Leonardo Plaza Hotel Jerusalem

The stone-clad facade of this 22-story hotel may be restrained, but the lobby—a modern study in marble accented by glass and glitz—is meant to impress, and it succeeds. It's anchored by an asymmetrical reception desk that's crowned by sculptural gold ceiling tiles, and just off this is the main seating area: an impressive bar/lounge displaying with floor-to-ceiling windows that look out on a pool-view balcony. The plentiful couches and club chairs there create a natural gathering place for guests, who represent a mixed bag of vacationing families, corporate travelers and sightseers drawn by Jerusalem’s ancient attractions. Large tour groups are counted among the last of these, and, since a sudden influx of overnighters can put a strain on any hotel, their numbers may help account for the occasional reports regarding spotty service. 

In terms of its setting, the Leonardo Plaza Hotel on King George Street (not to be confused with the Leonardo Hotel on Saint George Street) provides a convenient compromise between the present-day and the age-old. A 10-minute walk north leads to the Ben Yehuda pedestrian mall in the heart of the Downtown Triangle (a popular commercial and entertainment area), while a 10-minute walk west takes you to Alrov Mamilla Avenue’s scale shops and eateries; stroll another five minutes onward and you’ll be at Jaffa Gate, beyond which lie the storied sites of the UNESCO-anointed Old City (the Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Dome of the Rock among them). Using the efficient public transit network, other destinations—ranging from Israel’s national museum to the Middle East’s largest convention center—are accessible in 20 minutes or less; however, it will take you over an hour to hit Ben Gurion International Airport, which serves both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.- Three-minute walk to Independence Park (Gan Ha'atzmaut)

• 10-minute walk to Ben Yehuda St.
• 10-minute walk to Alrov Mamilla Ave. (aka Mamilla Mall)
• 15-minute walk to Jaffa Gate 
• 19-minute walk to the Tower of David
• 18 minutes to the International Convention Center by public transit
• 19 minutes to Al-Aqsa Mosque or City of David archaeological site by public transit
• 20 minutes to the Israel Museum or Western Wall by public transit
• 23 minutes to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre by public transit
• 24 minutes to Mount of Olives by public transit
• 25 minutes to Temple Mount or Dome of the Rock by public transit
• 70 minutes to Ben Gurion International Airport by public transit or car

The same rich palette of browns and golds that dominate the common areas downstairs is carried up to the guest rooms, where sleek wood appointments and brass accents combine to create accommodations that, despite some signs of wear and tear, still have a look that’s both classic and contemporary. Size-wise they run from 290- to 970-square feet, yet all are similarly equipped. Standard units come with air-conditioning, mini-fridges, coffee/tea-makers, digital safes, flat-screen cable TVs, free Wi-Fi, and functional matching bathrooms with combination shower/tubs; Executive-class rooms add balconies, while upper-tier options boast more square footage, upgraded bathrooms (some with hydro-massage tubs) and, in the case of suites, separate living rooms with dining areas. As you ascend the scale, little extras—like free mineral water and daily papers—are piled on, too. Note that Shabbat clocks, mechanical room keys, and such are available in all categories for guests observing the Jewish Sabbath. 

In keeping with its luxury status, the Leonardo is loaded with features. Topping the list for many is the seasonal swimming pool (open April to October), which promises shady loungers and views over the welcome greenery of Independence Park. Fitness fans, in particular, will also appreciate the small but decently equipped work-out room, while families will enjoy the pair of play rooms stacked with games, books, and movies. Business types (or party planners), conversely, can take advantage of on-site event spaces that accommodate up to 800 people. Dining choices here are equally plentiful as the hotel houses several restaurants: Primavera, serving Italian cuisine in contemporary surroundings; the more traditionally decorated Cow in the Roof, with French-inspired fare; plus Cardo, a buffet-style alternative that's either garish or glam depending on your taste. (Its breakfast spread typically wins rave reviews though the Shabbat offerings do not.) Lighter bites and beverages are available in the big, bright lobby lounge. Other features include a round-the-clock reception desk with multilingual staff; a library-like business center with guest computers; a small spa zone and beauty salon for add-on indulgences; an in-house shopping arcade; concierge and laundry/dry-cleaning services; 24-hour room service and strictly Kosher menus; paid parking; and free property-wide Wi-Fi.