There’s no place where antiquity mingles with the modernity quite like it does in Jerusalem. Between the new high-speed rail station at the city’s western entrance and the time-worn cobbled streets of the Old City, yeshivas share streets with tech startup offices, medieval church spires and minarets share the skyline with a growing number of glass high-rises, and event halls host traditional religious ceremonies as well as music and film festivals.
Jerusalem’s world-renowned hotels reflect the city’s exhilarating contrasts in their innovative designs and offerings that pay homage to history while meeting modern standards of luxury.
With a long and growing list of outstanding options, it can be a challenge to choose the best hotel for your next stay in the Holy City. Each property boasts its own unique blend of charms, amenities, and views, and a wide range of price points.
The Times of Israel staff has created this list to help you decide. Each selection has been handpicked to encapsulate the city’s diverse charms, from luxurious havens nestled amid ancient streets to grand modern retreats with panoramic views.
1. Best Historic Luxury: King David
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- Inside the La Regence restaurant at the King David Hotel. (Courtesy Dan Hotels)
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- A room at the King David Hotel. (Dan Hotels)
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- View of the the King David Hotel seen from central Jerusalem, on February 8, 2015. (Hadas Parush/Flash90)
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- In the King David lobby, you may encounter a family reunion, or US Ambassador Dan Shapiro conducting negotiations with his Palestinian counterpart (Courtesy King David Hotel)
With a legacy dating back to 1931, the King David Hotel is a living architectural masterpiece that has played host to royals, US presidents, peace negotiators, and countless world leaders. It consistently ranks among the top luxury hotels in the world, and it offers all the elegance and amenities that entails. Grandeur permeates every corner, from the pink limestone façade to the meticulously preserved original features that pay homage to bygone eras.
The hotel’s Le Regence restaurant is renowned for its unique offerings that infuse local flavors and modern international flair, and its terrace overlooking the Old City walls offers some of the best views in town. The hotel’s location, a fifteen-minute walk from both the Old City’s Jaffa Gate and the city center, is ideal for sight-seeing.
As you’d expect from an iconic world-class hotel, the main downside is pricing. Rates for standard double rooms start at around $440 per night, with deluxe rooms with Old City views starting at $700. If you’re looking to splurge on an once-in-a-lifetime hotel experience, the King David will not disappoint.
Looks: British colonial meets Egyptian-revival decor
Tastes: Seared tuna on the terrace, filet in La Regence
We love: Terrace at sunset overlooking the Old City
We recommend: Late-night drinks in the Oriental Bar
Insider tip: Poolside snack bar means you needn’t dress until dinnertime
Price: $$$$$
Facilities: Pool, spa, fitness center, parking
Address: 23 King David St.
Click for reservations
2. Best Luxury Family: David Citadel
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- The David Citadel, the first of the two Alrov hotels, and originally built as a Hilton, just across from its sister hotel, the Mamilla Hotel (photo credit: Yonatan Sindel/Flash 90)
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- Interior lobby of the David Citadel Hotel. (Flash90/Nati Shoham)
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- Courtyard of the David Citadel Hotel. (Flash90/Nati Shoham)
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- A suite at the David Citadel Hotel. (Flash90/Nati Shoham)
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- A suite at the David Citadel Hotel. (Flash90/Nati Shoham)
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- Inside the David Citadel Hotel. (Flash90/Kobi Gideon)
A block away from the King David, the David Citadel offers more modern vibes, bigger and better-equipped event spaces, and a slightly more central location, all of which have made it the 21st century choice for visiting presidents and diplomats. Its Funland, a 400 sqm (4,300 sq ft) children’s play center inspired by the sites of Jerusalem, have made it the 21st century choice for kids.
Besides Funland, the David Citadel Hotel offers an impressive array of activities and entertainment options designed for the whole family. From arts and crafts workshops to cooking classes and treasure hunts, children can immerse themselves in a world of fun and creativity under the supervision of experienced staff.
The David Citadel’s prime location is a major plus, but it comes with the downside of significant city noise in outdoor areas.
Looks: Jerusalem stone; cut glass; silk furnishings
Tastes: Al fresco ribs at the Pool Grill
We love: Indoor/outdoor pool and sauna
We recommend: Sushi and jazz in the upstairs lobby
Insider tip: Executive lounge has stunning views, rooms, all-day drinks and snacks
Price: $$$$$
Facilities: Spa, pool, fitness center, executive lounge, sauna, parking
Address: 7 King David St.
