10 highlights of Palestine. Book

As Bradt brings out its first guide to Palestine, its author, Sarah Irving, recommends her top 10 things to see and do in the West Bank, from ancient palaces to new community tourism projects - and the world's most unlikely Oktoberfest.

For most people, the words Palestine or West Bank won't shout holiday destination. But set aside stereotypes: Foreign Office bars on travelling in the West Bank were lifted several years ago, and visitors to Palestine will be met with a warm and enthusiastic welcome. This tiny area packs in more historical, religious and cultural heritage than perhaps anywhere else in the world, and its small size means it's completely feasible to visit a good proportion of its sights in a fairly short trip. Several new community tourism and hiking or biking holiday operators also make experiencing Palestine's stunning scenery and great food increasingly easy.

• Sebastia

• Haram ash-Sharif, Jerusalem

• Deir Ghassaneh

• Jenin's Old City

• Hiking and biking

• Hammam ash-Shifa, Nablus

• Taybeh Oktoberfest

• Hisham's Palace, Jericho

• Hebron's souk

• Akka

  
  

About the book

The picturesque hilltop village of Taybeh is home to perhaps the world's most unlikely Oktoberfest. Every autumn, the Taybeh Brewery – run by a local family who learned their brewing skills in Germany – hosts a bustling festival.