Best areas in Israel? Planning my first trip

Planning my first trip to Israel. Read through the older threads but wanted to check if info is still current.

My main questions:
1. Best area to stay for easy access to the scene?
2. Realistic daily budget including accommodation?
3. Any areas to avoid?
4. How is the quality compared to Germany?
5. Any apps to use before arriving?

Coming from Canada with experience in a few different countries but first time in Israel.

Any recent reports or recommendations appreciated. Thanks!

What was your total spend roughly? Trying to budget for mine.

+1 on this. Exactly my experience too. Solid destination.

Great report, thanks for sharing. Had a similar experience there last month.

I was there in January and prices were about average. Spent about $50/day all-in.

My tip: try the local spots away from tourists.

This matches my experience. Israel is one of my favorites.

I was there in last month and prices were exactly as described. Spent about $100/day all-in.

My tip: avoid weekends.

Different experience for me. Prices were about the same when I went.