American Colony Hotel

Once the palace of a 19th-century Turkish Pasha, the American Colony Hotel is a Jerusalem institution noted for its elegant Ottoman architecture, rug-strewn flagstone floors, painted wooden ceilings, and gardens. Described as “in a class by itself” by the New York Times, this boutique hotel is located in East Jerusalem, close to the city centre and the Damascus Gate.

Accommodation is in 96 unique rooms and 24 opulent suites divided between four historic buildings: The Main House, The East House, The Palm House and the Cow Byre. All rooms offer luxurious accommodation and comfort.

Superior rooms are primarily located in the Main House and have a contemporary feel, while Classic Pasha rooms are furnished in the Ottoman style of the late 1800s and are mainly in the Palm House. Deluxe Pasha rooms are grander still and spread between three houses. These rooms feature king-size beds and were originally made for the Pasha’s three wives.

The hotel has five seasonal non-kosher restaurants serving continental and local cuisines and two popular bars. Leisure facilities at the American Colony Hotel include a beautiful outdoor heated swimming pool (open May to October), sauna, massage rooms, and book and antique shops.

Note that the American Colony Hotel is situated in a quiet Jerusalem suburb. A taxi ride is required if you want to go out in the evening.