tel aviv travel reddit

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

9 Things To Know Before Visiting Captivating Tel Aviv

JekLi / Shutterstock

• Destinations
• Middle East

I recently had the opportunity to chat with Dr. Christine Wilson, former education specialist at the Walworth Barbour American International School in Israel. Wilson lived in Tel Aviv for three years while she taught at Walworth Barbour. She loved the warm, welcoming Israeli culture; the long and varied history of the region; the beautiful beaches; and the tantalizing cuisine.

This intriguing cosmopolitan city has captured the hearts of visitors who come for the food, the beaches, and the friendly citizens who immediately treat you like family.

Here are nine things to know before visiting this captivating city on the Mediterranean coast.

1. Spring And Fall Are The Best Times To Visit

“The best time to visit is in spring or fall. The weather is beautiful, and it is not too crowded,” said Wilson.

Spring (March and April) and fall (September through November) are the best months to visit if you are looking for temperate weather and off-season prices. During the summer (May through August), you’ll encounter throngs of beachgoers looking to perfect their Mediterranean tan. The winter can be crowded as well, since it’s the time when many Northern Europeans seek an escape from the cold. Temperatures in Tel Aviv range from a low of 49 degrees to a high of 87 degrees, so the weather is pleasant almost all year long.

Protasov AN / Shutterstock

2. The Beaches Are Spectacular

There is an 8.7-mile stretch of beach along the Tel Aviv shoreline where sun lovers and outdoor enthusiasts can walk the long promenade, lounge on the beach, or sip a beverage at one of the outdoor cafes.

Each of Tel Aviv’s beaches has its own flavor; there’s sure to be one that’s right for you! Check the Visit Tel Aviv beach page for information on the more than a dozen area beaches. Keep in mind that some beaches are limited to people of a particular gender on certain days due to religious beliefs. As a tourist, you are expected to respect these restrictions.

“For swimmers, riptides can be especially dangerous on the Israeli coast, and tourists need to know the flag system for warnings that mark the beach swimming areas and whether or not you can go in at all,” Wilson cautioned.

Israel’s beach flag system includes a red flag that indicates dangerous swim conditions, a black flag that indicates swimming is not allowed, and a purple flag that warns about jellyfish. However, when the white flag is flying, you are free to enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean waters.

photosounds / Shutterstock

3. The Food Is To Die For

Tel Aviv is known for its bustling markets.

A must-stop foodie destination is the Carmel Market . The vibrant market is lined with stalls offering gorgeous fruits and veggies, spices, and other items. You will encounter tourists and locals winding their way through the crowds, and your senses will be delighted with the sights, sounds, and aromas. Some of Tel Aviv’s trendiest eateries can be found at this market, too. Stop at a bakery for some warm, cheesy breadsticks; lunch at a cafe for a kebab; and sip a locally produced beer at a pub. You could easily spend a day here, happily shopping and munching away.

Wilson’s favorite market, however, is the Sarona Market , with its stalls that offer some of the finest meats, cheeses, and wines in the city. The market’s restaurants serve up traditional and inspired local dishes that both look and smell amazing. You will find an eclectic selection of cuisines from the region and plenty of happy, satisfied patrons.

Be sure to enjoy a traditional shakshuka — creamy eggs poached in a tomato sauce flavored with olive oil, peppers, onions, and garlic and spiced with cumin, paprika, cayenne, and nutmeg — while you are visiting. You will remember the culinary experience for years to come!

hermitis / Shutterstock

4. Biking Is The Best Mode Of Transportation

“I enjoyed biking in Israel. I biked to work daily — 24 miles a day on farm roads through orange orchards,” Wilson recalled.

The busy city streets and backcountry roads of Tel Aviv are the perfect places to bike. The city makes biking easy by providing bike lanes on all major thoroughfares. They also operate Tel-O-Fun , a bike ride-sharing program. You’ll need to sign up for an annual rental; however, the cost is not prohibitive if you are planning on riding around the city for a week or more.

5. Read Up On Judaism Before You Go

Wilson recommended doing some research on Judaism before a trip to Tel Aviv.

“Judaism defines everything in Israel. Having a basic understanding of the religion will give you insight into how the people live and how the country operates,” she said.

For example, Yom Kippur is an important Jewish holy day.

“During this official holiday, businesses nationwide close at noon, and there is virtually no traffic on the streets except for emergencies. As the sun sets at the beginning of the holiday, airports, border crossings, broadcast stations — the entire country suspends work for about 30 hours,” said Wilson.

Visitors should note that on these holidays, everything may be completely shut down, leaving the unprepared without dining or transport. However, these times of celebration can also be an opportunity for lots of fun.

