American Colony Haifa
An Ottoman-era palace turned elegant hotel, offering a historic oasis with stunning gardens, a serene pool, and exceptional hospitality.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
American Colony Haifa
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An Ottoman-era palace turned elegant hotel, offering a historic oasis with stunning gardens, a serene pool, and exceptional hospitality.
"It's truly one of a kind. The service is outstanding, the kind of genuine, high-quality hospitality that’s incredibly rare to find."
Explore the History
Wander floor by floor, reading about the different time periods. It's like staying in a museum! :books:
Enjoy the Gardens
The gardens are a breathtaking oasis with koi fish, hummingbirds, and butterflies. :butterfly:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Palace Architecture
Wander through halls steeped in history, admiring the Ottoman-era architecture and intricate details that tell a story.
Lush Gardens & Courtyards
Experience a breathtaking oasis with koi fish, hummingbirds, and fragrant blooms. Perfect for a peaceful stroll or a meal.
Picturesque Outdoor Pool
Relax and unwind in a serene and quite large swimming pool area, a true highlight for many guests.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
An Oasis in the City
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Explore the History
Wander floor by floor, reading about the different time periods. It's like staying in a museum! :books:
Enjoy the Gardens
The gardens are a breathtaking oasis with koi fish, hummingbirds, and butterflies. :butterfly:
Summer bar at the American Colony Hotel in Jerusalem
Relax by the Pool
The swimming pool area is serene and quite large, perfect for a relaxing dip. :pool_8ball:
Consider Location
It's next to the Sheik Jarrah neighborhood; while guests felt safe, be aware of surroundings. :warning:
7 Day Itinerary in Israel - What are some must-do things to fill in gaps?
Tips
from all over the internet
Explore the History
Wander floor by floor, reading about the different time periods. It's like staying in a museum! :books:
Enjoy the Gardens
The gardens are a breathtaking oasis with koi fish, hummingbirds, and butterflies. :butterfly:
Relax by the Pool
The swimming pool area is serene and quite large, perfect for a relaxing dip. :pool_8ball:
Consider Location
It's next to the Sheik Jarrah neighborhood; while guests felt safe, be aware of surroundings. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise the American Colony for its unique historical atmosphere, breathtaking gardens, and exceptional hospitality. The serene pool area and the overall ambiance are frequently highlighted as major draws. While the hotel is highly regarded, some mention that the breakfast buffet, once a strong suit, has seen a decline.
"I stayed at the American Colony with my family, unfortunatly I suffered a serious health episode and required an ambulance .
I wish to express our deepest appreciation to the hotel team, from the manager to to reciptionest.
They went out the way to make us feel comftortabale although the dramatic circumstances.
We will always return to stay at the American Colony due to the unique atmosphere and the outreaching team.
Daphne Kassif Orchrad"
daphne kassif
"What a special place. The hospitality was lovely, the staff was extremely kind and helpful. And the building and history, my husband and I went floor by floor reading about the different time periods. The gardens are beautiful, the courtyard for breakfast or dinner. I really can't say enough good things. The pool was picturesque. It was like staying in a museum!
Things to note: It's next to the Sheik Jarrah neighborhood, I didn't feel unsafe at the hotel or walking to or from public transportation but important for anyone who might be feel differently.
The majority of the guests are Israeli or international but it is mixed which I thought added to the perfect weekend.
We stayed with our almost 1 year old and they provided us a crib to sleep as well as a high chair for meals."
Kayla Berman
"Our stay at the American Colony was, without a doubt, one of the best local vacations we’ve ever had — and it even surpassed many of our trips abroad.
I’ve had this hotel on my list for quite some time, and last weekend we finally got the chance to visit. We originally planned to stay for two nights but ended up extending our stay because we simply couldn’t leave.
From the moment you step through the gate, you feel transported. Everything is so full of life and detail — it’s truly one of a kind. The service is outstanding, the kind of genuine, high-quality hospitality that’s incredibly rare to find. The staff strike the perfect balance between professionalism and warmth.
The garden is absolutely breathtaking — easily the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. With koi fish, hummingbirds, butterflies, and an intoxicating natural scent in the air, it feels like a hidden oasis. The breakfast is excellent, with a wide variety of delicious options, and the rooms are thoughtfully equipped with everything you might need — even down to luxurious Italian linen sheets.
And the pool… you’ll just have to experience it for yourself.
In short, the American Colony is a true institution of hospitality. Places like this are rare, and we feel lucky to have found it.
