Montefiore Windmill, Jerusalem - a stone building with a tower
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Montefiore Windmill Jerusalem

4.6
·6k reviews·Jerusalem, Israel

Historic 1857 windmill in Jerusalem, now a winery offering tastings and panoramic city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed tasting

CrowdLow
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Montefiore Windmill, Jerusalem - a stone building with a tower

Montefiore Windmill Jerusalem

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed tasting

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 1857 windmill in Jerusalem, now a winery offering tastings and panoramic city views.

4.6
(6k reviews)

"A unique blend of history and wine with breathtaking views of Jerusalem."

Vertical photo
TIP

🍷 Book Wine Tastings Ahead

Popular wine tasting sessions at @jerusalem.wineries fill up. Book in advance to secure your spot!

📸 Capture the Views

The panoramic views from the windmill are stunning. Don't forget your camera for those iconic Jerusalem shots!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Windmill Structure

Historic Windmill Structure

Montefiore Windmill

A beautifully preserved 19th-century windmill, offering a glimpse into Jerusalem's past.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Top of the windmill area

Enjoy breathtaking views of Jerusalem's skyline and the surrounding historic neighborhoods.

Jerusalem Wineries Tasting

Jerusalem Wineries Tasting

Visitors Center

Savor local wines with a tasting flight or a glass at this unique winery located within the windmill.

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

The Montefiore Windmill is a popular spot, especially for wine tastings. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to enjoy the views and tasting experience without the crowds. Weekday afternoons are generally less busy than weekends.

Wine Tasting Experience

The windmill now houses a tasting room for Jerusalem Wineries. Bookings are recommended, especially if you want to guarantee a spot for a tasting flight. Check their operating hours in advance.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed tasting
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Autumn
Why
Pleasant weather for views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sometimes I cover my hair at the Kotel, sometimes I don’t. I tend to wear skirts and dresses in Jerusalem for modesty and my uniform on this trip was pretty much sweatshirt dresses and leggings, but hair covering is something different. The main thing at the kotel is to have your legs and shoulders covered, a shawl is fine #kotel #westernwall #jewishtiktok #israeltiktok #traveltips #jerusalem #mod...
@therealmelindastrauss
25.7K likes • 278K views

🍷 Book Wine Tastings Ahead

Popular wine tasting sessions at @jerusalem.wineries fill up. Book in advance to secure your spot! Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

The panoramic views from the windmill are stunning. Don't forget your camera for those iconic Jerusalem shots! Instagram

Did you know there’s a windmill in Jerusalem that’s also a winery? 🍷 @jerusalem.wineries has a tasting room and visitors centre at the iconic Montefiore Windmill which was built in 1857 in one of the first neighbourhoods outside of the Old City Walls 🧱 The inside of the windmill is now a unique little wine shop, and @jerusalem.wineries offers a very unique tasting experience next to the windmill...
krista.the.explorer
1.1K likes • 5.5K views
If you ever find yourself in Jerusalem, head up to the Montefiore Windmill for a glass of wine at their outdoor tasting hut. The wines are from @jerusalem.wineries which is the only winery in operation within the city of Jerusalem, and they offer tasting flights (usually three wines) or just a glass on its own. I opted for a glass of the 2021 Sauvignon Blanc which I’ve never tried (I was here in...
jennyfromthevine
65 likes • 0 views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Yemin Moshe

The windmill is in the charming Yemin Moshe neighborhood. Wander its streets after your visit! Reddit

🕰️ Check Operating Hours

Hours can vary, especially for the tasting room. Always check the official website or social media before you go. Instagram

It seems like every time I visit Jerusalem I pop by the @jerusalem.wineries tasting room at the Montefiore windmill for a swirl and a lookout (how many consecutive visits do you think I’ll get to?). The windmill has been up standing since 1857, built on a plot of land purchased by Jewish British philanthropist Sir Moses Montefiore a few years prior and it was in full operation for 20 years until...
jennyfromthevine
63 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🍷 Book Wine Tastings Ahead

Popular wine tasting sessions at @jerusalem.wineries fill up. Book in advance to secure your spot! Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

The panoramic views from the windmill are stunning. Don't forget your camera for those iconic Jerusalem shots! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Yemin Moshe

The windmill is in the charming Yemin Moshe neighborhood. Wander its streets after your visit! Reddit

🕰️ Check Operating Hours

Hours can vary, especially for the tasting room. Always check the official website or social media before you go. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Montefiore Windmill for its historical significance and the unique wine tasting experience offered by Jerusalem Wineries. The panoramic views of Jerusalem are consistently praised, making it a picturesque and memorable stop. Some visitors note that the tasting experience can be busy, and booking ahead is advised.

"Went to visit the legendary Windmill of Jerusalem where they used to make flour from. A very stunning monument in one of the now richest districts of Jerusalem. Many beautiful houses are surrounding the Windmill and it's an amazing place to check out!"

C. A.

"Amazing views of the old city, quiet, well developed. Nice public garden and shaded areas. Good escape from the heat and the crowd while not losing the holly touch of Jerusalem"

Alex Drukpa.