“It was at this time that I joined a group of enthusiastic bikers to ride from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv. It was a downhill ride for most of the way on highways that were empty of all vehicles except for two- or four-wheeling bikes or skateboards,” Wilson recalled.

Boris-B / Shutterstock

6. It’s A Shopper’s Paradise

Wilson emphasized that there is a shopping adventure in Tel Aviv for everyone.

The Dizengoff Center is an iconic shopping destination with a dizzying array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Shenkin Street is the place to go for the trendiest shopping spots. Here you will find classic, high-end name brands alongside Israeli designer boutiques. This is the place to shop if you are looking for something out of the ordinary — something nice to remember your Tel Aviv adventure by.

Tel Aviv’s newest shopping destination is the TLV Fashion Mall , home to other popular name-brand stores.

Rostislav Glinsky / Shutterstock

7. Jaffa Is Worth Exploring

Jaffa, also known as Yafo, is an ancient port city and the oldest part of Tel Aviv. With buildings tightly packed together, Jaffa is a tangle of narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and small shops. The neighborhood is a mix of Jewish and Arab peoples living and working together in harmony. You will find great restaurants serving a wide range of Middle Eastern cuisine plus unique shops and galleries tucked away along the passageways.

After exploring the area, find an outdoor seat at a cafe by the water, order your favorite libation, and watch the beautiful sunset for a picture-perfect evening.

Bragin Alexey / Shutterstock

8. Make Time For A Day Trip To Caesarea

Less than an hour north of Tel Aviv is Caesarea. This historic coastal city was originally a Phoenician settlement, and then a great Roman port city. Caesarea is known for its archaeological dig, the remains of a hippodrome (a large Roman amphitheater), and its beautiful historic port.

Caesarea National Park offers several tours, including the Lantern Tour of Ancient Caesarea , where you’ll walk in the footsteps of the Crusaders led only by your tour guide and lantern light.

Wilson highly recommends visiting the beach area of Caesarea Maritima as well.

“There are museums, wonderful restaurants, and a beach full of Roman ruins. It’s not to be missed,” she said.

9. You’ll Love The Welcoming Culture

You’ve probably heard the Hebrew toast L’Chaim , which translates to “To life.” Life in Tel Aviv centers on family, friends, and celebrations. The culture is warm and inviting, and you become part of the family as soon as the introduction is completed.

“On Friday, four of my colleagues and I would bike back from school directly to the beach in Herzliya, where we would cool off in the Mediterranean and then get beer and chips with hummus at one of the beach cafes at Rainbow Beach to celebrate the beginning of the weekend,” Wilson recalled.

Celebrating with friends over a meal is an important part of the culture in Israel.

An adventure in Tel Aviv is the trip of a lifetime for some, and a yearly pilgrimage for many. With its beautiful beaches, amazing cuisine, and wonderful people, the city has become a popular destination for travelers of all ages.

The city of Tel Aviv, steeped in history and tradition, will capture your heart. It has managed to retain its culture and religion while becoming a bustling, cosmopolitan city.

Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told.

• South Africa
• El Salvador
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Czech Republic
• Transnistria
• Liechtenstein
• North Cyprus
• New Zealand
• Map with posts
• Alternative Guides
• Architecture Guides
• Cafe Guides
• Itineraries
• Neighborhood Guides
• Travel Guides
• Travel Tips
• Photo Galleries
• Photo Locations
• Solo female travel
• Train Travels
• Work with me
• Privacy Policy

20 Best Things to Do in Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv is one of the most vibrant (if not THE most vibrant) city on the Mediterranean Sea. It’s cool, funky, diverse and with so many great things to do in Tel Aviv, there is no way you will be bored. All the Tel Aviv pictures prove how great the city is.

While many people skip it during their trip to Israel I think it’s necessary to visit Tel Aviv and experience a completely different lifestyle than in the Old City of Jerusalem .

Recently I spent 3 days in Tel Aviv and enjoyed the city to the fullest. I put together the list of the best things to do in Tel Aviv as well as some Tel Aviv travel tips so you can plan your trip to this cool city too! Enjoy!

Tel Aviv essentials

• Airport transfer: Pre-book the airport transfer from Tel Aviv airport to your accommodation in Tel Aviv here .
• Where to stay in Tel Aviv: Abraham Tel Aviv (8.5/10) / Artist Hotel – an Atlas Boutique Hotel (9.0/10)
• Best Tel Aviv tour: Tel Aviv Jaffa Guided Bike Tour
• Best day trip from Tel Aviv: Jerusalem Boutique Tour from Tel Aviv
• Get a local SIM card for Israel here
• Get insured for your trip to Israel with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Where is Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is the second-largest city in Israel, located on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, and of the bustling metropolis in the Middle East. Even if officially Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, most of the institutions and embassies are located in Tel Aviv.

