Where to Stay in Jerusalem

A regional guide to accommodation across the country

Jerusalem offers an extraordinarily diverse accommodation landscape that reflects its complex geography, religious significance, and varied neighborhoods. The city's hotels and guesthouses range from ancient stone buildings in the Old City to modern high-rises in the commercial center, with options spanning boutique properties in historic quarters, international chain hotels, Christian hospices, and family-run Palestinian guesthouses. The accommodation experience varies dramatically depending on which part of Jerusalem you choose as your base—whether within the ancient walls, in the bustling West Jerusalem commercial districts, or in the Palestinian neighborhoods of East Jerusalem. Jerusalem's unique character as a holy city for three major religions means accommodation options include distinctive stays like Christian pilgrimage hospices, converted Ottoman-era mansions, and properties with views of sacred sites. The city's accommodation is roughly divided between West Jerusalem (predominantly Israeli, with modern amenities and international standards), East Jerusalem (Palestinian-operated, often more affordable with authentic local character), and the Old City itself (limited options but unparalleled atmosphere and proximity to major religious sites). Each area offers different advantages in terms of access, atmosphere, and cultural experience. The city's compact size means that most areas are relatively accessible to major sites, though considerations around Shabbat observance, security checkpoints, and cultural differences between neighborhoods can significantly impact your stay. West Jerusalem tends to offer more polished, internationally-branded hotels with consistent service standards, while East Jerusalem and the Old City provide more character-driven, locally-owned properties. Understanding these neighborhood differences is crucial for choosing accommodation that aligns with your travel style, budget, and the Jerusalem experience you're seeking. Accommodation prices in Jerusalem are generally higher than elsewhere in Israel due to the city's religious and historical significance, with limited supply during peak pilgrimage periods driving rates even higher. Budget travelers can find hostel beds and basic guesthouses, but mid-range options dominate the market, catering to the steady stream of religious pilgrims, tour groups, and cultural tourists. Luxury properties include several world-class hotels that blend historical architecture with modern amenities, often featuring stunning views of the Old City.

Budget

₪150-400 per night (US$40-110) for hostel beds, basic guesthouses, and budget hotels

Mid-Range

₪500-1,200 per night (US$135-325) for comfortable hotels with good locations and amenities

Luxury

₪1,500-4,000+ per night (US$400-1,100+) for five-star properties and historic luxury hotels

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Accommodation Landscape

What to expect from accommodation options across Jerusalem

International Chains

Jerusalem features major international chains including Waldorf Astoria, Orient Hotels (Dan Hotels, Prima Hotels, Leonardo Hotels brands), Fattal Hotels, and Isrotel, alongside global brands like Crowne Plaza. The Leonardo and Prima chains dominate the mid-range market with properties like Leonardo Plaza Hotel Jerusalem and Prima Kings Hotel Jerusalem, while luxury is represented by the iconic The King David Hotel Jerusalem (independent) and Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem. Many chains observe Shabbat restrictions in West Jerusalem, meaning elevators operate automatically and some services are limited Friday evening through Saturday evening. The Dan Hotels chain operates the upscale Dan Boutique Jerusalem and Dan Panorama Jerusalem. Fattal Hotels includes brands like Leonardo, Rimonim, and U Hotels at various price points.

Local Options

Jerusalem's unique accommodation landscape includes Christian hospices (Austrian Hospice, Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center, St. Andrew's Scottish Guesthouse) offering affordable rooms with historic character, Palestinian family-run guesthouses in East Jerusalem like Jerusalem Hotel and Hashimi Hotel providing authentic local experiences, and boutique properties in restored Ottoman and British Mandate-era buildings. Many smaller hotels are family-owned operations that have served pilgrims for generations, offering personal service and deep local knowledge. Independent boutique hotels like Mamilla Hotel, Villa Brown Jerusalem, and Arthur Hotel provide design-focused alternatives to chains.

Unique Stays

Jerusalem offers distinctive accommodation types found nowhere else: Christian hospices providing simple, affordable rooms in historic religious compounds within walking distance of holy sites; restored Templar colony buildings in the German Colony with distinctive red-tiled roofs and limestone facades; Ottoman-era mansions converted to boutique hotels with original architectural details; and properties with direct views of the Old City walls and sacred sites from rooftop terraces. Some accommodations occupy buildings with archaeological remains in their basements, and several offer rooftop terraces with views of the Dome of the Rock and Western Wall. The American Colony Hotel, a former pasha's palace in East Jerusalem, represents a unique category of neutral-ground historic hotels that have hosted diplomats, journalists, and peace negotiators since the 1920s. The Austrian Hospice offers the unusual experience of staying in a building within the Muslim Quarter of the Old City, while the Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center provides luxury accommodation in a 19th-century pilgrimage complex directly facing the Old City walls.

Booking Tips for Jerusalem

Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation

Religious Holiday Planning

Book 3-6 months ahead for major Jewish holidays (Passover in March/April, Rosh Hashanah in September/October, Sukkot in September/October) and Christian Easter, when tour groups block-book entire hotels. Check both Jewish and Christian holiday calendars, as these shift dates annually and can overlap. During Passover, many hotels offer only full-board packages with kosher-for-Passover meals, significantly increasing costs. Christmas and Easter see similar demand spikes, with properties near Christian holy sites booking earliest.

Shabbat Considerations

In West Jerusalem, many hotels observe Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday sunset), meaning limited restaurant service, automatic elevators stopping at every floor, and restricted amenities like swimming pools and business centers. Reception desks remain staffed but cannot process credit card payments during Shabbat. East Jerusalem and Palestinian-operated hotels don't observe these restrictions and operate normally seven days a week. If you need full services on weekends or plan Friday evening/Saturday activities, specifically look for hotels that advertise non-Shabbat observance or choose East Jerusalem properties. The Mamilla area maintains more energy during Shabbat than other West Jerusalem neighborhoods.

