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Israel · 2 museums · 1 free

Museums in Jerusalem

By World Museum Guide editors Updated Facts checked How we check facts

Quick answer

The best museums in Jerusalem are Yad Vashem and Israel Museum. World Museum Guide covers 2 museums in Jerusalem, Israel, with verified admission prices, opening hours and how long to allow for each. 1 is free to enter for everyone.

Visitor information last reviewed 30 June 2026. Check the official museum site for current details.

Jerusalem museums compared: price, time needed and closing day

# Museum Admission Time needed Closed
1 Yad Vashem Free 3–4 hours Saturdays and Jewish holidays
2 Israel Museum ILS 54 3–4 hours See hours

Standard adult prices, checked from 2026-06-30. Confirm on each museum's official website before you go.

Jerusalem museums, ranked

Yad Vashem

Art Museum · Best for history enthusiasts & first-timers

Yad Vashem was established by the Israeli parliament (Knesset) in 1953 as the official memorial to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust. Its name — 'a memorial and a name' — comes from the Book of Isaiah. The campus on the western slope of Mount Herzl in Jerusalem covers nearly 18 hectares and includes the Holocaust History Museum, the Children's Memorial, the Garden of the Righteous Among the Nations, and the Valley of the Communities.

Free entry · ⏱ 3–4 hours · Closed Saturdays

Israel Museum

Art Museum · Best for history enthusiasts & art lovers

The Israel Museum in Jerusalem opened in 1965 and is Israel's national museum, the largest cultural institution in the country. The sprawling campus on Givat Ram holds encyclopedic collections of archaeology, the fine arts, Jewish art and life, and the world-famous Shrine of the Book.

ILS 54 · ⏱ 3–4 hours

Museums in Jerusalem: FAQs

What are the best museums in Jerusalem?

The best museums in Jerusalem are Yad Vashem and Israel Museum. World Museum Guide ranks 2 museums in Jerusalem by visitor numbers and collection strength.

How many museums in Jerusalem does World Museum Guide cover?

World Museum Guide covers 2 museums in Jerusalem, Israel — 1 with free standard admission. Each guide lists admission, opening hours, highlights and how long to allow.

Which museums in Jerusalem are free?

Free for everyone: Yad Vashem.

Which museums in Jerusalem are open late?

Late openings: Yad Vashem (Thursday until 8:00 PM) and Israel Museum (Tuesday until 9:00 PM). Evening visits are usually the quietest time to see the highlights.