Best time to visit Tel Aviv

There are around 300 sunny days per year in Tel Aviv so no matter when you decide to come – most likely you will have good weather! In the wintertime, the temperature should be between 15 and 20C and in the summer you can expect 30C and more.

Plan your trip to Tel Aviv according to your interests – if you are more into sightseeing then I would visit outside of the summer season but if you would like to enjoy the beach holidays then long and hot summer days are the best.

I usually visit Tel Aviv in January, to catch some sunlight when the weather in Poland is just gloomy and depressing. The city makes a perfect winter getaway!

How to get to Tel Aviv

Getting to Tel Aviv is super easy. The main airport in Israel – Ben Gurion airport – is located just outside of the city, 10 minutes by train from Tel Aviv HaHagana station (best way to travel between the airport and the city).

You can fly here using numerous airlines, both regular and low-cost. You will land at Terminal 3, with the train station just outside the terminal.

However, check which terminal you need for the departure. Low-cost and a few other airlines use Terminal 1 – you will get there by the free shuttle bus from outside of Terminal 3.

How to get around Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is a very walkable city and you can get everywhere on foot, however, distances can be long sometimes. If you are tired of walking you can use buses, scooters or city bikes – there are plenty of them around! Getting around Tel Aviv is actually very easy!

Where to stay in Tel Aviv

A few years ago I stayed at Abraham Hostel in Jerusalem and enjoyed it so much that I knew I just have to stay at the Abraham Hostel in Tel Aviv too. And it was the right choice.

The property is centrally located, offers affordable accommodation for all kinds of travelers and besides being one of the coolest hostels ever this is also a cultural and travelers’ center. Not to mention the rooftop with a great view over central Tel Aviv.

Even if this is a hostel, everyone is more than welcome to stay here. When I checked in a couple of pensioners were checking in next to me, clearly excited they are about to stay in such a vibrant place.

During my stay, I met young travelers, families with children, elderly people, solo travelers like myself – and everyone was having a good time at Abraham Hostel.

I booked a single room with a private bathroom and was very satisfied with my choice. The room was spacious, clean and the bed was so comfortable I didn’t want to get up in the morning. From my window, I could see one of the most beautiful examples of Bauhaus architecture in Tel Aviv – Jacobson’s Building.

Abraham Hostel, besides offering a place to sleep, also has a whole variety of events for you to choose from. Each day there is something going on – tours, concerts, language exchanges, cooking classes or the famous Shabbat dinner. If you want to socialize with other travelers this is a perfect opportunity to do so – that’s how I met one of my best friends, during the Shabbat dinner in Abraham Hostel in Jerusalem.

Click here to check current prices, the availability and book a place in Abraham Hostel.

Things to do in Tel Aviv

So now, that I gave you a few Tel Aviv travel tips it’s time to talk about what to do in Tel Aviv! Without a further ago, here is a list of the best things to do in Tel Aviv!

Admire the splendid Bauhaus architecture

One of the biggest Tel Aviv attractions is the Bauhaus architecture. All over the city you can find over 4.000 buildings in the modernist style and many of them are pretty amazing, some of the best examples of the modernism you will ever see.

Tel Aviv is often called “the White City” thanks to its sleek buildings. In 2003 Bauhaus in Tel Aviv was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as an exceptional example of this architecture style.

While you can find modernism in Tel Aviv in most of the neighborhoods, the most popular places are Rothschild Boulevard, Bialik street, and Denzingoff Square.

Near the last one, you can visit the Bauhaus center – the gallery and shop focusing on modernist architecture in Tel Aviv and beyond. Once a week, on Friday morning, they organize tours when they explain all about Tel Aviv modernism. If you can’t join the tour you can use the audio guide and discover the city’s famous architecture on your own.

Click here to read more about Tel Aviv Bauhaus architecture.

Enjoy the cafe scene

Tel Aviv is such a cool and hipster place! And when there are hipsters there must be good cafes too! And Tel Aviv surely has many of them!

I had a list of over 20 cafes to check and of course, I’ve managed to visit only a few of them. But every single one was great, with a cool vibe and really good coffee.

Places I can recommend include WayCup Coffee, Cafelix or TLVMakers but there are so many good places I’m sure you will find amazing cafes yourself!

Discover street art

Tel Aviv has a booming, vibrant and diverse street art scene. Sure, you will find here big murals but what’s great about the local street art scene is how independent and creative it is. Not only you can admire here tags and stencils but also 3-D prints, crocheting and more!

Areas that literally covered with street art are Florentine, Caramel Market, and Nahalat Binyamin but you can find works all over the city really. It’s best to discover Tel Aviv street art with a tour – click here for details and to book a spot.

