East Jerusalem is the part of the city east of the Green Line, and it contains the Old City along with sites of major religious significance to Muslims, Christians and Jews. For a visitor, that means the main draws are clustered tightly together, and where you base yourself is largely a question of how close you want to be to the Old City walls and how you feel about walking, buses and hills.
The city's eastern side runs from the Old City outwards through the areas immediately north of the walls, the slopes and summit of the Mount of Olives, and the neighbourhoods along the main roads heading north and south. This guide covers which of those areas makes sense as a base depending on your priorities, and what kind of accommodation you can expect at each budget level. It does not recommend individual properties.
Best areas to stay in East Jerusalem
1. North of the Old City, around Damascus Gate and Salah Eddin Street
Most, but not all, East Jerusalem hotels are located a short walk north of the Old City, and this is the most practical base for a first visit. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the Old City gates, with the Damascus Gate as the main point of entry, and the area is served by the main roads running north out of the city.
This suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants to spend their days on foot in the Old City. You find a mix of budget hostels, mid-range hotels and larger hotels here. One practical point: this area sits on the border between East and West Jerusalem, so West Jerusalem's bars are within a short walk if you want them.
2. The Mount of Olives and Ras el-Amud
The Mount of Olives rises east of the Old City, with the Church of the Paternoster and the Chapel of Ascension near its summit, and Ras el-Amud on the Hill of Gethsemane below. This is the area for views: hotels here look out over the Old City and the Dome of the Rock.
It suits travellers who prioritise outlook and quiet over convenience, and families are catered for at some properties. Be aware of two practical points: the area is not serviced well by public transport, and rooms overlooking the street can be noisy. The Mount of Olives is reachable by bus from Damascus Gate.
3. Mount Scopus
Mount Scopus lies to the north-east, overlooking the city skyline and surrounded by the hills of Judea. It is home to the Hebrew University and was historically an enclave.
This suits visitors who want a quieter, hillside setting with sweeping views and are comfortable relying on transport rather than walking into the Old City. Accommodation here tends toward larger, modern hotels.
4. Along Road 60, north of the Bethlehem checkpoint
The southern edge of East Jerusalem, along Road 60 just north of the checkpoint with Bethlehem, has accommodation in a location convenient for travellers heading onward to Bethlehem or coming from that direction.
It suits those whose itinerary extends south of the city rather than those planning to spend their days walking the Old City. Expect limited choice and a need to travel for the main sights.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Hostels and small guesthouses, largely clustered close to the Damascus Gate and just outside it. Dormitory beds are the norm, with some private rooms available. Expect basic facilities, shared spaces and a location that keeps the Old City within walking distance.
- Mid-range: Independent and family-run hotels along the main roads north of the Old City and on the Mount of Olives and Ras el-Amud. Rooms are generally air conditioned, some properties offer children's facilities, and views vary considerably by room.
- Splurge: Large, full-service hotels and historic boutique properties, found north of the Old City, on the slopes of Mount Scopus and on the Mount of Olives. Expect a wider range of room types including family rooms, plus facilities such as pools, spas and on-site dining.
Best area for a first visit
Base yourself north of the Old City, around Damascus Gate and Salah Eddin Street. Most East Jerusalem hotels are a short walk from here, which keeps the Old City gates, its holy sites and the main transport routes within easy reach on foot. It is also the one area where you can walk to West Jerusalem's bars and restaurants without needing to arrange transport.
Frequently asked questions
Where are most East Jerusalem hotels located?
Most, but not all, are a short walk north of the Old City, in the area around Damascus Gate and the main roads leading north.
Which areas are best served by public transport?
The area north of the Old City is the most convenient on foot and by road. The Mount of Olives is reachable by bus from Damascus Gate, but the Ras el-Amud area is not serviced well by public transport.
Are there areas with good views of the Old City?
Yes. Hotels on the Mount of Olives and in Ras el-Amud look out over the Old City and the Dome of the Rock, and properties on Mount Scopus overlook the city skyline.
Is the Mount of Olives a practical base for walking to the sights?
It is a hillside area rather than a walking base, and public transport there is limited. If you stay on the Mount of Olives, plan on using buses or taxis to reach the Old City.
Compare live prices for the areas above using the booking tools on this page.