Discovering the West Bank with iBestTravel
The West Bank isn’t just about politics; it offers beautiful nature trails, fascinating ancient ruins, and a lively nightlife. While military checkpoints and ongoing tension may complicate travel, the region’s relative stability has led to a significant increase in Palestinian tourism, ranking it among the fastest-growing destinations for travelers as noted by the United Nations World Tourism Organization in 2017.
The West Bank is conveniently accessible from Jerusalem via shared taxis, known as servees. Start your journey in Ramallah or Bethlehem, where you’ll find farm-to-table restaurants, quirky hotels, and restored ancient sites that showcase the Palestinian West Bank’s rich complexities.
Walled-Off (Banksy) Hotel, Bethlehem
Designed by the elusive street artist Banksy, the Walled-Off Hotel claims the ‘worst view in the world’, facing the controversial 10m-high concrete barrier wall that separates the West Bank from Israel, often a focal point in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This artistically designed hotel features nine unique rooms with plush leather couches and oil paintings reminiscent of colonial outposts. Guests can enjoy the presidential suite equipped with luxurious amenities, while the hotel’s lobby bar attracts both guests and locals with its delightful afternoon tea and cocktails accompanied by a self-playing baby grand piano.
La Grotta, Ramallah
In Ramallah, a city known for its international influences, you’ll find a vibrant nightlife scene. La Grotta, a bar located in the Old City, offers an authentic and casual ambience, often frequented by the West Bank’s intellectuals and musicians who may break into live performances featuring traditional Arab instruments.
Hosh Jasmin, Beit Jala
Hosh Jasmin is a rustic restaurant located adjacent to a family-owned organic farm, offering a serene getaway just outside of Bethlehem. Established in 2012 by a Palestinian filmmaker trained in farming in Oregon, this establishment preserves the charm of a 1943 farmhouse. Visitors can unwind in its outdoor area with scenic views while savoring dishes like sumac-spiced hummus and homemade arak, and can join in various activities such as lectures and hiking tours amidst picturesque olive groves.
Ka’abar, Beit Jala
Ka’abar is a must-try roadside stop famous for serving some of the best roasted chicken in the West Bank. Located just outside Bethlehem near the Municipality Building, this no-frills eatery has become a culinary pilgrimage site among locals and visitors. While the staff may not speak much English, simply pointing to the grill options will suffice. The dish is typically accompanied by an array of delicious sides, including fresh salads and homemade dips.
Hosh Al Syrian Guesthouse, Bethlehem
After managing prestigious hotels in Paris, Fadi Kattan returned to Bethlehem to establish the charming guesthouse and restaurant, Hosh Al Syrian. Nestled within a lovely stone courtyard, this location reflects the remnants of Bethlehem’s Assyrian population. The reservations-only Fauda restaurant offers a taste of modern Palestinian cuisine, using ingredients sourced from local farmers’ markets to create mouthwatering dishes like lamb with pomegranate and roasted peach kunafeh.
Snowbar, Ein Musbah
Despite its snowy name, Snowbar is a popular summer spot surrounded by a leafy forest that provides a refreshing escape from the city. This hotspot has long attracted the Palestinian elite and international visitors. As the sun sets, enjoy local beer by the poolside and soak in the enchanting views of the rolling hills, as the outdoor deck often transforms into a lively dance party.
Mount of Temptation Cable Car, Jericho
For a laidback escape, consider heading toward Jericho, where a cable car offers access to the Mount of Temptation, a site of biblical significance. Enjoy a day hiking through scenic trails overlooking lush palm plantations while making your way to an ancient monastery. When hungry, visit The Sultan for modern Palestinian dishes featuring delicious grilled meats and fresh local produce, creating a delightful reprieve from the busyness of nearby cities.
Al Sharqi Turkish Hammam, Al Bireh
In Al Bireh, a suburb of Ramallah, the Al Sharqi Turkish Hammam offers visitors a rich cultural experience often missed by typical tourists. This modernized version of a 17th-century bathhouse includes various hot and cold relaxation rooms, showcasing traditional Palestinian textiles. A full-body loofah massage is a must-try, helping you unwind after an exploratory day.
La Vie Cafe, Ramallah
La Vie is a charming farm-to-table cafe located just a short walk from the central Manara Square in downtown Ramallah. The menu emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from their organic rooftop garden. For a taste of local culinary tradition, visit on weekends when unique dishes such as fuul bi-laban or khubeza are offered.