You can read more about street art in Tel Aviv in my article here.

Look at the skyline from above

If you are looking for a nice view over Tel Aviv the most popular one is Azrieli Observatory.

However, there is also one secret place that offers nice views of Tel Aviv’s skyline – the Gruzenberg parking at Nahalat Binyamin Street. Just take the elevator to the last floor and you can enjoy 360o panorama of central Tel Aviv. Bonus – the entrance is free!

Eat the best hummus in the world

Israeli (and Middle Eastern) food is one of the best you will ever try and you can fully enjoy it in Tel Aviv. Among all the dishes you need to try the most important one is definitely hummus.

Hummus Abu Hassan in Jaffa is well-known for having the best hummus in the world. Sometimes you need to wait in line a bit but it’s worth it – the hummus is fresh, creamy and so good! I can’t say it is or isn’t the best one in the world but it’s definitely very high on the list of hummuses I’ve ever tried.

Another place that might be not so popular but also offers spectacular hummus is Hummus HaCarmel at the Caramel market. It’s easy to miss it, especially during peak hours at the market, but once you get there you are in for a treat! The hummus plate with all the extras is 15 shekels only.

Get lost at Tel Aviv markets

If you would like to experience the bustling and busy Middle Eastern souk life you can do it at Caramel Market. The place is a real mix of people, smells, colors, and tastes!

If you don’t feel comfortable in the packed and overwhelming places you might hate the Caramel market a bit but at the same time, it’s such a fascinating place that you will quickly forget about the discomfort and will focus on experiencing the market to the fullest.

Once you are tired with the hustle and bustle of the main lane turn left or right to the backstreets and find a cafe or bar there to relax a bit and enjoy the drink in this cool spot.

While Caramel market is the most popular one in Tel Aviv, there are other, smaller markets you can also check. I personally enjoyed the Levinsky market more. It’s smaller, less intimidating and more local. You can also find some very good and affordable restaurants there, like Saluf & Sons or Garger HaZahav.

The best way to explore Tel Aviv markets and learn more about local food is with a tour. Here are the best options:

• Tel Aviv: Carmel Market Food Tour
• Tel Aviv: 2-Hour Carmel Market Tour in English with Lunch
• Tel Aviv: 2-Hour Levinsky Market Tour with Full Lunch

Find the Annonymous Alley

From the busy King George street, you can immediately transport to the quiet oasis – the Annonyous Alley. Hidden in the center of Tel Aviv, this is a silent witness of the city’s history.

In the 1920s, when Tel Aviv was only developing, a wealthy American Meir Shapira bought two lanes with the intention of naming them after his wife and himself. The city council wasn’t very happy with this idea so they temporarily named the lanes Anonymous and Unidentified. The names stuck and are in use still today.

In one of the lanes, you can find a big sculpture of a lion that Shapira bought to his wife. Behind it, you can see one of the prettiest houses in Tel Aviv, built in the eclectic, continental style.

This is such a quirky place to visit, one of the most unusual Tel Aviv attractions.

Shop at independent stores

With such a big population of young, funky and trendy people you can expect numerous independent shops around Tel Aviv. And indeed you can find many of them.

Books, clothes, gadgets, plants – everything is here! Tel Aviv makes a perfect destination for cool shopping in the local, independent shops!

Find popup bars and shops

Tel Aviv is big on the pop-up scene too. You can enjoy here pop-up bars, shops, museums and more. Do some research before your trip to Tel Aviv to find what’s currently happening in the city and put it on your list of things to do in Tel Aviv.

During my visit I spent a bit of time at the pop-up bar at the Caramel market that was open only on Fridays before Shabbat – it was hidden in one of the back lanes, serving drinks with the local ingredients from the market.

The sitting area was very much makeshift, the atmosphere was jolly and the time passed by super quickly. This was actually one of the coolest Tel Aviv experiences I’ve had.

I would share the address with you but a local friend told me that a few days after our visit they have changed the location. You can google “Vivian popup cocktails” to see the current location.

Enjoy the seaside

One of the main reasons to visit Tel Aviv is its amazing seaside with wide and sandy beaches. Even if you are not much of a beach person (I’m not) you will surely enjoy it!

There is something mesmerizing about the sound and look of the waves and you can spend hours just walking around the seaside promenade or the beach itself or sitting at the bench and watching at the sea. This is also one of the best places to visit in Tel Aviv for people watching as there always seems to be something going on.

If you are fun of water sports Tel Aviv will get extra points from you – the local beach is perfect for windsurfing or kitesurfing. You can rent the necessary equipment in the nearby rental shops and enjoy the day in the sea!

Visit the museums

Tel Aviv is very much art-focused city and you can find here numerous cultural institutions here.

