Jerusalem was featured in Time Magazine's recently published "World's Greatest Places of 2023" list and among the 50 extraordinary destinations choices.
The American magazine presented an unexpected way to explore Jerusalem after the city recently inaugurated a new bike route through the capital.
"Anyone comfortable on two wheels can now rent a bike and cycle along the newly opened Kerem Tunnel, part of the Jerusalem Ring bike path, a 42-km route that allows visitors to circle the holy city at their own pace," Time Magazine wrote.
"Along the way, one can bike through the 2.1-km-long Kerem Tunnel, the fifth longest cycling tunnel in the world ($7 million was spent to get the infrastructure tunnel—which includes a sewage pipe—cyclist-ready). It connects two parts of the Jerusalem Ring: on one end lies Ein Lavan, a spring dating back to the Iron Age, and on the other, Ein Karem, the birthplace of John the Baptist, which has become a foodie and art-gallery hot spot," the magazine said.
"Standard pedal bikes, including unlocking fees, cost $2.78 per 30 minutes, and electric bikes will set you back about $6 for a 30-minute ride. Those in the mood for a more rigorous afternoon of touristing can work their way to the windy streets of the Old City for 360-degree views found at the recently renovated Tower of David Jerusalem Museum," the magazine added.
"Regardless of the route, the gooey chocolate rugelach at the beloved outdoor market Mahane Yehudah (also accessible by the Jerusalem Ring bike path) are worth a detour," it said.
“In recent years, the Jerusalem municipality has invested tremendous resources in the development and cultivation of the capital," said Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion in response to the pick.
"Tourism was given special attention and unprecedented actions were taken to improve the domestic and foreign tourism experience. There are countless examples - from cultural and sports events at an international level, the development of efficient and accessible transport infrastructure, many tourist attractions such as the recently launched bunk bus, growth in the hotel industry, and a variety of other activities and the results speak for themselves, and now Jerusalem has received the prestigious stamp of Time magazine," the mayor said.