The second largest city in Israel, Tel Aviv is known for its amazing beach, vibrant nightlife and gourmet vegan restaurants. The cosmopolitan atmosphere of Tel Aviv and the picturesque streets of Jaffa make this a must visit Mediterranean destination. Here are our recommendations of what to see in Tel Aviv, whether you’re there for business or pleasure.
What to See in Tel Aviv
The name Tel Aviv means hill of Spring. However the city has several nicknames, including Startup City, the first Hebrew City and the City that Never Sleeps.
Its full name is Tel Aviv-Yafo, as the municipality includes Jaffa or Yafo, the historic sea port.
1. Bauhaus Buildings
The White City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for the number of white buildings in the Bauhaus style. There are over 4,000 examples of this architectural style in Tel Aviv.
Many of the Bauhaus buildings can be found on Rothschild Boulevard, one of the oldest streets in Tel Aviv. The Bauhaus style was popularized in the 1930s by Jewish architects who came to Tel Aviv to escape persecution in Germany.
2. Frishman Beach
There are many great beaches in Tel Aviv, including Gordon Beach, Hilton Beach and Jerusalem Beach. One of the best is located in front of the colorful Dan Tel Aviv Hotel. The facade of this beachfront hotel is a popular photo spot.
Cross the Tayelet, or beach promenade and you’ll find a wide expanse of white sand with giant deckchairs and a children’s playing area. Go for a run or bike ride and check out the LA vibe. Many locals work out at the beach using the free exercise equipment.
The statue of David Ben Gourion, the first Prime Minister of Israel, doing a headstand on the beach is a quirky sight. Originally from Poland, he was a keen practitioner of yoga and often practiced it on the beach.
3. Tel Aviv Port
If you continue northwards along the beach, you’ll eventually come to Old Tel Aviv Port. The wooden deck stretches for 9 miles, all the way to Jaffa.
Known as Namal El Taviv in Hebrew, this is a popular Tel Aviv dining destination. The former port is also known for its indoor farmer’s market, casual fashion stores and live music.
There are several good restaurants with sea views such as Kitchen Market, and Yulia TLV, known for its seafood. Admire the sunset from Yulia’s spacious outdoor terrace.
On the boardwalk, the I Heart Tel Aviv sign is a perfect photo opportunity. In fact, it’s one of the most Instagrammable places in Tel Aviv.
4. Haiku Skybar
For panoramic views of the Tel Aviv skyline and beach, head to Haiku Skybar on the 18th floor of the Lighthouse Hotel. Located at 1Ben Yehuda Street, this Tel Aviv rooftop bar and restaurant is popular with locals and hotel guests alike.
It’s best to book in advance, to be sure to get in. If you’re feeling hungry, there are tasty yakitori dishes by Head Chef Guy Gamzo.
5. Carmel Market
Head to Carmel Market for a huge selection of spices, fruit and vegetables. On the edge of Allenby Street and Magen David Square, it’s also known as Shuk Ha’Carmel.
Shuk means market and this is the largest one in Tel Aviv. In addition to food, you’ll also find clothing and kitchenware.
If you’re into cooking, pick up some za’atar spice mix, baharat, carob powder or Dead Sea salt. Carmel Market is open from 8 am until 7 pm, Sunday to Friday with the stalls closing earlier on Friday.
6. Nachalat Binyamin Market
Two minutes walk from Carmel Market, you’ll find Nachalat Binyamin, the largest crafts market in Israel. The market is open twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays.
This pedestrianized Tel Aviv market is a good place to find handmade jewelry and artworks. At the entrance to the market, you’ll see colorful umbrellas suspended in the sky.
7. Neve Tsedek
This picturesque area of Tel Aviv is known for its fashionable bars and boutiques. Established in 1887, it is the oldest district in Tel Aviv apart from Jaffa.
Fans of modern dance will enjoy the performances at the world-renowned Suzanne Dellal Center. Many of the fashion and homeware boutiques in Neve Tsedek are located on Shabazi Street. However if you wander around the side streets, there are quite a few surprises like this flower-filled road.
Neve Tsedek has long been popular with artists and writers. Notice the artworks dotted all over Shimon Rokach House, the oldest building in the area. They are by Leah Majaro Mintz, granddaughter of Shimon Rokach and a well known sculptor.
Shimon Rokach was the founder of the Neve Tsedek district, as well as a hospital and community organization. Today, the house is a museum open to the public on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
A Farmers’ Market takes place in HaTachana, a former railway station on the edge of Neve Tsedek every Friday. The Old Train Station also has several cool restaurants and shops open throughout the week.
8. Israel’s First Whisky Distillery
Close to Jaffa and Bloomfield Soccer Stadium, whisky fans will love Milk & Honey. This enterprising venture is the first single malt whisky distillery in Israel.
Established in 2014, M&H worked closely with the late whisky expert Dr James Swan to create a world class single malt. All the distillery’s whiskys, liqueurs and gins are kosher.
Visitors to the distillery can enjoy informative tours and whisky tastings and purchase whiskys, herbal liqueur, and single malt gins. Tours must be booked in advance, and take place throughout the week.
9. Levinsky Market
Another great area for food in Tel Aviv is Levinsky Market. Located in South Tel Aviv, in the trendy Florentin neighbourhood, it is famous for its spices.