If you have time only for one of them I recommend visiting the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. The building itself is very interesting, a perfect example of modern architecture with sharp edges and clearly defined lines.

Inside you can see both the modern art and some classical works by such well-known names as Gustav Klimt, Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet and many more.

The museum is open every day except for Sundays, the entrance fee is 50 shekels, it is allowed to take pictures inside.

If you like modern art you should also visit the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion for Contemporary Art, the branch of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, focusing on the new works of new artists. The pavilion is open every day but Sunday, the entrance is free of charge.

Visit Old Jaffa

While Tel Aviv is modern, vibrant and cosmopolitan, its old neighborhood Jaffa is like a completely different world. The city was established here already in ancient times and until today Jaffa has this old-time charm that transfers you back in time.

The best thing to do here is to get lost in the maze of the narrow lanes with arches – some of the most picturesque spots you will find in Tel Aviv.

Don’t miss Kikar Kdumim Square with St. Peter’s Church and the old Port of Jaffa and Retzif HaAliya HaShniya street with a small mosque and the Armenian Monastery. For the best view of Tel Aviv’s seaside and skyline head to HaMidron Garden.

Join Saturday dancing classes at the beach

If you happen to be in Tel Aviv on Saturday be sure to attend dancing classes at Gordon Beach. Even if you are not a dancer it’s such a fun event to watch.

Couples of all ages dance together, clearly knowing all the moves and steps and singing together to the local songs. And those who don’t dance but watch, sing with them.

I randomly stumbled across this event but stayed there for half an hour or so, it was so nice to see how joyful everyone is, enjoying well known Israeli songs together.

Enjoy Shabbat in Tel Aviv

I experienced Shabbat in both, Jerusalem and Tel Aviv and it couldn’t be any more different. In Jerusalem it’s all spiritual, the Jewish part of the city feels abandoned, whereas in Tel Aviv it’s the time to relax and spend the time with the loved ones, either friends or family.

All the cafes and restaurants are packed on Friday and everywhere around I could see happy people spending quality time together. I was more than happy to experience Shabbat in Tel Aviv with my local friend.

But while it was all busy on Friday morning and early afternoon, everything calmed down closer to the sunset. People headed home to prepare the Shabbat dinner and while there were still many people outside the atmosphere in the city has changed and was much more peaceful.

Shabbat dinner is a really big thing in Jewish culture. That’s when the resting time starts, families or friends spend this time together, in a more spiritual mood, talking and singing traditional songs.

The good news is you can enjoy the Shabbat dinner too! You can spend this evening at the traditional Shabbat dinner at Abrahan Hostel, where you will learn all about the tradition and try the typical Shabbat food. I did it in Jerusalem a few years ago and it is still one of my favorites memories from Israel .

Discover hip Florentine

Every bigger city has the edgy yet hip neighborhood and for Tel Aviv it’s Florentine. In the past, it used to be a poor area, inhabited mostly by students who transformed it into the most hipster part of Tel Aviv.

Today it is booming with creativity and alternative culture, graffiti is present almost at every wall and all the streets are lined with cool cafes, bars, and restaurants.

The best time to visit Florentine is on Saturday evening when the Shabbat is over – it’s crazy how much is going on then! But Florentine can suck you in every single day, there is just so much to see and do that you wouldn’t like to leave!

Learn about graffiti

If you like street art I wholeheartedly recommend joining the graffiti tour, either in Florentine or Nahalat Binyamin.

This is not the typical tour that shows you the murals and tells you about the artist and its work. Instead, it focuses on illegal work only and you can learn more about the graffiti scene in Tel Aviv, but also about the graffiti in general.

I’ve been to a few street art tours all over the world and this one was probably my favorite one – it was so complex and informative! Even if you are familiar with street art you will still learn a lot!

Go for day trips

While Tel Aviv is a cool place to hang around, you can also use the city as a base to see more of Israel. There is a good selection of day trips from Israel that you can take. I can recommend the following tours (I took them all a few years ago but from Jerusalem):

• Masada Sunrise, Ein Gedi & Dead Sea Hike
• Best of the West Bank Full-Day Tour

Learn how to cook Israeli food

As I already mention and will repeat it – Israeli cuisine has some of the most delicious dishes in the world!

If like me, you try all the local food during your travels and then try to figure out how to do them at home I have a better idea for you – why not joining the Israeli cooking workshop? You can get to know more about the local cuisine and learn how to make such iconic dishes like shakshuka – the queen of Israeli cuisine!

Enjoy the nightlife

If you like parties then Tel Aviv is your kind of place. The local nightlife is epic and will not leave you disappointed. Numerous clubs and bars offer something for everyone and Tel Aviv is alive until early morning hours.

