An HI hostel in a prime location overlooking the Old City walls. Clean rooms, good facilities, and inclusive atmosphere. The terrace views and central location make it excellent value for budget travelers.
HI – Beit Shmuel Hostel occupies a prime position on King David Street in the Yemin Moshe neighbourhood of Jerusalem, adjacent to the landmark Beit Shmuel cultural centre. The hostel is part of the Hostelling International network and holds one of the most enviable locations of any budget property in the city: overlooking the western wall of the Old City and Jaffa Gate, with the Tower of David visible from the terrace.
Accommodation spans dormitory rooms — mixed and female-only — and private double and twin rooms, all with access to shared bathrooms and communal areas. Rooms are clean and functional with air conditioning. The property is particularly popular with student groups, solo travellers, religious pilgrims on limited budgets, and gap-year travellers for whom proximity to the Old City matters more than hotel-level amenities.
The hostel's rooftop terrace provides a striking panoramic view of Jerusalem's walled city, the Church of the Dormition on Mount Zion, and the Judean hills beyond. This vantage point is noteworthy even by Jerusalem's high standards and is at its most dramatic during the early morning light or at golden hour before sunset. A kosher restaurant on the premises serves full breakfasts and dinner options.
The surrounding area is exceptionally convenient for Jerusalem's main sights. Jaffa Gate is roughly a five-minute walk, giving immediate access to the Christian, Jewish, Armenian, and Muslim Quarters of the Old City. The Mamilla outdoor shopping mall is adjacent. The Israel Museum and the Knesset are reachable by bus from the area in under thirty minutes.
Rates at HI – Beit Shmuel are highly competitive. Dorm beds typically start at around 110–140 ILS per night and private rooms at 280–380 ILS, making it one of the best-value options for a central Jerusalem location. HI membership card holders receive a small discount on published rates. Advance booking is essential during Jewish holiday periods and Christian pilgrimage seasons including Easter and Christmas.
Amenities
- terrace with views
- restaurant
- free WiFi
- laundry
- common areas
- kosher meals available
- 24-hour reception
Location
13 King David Street, Jerusalem
31.7754, 35.2246 View on map
Highlights
- Rooftop terrace with direct panoramic views over the Old City walls and Tower of David
- Five-minute walk from Jaffa Gate and all four Quarters of the Old City
- Part of the Hostelling International network with HI membership discounts
- Female-only and mixed dormitory options alongside private double and twin rooms
- Kosher restaurant serving breakfast and dinner on the premises
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at the rooftop terrace shortly before sunset for the most dramatic golden light over the Old City
- HI membership card holders receive a discount; worth obtaining if continuing to other HI hostels in Israel or abroad
- Dorms fill quickly during Passover, Easter, and Christmas; book several months ahead for these periods
- The Mamilla promenade nearby is pleasant for an evening walk and connects directly to Jaffa Gate
- Public buses on Keren Hayesod Street connect to the Israel Museum, Yad Vashem, and the central bus station
Accessibility
The hostel building has multiple floors with elevator access to most levels. The main entrance on King David Street involves a small step at the threshold. The rooftop terrace is accessed by stairs and is not wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility limitations should contact the hostel in advance as accessible room options are limited.
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Frequently asked questions
Are female-only rooms available at the hostel?
Yes. The hostel offers female-only dormitory rooms in addition to mixed-gender dorms. Private double or twin rooms are also available for couples or guests preferring more privacy.
Is the food at the hostel restaurant kosher?
Yes. The on-site restaurant operates under kosher supervision. Guests with specific dietary requirements should confirm options with hostel staff at check-in.
Is the hostel located inside the Old City?
The hostel is in the Yemin Moshe neighbourhood immediately outside the Old City walls. Jaffa Gate is approximately a 5-minute walk from the hostel entrance.
Does the hostel offer luggage storage?
Yes. Luggage storage is available for guests who have checked out but wish to continue sightseeing before departing. A small charge may apply; confirm at reception.
What is the HI membership discount?
HI members typically receive a reduction of around 10% off published rack rates. Membership cards from any affiliated national hostelling organisation are accepted at check-in.