Thank you for such a memorable stay. We can’t wait to return."
Maryam Rabah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The American Colony is located at 12 Ben Gurion Street, Haifa. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, it's noted as being a short walk to Jerusalem's New Town and Old City, suggesting good accessibility. :bus: :taxi:
Information on parking availability is not explicitly detailed, but given its central location, it's advisable to check with the hotel directly or consider public transport options. :car:
From Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), you can take a train or a taxi to Haifa. The hotel's proximity to city attractions implies it's well-connected within Haifa itself. :airplane: :train:
Yes, the hotel is described as being a short walk to Jerusalem's New Town and Old City, making it an excellent base for exploring on foot. :walking:
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Gett are generally available in major Israeli cities, including Haifa, offering convenient transport options. :iphone:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The American Colony is primarily a hotel. While you don't need tickets to enter as a guest, you can visit its restaurants and bars. :key:
As a hotel, it is open 24/7 for guests. Restaurants and bars may have specific operating hours, with the Summer Bar typically opening for the season. :clock:
Access to the gardens and pool is generally reserved for hotel guests. However, you might be able to enjoy the ambiance by dining at one of their restaurants. :swimmer:
While not formal tours, guests are encouraged to explore the hotel's architecture and history by wandering through its different floors and reading about its past. :scroll:
There is no entrance fee for common areas if you are a guest. If you are visiting for dining, you will only pay for your food and drinks. :moneybag:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The American Colony offers upscale dining, with a courtyard for breakfast or dinner. The Summer Bar is also a popular spot, known for its beautiful ambiance and interesting guests. :forkandknife:
Breakfast is typically included for hotel guests and is described as excellent with a wide variety of delicious options. :croissant:
It is generally recommended to make reservations for dining, especially during peak times, to ensure you get a table. :telephone_receiver:
The cuisine is described as upscale, with a focus on quality and delicious options. Specific details on cuisine type are not provided, but it caters to a discerning palate. :chef_hat:
While not explicitly stated, upscale establishments like the American Colony usually offer a range of options to accommodate dietary preferences. It's best to inquire directly. :leafy_green:
📸 📸 Photography
The lush gardens, the picturesque pool area, and the historic architecture are all highly photogenic. The courtyards also offer beautiful backdrops. :camera:
Photography is generally allowed in common areas and for personal memories in rooms. However, always be mindful of other guests' privacy. :iphone:
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and historical sites. It's advisable to check local regulations and hotel policy before flying a drone. :drone:
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can offer beautiful lighting for the gardens and architecture. Evenings at the Summer Bar can also be atmospheric. :sunrise: :sunset:
Travelers often capture the serene gardens, the unique architecture, and the inviting pool. Lifestyle shots enjoying the ambiance are also common. :art:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The historical ambiance and beautiful gardens can also be engaging for children, offering a unique learning experience. While the hotel is elegant, the welcoming staff and the serene environment make it a pleasant place for families to create lasting memories. Consider booking rooms that offer ample space for little ones to move around.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Enjoying a meal in the courtyard, sipping drinks at the Summer Bar, or simply relaxing by the pool provides ample opportunities for quality time together. The hotel's blend of history, beauty, and outstanding hospitality makes it an ideal choice for a memorable romantic escape.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Sightseers
Its central location also makes it convenient for those exploring the surrounding areas. The gardens and courtyards offer a beautiful setting for a leisurely break during a day of sightseeing. :camera:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
This unique atmosphere is a major draw, transforming a stay into an immersive experience. The architecture itself tells a story, with intricate details and grand spaces that transport guests to another era. It's this blend of historical significance and elegant design that makes the American Colony a destination in itself, appealing to those who appreciate culture and heritage.
For those interested in the historical context, taking the time to wander and absorb the surroundings is highly recommended. It's this deliberate exploration that allows visitors to truly appreciate the layers of history embedded within the walls of the American Colony.
The Oasis Experience
Complementing the gardens is a picturesque outdoor pool, offering a serene and spacious area for guests to relax and unwind. The combination of lush greenery and the inviting pool creates a resort-like feel, providing a welcome escape from the urban bustle. Many guests highlight the pool area as a significant part of their enjoyable stay.
This 'oasis' aspect is a recurring theme in guest reviews, emphasizing the hotel's ability to offer a peaceful retreat. Whether enjoying breakfast in the courtyard surrounded by nature or taking a refreshing dip, the tranquil environment is a key element of the American Colony's charm.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit