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The historic Waldorf Astoria Hotel in the heart of Jerusalem has won the prestigious Travel + Leisure magazine’s annual competition for best hotel in the Middle East and North Africa for 2026, and first place among hotels in Israel. We spent 24 magical hours there, discovering all the reasons why / By Nava Marton Peak luxury: a night at the best hotel in Israel

International design standards and dedication to details Let’s start with the design. The hotel’s interior features a stunning central atrium with a central glass dome, a huge Swarovski chandelier, fresh flower arrangements, and an incredible dove-shaped glass chandelier entitled “Peace in Jerusalem” created by glass artist Jeremy Langford. The structure of the hotel includes the first three floors of the historic Palace Hotel, to which nine new floors were added and furbished according to the international standards of the Hilton hotel chain to which the hotel belongs. The hotel has 226 rooms, of which 27 are suites, there are three restaurants,

Housed in the original, historic structure that once was the legendary 1929 Palace Hotel, the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem is a short walk away from the Old City. It has been extensively renovated and represents one of the city’s most significant architectural landmarks. As soon as you enter the hotel and you come through the impressive lobby, you’re hit by a sense of deep, majestic luxury, a sense which exponentially expands as you discover more of its interiors and rooms. To fully understand why it was selected as best hotel in Israel and third best in the Middle East and North Africa for 2026, a whole series of parameters need to be considered, and there are many.

a spa floor, conference rooms and banquet halls. The level of attention given to each design detail is stunning. The rooms include a huge, ultra-comfortable bed with six types of pillows to choose from, a TV screen built into the bathroom mirror, premium bathrobes and slippers, an espresso machine, and so much more. Exceptional service and elite levels of hospitality are two more of the parameters tested by Travel + Leisure magazine. At the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem, this includes the services of a personal concierge and an uncompromising commitment to courteous and round-the-clock service from all staff members in all parts of the hotel.

Photos (from right to left): the hotel - courtesy of the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem; atrium, lobby and Guerlain shop - Mariano Maimudes

34 ATMOSPHERE OCTOBER 2026