About Yad Vashem
Israel's official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, set on Mount Herzl. Moshe Safdie's Holocaust History Museum is a triangular concrete prism cutting through the mountain.
Founded in 1953, Yad Vashem has been welcoming visitors for over 73 years. Today it draws approximately 900,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited memorial & remembrance museums in the world. Located in Jerusalem, Israel, the museum holds a rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 14,000 traveller reviews, reflecting its enduring appeal to both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts.
Why Yad Vashem ranks #33
Our editorial ranking blends data from TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards, AECOM/TEA annual attendance figures, and coverage in leading travel publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out, National Geographic and The Times. Ranking at #33, Yad Vashem is one of the fifty most acclaimed museums on our composite index — a destination that serious museum-goers and casual visitors alike should have on their list. Key recognitions include: Free entry, Profound visitor impact.
Must-see highlights
With a recommended visit time of 3–4 hours, planning your route through Yad Vashem is essential. Here are the standout works and spaces that should be at the top of your list:
- ◆Holocaust History Museum
- ◆Hall of Names
- ◆Children's Memorial
- ◆Avenue of the Righteous Among the Nations
- ◆Valley of the Communities
Recognition & awards
Yad Vashem has received recognition from multiple authoritative sources in the museum and travel industry:
Planning your visit
Opening hours: Sun–Wed 9:00–17:00, Thu 9:00–20:00, Fri 9:00–14:00. Free.
How long to spend: Most visitors recommend setting aside 3–4 hours for a thorough visit. If you are short on time, focus on the highlights listed above and consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket to maximise your time inside.
Getting there: Yad Vashem is located in Jerusalem, Israel at coordinates 31.7742°N, 35.1755°E. View on Google Maps →
Visitor tips: Given the size of this museum, comfortable shoes are essential. Consider splitting your visit across two days if your schedule allows. Check the official website for any temporary closures, special exhibitions and advance booking requirements.
History of Yad Vashem
Yad Vashem was established in 1953, making it a relatively modern institution. Over the centuries, it has grown from its original collection to become a major cultural landmark in Jerusalem. With 900,000 annual visitors, it plays a vital role in Israel's cultural tourism economy and stands as one of the most important memorial & remembrance museums in the Middle East region.
Other top memorial & remembrance museums
If you enjoy memorial & remembrance museums like Yad Vashem, you may also want to explore these highly-ranked institutions in the same category:
- #34Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-BirkenauOświęcim, Poland
- #35United States Holocaust Memorial MuseumWashington, United States
- #36Anne Frank HouseAmsterdam, Netherlands
- #399/11 Memorial & MuseumNew York, United States
- #40Hiroshima Peace Memorial MuseumHiroshima, Japan
More museums in Jerusalem
Jerusalem is home to 2 museums on our editorial ranking. If you are visiting the city, consider combining your trip to Yad Vashem with these nearby institutions:
- #32Israel Museum🏺 Archaeology & Antiquity
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Yad Vashem?
Sun–Wed 9:00–17:00, Thu 9:00–20:00, Fri 9:00–14:00. Free. We recommend checking the official website before your visit as hours may change on public holidays or during special events.
How long should I spend at Yad Vashem?
Most visitors recommend spending 3–4 hours for a comprehensive visit. If you are short on time, prioritise the must-see highlights listed above.
Where is Yad Vashem located?
Yad Vashem is located in Jerusalem, Israel. The exact coordinates are 31.7742°, 35.1755°. You can find directions via Google Maps.
What is Yad Vashem known for?
World Holocaust Remembrance Center. Key highlights include Holocaust History Museum, Hall of Names, Children's Memorial. The museum holds a 4.9/5 rating from 14,000 reviews.
How many people visit Yad Vashem each year?
Yad Vashem receives approximately 900,000 visitors per year, making it one of the most-visited museums in Israel.
When was Yad Vashem founded?
Yad Vashem was founded in 1953, making it 73 years old. It is categorised as a memorial & remembrance museum in our directory.
