Where to Stay in Israel: COMPLETE Guide

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1. Jerusalem – Overall Best Place to Stay in Israel

It probably comes as no surprise that Jerusalem is my top vote for the overall best city in Israel. Honestly, I freaking love Jerusalem… I am not AT ALL religious but there’s something undeniably powerful about this ancient city. Jerusalem has major religious significance to Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. It is also home to important religious sites such as the Western Wall, Temple Mount, Dome of the Rock, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Jerusalem is almost a mini country within a mini country and there are so many things to see and do here that it would be totally reasonable to spend at least a week just in Jerusalem. I’ve visited Jerusalem five times in my life and spent a decent bit of time putting together a guide specifically on where to stay in Jerusalem – check it out for an even more detailed breakdown or skip ahead down below to check out my top three picks.

Best For: history lovers, religious sites, culture-focused trips, first-time visitors to Israel.
The Vibe: intense, layered, and deeply atmospheric — ancient history meets modern city life, with strong religious and political presence throughout.
Proximity to Airport: ~55 km from Jerusalem / Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV).
Transport Level: Good – extensive bus network and light rail; Old City and central areas are walkable, though the city is hilly.
Budget: Mid-range to high – accommodation and food prices are higher than elsewhere in Israel, especially near the Old City and city centre.
Crowds: High – consistently busy, with major spikes during religious holidays, weekends, and peak tourist seasons.

Best Places to Stay in Jerusalem

.When staying in Jerusalem, I recommend looking for digs the Old Town, or as close to the Old Town as possible. Stick close to the top sites in Jerusalem and you’ll find yourself immersed in some of the most picturesque, quaint, cute, fun and quirky neighborhoods that The Holy City has to offer.

Best Hotel: Agripas Boutique Hotel

The Agripas Boutique Hotel sits right in the center of Jerusalem, just a few thousand feet from the historic Old Town. In fact, you’ll be just a five minutes walk to the Mahane Yehuda Market.  There is also complimentary wine, tea, and light snacks served Sunday through Thursday as a happy hour on the rooftop terrace where you can meet other guests.

Best Hostel: Abraham Hostel

Abraham Hostel is probably my favourite overall accommodation option in Israel. If you are looking to meet people, make friends and form a group with which to explore the city, Abraham hostel is the logical choice. This highly social hostel offers guests plentiful activities such as hummus cooking classes, pub crawls, yoga classes, and Friday Shabbat dinners for starters.

This lively hostel sits a 20-minute walk from the Old City, but it’s cheap and with a price tag this low as well as the epic activities they offer— it’s worth the walk.

Abraham hostel full? It often is… for more very cool hostels in Jerusalem, check out my Best Hostels in Jerusalem guide!

Best Airbnb: Best Jewish Quarter Apartment

Right in the heart of Jerusalem’s Old City, this Airbnb is a rare find! As a private room in a charming apartment, you are invited to use all the common spaces. The best part of this Airbnb is that you can see the Western Wall right from the apartment’s front door.

2. Dead Sea – Best Place to Stay in Israel for Families

The Dead Sea is hands down one of the best regions in Israel if you are traveling with your family. The Dead Sea is actually a salt lake that sits between Jordan and Israel in what is known as the Jordan Rift Valley. Also, the Dead Sea is the lowest place on Earth, dwelling a whopping 434 meters below sea level which is pretty cool. There are plenty of nice family friendly resorts so you can relax and enjoy the heat!

Besides seeing the Dead Sea itself, the Ein Geri Nature Reserve is amazing to hike through. It is filled with freshwater pools, waterfalls, and amazing animals like wild ibexes. Kids and kidults alike are sure to love seeing these dazzling animals in their natural habitats!

Staying connected in this area is a little more of a challenge since you can get out of range of hotel wifi super easily. Picking up a local sim card is a really good idea in Israel and if you’re heading off on hikes, hitchhiking or staying in a more remote moshav, you really should get one.

Best For: wellness retreats, spa stays, relaxation, bucket-list landscapes, short side trips from Jerusalem.
The Vibe: otherworldly and serene — stark desert scenery, salty air, mineral-rich waters, and a slow, switch-off atmosphere.
Proximity to Airport: ~150 km from Dead Sea / Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV).
Transport Level: Limited – a car is strongly recommended; buses run from Jerusalem but schedules are infrequent and slow.
Budget: Mid-range to high – resort hotels and spa stays dominate; budget options are limited and scattered.
Crowds: Moderate – busiest during daytime at public beaches and resorts; evenings are quiet, especially outside peak seasons.

