Best West Bank Day Trips from Jerusalem

So you visited Jerusalem and were wowed by the shimmering Dome of the Rock. Perhaps you made a loop around Israel proper, but you know there’s a whole world to explore on the other side of the separation barrier and you’re curious. Is it safe? What locations are worth travelling to? To answer your first question, 95 percent of the West Bank is quite safe, especially during the day. While it is advisable to avoid refugee camps without a local guide, the Palestinian territories are quite safe if you are a foreigner. Sure the checkpoints are intimidating but they let you through really easily once they see your Israeli entry visa. Now that we cleared up the first question, let me give you a guide for the other one. After spending six months living in Jerusalem, I spent a lot of time exploring all of the great sites of the West Bank. Here are a few of my top picks.

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Bethlehem

@markfedoronko

The obvious one given its only 15 miles from the center of Jerusalem. Home to the birthplace of Christianity and also the first town into the West Bank, Bethlehem is usually a top site for people coming to Jerusalem. Christmas is particularly lively for obvious reasons. Main sites: Church of the Nativity, Milk Grotto, Walled Off Hotel and Museum (owned by Banksy), the murals along the separation barrier, Manger Square Places to Eat: Afteem (off Manger Square), Bazooza in Beit Sahour for felafel, any place recommended by a cab driver, if feeling bougie: Walled Off Hotel Bar is a nice bet, the lobby of the Jacir Palace Hotel is also a nice pit stop Places to shop: the markets around Manger Square, the Bedouin Shop by Majdi al Amro, the store at Wi'am Conflict Transformation Centre (say hi to Zoughbi if you go) How to get there: take a cab or bus to the checkpoint and walk through - you're there!

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Battir

@markfedoronko

Main sites: beautiful hiking trails (a UNESCO World Heritage site) - one small loop takes you to the historical sites and ruins of the small village, the other is a longer trail to wanders through the mystifying terrace farms that date back millennia How to get there: cross into Bethlehem and then take a cab - should cost about 100-150 shekels depending on the guy. At the end of the trail, there is a bus with services directly into Jerusalem via the settlement tunnels - you will cross the checkpoint via the bus

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Nablus

@markfedoronko

A lively, ancient city in the North of the West Bank. Often called Little Damascus for its similarities with the Syrian capital. Main sites: Jacob's Well Church, the Samaritan Village (real Samaritans still live there), the old city of Nablus and its souqs, the soap factories, the local baths (hammam), Al Aqsa Knafeh for Knafeh (the best in the West Bank and all of Israel/Palestine) How to get there: take a private driver for the day, meeting at Qalandiya checkpoint (see Ramallah) or in Bethlehem. Should cost about 300 shekels for the whole day, including the 1.5 hour drive there

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Ramallah

@markfedoronko

The de facto capital of the West Bank, Ramallah is vibrant and has a diplomatic vibe. Filled with fancy hotels for UN diplomats and lovely cafes it's far and away the most gentile town in the West Bank. However, it's still small - I saw someone herding a flock of sheep through the middle of the street once. Main sights: the center of town for shopping, Yasser Arafat Museum and Mausoleum, Where to Eat: Rukab's of Baladna for Arab Ice Cream made with mastik making it a bit gummier than traditional ice cream - I always pick Rukab's, pistachio being my favorite flavor, musakhan is the best in Ramallah - ask a local for the best place How to Get There: Qalandiya Checkpoint is about 30 minutes north of Jerusalem's old city via bus or cab. Once you cross the checkpoint, you can get a cab for about 30-45 shekels

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Hebron

@markfedoronko

One of the holiest places for Jews and Muslims, Hebron is perhaps the epicenter of the Palestinian Israeli Conflict. The Ibrahimi Mosque-Synagogue Complex sits over the Cave of the Patriarchs, the resting place of Abraham the patriarch. Since the 1990's Hebron's old city has become a patchwork of settlements and fences. Main sights: the old city and market, the various Jewish settlements around the old city, the Ibrahimi Mosque/Synagogue complex, outside the old city: the glass works (Hebron is famed for its glass) Note: Hebron is an incredibly edgy city to visit. I highly recommend hiring a local guide to take you around to all the sites and explain the situation. It is very easy to make a mistake with so many rules. With a guide, Hebron is very safe. How to get there: From Bethlehem, there are "services" (pronounced like in French servees) that will take you to Hebron for 10 shekels. A driver can also take you for about 300 shekels for the day

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Taybeh

@markfedoronko

Longtime a sleepy Christian village in the hills above Ramallah, the residents of Taybeh realized they needed to change their economic fate. So a local resident opened a brewery, taking techniques he learned in college in Boston. 30 years later, Taybeh is home to the best brewery in all the Middle East (including Israel, and Jews drink a fair bit). The brewery holds a splendid Oktoberfest celebrating its beer Main sights: Taybeh Brewery and Winery, various ruins dating back to the Romans and Byzantines, hiking trails in and around the village - go to the brewery first as they will be able to guide you to restaurants, trails, and other historic sites in the village How to get there: Easiest access will be from Qalandiya checkpoint near Ramallah. A taxi should cost you about 100 shekels from there. You can hire a driver from Bethlehem for about 200 shekels, but it is much closer to Ramallah

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Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or would like more granular information on any of these amazing destinations!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mark Fedoronko

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My name is Mark, and I've been travel planning since the age of 11. About Me I help redefine the way you experience the world. I don't just plan trips; we craft extraordinary adventures tailored to your unique desires. Mark's journey into the realm of travel planning began at an early age, driven by an insatiable curiosity to uncover the hidden gems and cultural nuances that make each destination truly exceptional. Expertise Beyond Borders Boasting an extensive portfolio of expertise, Mark is a seasoned navigator through the enchanting landscapes of Morocco, the captivating history of Jordan, the rich tapestry of Israel/Palestine, the cosmopolitan allure of Copenhagen, and beyond. Whether you're yearning for the vibrant markets of Marrakech, the ancient wonders of Petra, the historical significance of Jerusalem, or the contemporary charm of Copenhagen, I ensure that your journey is not just a trip but a transformative experience. Custom Itineraries, Crafted with Care I understand that no two travelers are the same. My commitment to personalization means that every itinerary is a bespoke masterpiece, meticulously crafted to reflect your preferences, interests, and dreams. From immersive cultural excursions to adrenaline-pumping adventures, we curate experiences that resonate with your individual travel style. Why Choose Mark's Travel Recs? Passion-Driven Expertise: Mark's lifelong passion ensures every itinerary has an authentic touch. Global Perspective: With knowledge spanning diverse destinations, I offer journeys beyond the ordinary. Attention to Detail: I leave no stone unturned, from accommodation to off-the-beaten-path excursions. Seamless Planning: Let me take the reins for a stress-free journey from conception to execution. Embark on a voyage of a lifetime with me—where the world is your oyster, and I help you discover its pearls

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