Types of Unique Stays in Israel

Types of Unique Stays in Israel

Israel offers an extraordinary variety of one-of-a-kind stays. Each type expresses something different about the land, the people who build on it, and the kind of journey a traveler wants to experience. From desert minimalism to northern greenery, from coastal modernism to ancient stone homes — every stay tells a story.

Desert Domes, Eco-Lodges & Arava Hideaways

The Negev and Arava offer some of Israel’s most cinematic landscapes: red cliffs, vast silence, stargazing skies, and architecture that blends into the earth itself.

Common desert stay types

  • Geodesic desert domes
  • Eco-lodges made from natural materials
  • Bedouin-inspired cabins and tents
  • Minimalist luxury desert suites
  • Cliffside cabins overlooking Ramon Crater

If you want to explore which regions these stays appear in, see the Unique Stays by Region guide.

For price expectations across domes and eco-lodges, visit the Price Guide (USD & EUR).

Galilee Cabins, Golan Villas & Forest Hideouts

The north is green, peaceful, spiritual, and filled with small communities that have mastered the art of warm, local hospitality. Cabins here tend to be romantic, wood-built, and surrounded by nature.

Common northern stay types

  • Wood cabins (“tzimmers”)
  • Forest eco-retreats
  • Vineyard villas
  • Family-sized Golan houses with panoramic views
  • Spiritual or artistic guest homes

To understand how hospitality differs across regions, explore What Makes Israeli Hospitality Unique.

Urban Stays — Tel Aviv, Jerusalem & Mixed Cities

City stays in Israel have their own personality: Tel Aviv is creative, bold, modern — while Jerusalem is historic, spiritual, layered, and intimate.

Common urban stay types

  • Artist lofts
  • Rooftop penthouses
  • Bauhaus boutique hotels
  • Smart micro-apartments
  • Stone guesthouses in ancient neighborhoods

Travel style influences which city stay fits you best. Discover your match in the Traveler Profiles & How to Choose guide.

Kibbutz Stays & Village Homes

Kibbutzim offer a rare kind of hospitality that is uniquely Israeli — simple, community-oriented, warm, and grounded in history. These stays attract travelers who want authenticity rather than luxury.

Common kibbutz stay types

  • Guesthouses inside active kibbutz communities
  • Converted farm rooms and small lodges
  • Nature cabins with home-cooked breakfasts

If sustainability matters to you, see Pet-Friendly & Sustainable Stays for eco-friendly lodging options.

Coastal Retreats — Mediterranean Villas & Surf Lodges

Israel’s coastline blends modern design with relaxed beach life. Coastal stays are perfect for travelers wanting sunlight, food, surf, and nightlife within walking distance.

Common coastal stay types

  • Sea-view villas
  • Boutique beachfront suites
  • Surf hostels & creative community houses
  • Smart-apartments in lively coastal towns

To see which towns have the best coastal stays, view the Unique Stays by Region breakdown.

Historic Homes, Stone Houses & Spiritual Retreats

Some of Israel’s most unforgettable stays are inside ancient structures — places that carry stories, echoes, memory, and soul.

Types of historic & spiritual stays

  • Renovated 100–300 year-old stone homes
  • Crusader-era tunnels and Ottoman villas
  • Kabbalistic artist homes in Tzfat
  • Jerusalem courtyards and old city guesthouses

These stays pair beautifully with curated activities found in Local Experiences to Pair.

Choosing the Stay That Fits Your Journey

The type of stay you choose shapes the kind of Israel you experience. Whether you want silence, creativity, spirituality, nature, community, or a deep sense of belonging — there is a stay that reflects your story.

For help matching a stay to your personality and travel goals, visit Traveler Profiles & How to Choose.