Choosing a Hotel in the Old City of Jerusalem means immersing yourself in a world where ancient charm blends effortlessly with vibrant local culture. Guests at Paamonim Hotel Jerusalem not only enjoy comfort and convenience but also gain access to countless hidden gems tucked between the city’s historic walls and bustling modern corners. Beyond the well-known landmarks like the Western Wall or Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem holds secret spots that reward curious travelers with unforgettable experiences.

In this guide, we reveal the hidden gems around your hotel that most visitors overlook—but you definitely shouldn’t.

1. The Rooftop Viewpoint of the Austrian Hospice

While it may not be entirely unknown, the Austrian Hospice remains one of the Old City’s most underrated treasures. Tucked away along the Via Dolorosa, this serene haven feels worlds apart from the busy streets below. For a small entry fee, visitors can climb to the rooftop and enjoy one of the most incredible panoramic views of the Old City.

From the Dome of the Rock to the maze-like rooftops of the Christian and Muslim quarters, the viewpoint offers a breathtaking perspective that many tourists miss. It’s the perfect spot for photography lovers, sunset chasers, and anyone wanting a peaceful moment above the city's vibrant noise.

2. The Eclectic Alleys of the Christian Quarter Market

Most visitors head straight for the famous Arab Shuk, but few venture deep enough into the side alleys of the Christian Quarter. Here you’ll find small workshops, family-owned stores, and artisan stalls selling handcrafted olive wood carvings, hand-woven scarves, antique coins, and unique souvenirs you won’t find in mainstream markets.

The colorful alleys give travelers a chance to witness authentic daily life—a refreshing contrast to the busier, more commercial areas. It’s the ideal place for slow, curious wandering just a short walk from Paamonim Hotel Jerusalem.

3. The Quiet Oasis of Zedekiah’s Cave

Just outside the Old City walls near Damascus Gate lies Zedekiah’s Cave, a massive underground limestone quarry stretching for nearly five city blocks. Many tourists have no idea it exists, even though it's incredibly close to the main streets.

Walking through the vast caverns feels like stepping into a hidden world—cool, mysterious, and unexpectedly majestic. It’s a fascinating destination for those who love history, archaeology, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. And it’s only minutes away from the Old City’s main entrances.

4. The Little Western Wall (Kotel HaKatan)

While millions visit the Western Wall each year, only a fraction know about its smaller, more intimate counterpart. The Little Western Wall is located in the Muslim Quarter and remains one of the most spiritually powerful yet quiet spots in Jerusalem.

Here, visitors often find themselves alone or with just a few others—making it an ideal place for private reflection or prayer. For guests staying at a Hotel in the Old City of Jerusalem, it’s a meaningful hidden gem that adds depth and authenticity to the Old City experience.

5. The Armenian Quarter’s Hidden Cafés and Art Studios

The Armenian Quarter is the smallest and most private of the Old City’s four districts. Its quiet streets, charming courtyards, and artisan pottery shops often go unnoticed by passing tourists.

Wander a bit deeper and you’ll find:

• Traditional ceramic workshops
  
  

• Peaceful gardens
  
  

• Small coffee shops with Armenian pastries
  
  

• Galleries displaying hand-painted tiles
  
  

The quarter’s unique cultural blend and tranquil ambiance make it an incredible hidden area to explore during your stay at Paamonim Hotel Jerusalem.

6. The Rooftops of the Old City (A Network Above the Streets)

Few people know that a series of walkable rooftops spans the western parts of the Old City. Accessible from certain points in the Christian Quarter, these rooftops provide a stunning overlook into the daily lives of residents below.

From children playing soccer on small courtyards to families preparing meals under shaded terraces, the rooftops offer a rare perspective—a peaceful break that's truly different from anything you’ll find in typical guidebooks.

7. The Hurva Synagogue Balcony

While the Hurva Synagogue itself is well known, many visitors never climb its circular balcony. The panoramic deck offers one of the most beautiful and unobstructed views of the Old City, especially the Jewish Quarter and Mount of Olives.

Because fewer people venture upstairs, it's often quiet and spacious—perfect for reflection, photography, or simply enjoying the ancient skyline.

8. The Cardo’s Hidden Art Corridor

Most tourists walk through the main section of the Cardo, but just off to the sides are many small art galleries and boutique shops featuring:

• Local paintings
  
  

• Handmade jewelry
  
  

• Contemporary Middle Eastern art
  
  

• Unique Judaica pieces
  
  

It’s an amazing place to discover local talent and bring home something truly original. Guests from Paamonim Hotel Jerusalem often find the Cardo’s hidden corners to be one of the best surprises of their trip.

9. The Garden Tomb: A Peaceful Escape

North of the Damascus Gate lies one of Jerusalem’s most serene sanctuaries: the Garden Tomb. This tranquil site offers beautifully maintained gardens, quiet paths, and reflective spaces that contrast the busier holy sites nearby.

Whether you're religious or simply appreciate peaceful surroundings, the Garden Tomb is a gentle and inspiring stop just outside the Old City walls.

10. Nachlaot and Machane Yehuda at Night

Just a short walk from Paamonim Hotel Jerusalem is the neighborhood of Nachlaot, known for its charming lanes, colorful murals, and lively cafés. In the evening, the nearby Machane Yehuda Market transforms into a nightlife hotspot filled with music, bars, eateries, and energy.

Many visitors think of the Old City as purely historical, but staying nearby gives you access to Jerusalem’s modern, youthful, and vibrant side as well.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a Hotel in the Old City of Jerusalem does far more than place you near famous attractions—it opens the door to a world of overlooked treasures, local secrets, and unforgettable experiences. Paamonim Hotel Jerusalem serves as the perfect base for discovering these hidden gems, allowing you to explore both the iconic and the unexpected.

Whether you're wandering through ancient rooftops, sipping coffee in a quiet Armenian courtyard, or discovering underground caverns, the Old City reveals new layers of wonder with every step.