Jerusalem’s 5-star hotels not only provide guests with a sense of place, but also tell a larger story about how Israel evolved as an international destination. The 37-room Bezalel Hotel is small in size and scope, yet designed to make a big impression among a generation of travelers as interested in immersing themselves into the local scene as they are into world history. And they do the moment they walk in the door. On arrival, you are welcomed with a fresh espresso and hand-crafted chocolates from area producer Gostel.

The same general manager who welcomes you to the hotel will escort you the next day into the lounge for breakfast as if she was showing you into the living room of her home. An abundant breakfast spread of hummus, baba ganoush, salads, fresh-squeezed juices and Middle Eastern pastries is on a par with some of Israel’s best 5-star resorts.

© Elyse Glickman

Other elements that further set this breezy property apart are the personable staff, the cheerful azure blue and neutral color palette, decorative elements and bedding from area sustainable producers like Imagine Jerusalem, daily happy hours and free bike rentals.

The interior design throughout Bezalel’s public areas is inspired by Bezalel Academy of Art and Design across the street. There is an intentional art gallery feel throughout the whole property, as well as a corresponding booklet that catalogs the curated pieces, photos on display and biographical information about the artists.

© Elyse Glickman

Bezalel’s location is a huge advantage for those preferring a quieter, less-crowded setting. That said, you are an eight-minute walk from Machane Yehuda Market (a.k.a. “The Shuk”), now a haven for street food and craft beer enthusiasts as well as the go-to farmers market for residents. Just outside the front door, there is Schaltz Pedestrian Street, a trendy cafe and boutique-lined midrachov off main shopping street Ben Yehuda (the popular Bezalel Fair, offering hand-crafted souvenirs and fashion accents, takes place here most Fridays). The surrounding residential enclaves, meanwhile, recast Jerusalem as a liveable, modern city beyond its bustling historic center.

© Elyse Glickman

Between hotel’s amazing buffet breakfast and more substantial bites down at the Machane Yehuda Market, one can easily head across main thoroughfare Jaffa Street to Nocturno Coffee Bar. The vibrant space is every bit the neighborhood hangout its founders intended, from its eclectic gallery walls to charming vegetarian and coffee drink menus to live performances and boutiques selling one-of-a-kind items from young Jerusalem designers. It is a continuation of the optimistic mood that makes a stay at Bezalel an invitation to explore the area as it lives and breathes today.

Bezalel Hotel

Mesilat Yesharim St. 1
Jerusalem, 9458401, Israel
tel 972 2 530 9999