets is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and dry weather, ideal for early morning hikes but be cautious of the midday sun.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors make this a picturesque time to visit.

Winter

Mild but rainy, visitors should be prepared for occasional showers and cooler evenings.

Nightlife Guide

Giv‘at Shemu’él at Night

Giv‘at Shemu’él has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few local bars and cafes that often host live music. While it may not be as vibrant as larger cities, residents and visitors enjoy gathering for evening drinks and social activities. Nearby Jerusalem offers more nightlife options, including clubs and bars for those seeking a livelier experience.

Hiking in Giv‘at Shemu’él

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Herzl Trail

A scenic trail that offers views of the surrounding landscape and leads to the Mount Herzl cemetery.

Sataf Nature Reserve

Features ancient agricultural terraces and lush vegetation, ideal for nature walks and exploration.

Airports

How to reach Giv‘at Shemu’él by plane.

Ben Gurion Airport

The main international airport serving Israel, located about 45 minutes from Giv‘at Shemu’él, offering flights to various destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Giv‘at Shemu’el is fairly walkable, with many amenities accessible by foot. Sidewalks are present in most areas, and the neighborhood is designed for easy navigation. However, some steeper areas may pose a challenge for those with mobility issues.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Jewish Community

Predominantly Jewish residents, reflecting a mix of secular and religious lifestyles.

Arab Population

A smaller Arab community exists in the surrounding areas, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

A widely loved sport in Israel, with many local teams and community engagement.

Basketball

Popular among residents, with numerous youth leagues and professional teams.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Giv‘at Shemu’él is generally manageable, but rush hour can lead to congestion, especially on roads leading to Jerusalem. Public transportation options include buses that connect to Jerusalem, and many residents use personal vehicles for ease of travel. Biking and walking are also viable options for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Giv‘at Shemu’él.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially with dishes like hummus and salads.

Gluten-Free

Some places provide gluten-free alternatives, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Giv‘at Shemu’él is generally good, with several clinics and hospitals located in nearby Jerusalem. The Israeli healthcare system is known for its high standard of care, and emergency services are available. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international travel.

Discover Israel

Read more in our Israel 2025 Travel Guide.

Israel Travel Guide