Cinema Hostel Jerusalem
When I first began researching where to stay in Jerusalem, I was recommended by several people through my Instagram to check out Cinema Hostel, a funky young cinema themed hostel built inside a classic cinema building. How cool is that?! Every room, hallway and common space is decorated with iconic Hollywood art/memorabilia. Aubrey Hepburn can be spotted more than a few times in the hostel’s bar and common area.
But the biggest reason we chose to stay here? Jerusalem is EXPENSIVE. In fact, Israel as a whole is the most expensive country I’ve traveled. Staying at a hostel greatly reduces your costs and allows you to save your money for experiences!
If you haven’t been to Jerusalem yet, I highly recommend it!
Jerusalem will defy your expectations at every turn. As the religious epicenter of the world, this ancient city is considered a holy city for Christianity, Judaism and Islam. Some of the most sacred places for each religion exist within this walled city, dating back to over 3,000 years ago.
Walking the streets of the Old City was like traveling back in time through the bible. But what was equally as magical about Jerusalem was the vibrant energy in modern cafes, trendy shops and hot spots for young locals and travelers alike. Jerusalem is a fascinating clash between the (very) old and the new.
Float in the Dead Sea, visit the crucifixion site of Jesus Christ, wander the streets of the Old City… there is so much to see that will not only shock your senses but delight you, perhaps even move you.
Where to stay on a budget: Cinema Hostel
Israel is notoriously expensive, a hostel is a great way to cut costs and still stay in the heart of the city!
Cinema Hostel Is In An Ideal Location
Located in near public transit, tons of restaurants, markets and within walking distance to the Old City- we found this hostel to be the ideal place to stay.
Every night, the movie theater comes back to life when the hostel screens a film in the common area. And the market just down the street is absolutely buzzing after hours! Street food, drinks, live music and intricate graffiti lines the walls of the Mahane Yehuda market. This place is a must-see in the evening!
The hostel is centrally located amidst the bustle of Jerusalem but is also a hub of activity itself. Schedule trips to the Dead Sea at the front desk or attend any of the daily activities happening around the hostel.
Cinema Hostel Schedule of Events:
- Pub Crawl : Tues, Thurs, Sat 10:30pm
- Movie Night: Every night 6pm
- Jam Sessions: Tues 8pm
- Shabbat Experience: Fri, 7pm-12am, Price 48 NIS
- Israeli Food Workshop: Sun 7pm
- Language Exchange. 8pm
Read more about the events provided here.
Spacious Terraces
If you’re able to visit Jerusalem during a warm season, take advantage of the many spacious rooftop bars around the city and specifically at the hostel itself! Parties and festivals are a common occurrence in the spring and summer and the terraces are the place to be.
Breakfast
Not all hostels serve breakfast. (And very few serve a good breakfast!!) But Cinema Hostel has a surprisingly healthy and fresh spread each day. Breakfast is served daily- eggs, hummus, fresh veggies, pita bread, cereal and more!
John Smith Bar
This unique 20’s style cocktail bar offers delicious Hollywood movie themed drinks and the chance to meet travelers from all over the world. On Tuesday evenings, be sure to check out the live band! And if you’re feeling social, hop on the pub crawl to experience Jerusalem’s nightlife.
Well-Informed Staff
Whether you want to book a tour or need help figuring out a bus route- the staff is more than happy to assist you. When I arrived at Cinema Hostel, I hadn’t planned much in advance.
However the staff was quick to offer some great recommendations- like a day trip to Bethlehem. An absolute must-see!
Thank you to Cinema Hostel for hosting me during my stay. As always, thoughts and opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
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