"Lovely atmosphere with good views just outside the walls of old city. Was with a group and we did 3 wine tastings. The ongoing story encompasses both the history of Israel and the history of Israeli wine. I like sweeter wine so really enjoyed the tastings (with a cheese platter)."

Tanya Silverman

What People Like

Historic windmill charm
Stunning city views
Unique wine tasting

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Montefiore Windmill is located in the Yemin Moshe neighborhood, just outside the Old City walls. You can reach it by walking from the Jaffa Gate or by taking a taxi or bus to the area. Many visitors enjoy the scenic walk from the city center. Reddit

Parking directly at the windmill is limited. It's best to use public transportation or a taxi, or park in a designated lot in the city center and walk. The walk itself offers lovely views. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the Old City, particularly from Jaffa Gate. The path leads you through charming streets and offers great photo opportunities. Reddit

For the most immersive experience, walking from the city center is highly recommended. Taxis are also readily available if you prefer a quicker route. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the grounds and exterior of the Montefiore Windmill is generally free. However, access to the interior for tours or the wine tasting experience at Jerusalem Wineries requires separate booking and payment. Instagram

The operating hours for the windmill itself and the Jerusalem Wineries tasting room can vary. It's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Instagram

Wine tasting prices at Jerusalem Wineries vary depending on the flight or glass selection. Typically, you can expect to pay for a tasting flight or a glass of wine. Check their current menu for exact pricing. Instagram

While you can view the windmill from the outside without a reservation, it is highly recommended to book wine tastings in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability. Instagram

The grounds around the Montefiore Windmill are usually accessible without an entrance fee. The cost is associated with specific activities like wine tasting or guided tours if offered. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo spots include the windmill itself against the Jerusalem skyline, the panoramic views from the top, and the charming streets of the Yemin Moshe neighborhood. The tasting area also offers unique shots. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed on the grounds. For the interior tasting room, it's best to be respectful and ask permission if you plan extensive shooting, though casual photos are usually fine. Instagram

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be bright, but the panoramic views are still impressive. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near historical sites in Jerusalem. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

🍽️ 🍷 Food & Drink

Jerusalem Wineries offers a selection of wines, often including tasting flights of their red and white varietals. Popular choices include Sauvignon Blanc and other local vintages. Instagram

The primary offering is wine tasting. While there might not be a full restaurant, light snacks might be available to complement the wine. It's best to check with Jerusalem Wineries directly. Instagram

Yes, you can typically purchase bottles of wine from Jerusalem Wineries at their tasting room located within the Montefiore Windmill to enjoy later. Instagram

Jerusalem Wineries is notable for being the only winery operating within the city of Jerusalem, offering a unique tasting experience at the historic Montefiore Windmill. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Montefiore Windmill itself is a historical site, the main draw for families might be the panoramic views and the novelty of a windmill. The surrounding Yemin Moshe neighborhood is also pleasant for a stroll. However, the wine tasting experience is geared towards adults. Consider this visit more as a scenic stop with a historical element rather than an activity specifically designed for children. Instagram

🍷 Wine Enthusiasts

For wine lovers, the Montefiore Windmill offers a truly unique tasting experience with Jerusalem Wineries. Being the only winery within the city, it provides a chance to sample local Israeli wines in a historic setting. Opting for a tasting flight is a great way to explore their offerings. Remember to book your tasting in advance to avoid disappointment. Instagram

📸 Photographers

The Montefiore Windmill is a picturesque spot for photographers. Capture the iconic windmill against the Jerusalem skyline, especially during golden hour for dramatic lighting. The panoramic city views from the windmill's elevated position are also a must-shoot. Don't forget to explore the charming Yemin Moshe neighborhood for additional photographic opportunities. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

History of the Montefiore Windmill

The Montefiore Windmill, also known as the Yemin Moshe Windmill, was constructed in 1857. It was part of a larger project by Sir Moses Montefiore, a prominent Jewish philanthropist, to improve living conditions for Jews in Jerusalem. The windmill was built to provide a reliable source of flour for the burgeoning Jewish population outside the Old City walls, in the neighborhood of Yemin Moshe, which was one of the first Jewish neighborhoods established beyond the city's ancient fortifications. The windmill operated for about 20 years, grinding grain to produce flour, before being rendered obsolete by newer technologies. Instagram

Today, the windmill stands as a significant historical landmark, symbolizing early efforts at modernization and self-sufficiency in Jerusalem. It has been carefully restored and now serves as a visitors' center and a unique venue for wine tastings, offering a blend of history and contemporary enjoyment. Its strategic location also provides visitors with stunning views of the city. Instagram

The Jerusalem Wineries Experience

The Montefiore Windmill is home to Jerusalem Wineries, the only winery operating within the city limits of Jerusalem. This unique establishment offers visitors an opportunity to sample a range of local wines in a truly historic setting. The tasting room, situated within or adjacent to the windmill, provides an intimate and memorable experience. Instagram

Visitors can opt for a tasting flight, typically featuring three different wines, or simply enjoy a glass of their preferred vintage while taking in the surroundings. The selection often includes popular varietals like Sauvignon Blanc, showcasing the quality of Israeli winemaking. It's a perfect spot to relax, learn about local viticulture, and enjoy the panoramic views of Jerusalem. Instagram Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure a spot for your tasting session. Instagram

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