Whenever you visit a country, there is always the question of where to stay. There really does not seem to be that many options – a hotel at some level or another, for younger people possibly a hostel, or private lodgings and it is quite easy to find all even before you get here.

When staying in hotels there are again many options, depending on what class of hotel you want. If you opt for the higher class hotels, up until recently you had to choose one of the large hotels, like King David, David’s Citadel, the Inbal to mention just a few in Jerusalem, or the Dan, David Continental, Moriah in Tel Aviv, again to mention just a very few.

But not all like to stay in these large hotels, and yes they are all excellent. Which one depends very much upon taste, budget or possibly miles accumulated in other places. Almost all hotels in the large cities in Israel are located within walking distance of most frequently
visited places.

But a new trend has grown up in recent years, and that is the smaller boutique hotels. Tel Aviv has had a few, but both Jerusalem and Haifa are now very much on the market as well. Most of the boutique hotels are in old buildings that have been converted to be a hotel, which in itself gives them a unique quality.

I have become acquainted with three, two in Jerusalem and one in Haifa (the newest).

Jerusalem

Room in Dan Boutique

The Dan Boutique was the first in Jerusalem. It belongs to the Dan chain of hotels, and is a older small hotel converted. It is situated within reasonable walking distance of the Old City, and central Jerusalem as well as the charming German Colony. It has 126 rooms in three classes as well as spacious lounge area and reasonable parking space.

Lobby in Harmony Hotel

Harmony Hotel is situated in the heart of downtown Jerusalem. It is converted to a boutique hotel from a number of old buildings of Nahlat Shivaa neighborhood, the first to be built outside the wall of Old Jerusalem. It is quiet despite its location. It is surrounded by some of the most active streets in Jerusalem, teeming with shops and restaurants of all levels. It is within easy walking distance of the Old City. Breakfast is served in the modern lobby. It also has good parking facilities.

Haifa

Room in Colony Hotel

The Colony Hotel is the newest of the boutique hotels. It is situated in the Old German Colonoy and was originally built as a hotel over 100 years ago. It has undergone massive restoration just like the rest of the German Colony, one of the oldest areas in Haifa. The German Colony in Haifa has become a sought after eating area as well as office and shopping area. The magnificent Bahai Gardens can be seen from many of the rooms.

All three hotels have many additional features. I have linked them, so you can check them out  yourself.
These, as well as other hotels, can also be booked through Your Guide to Israel.