Top Hotels in Jerusalem

King David Hotel

Built in 1931, this deluxe hotel enjoys sweeping views over Yemin Moshe and the Old City and is today the Dan Hotels chain's flagship hotel. The interior evokes the period of King David with influences taken from Assyrian and Hittite eras. This luxurious hotel is also a historical landmark. From 1936 until the end of the British Mandate period in 1948, the British Army used part of the hotel as its headquarters and in 1946 the Jewish Underground movement bombed the hotel, killing 91 people. Popular with dignitaries and celebrities, guests have ranged from Tony Blair and Ralph Lauren, to rock group Metallica.

National Palace

This is a Palestinian hotel with excellent services. Its East Jerusalem location means that you will be able to explore the rather different atmosphere of the Palestinian sector as well as the Old City. It offers both great views, and spacious, en suite facilities. The hotel has a bar and restaurant, although there is no parking, which can be problematic. Mainly visited by tourists, there is a buffet breakfast included, which consists of Palestinian and European dishes to start the day. Onsite business center and conference rooms are available.

Allenby Bed & Breakfast

Located near the Central Bus Station, this establishment has served travelers since 1995. The amicable owner, Danny Flax, displays three guest books bubbling over with compliments and warm wishes. The rooms here are nicely furnished. Some are for the no-frills traveler (shared bathroom and shower) and others come complete with a kitchenette, cable television and stereo. Breakfast is served each morning and the communal kitchen is open to guests at any hour of the day. Long-term residents may receive discounts and specialized tours of Israel are available.

Christmas Hotel

Despite its name, this is surprisingly not a theme hotel! Close to the Old City, this simple little hotel has large, newly furnished rooms all with a pleasant view towards the quaint villages of East Jerusalem. Although this is known as a business and commerce hotel, there are no specific facilities as such (although a conference room is on the way). Meeting rooms can be quickly improvised upon the client's request.

YMCA 3 Arches Hotel

This architecturally stunning building from the early 1940s is part of the Christian Association and is mainly visited by tourists and pilgrims. Newly renovated, the hotel is decorated in cool colors and is spacious. It boasts a library on the ground floor in which guests can freely browse through books in English, Arabic, and Hebrew, and its looming bell tower gives great views over the city. The rooms have abundant facilities including Internet access. The hotel also has parking, which is nothing short of a blessing for drivers in Jerusalem.

Mount Scopus Hotel

Despite its retro exterior, this hotel is situated in a refreshing location about ten minutes ride from the Old City. Here you will be treated to a relaxed, attentive service in the Palestinian fashion. The location is within easy reach of the Old City, as well as some good restaurants and shops. The hotel has a view of the Old City. It hosts tourists and business travelers from neighboring Arab countries, providing an eclectic atmosphere.

Alcazar Hotel

This is a small, relaxed hotel based in the picturesque village of Wadi Joz. There is a terrace for rooftop dining (and conferences upon request), with a stunning view of the East Jerusalem hills, and the historic Grotto of Gethsemane. This place is excellent for informal business meetings and is an alternative to the many tourist hotels in the centre. Just 15 minutes from the Old City, its en suite rooms have ample facilities, with Internet access upon request.

Addar Suite Hotel

This is a unique luxury hotel just outside the Old City. All the rooms are large suites each with a king sized bed, whirlpool tub, sofa bed, two televisions with VCR, and a small, equipped kitchen. There are special rates for business travelers (notify in advance), and its business centre includes a PC and Internet access. A decadent hotel frequented by international business figures and honeymooners, it doubles as a beautiful location for business and pleasure.

Sheraton Jerusalem Plaza Hotel

Located next to Independence Park, the hotel is also within walking distance of both the Old City and the commercial centre of the new city. Its height assures great views of Jerusalem, both new and old. The hotel can accommodate up to 1,000 guests for functions and has 300 rooms available. It has a French restaurant that specialises in nouvelle cuisine, an Italian and an Israeli eatery. Room price includes an Israeli buffet breakfast.

Hashimi Hotel & Hostel

Hashimi Hotel & Hostel is in the Old City and the staff can arrange walking tours. Although the building is over 400 years old, the inside has a modern feel, including air conditioning. You can choose between paying around ILS67 to have a bed in a dorm-style room or a little more for your own bedroom. The Hashimi Hotel is alcohol free, you can not smoke in the bedrooms, and males and females can not share the same bedroom unless they are married. Check the Hostels Israel website to find more locations throughout Israel.