What's the weather like in Jerusalem in November
Temperature
As autumn continues, Jerusalem cools down further as it heads into a mild winter. The average daily temperature in the capital city in November is 15°C (59°F). The highs can warm up to 19°C (66°F) during the afternoons, while the lows typically drop down to 10°C (50°F). Historically, Jerusalem has seen days as warm as 33°C (91°F) in November, and as cold as 0°C (32°F).
Rainfall
Jerusalem remains fairly dry throughout the autumn weather, with November receiving just 30 mm of total rain throughout the month (just over an inch). This month typically sees rain fall on seven days, and there may be some moderate cloud coverage.
Sunshine Hours
Despite the shorter days of winter and a few cloudy and rainy days, November still receives approximately nine hours of sunlight every day. The days will shorten a bit as December approaches, with eight hours of sunshine. This is similar to the sunlight received in other nearby capital cities, like Damascus, Syria or Cairo, Egypt.
Wind
The winds in Jerusalem are approximately 10 km/hour (6 miles/hour) during November. The cool breeze means some travelers may want a light jacket, particularly in the evenings.
Sea Temperature
The Mediterranean Sea holds onto some remaining warmth from the long summer. During November, the average daily water temperature (as measured in Tel Aviv) is approximately 23°C (73°F). This is one of the rare times throughout the year when the Dead Sea temperatures match the Mediterranean. During November, the daily mean water temperature in the Dead Sea is also 23°C (73°F).
Jerusalem Hotels in November
Ramat Rachel
Offering a resort experience further south of central Jerusalem, Ramat Rachel Resort is a perfect retreat for those looking to slow down and enjoy the areas around Jerusalem as well as the city, such as the nearby town of Bethlehem. With 165 spacious rooms, the hotel can accommodate all types of travelers from individuals to large groups. A fitness center, pool, saunas, tennis courts, soccer fields and other activities are available for guests.
Cramim Spa and Wine
Another destination outside of the city center is the Cramim Spa and Wine Hotel. Surrounded by villages, monasteries, wineries and hiking trails, the hotel is quiet while still offering plenty to do and explore. With the name meaning vineyard, it's no surprise that the grounds include a large, private vineyard; guests are welcome to take part in the winemaking process depending on the season. Most of the 156 rooms and suites face the Jerusalem mountains, many with terraces or balconies that take advantage of the beautiful views.
Olive Tree
Located just north of the Old City, near the Mount of Olives, the Olive Tree Hotel is built around an ancient olive tree, bringing the history of Jerusalem directly to its guests. Modern amenities and a classic design welcome guests. No one will go hungry here either; whether dining in the banquet hall, the dining room, the bar or the garden around the ancient tree, guests are sure to find something satisfying within the hotel grounds.
Crowne Plaza
Part of a large international chain, the Crowne Plaza Jerusalem offers plenty of modern amenities alongside its central location just west of the Mahane Yehuda Market. A fitness center, spa and indoor pool help guests relax after a day of sightseeing or business meetings at the nearby International Convention Center. The onsite restaurant and lobby bar are popular with guests, while the 21st-floor club lounge offers beautiful city views.
Bars and Restaurants
Glen Whisk(e)y Bar
At the end of a long, and often solemn, day in the Holy Land, travelers will enjoy the comfortable and welcoming atmosphere at Glen Whiskey Bar. An enormous selection of more than 300 whiskeys is served at this downtown spot, along with beers and other liquors. The British bar and pub is one of the most highly rated bars in Jerusalem. The tasting menu lets guests sample some of the whiskeys and narrow down their favorites, and common pub foods like burgers are available too. The pub takes advantage of the cool summer nights with outdoor seating as well.
Morduch
Located in the Mahane Yehuda Market for more than 30 years, Morduch specializes in kube soup, hummus and stuffed vegetables. The cozy restaurant has a homey feel fitting the hand-made dishes that customers rave about. Popular with both locals and travelers, Morduch serves some of the best kube soups in Jerusalemube is a small bit of dough folded around a piece of meat and is a traditional Israeli dish.
Dwiny Pita Bar
Another Mahane Yehuda Market destination is the Dwiny Pita Bar. This popular market food vendor serves fresh pitas and shawarma right in the heart of the market, making it an easy stop while shopping or strolling through. An affordable and quick option for travelers on the go, Dwiny Pita Bar also serves beers for those who want to slow down and enjoy their meal with a drink.
Te'enim Vegetarian
Vegetarian travelers will appreciate the menu at Te'enim Vegetarian restaurant. A lush courtyard greets guests at the entrance, while an inner courtyard with stone benches and ceramic tables keeps the bustle of the city away. From the interior windows, guests have a beautiful view of the walls of the Old City and the Tower of David. The owner grew up in France and brings a fresh twist to Israeli vegetarian dishes.
Things to do in Jerusalem in November
Guided tours and pilgrimages
The amount of historical and religious sites throughout Jerusalem can become overwhelming for many visitors. Luckily, there are several options for guided pilgrimages. A variety of tours accommodate different faiths, such as the Regina Pilgrim Catholic tour, the Pilgrim Tours Christian route, or the Islamic pilgrimage by Lawrence Tours. A guided tour can help guarantee that travelers make the most of their time, see the most important sites, and provide valuable information from experts.
Manachem Heritage Center
If the weather is particularly rainy or cold one day, tourists can head indoors to the Menachem Begin Heritage Center. The multimedia museum looks at the life of Menachem Begin, a former Prime Minister of Israel. The journey through his life is created with historical reconstructions, documentary videos, and touch screens. The different "chapters" of his life include his childhood in Poland, Begin's years as commander of the Irgun, leader of the Opposition, and finally as Prime Minister. The experience also provides insight into much of the 20th century in Israel. An archaeological garden, national archives, library, auditorium, and synagogue are all at the center as well, making it an entire cultural experience.
Winery Tours
For a break from the historical side of Jerusalem, travelers can head to the countryside and enjoy a relaxing glass of wine at one of the many vineyards in the area. The Israeli countryside is becoming a hotspot for award-winning wines. Tourists can visit various wineries independently, or book a tour from one of the many tour operators in Jerusalem. Popular wineries in the area include Tzuba, Tzora, Zion Winery, and many more.
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre
One of the most sacred places is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, it is believed to be the location of both the crucifixion and the tomb of Jesus. A major pilgrimage destination for Christians around the world, the church was built in the year 325, by Roman emperor Constantine, inside of the Old City walls. The church is open daily to visitors and is free to visit. Guests are required to dress modestly and are advised to be prepared for large crowds.