Best Places to Stay in the Dead Sea

Most of the accommodation here is found around the beach, however, there are some more budget-friendly options farther away from the shoreline near the Ein Geri Nature Reserve.

Best Hotel: The Oasis Dead Sea Hotel

The Oasis Dead Sea Hotel is set right along the shore of the Dead Sea. The popular Ein Bokek Beach is just 600 feet away. If you are wanting to take a break from the mineral waters of the Dead Sea, you can always take a dip in the indoor or outdoor swimming pools. This stunning hotel has a striking exterior design, and a glamorous feel inside which is surprising as it isn’t super expensive. This is a good bet if you are traveling with your family or young kids.

Best Guest House: The Zimmer Belev HaKikar

This lodge is a great find and is entirely family-friendly! There is even a children’s playground on site. However, this lodge does sit nearly 23 miles away from the Dead Sea, but given its relaxed atmosphere and clean, comfortable environment it’s worth the drive to be a little farther away from all the action if you’re worried about dealing with crowds.

Best Airbnb: Vacation Apartment

This Vacation Apartment is a two-bedroom and one bathroom private home that has gorgeous views of the Dead Sea right outside the front windows. Situated in the botanical oasis of Kibbutz Ein Gedi, you’ll love having this home to yourselves. Plus, there’s also six individual beds inside so if you happen to have more than a kid or two, this home truly is perfect for you!

3. Herzliya – Where to Stay in Israel for Couples

Herzliya sits on the central coast of Israel, just 13 kilometers north of Tel Aviv. It’s known for its hip, young culture as it’s home to tons of start-ups. It’s a very affluent community that is home to the rich, the famous, and the techies. It’s where the tech companies like Apple, Amazon, and Microsoft have their branches.

What makes Herzliya special for couples is that it has beautiful — and much less populated — beaches, a charming marina, and a nice swath of seafront restaurants and cafes. Plus, it’s a great spot to go scuba diving or to learn how to surf. Also, the sunset views right on the Mediterranean really amp up the romantic vibes. Staying in Herzliya gives couples the privacy they desire, while still allowing them easy access to all the incredible sites in Jerusalem.

Best For: beach stays, business travellers, families, quieter alternative to Tel Aviv.
The Vibe: polished and relaxed — upscale beach-town energy with marinas, cafés, and a more suburban, less chaotic feel than Tel Aviv.
Proximity to Airport: ~30 km from Herzliya / Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV).
Transport Level: Good – train station with fast connections to Tel Aviv and Haifa; buses and taxis widely available, walkable around the marina and beach areas.
Budget: Mid-range to high – beachfront hotels and serviced apartments are pricey; fewer true budget options.
Crowds: Moderate – busiest in summer and weekends near the beach, generally calmer and more spacious than Tel Aviv.

Best Places to Stay in Herzliya

Keeping in mind that Herzliya is only 21.6 square kilometers big, the best area to stay in Herzliya is west of the Highway in the neighborhood of Herzliya Pituach. This area is where the beaches and the best restaurants are found. If you head east of the highway, you’ll be in a mainly commercial and residential area.

Best Guest House: Luxury Sea View Apartment

Rent this divine apartment for a dream couples getaway location. It’s just over 100 meters from Acadia Beach, and the apartment itself has a restaurant, bar, and shared lounge on-site if you aren’t in the mood for wandering far. Additionally, there is a complimentary giant buffet breakfast provided each morning for guests. Lastly, the popular Reef Diving and Surfing Club is just under a mile from the apartment, if you and your significant other are in the market for taking to the sea!

Best Hotel: Daniel Herzliya Hotel

The Daniel Herzliya hotel lies directly on the beachfront. It’s a luxurious hotel that has amazing leisure facilities from tennis courts to swimming pools to a gym! Also, absolutely all of the rooms offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Plus, you’ll be just around a half a mile walk from the Arena Mall and from the Herzliya Marina.

Best Airbnb: Exclusive Luxury Apartment at the Beach

This luxury apartment is crisp, clean, and very modern. It’s a one-bedroom and one bathroom apartment with a fully equipped kitchen. It sits just a one minute walk from the beach and from the best shops and restaurants in Herzliya. In fact, there is a great cafe right under the apartment that makes a mean cappuccino.

