I’m a runner, so wherever I am I appreciate knowing where I can get in my morning run. Whether you enjoy an outdoor run like me, or just want a place to walk off your falafel calories and be around greenery, Gan Sacher is the spot.

Gan Sacher itself is made up of three large lawns and a small path connects it to my personal favorite, Valley of the Cross. While the park is a local hangout (especially on warm Saturdays, when you’ll find the area concentrated with barbeques, picnics, yoga, soccer games and acrobatics),  Valley of the Cross is super quiet and scenic, and there are a few different  paths that you can choose to take around the area.

HaMiffal is a hub of underground Jerusalem culture, and the ultimate hang out. This space functions as a bar, cafe, healthy cafeteria, small music venue and workshop all in one—and definitely attracts some of the coolest people and projects in the city.

Completely supportive of Jerusalem’s young artistic community, HaMiffal sells works by local artists and designers, hosts live local bands and DJs and holds unique events almost every night.

The walls are covered in murals by Jerusalem street artists and quirky (sometimes functioning, most times not) found objects—HaMiffal is a work of art in and of itself.

I’m a lover of the often misunderstood Chords Bridge, aka “Bridge of Strings”, a definitive suspension bridge designed by award winning engineer Santiago Calatrava. Many would say that the bridge, designed for the Jerusalem light rail, seems out of place at the entrance to Jerusalem—but I think it’s perfect. It represents Jerusalem’s debut as a modern city. I love going there for a walk, day or night, and especially taking pictures from different angles—just have fun with it!

Pic: Emma Ramoy

If you are visiting Jerusalem, you will definitely be stopping by Mahane Yehuda Market, Jerusalem’s outdoor food market. It is exciting, delicious and sometimes overwhelming. The market itself is a local favorite and tourist attraction, and is concentrated with amazing food and drink choices.

I’d like to recommend, however, that you take a tiny step away from the majorly beaten path. Off the “open shuk” on Mahane Yehuda St.,  you can to turn onto HaEshkol St. where a whole new world awaits. Between HaEshkol St. and Beit Yaakov St., and every corner in between, this small area contains local gems—a variety of delicious street food, gourmet restaurants, dessert options and hip bars. This area is always full of good vibes and a guaranteed delicious experience, no matter what you choose.

Pic: Mushkie Haskelevich

The Artists’ House is classic, arty Jerusalem. The three level gallery is located inside a beautiful building that in the past has housed the Bezalel National Museum and was a part of the original Bezalel Academy of Arts—it’s over one hundred years old. The Artists’ House hosts new exhibitions every two months and features mostly established and emerging Israeli artists. It has amazing hours, so you can go almost any day and it is a great way to become acquainted with Israeli artists.

Pic: Dor Kedmi