Visit Neve Tzedek

The oldest district in Tel Aviv is currently one of the trendiest parts of the city. The streets are lined with bright houses, many of them hiding independent shops and small art galleries. This is a perfect area to just wander around, without a map.

You might be surprised how many gems you will find here: beautiful houses in numerous styles, cute shops, cool street art, and charming cafes. When visiting Neve Tzedek you don’t feel like you are in the heart of the busy metropolis, this is a perfect getaway to escape the crowds and just enjoy the place.

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Israel too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

LIKED IT? PIN THIS POST FOR LATER!

If you enjoyed that post why don't you share it with your friends? That would mean so much to me! Also be sure to join 30.000+ fellow travelers and follow me on Facebook , Twitter , or Instagram for travel updates and even more pictures! If you don't want to miss new posts sign up to my newsletter or follow on Bloglovin !

Alison Markson

Officially the capital is Tel Aviv. Only Trump thinks the capital is Jerusalem.

I double-checked before writing this article to be sure, all the sources say Jerusalem is the capital, it just wasn’t accepted by UN and the embassies are in Tel Aviv which is the financial center of the country.

Loved this! Thank you so much for all the activities and suggestions!!

I’m glad to hear that. Thanks!

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Sign me up for the newsletter!

Let’s become friends!

Join me on Facebook for even more travel updates!

Kami and the rest of the world

Things to do in Tel Aviv: a travel guide to the coolest city in the Mediterranean

Pssst. Are you on a larger trip through Isreal?

Check out our other posts for inspiration:

• How to see the best of Jewish and Christian sites with 2 days in Jerusalem
• Glamping in Israel's Negev Desert and road tripping past the Dead Sea

Cool off at the amazing beaches

Spot street art in Florentin

Have a vegan brunch

Get your hipster vibes up at Neve Tzedek

Explore Jaffa’s Old City and Port

Enjoy a rooftop spa at Brown TLV Urban Hotel

Sample Israeli street food at Carmel Market

Learn how to catch a wave

Day Trips from Tel Aviv

The best Cafayate wineries: a guide to Argentina wine tours

The call of the Negev Desert: the ultimate Israeli desert road trip

Cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Privacy Overview

Beach, food, shopping: Here are 10 of the best things to do in Tel Aviv

23 Best Things To Do in Tel Aviv In 2022

Discover our pick of the best places to visit and things to do in Tel Aviv, Israel today.

Originally known as Tel Aviv-Yafo, this cosmopolitan city is Israel’s economic and technological center, located on the Israeli Mediterranean coast. Although the majority of the population was not long ago made up mostly of Jewish refugees in the area known as Jaffa, today its great growth in the second half of the 20th century is noticeable.

Leading Attractions in Tel Aviv

If your time in Tel Aviv is limited, make sure to add these to your itinerary:

Old Jaffa and the Jaffa Port

The Old Jaffa and the Jaffa Port are the best way to start exploring Tel Aviv. The Old City of Jaffa is the historical part of the city of Jaffa, located in the northwest. Much of Jaffa was rebuilt post the Napoleon war and the earthquake in 1837. Right after that, the wall of Jaffa was dismantled with an objective of expansion, the city began shifting towards eastwards, and the Old City remained the same which was then emancipated as the cultural center of the city.

There are many local tours available or you can take one by yourself. There are many places that you shouldn’t miss – the ancient alleys such as the Zodiac alley with shops and buildings that have an aesthetic touch to it, the Summit Garden and the Faith Statue, the St. Peter’s Church is truly an amazing delight to spot which is often nicely decorated, and of course, the Clock Tower and the area around it, especially the flea market nearby is a great place to explore which has recently included a new attraction – the Jaffa Express where you can travel around in a virtual train and explore the city. 

Strolling through the Old Jaffa Port is truly fascinating, many of the old hangars have been converted into spaces where often art and cultural exhibitions take place, you get to witness some amazing ones reflecting the culture of the city. 

Neve Tzedek

The Neve Tzedek is a Jewish neighborhood outside the ancient walls of Jaffa and a quite exciting place to explore. It has a unique atmosphere filled with creativity wherein many cultural centers are named after the artists who lived there such as the Suzanne Dellal Center and the Nahum Gutman Museum(a famous painter and a writer). All these people have contributed to this neighborhood to give its specialty. 

This place has a significant part to play in Tel Aviv’s history as well. Here you can find the house of Israel Rokach who was the city’s first mayor, the house of Aharon Chelouche who was the founder of the neighborhood, and many other historically significant places. Apart from that, the picturesque alleys set a striking vibe and there are plenty of trendy art galleries for art enthusiasts to enjoy their time here. The cultural center hosts a number of performances and festivals which you need to check out if you come across a chance – they throw light to the amazing artistic nature of this small neighborhood.  

