Posted: 15-09-2023 | September 15, 2023
Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world and was founded more than 5,000 years ago. And while it’s packed with history, it’s not a stuffy, dusty capital suitable only for antiquity enthusiasts. It’s actually a vibrant, modern place with an incredible food scene and wild nightlife.
But it’s also expensive compared to other Middle Eastern destinations, so finding affordable accommodation is important if you don’t want to break the bank.
To help you get the most out of your trip, here is my list of the best hostels in Jerusalem. These are all fun, safe and social and will ensure that you have a great visit to the Holy City.
Price legend (per night):
- $ – Less than 90 ILS
- $$ – 90-150 ILS
- $$$ – Over 150 ILS
1. Abraham Jerusalem
This is one of the most popular hostels not only in Israel, but also in the world. It’s an energetic place with a friendly atmosphere and a bar. There is also a tour desk on site, so you can also easily book all kinds of day trips and tours of the city, country and region.
The hostel has an artsy feel and although the rooms are clean and spacious, the bunk beds are simple metal with thin mattresses and no curtains. There is also a free breakfast. It’s close to Machane Yehuda Market (great for shopping) and it’s not a long walk to the old town or the central bus station.
Abraham Jerusalem at a glance:
- $$$
- Tour desk on site
- Lively, energetic atmosphere
- Super friendly staff
Beds from 161 ILS, private rooms from 793 ILS.
2. Stay inn
This stylish hostel is friendly and has comfortable dormitories. The beds have thick mattresses and curtains, so you can sleep well. There are also individual lamps and sockets. The rooms also have air conditioning (a big plus as it can get quite warm here). The hostel is very centrally located, close to the Midrachov (a popular pedestrian area) and not far from Independence Park. There is a common area on the roof and the breakfast is fantastic every morning.
Stay Inn at a glance:
- $$
- Delicious breakfast
- Comfortable dormitories
- Convenient location
Beds from 93 ILS, private rooms from 463 ILS.
3. The Posthostel
This hostel has a stylish, contemporary look. There is a roof terrace where you can relax, as well as a large kitchen where you can prepare your own meals. There is also a bar and movie room, so you can take it easy after a night out. The dormitories are airy and bright and the bunk beds are comfortable with lighting, sockets and lockers (no curtains).
The atmosphere isn’t super social (it feels more like a hotel), but there’s plenty of communal space for lounging. It is also not far from the old town.
The Post Hostel at a glance:
- $$$
- Quiet atmosphere
- Great location near all major attractions
- Clean, spacious dorms
Beds from 188 ILS, private rooms from 680 ILS.
4. Palm Hostel
This is one of the cheapest hostels in the city. It has a simple place and although the dorms are small and the beds are basic (thin mattresses and no curtains), it is only a short walk to all the main attractions of the Old City (you can reach everything in about 15 minutes). The location really can’t be beat, just steps from the busy Damascus Gate.
There are a few common areas where you can hang out (including a patio), and there’s also a small kitchen where you can prepare your own meals. It’s the perfect choice for budget backpackers who don’t need anything fancy.
Palm Hostel at a glance:
- $
- Great location near the main attractions
- Very affordable
- Lots of common areas to hang out and meet people
Beds from 80 ILS, private rooms from 270 ILS.
5. Cinema Hostel
This cinema-themed hostel is a lively hostel in an old cinema. It’s quite social and there’s lots of communal space (indoor and outdoor), group activities (like yoga) and of course movie nights. It is close to the Midrachov and nightlife, and just a 15-minute walk from the Old Town. The dorms are simple and clean, but the beds are simple metal bunk beds with thin mattresses and no curtains. There are lamps and plugs for each bed and there is also a capsule dormitory if you want more privacy. There is also a female-only dormitory.
Please note that there is an age limit here: you may not be older than 45 years.
Cinema Hostel at a glance:
- $$
- Female-only dormitory
- The social atmosphere makes it easy to meet people
- Younger travelers only (18-45)
Beds from 95 ILS, private rooms from 150 ILS.
Jerusalem is popular among young backpackers, thanks to its mix of old and new. With incredible ancient sites, an energetic nightlife and world-class foodie scene, it should come as no surprise that this is one of the most popular travel destinations in the Middle East.
By staying in one of the hostels above you are guaranteed to have fun, save money and make the most of your time in this iconic, historic capital!
Book your trip: logistics tips and tricks
Book your flight
Find a cheap flight with Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines all over the world, so you always know there’s nothing going on.
Book your accommodation
You can book your hostel at Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.
Don’t forget travel insurance
Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. It is comprehensive protection in case something goes wrong. I never travel without it as I have had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that provide the best service and value are:
Do you want to travel for free?
Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that you can redeem for free flights and accommodation, all without any additional expenses. Check out my guide to choosing the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.
Ready to book your trip?
Check out my resources page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the devices I use when I travel. They are the best in their class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.