Neighborhood Selection Strategy

Choose Mamilla/City Center for convenient access to everything with international hotel standards; German Colony for charming atmosphere and excellent restaurants; Old City area for maximum historical immersion and proximity to holy sites; East Jerusalem for lower prices and Palestinian cultural experience; Mahane Yehuda for budget options and local market life; Rechavia/Talbieh for quiet, upscale residential atmosphere; or Talpiot/Givat Ram for suburban comfort with rental car convenience. Each neighborhood requires different security considerations and offers distinctly different experiences of the city. First-time visitors typically find Mamilla/City Center or German Colony most comfortable, while return visitors often explore East Jerusalem or Old City options.

Tour Group Awareness

Many Jerusalem hotels cater heavily to organized tour groups, particularly Christian pilgrimage groups during Easter and Passover, which can mean crowded breakfast buffets, lobby congestion, and service stretched thin during peak check-in times (typically 2-4 PM). Read recent reviews to identify properties dominated by group tourism if you prefer a more independent travel experience. Hotels near Jaffa Gate and along King George Street see the most group traffic. Smaller boutique properties and East Jerusalem hotels typically have fewer tour groups and more individual travelers.

Payment and Currency

Most hotels quote prices in US dollars and accept payment in dollars, euros, or shekels, though paying in shekels often gets the best exchange rate. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are universally accepted in established hotels. Some Palestinian-operated hotels in East Jerusalem may have limited credit card processing or prefer cash, so confirm payment methods when booking directly. Keep receipts if paying in foreign currency to claim VAT refunds on accommodation (available for tourists). Many hotels add a 15-18% service charge to bills.

When to Book

Timing matters for both price and availability across Jerusalem

High Season

For Passover (March/April), Easter (March/April), Jewish High Holidays (September/October), and Christmas (December 20-January 6), book 3-6 months in advance as tour operators block large room inventories. Prices during these periods can be 2-3 times normal rates, with minimum stay requirements (often 3-4 nights) common. Last-minute availability during major holidays is extremely limited and expensive, particularly in West Jerusalem and near holy sites. Properties near the Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and in the German Colony book earliest.

Shoulder Season

May-June and September-November (excluding Jewish holidays) offer good availability with 1-2 months advance booking, though rates remain relatively high due to steady pilgrim traffic and tour groups. This is the sweet spot for balancing good weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices. May and October are particularly pleasant with mild temperatures and spring/fall colors. Book 4-6 weeks ahead for best selection and rates during these months.

Low Season

January-February (excluding Christmas/New Year period) and July-August see the lowest prices and best availability, with deals possible even 2-3 weeks out. Winter months can be cold (occasional snow) and rainy but offer 30-50% savings over high season, with properties offering promotions and upgrades. Summer is hot (often 30-35°C/86-95°F) but less crowded than religious holiday periods, with hotels offering promotions to fill rooms. July-August can be good value for those tolerating heat.

Jerusalem requires more advance planning than typical tourist cities due to religious holiday demand and tour group bookings. Book 2-3 months ahead for most periods, 4-6 months for major holidays, and consider flexible dates to avoid peak pricing. Direct booking with hotels sometimes yields better rates than booking platforms, particularly for longer stays (4+ nights) or during quiet periods when hotels are willing to negotiate. Boutique properties and smaller hotels often offer better rates for direct bookings, while chains may provide loyalty program benefits.

Good to Know

Local customs and practical information for Jerusalem

Check-in / Check-out

Standard check-in is 2-3 PM, check-out 11 AM-noon, though many hotels accommodate early arrivals with luggage storage and sometimes early room access if available. Security checks at hotel entrances are standard—expect bag screening and metal detectors at most properties, particularly in West Jerusalem and near the Old City. Friday afternoon check-ins in West Jerusalem should ideally be completed before Shabbat begins (varies by season, typically 4-6 PM), as some hotel services become limited and reception staff may be reduced. East Jerusalem hotels operate normally during Shabbat.

Tipping

Tipping is expected but not as heavily as in North America. Leave ₪10-20 per night for housekeeping (place on pillow or in envelope marked for housekeeping), ₪20-50 for bellhops depending on service and number of bags, and ₪10-20 for concierge assistance with reservations or arrangements. Some hotels include service charges (15-18%) in bills, reducing need for additional tipping. In East Jerusalem, tipping expectations may be slightly lower but are still appreciated. Tour guides expect ₪50-100 per person per day.

Payment

Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at all established hotels. Many properties quote and prefer payment in US dollars, though paying in shekels often provides better exchange rates. ATMs are widely available throughout Jerusalem. Some smaller guesthouses and East Jerusalem properties may prefer cash or have limited credit card processing. Tourist VAT refunds (17%) are available on accommodation if you pay in foreign currency (dollars, euros) and keep receipts—request a VAT refund form at check-out. Hotels typically add 15-18% service charge to bills.

Safety

Jerusalem hotels have stringent security with bag checks and metal detectors standard at entrances, particularly in West Jerusalem and near the Old City. Keep your passport secure in room safes as you'll need it for check-in and may need it at checkpoints. Be aware of your hotel's location relative to potential friction points, particularly on religious holidays and Fridays when tensions can increase. West Jerusalem is generally very safe with heavy security presence; East Jerusalem requires more awareness of current political situations but is generally safe for tourists. Hotels in all areas are accustomed to security concerns and can provide current advice on areas to avoid and safe routes. Register with your embassy if concerned about regional tensions.

Where to Stay in Jerusalem

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Accommodation Landscape

Booking Tips for Jerusalem

When to Book

Good to Know

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