Catholic pilgrim hospice on the Via Dolorosa with a garden cafe and rooftop view.
The Austrian Hospice stands at 37 Via Dolorosa in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem, Israel, at the corner of the Via Dolorosa and El-Wad Road. It sits close to the Third Station of the Cross, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Western Wall and Damascus Gate are all within a short walk through the narrow streets of the Old City. The location puts guests in the middle of the pilgrim route and the busy market lanes, with no need for transport to reach the main religious sites. The Catholic pilgrim hospice was founded in the nineteenth century to serve Austrian pilgrims, and the building has the thick stone walls, high ceilings and quiet corridors typical of such institutions, with an atmosphere that is peaceful, simple and respectful rather than luxurious. Accommodation is offered as dorm beds and private rooms, and the standards are basic but clean, with traditional furnishings. Amenities include a garden, a cafe, a rooftop terrace and free wifi. The garden cafe is a well-known quiet spot in the Old City, serving coffee, Viennese-style cakes and light meals, and it is open to non-guests as well. The rooftop terrace gives a wide view over the domes and rooftops of the Old City and toward the Mount of Olives, and it is especially popular at sunrise and sunset. The service character is that of a religious guesthouse, with a quiet, courteous reception and house rules that include a curfew and respect for the Christian character of the hospice. Rates of roughly 350 to 800 ILS per night make it an affordable option for a central Old City stay, though the dorm beds are cheaper. The hospice suits pilgrims, solo travellers and visitors who value atmosphere and location over modern comforts, and it is a good choice for those who want to see the Old City in the early morning before the crowds arrive.
| Price | $$ |
|---|---|
| Address | 37 Via Dolorosa, Old City, Jerusalem, Israel |
Room types
- Dorm Bed
- Private Room
Amenities
- cafe
- garden
- free wifi
- rooftop terrace
Location
37 Via Dolorosa, Old City, Jerusalem, Israel
31.7797, 35.2316 View on map
Highlights
- Via Dolorosa location at the Third Station of the Cross
- Quiet garden cafe serving coffee and Viennese-style cakes
- Rooftop terrace with views over the Old City domes
- Dorm beds and private rooms at affordable rates
- Historic pilgrim hospice with a peaceful atmosphere
Tips for visiting
- Check the curfew and house rules with reception before planning late evenings.
- Visit the rooftop at sunrise for the best light and fewest crowds.
- Dress modestly in the public areas, as this is a religious institution.
- Book well ahead for Easter and Christmas, when pilgrim groups fill the rooms.
- Carry luggage light; Old City lanes have steps and no vehicle access.
When to visit
Early mornings are the quietest time on the rooftop and in the lanes outside. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons, while Easter and Christmas are very busy.
Accessibility
The historic building has stairs, stone floors and narrow passages, and the surrounding Old City lanes are steep and uneven. It is not well suited to wheelchair users, and visitors with mobility needs should contact the hospice before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
Where is the Austrian Hospice?
It is at 37 Via Dolorosa in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City, near the Third Station of the Cross.
Can non-guests visit the cafe?
Yes. The garden cafe is open to visitors and is known as a quiet stop in the Old City.
What room types are available?
The hospice offers dorm beds and private rooms.
How much does it cost?
Rates run roughly 350 to 800 ILS per night depending on room type and season.