4. Haifa – The Coolest Place to Stay in Israel

Built on the slopes of Mount Carmel and tapering down to meet the Mediterranean Sea, Haifa is Israel’s third-largest city and one you shouldn’t miss on your itinerary.

When you ask someone what is there to see and do here, they will usually tell you about the German Colony and the Bahá’í Gardens… but Haifa is so much more than that! This is a city with a bright, young movement, an exciting art scene and a desire to go against the norm — to stand out, to be different.

A visit to Haifa offers a very different experience, and if you want to visit a city in Israel without crowds, this might be one of your best chances.

Haifa’s most popular point of interest is the Bahá’í World Centre and its gardens and, quite honestly, it is quite the piece of sightseeing (as you can see from the picture above). You also have the beaches, which are much quieter than Tel Aviv’s but equally beautiful and nice for a stroll.

You should definitely also explore the happenings at Masada Street, a place that will make you feel like you’re in Berlin or San Francisco. Street art galore! And everything cool from second hand stores to nice bars and cafes, all the way to the more upscale/independent trendy types.

Best For: relaxed city stays, culture lovers, mixed Arab–Jewish heritage, travellers wanting a calmer alternative to Tel Aviv.
The Vibe: laid-back and scenic — a port city built on hills with sea views, green spaces, cafés, and a noticeably slower pace.
Proximity to Airport: ~110 km from Haifa / Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV).
Transport Level: Good – efficient trains and buses connect the city; neighbourhoods are spread out and hilly, so some walking can be steep.
Budget: Budget to mid-range – generally cheaper than Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, with good-value hotels and apartments.
Crowds: Low to moderate – rarely feels overwhelmed, even in peak season; busiest around festivals and weekends.

Best Places to Stay in Haifa

Wondering where to stay in Haifa? Well, I’ve got a couple of specific recommendations around the city that you should check out, catering to every type of budget and style of travel.

Best Hotel: Dream House Boutique Garden and Terrace

This one is a great option if you’re looking for something quieter and more private for your stay. The patio is spacious and exudes peacefulness — plus, the owner is a legend!

Best Hostel: Haifa Hostel

Comfortable, clean, and within easy access of everything relevant. The shared lounge is great, and chilling at the rooftop terrace after a long day of walking around is priceless.

Best Airbnb: Views over the City

You wake up, put on your sexy robe, and make yourself a cuppa joe while the whole city wakes up in front of you… amigos, this one is just something else.

5. Tzfat – Where to Stay in Israel on a Budget

First things first, I definitely want to mention that Tzfat goes by another name too, Safed. The names are used interchangeably, so don’t be surprised if you encounter some information on Tzfat or Safed and it sounds the same— it’s the same place! Tzfat sits in the Northern District of Israel and is actually the highest city in all of Israel.

Tzfat is one of Judaism’s four holy cities and is the center of Kabbalah, Jewish mysticism in Israel. Filled with winding cobblestone streets, bright art galleries, and delightful mystical shops, Tzfat is a real treat. This Holy City is also home to ancient sites and sweeping panoramic views. If you’re looking for one of the top places to stay in Israel for unique experiences at budget-friendly prices, Tzfat is for you!

Definitely make sure to visit the Tzfat Cemetery, a place of pilgrimage where tens of thousands of people visit to pray for divine intervention. Lastly, make sure to go to the food stall called the Lahuhe Original Yemenite to try authentic Yemenite delicacies like malawach, lachuchs, and jachnun!

Best For: spiritual travel, history lovers, art enthusiasts, quiet mountain stays.
The Vibe: mystical and atmospheric — ancient stone alleys, synagogues, artist quarters, and a slow, contemplative pace.
Proximity to Airport: ~150 km from Tzfat / Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV).
Transport Level: Moderate – buses connect Tzfat to Haifa, Tiberias, and other northern cities, but a car makes exploring the Galilee much easier.
Budget: Budget to mid-range – small hotels, guesthouses, and boutique stays offer decent value compared to major cities.
Crowds: Low to moderate – quiet most of the year; busier on Jewish holidays, weekends, and during summer festivals.

Best Places to Stay in Tzfat

Tzfat is a small mountain city, so you won’t ever be too far from the vibrant Old City. However, if you’re really looking to save some money, if you stay a couple kilometers away and are willing to walk into the Old City, you will really save some extra dough!

Best Hotel: Kibbutz Inbar Country Lodging

The Kibbutz Inbar Country Lodging is a beautiful lodge, nestled right in nature. It gives guests sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. It’s truly an idyllic hotel! Providing guests hearty and healthy vegetarian breakfast each morning, the Kibbutz Inbar Country Lodging is the best hotel to stay at to save some bucks while not sacrificing any amenities.

Best Airbnb in: The Reznik Getaway

This affordably priced Airbnb is for an entire guest suite, a one-bedroom and one bathroom suite. You’ll be situated near the Old City of Tzfat, just a minute walk to the city center. It’s a beautiful studio that oozes luxury, yet comes with a budget-friendly price tag!

Best Hostel: Safed Inn

The Safed Inn sits right on the outskirts of Tzfat, but is still within a couple kilometers of the major attractions in the area. The Biriya Forest and Old Tzfat are both just three kilometers away. The Safed Inn offers both private rooms and dorm rooms. They also have a dry sauna and hot tub, which is great for relaxing after a long day exploring!

6. Mitzpe Ramon – Most Unique Place to Stay in Israel

Mitzpe Ramon has got the groove. With a vibrant arts scene and an unmistakable free-spirited charm, its locals are welcoming, its dining spots intriguing…

Mitzpe stands as the ultimate hub for travelers and a haven for backpackers venturing into Southern Israel. Small in size, and nested in the heart of the desert, this is without a doubt one of the most unique places to stay in Israel.

It hovers on a ridge above the epic Makhtesh Ramon crater – think the Grand Canyon of the Middle East. Weighing in at 40 kilometres long, 2 kilometres wide, and a whopping 500m deep, it is one of those places that you just have to see for yourself.

Give yourself a few days to get into the groove. Mitzpe is a very special place and those who’ve been there have surely felt it. There are plenty of hiking opportunities around too — just make sure to bring tons of water to endure the desert heat.

Best For: desert landscapes, hiking, stargazing, slow travel, nature-focused trips.
The Vibe: remote, quiet, and contemplative — a small desert town perched on the edge of a vast crater, with big skies and a real end-of-the-road feel.
Proximity to Airport: ~85 km from Mitzpe Ramon / Ramon Airport (ETM).
Budget: Budget to mid-range – hostels, guesthouses, and small hotels offer good value compared to Israel’s major cities.
Crowds: Low – very quiet most of the year; slightly busier during holidays and peak hiking seasons, but never crowded.

Best Places to Stay in Mitzpe Ramon

After Me’ever hostel was forced to close sometime during the pandemic, we all shed a tear. That was one funky place! Fortunately, there is no shortage of amazing places to stay in Mitzpe, so I’ve got some extra recommendations for you.

It’s a small place, so… you either stay in the heart of it, or you stay in the heart of it.

Best Hostel in Mitzpe Ramon: Selina Ramon

Selina is always a step up from your typical hostel experience, and this one is no different. This is some elevated camping experience for ya. Watch out for the stars 😉

Best Hotel in Mitzpe Ramon: ibex unique Desert Inn

Staying at ibex is a fantastic experience. The rooms provide top notch comfort, the host is wonderful, and the breakfast is just absolutely marvellous. An extraordinary locale.

Best Airbnb: Silent Crater View Residence

Bedouin-style design, a lot of plant friends, and an absolutely dreamy location right on the crater’s edge. If you want to feel cosy at home, well… it doesn’t get any cosier than this.

7. Eilat – Where to Stay in Israel for Adventure

Eilat is in the south of Israel and is a port town right on the Red Sea. It’s one of the best areas to stay in Israel if you’re looking for adventure! Eilat is home to the Coral Beach Nature Reserve which has buoy marked underwater trails for scuba diving and snorkeling. Get ready to see millions of fishes! There is also the Dolphin Reef, which is known for having an abundance of dolphins swimming in the calm waters. Additionally, there are also fun water sports to partake in like parasailing, SUP, and banana boating.

If you need a break from exploring the underwater world, head on over to Timna Park for some mountain biking or hiking through the desert. The Eilat Mountains is a nature reserve that is home to incredible hiking through the picturesque canyons and mountains. Get ready to be amazed!

Best For: beach holidays, snorkelling & diving, sunshine escapes, resort stays, families.
The Vibe: sunny and resort-heavy — laid-back Red Sea vibes with hotels, beaches, malls, and a very holiday-first atmosphere.
Proximity to Airport: ~3 km from Eilat / Ramon Airport (ETM).
Transport Level: Easy – compact city, taxis plentiful; no need for a car unless exploring the wider desert
Budget: Mid-range to high – accommodation and activities are priced for resort tourism; limited true budget options.
Crowds: High – busiest during Israeli holidays, school breaks, and peak summer months.

Best Places to stay in Eilat

When staying in Eilat, try to stay close to the beach to get the most out of your trip!

Best Hotel: Rich Royal Suites

Don’t worry that The Rich Royal Suites will break your bank— it certainly won’t! Coming in at an affordable price, this hotel is a great find. It sits just a few minutes walk from the pebble sand Moriah Beach, the watersports-centric Kisuki Beach, and the golden sands of Neviot Beach. When staying at the Rich Royal Hotel, make sure to check out Ola Restaurant just down the block for a delicious meal!

Best Airbnb: Sweeping Views & Classy Apartment

This beautiful apartment is for a one-bedroom and one-bathroom apartment that actually has a total of four beds inside. It’s just a five-minute walk to the beach and to the seaside promenade. The outdoors balcony offers sweeping views of the mountains and of the Red Sea. It’s the perfect Airbnb in Eilat to kick up your feet and feel right at home.

Best Hostel: The Shelter Hostel

The Shelter Hostel in Eilat is a fabulous hostel with chill vibes and peaceful surroundings. There are dorm rooms and private rooms available coming in at basement prices. With a community kitchen available, you’ll love being able to whip up a snack when a craving sets in! Popcorn, anyone?

8. Tel Aviv – Best Destination for Foodies

Are you a lover of food and of all things delicious? Then look no further than Tel Aviv! The culinary scene in Tel Aviv is burgeoning and tons of different types of cuisine can be found all throughout the city. However, the true culinary roots of Israel always comes down to pita, falafel and shawarma. Make sure you check out Sabine Frishman and Miznon for some of the best traditional pita in Israel.

If you’re craving a traditional Israeli breakfast, with a widespread of dips, salad, eggs, and bread, you’re going to want to head over to Bread Story for a truly delicious meal!

I would be remiss if I didn’t make sure to mention that you absolutely need to get into the coffee culture in Tel Aviv. Not a single Starbucks can be found in this city (but you will fond Coffix everywhere)! Get ready to try a cafe ha’fooch at some hip coffee shops. I recommend trying Cafelix Coffee or Mae Cafe. Of course, The Urban Bakery is always a good choice.

Best For: nightlife, beaches, digital nomads, food lovers, long stays.
The Vibe: energetic, liberal, and fast-paced — beach city by day, party city by night, with cafés, bars, startups, and a very international feel.
Proximity to Airport: ~25 km from Tel Aviv / Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV).
Transport Level: Good – buses and shared taxis are common; the city is flat and bike-friendly, though public transport shuts down on Shabbat.
Budget: High – one of the most expensive cities in the region for accommodation, food, and nightlife
Crowds: High – busy year-round, especially along the beach, nightlife districts, and during summer.

Best Places to Stay in Tel Aviv

To get the most out of the culinary scene in Tel Aviv, stay in the trendiest neighborhood of Florentine, or in the nearby cool district of Old Jaffa that sits a little closer to the sea.

Best Hotel: INTA Hotel

When you stay at the INTA Hotel, you’ll be staying in style. This eclectic hotel is filled with bright art and bold accent walls. It’s an adults-only hotel that has a fantastic terrace bar to kick back and chill out on. You’ll love being right down the block from the Aroma Israeli Cafe and from the local French patisserie, Cafe Dellal.

Best Hostel: Caravan Hostel by Roger

Get ready for a unique experience because this hostel is actually made up of caravans, trailers, and campers! You can stay in your own private camper right inside the city center. There are also dorm rooms available inside the main building, should you want a more traditional hostel experience. Situated just a ten-minute walk to the beach in the Florentine neighborhood, you’ll love setting up shop in this spot. Also, this hostel also serves it’s very own home-brewed craft beer.

Best Airbnb: Cozy Old Jaffa Loft

By definition, this Airbnb is pristinely clean. It’s a one-bedroom and one bathroom private loft that is positively gorgeous and tastefully decorated. You’ll be close to tons of delicious restaurants and to the beach as well!

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Israel is an incredible country that offers travellers so much. Whether you’re looking to head o the Dead Sea with your family or go on a culinary tour in Tel Aviv, we’re sure that you will have an unforgettable trip.

Hopefully, our little guide has proved useful and provided answers to some of the questions on your list.