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3. Best New Luxury: Orient Jerusalem
The Orient Jerusalem is part of Isrotel’s Exclusive Collection and is positioned in the heart of the vibrant German Colony, offering an abundance of leisure, shopping, and entertainment options as well as panoramic views of the city. The hotel is a short walking distance from Jaffa Gate and just steps away from First Station, the city’s old train station which has been transformed into a lively district of designer boutiques, galleries, trendy cafes, restaurants, and a small amusement park for young kids.
The hotel’s design, inspired by the past and guided by the future, features 243 beautifully appointed rooms and suites in its newly constructed central building, as well as a selection of opulent accommodations inside two expertly preserved Templar Buildings from 1882 and 1883.
The hotel’s cuisine offers a creative culinary approach inspired by Jerusalem’s neighborhoods and local Israeli tastes.
Looks: Eclectic combination of traditional and modern
Tastes: Breakfast in the courtyard is fantastic
We love: Impressive collection of contemporary art in public spaces
We recommend: Taking a walk through the Liberty Bell park next door.
Insider tip: Rooftop pool offering breathtaking panoramic views of Jerusalem’s iconic skyline
Price: $$$$$
Facilities: Spa, pool, fitness center, executive lounge, sauna, parking
Address: 3 Emek Refa’im St
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4. Best Design Luxury: Mamilla
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- The view from the rooftop restaurant at Mamilla Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- The lobby of the Mamilla Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- Lobby of the Mamilla Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- The Executive Room, Mamilla Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- Executive Room, Mamilla Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- The breakfast buffet at the Mamilla Hotel. (Courtesy)
The newest addition to Jerusalem’s five star hotel scene, Mamilla Hotel boasts a unique facade by architect Moshe Safdie and a restrained, elegant interior design by Piero Lissoni. Its is located next to Mamilla Avenue, a major open-air shopping arcade with upscale stores in historic buildings. Jaffa Gate, Independence Park, and many of Jerusalem’s major sights are within walking distance.
Sunset from the rooftop restaurant and bar are probably the best in the city, with the views over the Old City walls and down the Hinnom Valley via the Sultan’s Pool. A state-of-the-art wellness spa, pool and fitness center are great to chase off a day’s trekking. For late-night relaxation, the Mirror Bar boasts a fine selection of house cocktails, a varied menu, and an in-house DJ.
Looks: Bright, clean, modern lines; glass and stainless steel; polished stone and wood.
Tastes: New Israeli cuisine
We love: Cocktails on the roof at sunset, celebrity-spotting in the Mirror Bar
We recommend: Massage therapy in the spa
Insider tip: Check out the dairy restaurant and wine bar overlooking Mamilla Mall
Price: $$$$$
Facilities: Pool, spa, fitness center
Address: 11 Shlomo Hamelech St.
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5. Best Mid Luxury: Inbal
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- Spacious Rooms
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- Modernist Design
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- Breakfast Heaven
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- Jerusalem Vistas
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- New Suite at the Inbal
Situated right by the historic district of Yemin Moshe, the Inbal lies slightly off the main drag, offering a quieter atmosphere while still being within walking distance of all city center attractions, including the Old City. Designed by Israel Prize-winning architect Yaakov Richter, the Inbal’s neo-Byzantine facade, made entirely of Jerusalem stone, has earned its place among the ranks of Jerusalem’s iconic buildings.
Three years of extensive renovations have brought this storied hotel up to today’s five-star standards while maintaining its unique modernist architecture. As part of the renovations, the top three levels have been designated executive floors and now feature suites and an executive lounge, an adult-only area with complimentary food and drink and an expansive view of the city. The semi-Olympic outdoor pool is heated year-round and the amenities are as good as you can find anywhere in Jerusalem.
Looks: Modern with neo-Byzantine accents
Tastes: Israeli breakfast in the courtyard
We love: Taking a walk through Liberty Bell Park, right next door
Price: $$$$
Facilities: Heated pool, fitness center, on-site parking
Address: Ze’ev Jabotinsky St 3
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6. Best East Jerusalem Luxury: American Colony
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- The loft suite at the American Colony Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- The swimming pool at the American Colony Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- Arabesque Restaurant at the American Colony Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- Exterior, American Colony Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- A suite at the American Colony Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- Pasha Hall at the American Colony Hotel. (Courtesy)
Located on the “seamline” between East and West Jerusalem, the American Colony Hotel was originally built and owned by an Ottoman pasha, Rabbah Daoud Amin Effendi al-Husseini, who lived there with his harem of four wives. Today it has a swanky swimming pool, gourmet restaurants, landscaped gardens, and a high-tech fitness center. Its luxurious and spacious rooms are located in four buildings: the Main House, the East House, the Palm House and the Cow Byre. The modern bathrooms are equipped with designer amenities.
The American Colony Hotel scores high among international reviewers including Conde Naste Travel, and it definitely deserves the hype. Take afternoon tea outdoors among the flowers and Armenian ceramics, sip strong Arabic coffee in the maze of leather-furnished meeting rooms, or while away the small hours in the famed Cellar Bar.
