The State of Israel boasts more than just religious relics, tasty hummus, and camel rides. First, newcomers might be surprised to learn that as small as the country is, its landscape varies from lush greenery in the north, beautiful beaches on the Western coast, mountainous regions surrounding Jerusalem, and endless stretches of desert in the south. Next, there’s a solid offering of boutique and luxury hotels all across the land that cater to discerning visitors traveling from both near and far. Whether you need to rest your head while touring the bigger cities or are interested in discrete, bespoke lodging in the midst of nature, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to high-end hospitality in Israel. We’re proud to reveal our roundup of the can’t-miss hotels in Israel that have been vetted and approved by the experts.

The Norman Tel Aviv 8 (Tel Aviv)

The King David (Jerusalem)

Strategically located a short walk away from Jerusalem’s Old City, The King David Hotel hasn’t lost a bit of its polish or esteemed reputation since opening its doors nearly a century ago. Famous for hosting politicians, dignitaries, and celebrities from around the world, The King David was visited by the likes of Donald Trump and Prince William in 2018. We recommend this hotel for families, kosher-keeping patrons, and discerning guests seeking formal hospitality.

Beresheet (Mitzpe Ramon)

Beresheet is the Negev’s crowned jewel, offering five-star hospitality across 12 acres of property and 111 villas. Southern Israel’s most deluxe resort provides guests with unbeatable views of the Ramon Crater, as well as top-notch service, amenities, and respite from the hustle and bustle of the country’s more toured and saturated areas. Don’t fret if you can’t book one of the 39 rooms that come with a private pool; you can still enjoy Beresheet’s outdoor infinity pool, which was voted “Coolest Hotel Pool in the World” in 2018 by Travel Agent Central.

The Jaffa (Tel Aviv)

A Luxury Collection Hotel under the helm of New York-based real estate tycoon Aby Rosen, the recently opened Jaffa—housed in a 19th-century former hospital and monastery—is prompting Tel Avivians to flock south to its namesake neighborhood. The juxtaposition of historical grounds with contemporary interiors makes for a beguiling space that, according to The Telegraph, “begs to be explored.” With its stained-glass windows and high-arched ceilings, the Chapel is perhaps the most awe-inspiring feature on the property, and has already established itself as both a nightlife hotspot and a stunning venue for weddings and special events.

Elma Arts Complex (Zichron Yaakov)

While the Elma’s architecture may be described as Brutalist, a visit to this 95-room, arts-centric oasis is much more welcoming than it may sound. The Elma is as much a luxury hotel as it is a cultural center, boasting high modernist interior design, a plethora of works by Israeli and international artists, and two on-site performing arts venues. We recommend staying here for a uniquely immersive arts experience not far from the ancient ruins of Caesarea and a selection of northern Israel’s best wineries.

Efendi Boutique Hotel (Acre)

Located in the ancient port city of Akko, the Efendi was birthed by merging two late-Ottoman-era mansions into one deluxe structure housing 12 guest rooms. Guests can immerse themselves in the history of the setting by relaxing in the 400-year-old hammam or taking in the breathtaking views of the city’s walls and the Mediterranean Sea on the cocktail deck. Only a short distance away is owner Uri Jeremias’s namesake restaurant, Uri Buri, one of Israel’s most prized restaurants famous for its delectably fresh seafood.

The American Colony Hotel 9 (Jerusalem)

Once a palace for an Ottoman pasha and his harem of four wives, The American Colony Hotel 9 is a five-star walled-in mansion that’s been hosting guests for over a century. Given its strategic location in East Jerusalem and positioning as a beacon of political neutrality, The American Colony is popular with journalists, diplomats, and celebrities seeking access and insight into the city’s less-toured areas without sacrificing comfort, safety, or style. We particularly praise the hotel’s expansive garden courtyard, pink-stoned Cellar Bar, and the Arabesque restaurant’s delectable Saturday buffet.

The Setai (Sea of Galilee)

Perched on the eastern shore of the biblical Sea of Galilee, The Setai opened its doors in June 2017, setting a new standard for high-end hospitality in Israel’s northern region. The Setai is accessible to some of northern Israel’s most visited sites, including Mount Hermon (the country’s sole offering for skiers) and the Golan Heights. We recommend this hotel for guests hoping to indulge in some serious R&R, as The Setai boasts the country’s largest and most well-developed spa complex.