The Carmel Market and Nahalat Binyamin

HaCarmel St 48

The Carmel Market is known to be a mini Israel and you truly cannot miss this popular attraction. In fact, it is the cultural hotspot of Israel where different vendors bring in the diversity found in Tel Aviv. Just like the Middle Eastern style souqs, this market is flocked by tourists as well as the locals who shop here for some of the freshest fruits, vegetables, and aromatic spices, all at superbly affordable prices. 

It was opened in 1920, approximately eleven years after the city was formed, and has been an essential part of the history of Tel Aviv. The narrow streets are usually busy filled with locals most of the time and hence visitors might feel a little overwhelmed if they are visiting for the first time. 

Nahalat Binyamin is an adjacent pedestrian mall known for artistic crafts on sale and special street food. The craft stalls open every Tuesday and Friday and in the evenings, the marketplace is also a popular spot to explore the nightlife with many bars and pubs opened up for their customers. 

Rothschild Boulevard 

Located in the financial heart of Tel Aviv, Rothschild Boulevard is one of the iconic streets in Tel Aviv. It is a commercial center and a cultural center housing the main theater and concert hall in Tel Aviv. Also, it holds some of the best restaurants with amazing coffee booths where the richest in Tel Aviv often stop off to grab a drink. 

The street was originally named Rehov HaAm – meaning ‘the street of the people’. The street is lined with Bauhaus Buildings, a feature that led to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many of them have rich histories, one of them being the Independence Hall, where Israel’s Declaration of Independence was signed in 1948. Exploring the boulevard is truly a beautiful experience for observing its spectacular architecture and some trendy streets. 

Dizengoff Center

Dizengoff St 50

The Dizengoff Center is Israel’s first shopping mall located on either side of Dizengoff street that is connected with skywalks and underground tunnels. This is however not just another shopping mall, it has a different worldview combined with innovation, values, and preservation. 

On the rooftop is the center of Urban Sustainability which is a greenhouse for growing vegetables using a hydroponic method. Innovative isn’t it? Also, there is a biodynamic bee center, a butterfly garden, and many other initiatives taken for urban sustainability. 

Speaking of the mall, the center holds some of the best designer shops in the city available at a range of prices. It also holds a food fair every Thursday and Friday which is extravagantly versatile with samples of food from all over the world. 

Top beaches in Tel Aviv

A short time visit is enough to understand why beaches are the place to see and be seen in Tel Aviv . Here are some of the best ones.

The Cliff Beaches

This characteristic beach is divided into two: the North beach and the South beach. Its main feature is its sandstone type of structure. This beach is less visited by families and more by adventure lovers. Perhaps, you can enjoy great sunset views and great cafes, even hot showers are there down the slope. 

Tel Baruch Beach

This is slight to the south side of the Cliff beach which has undergone a major renovation in the recent few years. A promenade and a bridge have been built here through which you can reach the Tel Aviv Port. There are special areas dedicated to things like barbeques, dog-walking, all forms of water sports like kayaking, surfing, kite-surfing, etc. 

Peepers Beach (Mezizim)

This is a great place for finding celebrities. It is adjacent to the south side and also underwent a serious upgrade with access to multiple functionalities. You can find hot showers, showers for babies, sports courts, a beach library, a games corner, and every other thing you need to enjoy your day at the beach. This is also made equally accessible for handicapped people as well, it includes audio directions to the beach. It was famous for having a Rami Meiri’s graffiti popularly known as ‘Peeping Toms’ (from the iconic Israeli film ‘Metzitzim’) that was recently removed .

Gordon Beach

This beach is the widest and the preferred one by tourists in Tel Aviv. In addition, the city’s elderly population also like hanging out here due to it being adjacent to the Gordon swimming pool. It also has a diving school for learners. Athletes can also make use of the professional scale on the beach. On Saturday evenings, there are folk dance shows set up on the dancing floor.  

The Frishman and Bograshov Beaches

Popularly known as the French Beach, this place is also preferred by many tourists due to its close proximity to the promenade and hotels. The name comes from the fact that the principal language spoken here is French, especially the Frishman beach (where the famous rainbow-colored Dan Hotel is located). On the Bograshov beach, there is a memorial to the “Altalena” immigrant ship. 

The Jerusalem Beach

This beach is popular for beach sports like football, volleyball, badminton, tennis, etc. In fact, they say you better enter with a racquet in hand for protection against flying balls. The southern part of the beach is dedicated to Kite surfing. 

The Hilton Beach 

One of the favorite beaches for the gay community in Tel Aviv, it has an international reputation and is ranked as one of the best gay beaches in the world. It attracts a lot of singles, both straight and gay, and you can find all the Who’s Who in the area.

