Jerusalem is a city of stone hills and sharp contrasts, where the walled Old City sits at the centre of a modern metropolis that has grown far beyond it since the 19th century. For a visitor, the practical question is not only what to see but where to sleep, because the city's geography shapes how much of your day goes to walking, waiting and travelling.
At the heart of it is the Old City, defined by walls rebuilt in 1538 and divided into four quarters: Armenian, Christian, Jewish and Muslim. Around it, the city spreads into West Jerusalem and East Jerusalem, each with its own character and its own mix of places to stay. This guide covers the areas you can base yourself in, who each one suits, and what to expect at different budgets.
Best areas to stay in Jerusalem
1. The Old City
The Old City is the historic core, a compact area of narrow lanes within the walls, home to sites of central importance to Judaism, Christianity and Islam, including the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Staying here puts the main sights on your doorstep and lets you walk to them rather than commute to them.
It suits travellers who want to be in the middle of things and are comfortable with tight streets and crowds. The accommodation is a diverse mix of small hotels, religious hospices and cheap hostels, and this is where the cheapest accommodation in the city is found. Expect noise and busy lanes rather than quiet.
2. West Jerusalem
West Jerusalem is the modern part of the city, with a blend of B&Bs, guesthouses, small hotels and large hotels up to 5-star accommodation. It offers a wider range of comfort levels than the Old City and a more conventional hotel experience.
It suits first-time visitors who want a full spread of options, families, and anyone who prefers a quieter base with easy access to the Old City. One landmark here is the King David Hotel, worth visiting for its architecture even if you do not stay there.
3. East Jerusalem
East Jerusalem contains a similar mix of accommodation to West Jerusalem, including small hotels and guesthouses alongside larger properties. It is a practical alternative base if you want to be close to the Old City without staying inside the walls.
It suits travellers who want choice across budgets and a location near the historic core. As with any area outside the walls, plan how you will reach the sights you want to see each day.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: the cheapest accommodation is in the Old City, where you find cheap hostels alongside small hotels and religious hospices.
- Mid-range: B&Bs, guesthouses and small hotels are spread across West Jerusalem and East Jerusalem.
- Splurge: large hotels, up to 5-star accommodation, are found in West Jerusalem, with a similar mix in East Jerusalem.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in West Jerusalem. It gives you the widest blend of accommodation, from B&Bs and guesthouses to large hotels, and a straightforward base from which to reach the Old City. If your priority is to be as close as possible to the historic sites, the Old City itself is the alternative.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the cheapest accommodation in Jerusalem?
The cheapest accommodation is found in the Old City, which has a mix of cheap hostels, small hotels and religious hospices.
Which areas have large hotels?
West Jerusalem has large hotels up to 5-star accommodation, and East Jerusalem contains a similar mix.
What kinds of places can I stay in outside the Old City?
West Jerusalem and East Jerusalem both offer a blend of B&Bs, guesthouses and small hotels alongside larger properties.
Is the Old City a practical base for seeing the main sights?
Yes. The Old City holds many sites of seminal religious importance, including the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, so staying inside the walls keeps you within walking distance of them.
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