Lonely Planet review
Done up like an old caravanserai, with stone archways, enormous wood panelled doors, mosaics and faux ruins, this is one chain hotel that has gone to great lengths to blend into the neighbourhood. You get great value here too, with service almost on par with the David Citadel, but at half the price.
With 300 rooms, the Olive Tree is a large hotel, but don't let this put you off. The staff is welcoming and the entire facility is very well maintained. Free wi fi Internet in the lobby is a real bonus. The food is fine but can be repetitive as the buffet is never changed. The main drawback is the absence of a swimming pool or fitness centre. However, you will receive free vouchers to use the fitness centre at the Hebrew University, just a five-minute ride away by taxi. If this doesn't bother you, then the Olive Tree probably ranks as the best-value hotel in this range.