Looks: Timeless Turkish Pasha
Tastes: Middle East mezze
We love: Pizza and focaccia from the Palm House Garden wood stove
We recommend: Arabesque Saturday brunch with the East Jerusalem cognoscenti
Insider tip: Check out the Educational Bookshop opposite the front door
Price: $$$$
Facilities: Pool, fitness center, sauna, parking
Address: 1 Louis Vincent St.
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7. Best Mid Range: Eldan
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- The dining room at the Eldan Hotel hosts lavish buffets. (Courtesy)
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- Lobby, Eldan Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- Exterior, Eldan Hotel. (Courtesy)
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- A room at the Eldan Hotel. (Courtesy)
Don’t lose sight of the Eldan among the five-star heavyweights on King David Street. This simple boutique hotel is perfectly positioned for the Old City and offers the most reasonable rates on the strip for families prepared to forgo the luxuries on offer across the road.
The hotel is small enough to offer genuine personal service and while it may not have the amenities of its world-class competitors, it’s a great choice for visitors who want to be a few steps away from the Old City yet need to watch their budget. Rooms are light and airy and the chef enjoys experimenting with interesting new menus.
Looks: Modern Israel
Tastes: Chef’s choice
We love: Outdoor terrace right on King David Street
We recommend: HaMiffal art cooperative between King David St and Agron St
Insider tip: Free coffee and pastries in the lobby every afternoon
Price: $$$
Facilities: Noon checkout, currency exchange
Address: King David St 24
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8. Best Boutique: Bezalel Hotel
Nestled within the heart of the city, this boutique gem offers close proximity to the bustling Mahane Yehuda market and Jerusalem’s city center nightlife. Its design-forward approach is inspired by the Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design, and its interior features artworks by local artists. The fusion of modern aesthetics and historical architecture lends a unique charm to the property, while its commitment to sustainability underscores its connection to the community. For those who want some artistic flair with their authentic Jerusalem experiences, the Bezalel is their choice. The hotel also hosts frequent cultural events, such as concerts, lectures, and workshops, where you can meet and mingle with other guests and locals.
Looks: Modern Israeli
Tastes: Complimentary buffet Mediterranean breakfast
We love: Relaxing with a book in the library
We recommend: Reserving a room with a private balcony
Price: $$$
Facilities: Pets allowed, airport transfer
Address: 1 Mesilat Yesharim St.
Click for reservations
9. Best Hostel: Abraham Hostel
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- A private room at the Abraham Hostel Jerusalem. (Courtesy)
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- Bar at the Abraham Hostel Jerusalem. (Courtesy)
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- An open jam session at the Abraham Hostel Jerusalem. (Courtesy)
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- Exterior of the Abraham Hostel in Jerusalem. (Courtesy)
Walking into the Abraham Hostel, you don’t so much enter a hotel as join a community. From the vast lounge, which doubles as an event space and party hall, to the daily events and wide-ranging trips, the riches on offer for budget travelers would be cheap at double the price. Beds range from about $30 in a dorm to less than $75 in a private double room. Friendly staff are on hand to help you plan your days, evenings, and the rest of your trip.
Looks: Contemporary urban collective
Tastes: Beer ‘n pizza
We love: Someone, somewhere is playing guitar
We recommend: Joining the cookup in the guests’ kitchen – bring ingredients
Insider tip: Cross the road to magical Mahane Yehuda – daytime produce market, nighttime music/drink/food art/energy vibe
Price: $
Facilities: Rooftop, guest kitchen, communal Shabbat dinner, pool table, foosball, darts
Address: Davidka Square — 67 Haneviim St.
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10. Best Pilgrim hotel: Lutheran Guesthouse
Despite its small rooms, shower-only bathrooms, and shabby furniture, the Lutheran Guesthouse comes with an amazing old-world charm that none of its luxury competitors can offer. It’s also located within the Armenian Quarter of the Old City itself, with stunning views of the Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre from its tranquil flower-filled roof terrace, just minutes away from the Western Wall, Jaffa Gate, and Mount Zion.
Besides those already mentioned, one major downside is the lack of parking and distance from any major roads. If you’re coming with a lot of suitcases, it’s best to hire a porter at Jaffa Gate to help you carry them the rest of the way. Also be sure to ask for a room with air-conditioning if you’re coming in the summer. Payment is in cash only.
Looks: Old-world inn
We love: Strolling the hidden alleyways of the Armenian Quarter
We recommend: Relaxing on the roof terrace
Price: $
Facilities: Free WiFi and air-conditioning
Address: St Mark St.