There are many hip cafes and restaurants such as Beer Bazaar and Tony & Esther. Inside the market itself, check out the wide array of nuts and dried fruits at Shuk California. Stop for a coffee or fresh pomegranate juice or a bureka filo pastry at one of the stalls.
10. Jaffa Old Town
Technically a suburb of Tel Aviv, Jaffa is renowned for its well preserved architecture. The ancient port of Jaffa is one of the oldest in the world and still used by fishermen today.
Take some time to wander around the cobbled alleyways, admiring the honey colored stone buildings. There are many art galleries and design studios in Old Jaffa. A new museum highlighting the skills of Israeli illusionist Uri Geller is due to open on Mazal Arieh Street in November.
The Jaffa is a former monastery and hospital that has been reimagined as a luxury hotel. In the lobby, the remnants of a 13th century wall is juxtaposed with contemporary paintings by Damien Hirst.
Jaffa Flea Market is a good place to browse for vintage clothing and antiques. The market is open every from Sunday – Thursday from 10am to 6pm and from 10am to 2pm on Friday.
11. Vegan Streetfood
Israeli food is extremely varied and healthy. Did you know that per capita, there are more vegans in Israel than in any other country? It is estimated that over 400 restaurants in Tel Aviv are vegan or have vegan dishes on their menu.
One of the best vegan streetfood restaurants is Sultana, on Shlomo Ibn Gabirol Street. Head Chef Harel Zakaim specializes in vegan shawarma dishes, or kebabs.
He and his team make clever use of forest mushrooms, with a texture similar to chicken. They combine these with amba, a mango pickle, salad, pickled vegetables, herbs, pita bread and tahini sauce, to create a delicious and nutritious meal. Wash down your shawarma with a refreshing sekanjabeen Persian mint cooler.
12. Ilana Goor Museum
The most famous female Israeli artist, Ilana Goor has created a fabulous museum in her house in Jaffa. Located on Mazal Dagim St, the house is over 250 years old.
The museum showcases Ilana’s collection of artworks from around the world, as well as her own sculptures and paintings. There are lovely views from the terraces, which are adorned with quirky artworks like this fountain.
13. Hummus at Abu Hassan
Israel is famous for its delicious hummus and one of the best places to eat it in Tel Avis is at Abu Hassan. This casual all-day eatery on Ha-Dolfin Street is also known as Ali Karavan.
Don’t miss the masabacha, hummus with fava beans and tahini that is served warm. Come early for lunch as it can get very busy.
14. Ramses Gate
Archaeological excavations have uncovered evidence of people living in Jaffa since Egyptian times. A moat and Egyptian fortress once stood on Mazal Dli Street.
Ramses Gate is a reconstruction of how the fortress gate looked. It takes its name from the Egyptian ruler Ramses II, whose name was inscribed on the original gate. This is one of the highest points in Jaffa and the views from the gardens over the city are impressive.
15. Beachside Dining at Manta Ray
With a fantastic location on Tel Aviv Promenade, overlooking Jaffa Beach, Manta Ray is one of the best restaurants in Tel Aviv. There’s a large outdoor terrace and a light and airy interior.
Manta Ray is particularly well known for its mezze plates which are ideal for sharing. You can also have breakfast here, with shakshuka being a popular choice.
Getting to Tel Aviv
There are regular flights to Tel Aviv from the UK, USA and Europe. Ben Gurion International Airport is modern and fairly compact, and has a good range of places to eat and shop. It can take a while to get through customs so allow plenty of time.
To reach the center of Tel Aviv there are quite a few different options.
- By Car Rental – As you have to take a shuttle bus to reach the cars, this option is best if you have plenty of time.
- By Rail – Trains run every 30 minutes and the train entrance is just next to the main terminal building.
- By Shuttle – Bus number 485 runs 24 hours a day, 6 days a week and takes around an hour.
- By Taxi – the taxi rank is just outside the Arrivals hall. Sheruts or shared taxis are also popular and can be found at level G.
Getting Around Tel Aviv
There are several bike sharing companies including Tel-O-Fun and Pole Position TLV, which also has electric bikes. Riders can enjoy over 100 kilometers of cycle lanes.
Electric scooters are also very popular in Tel Aviv. However, it’s best to exercise caution when riding one and to wear a helmet.
As Tel Aviv is relatively compact, walking around the city is another good option. Uber does not operate in Israel, however there are several taxi apps including Gett and Yango.
Where to Stay in Tel Aviv
The LightHouse Hotel Tel Aviv By Brown Hotels has a handy location close to the beach but within walking distance of the city centre. Guests are greeted with a welcome drink and snacks in the stylish lobby. There’s a lovely sundeck on the 5th floor with loungers and a hot tub, as well as a spacious outdoor dining area.
The 18th floor rooftop bar is one of hottest places to go at night in Tel Aviv. Later in the year, a gym and spa will be opening and in the meantime guests can use a nearby fitness center for free. There are also complimentary bicycles available for guests to borrow.
The hotel’s 100 rooms and suites are quite spacious and stocked with Molton Brown toiletries. Breakfast is one of the best in the city, with a huge array of healthy dishes and fresh juices.
