Abraham Hostel Jerusalem Review: Your Ultimate Home Away from Home
When I arrived at Abraham Hostel in Jerusalem, it took just ten minutes to feel completely at home. During the quick, smooth check-in, I was invited to the Shabbat dinner that evening. Excitedly, I said yes! Having experienced a family Shabbat dinner the previous Friday, I was eager to join this one. After settling into my room, I headed to the communal lounge for some writing. Happy Hour had begun, so I enjoyed a glass of excellent local Israeli wine while soaking in the vibe.
Guests chatted in small groups around lounge tables, laughing and connecting. The bar was buzzing, staff mingled with visitors, and volunteers prepped dinner in the kitchen. Relaxing background music played—not the thumping party beats of some hostels. I knew I'd feel right at home for my six-night stay.
This wasn't a typical party hostel: guests spanned all ages, from 50s couples to 30s solo travelers and 20s friends. A TV room offered quiet retreat, while the lounge, bar, and rooftop terrace with comfy sofas were ideal for mingling.
Despite 260 beds and near-full capacity, it never felt overcrowded or chaotic. My spacious en-suite single room on the third floor provided privacy with a desk and kitchenette. Yet, I could easily join the lounge, bar (especially during Happy Hour), or nightly activities like Pub Crawl, Mexican Taco Night, movie nights, open-mic, or Shabbat dinners—perfect for solo travelers.
The volunteer-prepared Shabbat dinner rivaled home-cooked meals, with plentiful vegetarian options and delicious dishes. At ILS30 (about US$7.70), it's a steal compared to Jerusalem's restaurants. Around 50 guests attended in an intimate setting at small tables, fostering connections.
My private room was ideal for work, but the four-bed female dorms impressed too: spacious, with reading lamps, sockets, makeup tables, mirrors, hair dryers, and kitchenettes. The main kitchen downstairs was spotless, with two stoves, free tea/coffee, and mornings featuring an espresso machine for proper coffee.
Breakfast—included in rates—offered self-service bread, Nutella, cheese, eggs, cereal, and essential Israeli cucumbers/tomatoes.
The on-site Abraham Tours desk offers discounts for guests, with trips to Dead Sea, Masada, Haifa, Nazareth, Jordan (Petra, Wadi Rum), Egypt, and eye-opening West Bank tours. I joined three West Bank tours and a cooking class—highlights of my Israel trip.
Overall, Abraham Hostel felt like home; I can't wait to return.
Standout Feature: Friendly Staff
The approachable, helpful staff made all the difference. Get insider tips anytime, with more on their website.
Standout Feature: Social Activities & Tour Desk
Discounted tours across Israel (and beyond) with expert guides—perfect with new hostel friends. Social events like pub crawls and Shabbat dinners make meeting people effortless.
Room for Improvement
Hard to find flaws, but late-morning breakfast tables could be cleaner despite prompt buffet refills.
Abraham Hostel Details
Location: 67 Hanevi'im Street, Davidka Square, Jerusalem, 94702
Prices: Dorms from ILS85 (US$22), singles ILS270 (US$69), doubles ILS360 (US$92), triples ILS420 (US$107)
LGBT Friendly: Yes
Digital Nomad Friendly: Yes (high-speed WiFi, desks)
Amenities: Free breakfast, WiFi, lockers, lounge, kitchen, laundry, TV room, roof terrace, tour desk
Website: https://abrahamhostels.com
