Deciding on the best area to stay in Jerusalem can be a tricky task. Jerusalem is a fairly large city with lots of different areas, each boasting its own unique charm. Whether you are seeking luxury hotels in the city center, or, charismatic apartments in a quiet residential street, there are plenty of options to choose from. To help you decide where to stay we will take a detailed look into some of the neighborhoods in Jerusalem and explore the pros and cons of each.
The Old City
The Old City is where visitors will find Jerusalem’s most fascinating historic sites such as the Western Wall, Church of the Sepulcher, and the Dome of the Rock. At just under one square kilometer in size, this area is compact and easy to explore. The Old City is, without doubt, an amazing place to stay. You will be surrounded by some of the most iconic religious buildings in the world and will experience a collision of Jewish, Islamic, and Christian culture.
Parts of the Old City
The Old City is divided into four quarters – the Jewish Quarter, Armenian Quarter, Christian Quarter, and Muslim Quarter. Narrow cobbled pathways lead visitors from one quarter to another. Each quarter boasts its own individual character which is centered on its religion and traditions.
When it comes to places to stay, the Old City does not have many options. As the Old City is full of Jerusalem’s most sacred sites, there is not much room for hotels. As a result of this, a trip to the Old City often feels like you are retreating back in time to a simpler way of life. Visitors will find family-run hostels, guesthouses, and a handful of hotels.
Bottom Line
The Old City of Jerusalem is the best place to stay if you want to be minutes away from the most popular sites in the city. This is a particularly exciting area for those with an interest in religious history and culture. Though accommodation options in the area are limited, if you choose to stay here, you are likely to experience a more peaceful and authentic Israeli vacation compared to other areas in Jerusalem.
Hotels in the Old City
Though it is not directly in the Old City, the luxury five-star Mamilla Hotel is connected to the Old City via a short pathway. The HaShimi Hotel is located within the city walls and boasts stunning terrace views.
Check hotels in Jerusalem’s Old City here >>
City Center
Jerusalem’s city center covers popular areas including Zion Square, Ben Yehuda Street, Jaffa Road, King George Street, and King David Street. Here visitors can expect to find an exciting range of restaurants, cafes, and bars. There are plenty of shops with clothing and homeware from local and international designers. You will also benefit from West Jerusalem’s buzzing nightlife right on your doorstep.
When it comes to accommodation, you will have an abundance of options to choose from. With historic boutique hotels, as well as contemporary design hotels, the city center certainly is a great area to stay in Jerusalem. There are also plenty of hostels for backpackers and those on a tight budget. You will also find many options to store your luggage in Jerusalem around the city center.
Bottom Line
The city center is the best place to stay for those who enjoy the buzz of the city. The area is home to top quality restaurants, shops, bars, and cafes.
Hotels in Jerusalem’s City Center
The iconic Dan Boutique Jerusalem Hotel has gained global recognition for its trendy designs and laid-back attitude. Popular with young travelers, this hotel is only a twenty-minute walk to the Old City. Other places to stay include Harmony Hotel and Stay Inn Hostel.
Check hotels in the City Center here >>
Musrara
Musrara is a historic neighborhood that formed towards the end of the 19th Century. Each building here looks different, offering a unique flair that you won’t find elsewhere. Recently it has seen a rise in the number of artists who have moved in. There are now a number of art schools in the area which host public concerts and exhibitions. There are also local art galleries and plenty of places to eat.
Musrara is a peaceful place to stay, boasting small hotels and hostels. Some hostels in the area even include a free breakfast which is ideal for those on a tight budget.
Bottom Line
Musrara is the best place to stay in Jerusalem for those who wish to relax and escape the hustle and bustle. It is an ideal way to experience local life and sample tasty delicacies at low prices. It boasts picturesque pathways lined with trees – something that is rare to find in a city. This neighborhood is well connected to the city center and the sights of the Old City.
Hotels in Musrara
If you seek a boutique experience, nearby Brown Villa is a wonderful hotel complete with a spa and a beautiful terrace. The close-by Post Hostel Jerusalem is a great choice for backpackers with its chilled-out atmosphere and complimentary breakfast.
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The German Colony
The Germany Colony is a prestigious area located just a short walk from downtown Jerusalem and the Old City. This neighborhood was founded in the mid-19th Century by the German Temple Society. The establishment of The German Colony brought with it an influx of newly built mansions and stately homes. Today these mansions are still prominent and are mostly occupied by expensive apartments. Those with an interest in architecture can admire the Ottoman, Bauhaus, and Templar buildings on a self-guided tour of this pretty area.
Emek Refaim
This area is home to Emek Refaim Street – a trendy street packed with independent fashion boutiques, popular restaurants, and charming markets. Visitors will love exploring this area, which, in contrast to the name, reflects the city’s contemporary culture.
Those who wish to stay in this area will be in a prime position for exploring the city. If you’d like to experience what it is like to stay in an extravagant colonial building, then AirBnB has plenty of apartments to choose from. This way you can visit the local markets and try cooking your own delicacies. There are also a number of luxury hotels, as well as more affordable options.
Bottom Line
The German Colony is the best place to stay if you want to experience the city’s old-world colonial charm. It has plenty of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. This historic area is a pretty place to stay with a wide range of hotels and fascinating architecture. In general, the German Colony tends to be a more expensive area.
Hotels in The Germany Colony
For complete luxury, the Orient Hotel Jerusalem is situated in the center of the neighborhood on Emek Refaim Street and is a five star plus hotel. The Little House in the Colony is an affordable B&B and ideal for those on a smaller budget. Another notable hotel in the area is the stunning Villa Ba’Moshava.
Check hotels in the German Colony here >>
And if you’re looking for ideas for how to spend your days in Jerusalem, our Jerusalem Day Tour covers all the major sites, while our bucket list might give you some more ideas of what to do in the Holy City.
