Upscale and quiet, the picturesque Rechavia neighborhood overlooks the Old City. Here, you’ll find slices of Jerusalem history, including the Ratisbonne Monastery, the Yeshurun Synagogue, the Jewish Agency headquarters, and the Prime Minister’s house, along with scenic city parks. Home to David Ben Gurion, Arthur Ruppin, Menachem Ussishkin, Golda Meir, and many other famous intellectuals, this neighborhood is elegant and quiet. The exception to the rule is Azza Street, where the city’s young hipsters wine, dine, and socialize. It’s an easy walk to other parts of the city, and buses and trains are easy to access for trips further afield. Rechavia is a great place to stay if you want tranquil, high-end lodging that is less touristy than other parts of Jerusalem.

Many consider Jerusalem the holiest city on earth; as such, many religious Jews make their home here, and you should remember that many shops and markets are closed on Saturday in order to observe the Sabbath.