Unmissable restaurants in Tel Aviv

Famous for its interculturality, Tel Aviv offers such a wide range of world cuisines that it would take a very long time to discover them all. Here are some of the best spots in Tel Aviv for eating out.

Nachmani St 36

Tel Aviv has a lot of vegan restaurants. Bana offers a host of choices including Ethiopian and Indian style cuisine and vegetarian options as well. The vegan sushi is a delight, and vegetarian burgers and pizza are as delicious as the non-vegetarian ones. 

Some of the peculiar dishes to look out for are burnt eggplants, fresh gazpacho from cherry tomatoes, caramelized peaches, and roasted mushrooms. Enjoy the breezy courtyard with some good music and ambiance. 

Brodetsky St 17

You can enjoy high-quality food in a relaxed and calm environment and a quiet neighborhood. There are menus and options for each preference – vegan, gluten-free, omnivorous, vegetarians. The best part of this restaurant is that you get a personal touch on every menu. 

They bring down influences from the Persian, Italian and Greek communities creating a unique culinary language. There is also a different highlight to this place – the “after-birth pot” service that is specially made for new mothers and their food preferences. 

Uri Tsvi Grinberg St 25

This is a recommended Greek restaurant with authentic Greek cuisine which has also made a fusion with Israeli cuisine. There is a large terrace open to the sea and you can enjoy it with some beautiful flavors of seafood, vegetables, and seasoning to fill your plate. 

Best nightlife spots in Tel Aviv

True to its Mediterranean location, Tel Aviv definitely knows how to bring its nights to life. 

Here’s proof:

The following are some of the best clubs to visit and things to do in Tel Aviv at night.

Ijo & Babet

Dizengoff St 141

This is a cocktail bar known for amazing bar food on Dizengoff Street. It has a very lively atmosphere and food for every community – the vegans, the vegetarians, the hamburger lovers, the cocktail fans with a pleasant service as well. 

There are many other cocktail bars such as Spicehaus which sell cocktails with a dash of creativity to it. Abraxas is another bar on Lilienblum street that has a trendy atmosphere with good music, alcohol, and dancing. 

The Shablul Jazz Club

Carlebach St 23

Show club that regularly hosts jazz shows from Israel and abroad.

There are many other clubs like this one, such as the Barby Club (Kibbutz Galuyot Rd 52), which features shows by veteran Israeli musicians, and The Zone (Ha-Rekhev St 13), which also hosts local music shows, happy hours, and open mic nights.

Nighttime Shows

The live music shows called Jaffa Nights that take place at various venues in the flea market and the Greek market are perfect for summer nights in the unique setting of this area of the city, famous for its street performers, cafes, and restaurants. From time to time, the Tel Aviv nightlife also offers magic and comedy shows.

Lecture at the Bar

Interested in philosophy amidst the ambiance of a bar with a glass of cold beer? Lecture at the bar is where you would get to learn the philosophies of Spinoza and Nietzsche via documentary films and ways. This is an attempt by the local community to bring humanity together via academia. 

Tzavta Theatre

Shlomo Ibn Gabirol St 30

The Tzavta club is the home of Israeli culture located opposite the Cameri Theater. You can enjoy the nightlife here with plays, music, and comedy shows to entertain you and a nice evening meal to end your day.

Must-visit museums in Tel Aviv

Fans of history, art, and culture; Tel Aviv has your back.

Tel Aviv Museum of Art

The Golda Meir Cultural and Art Center, Sderot Sha’ul HaMelech 27

This museum is the biggest highlight of Tel Aviv along with the Eretz Israel Museum. The Art Museum showcases the work of some of the best artists in the world such as Mark Chagall, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and more.

It has a changing as well as a permanent section of exhibitions containing paintings, architecture, performance art, etc. but the main focus here is on contemporary art. The building also has environmental sculptures which in itself is an attraction.

Eretz Israel Museum

Chaim Levanon St 2

It is located in the northern part of the city and not limited to showcasing art but also displays exhibitions of Israeli culture from the past and the present. You’ll find ancient artifacts including mosaics, wine presses, etc. Among the permanent exhibitions, there are collections of glass and copper vessels as well as handicrafts from the past. There is also Israeli art in the form of paintings and other artifacts that takes you back to the old times of Israel.  

Museum of the Jewish People at Beit Hatfutsot

Tel Aviv University campus in Ramat Aviv (temporarily closed – Dec 2020)

Eretz Museum is dedicated to the geographical area of Israel, the Museum of the Jewish People has art around the Jewish culture. It gathers influences from the various aspects of Jewish culture and the connection between the jews and other people. Information is given in many forms like music, family trees, pictures, and videos.  

A word from our partners: Book your travel hassle-free

Travel has slowly resumed in a phased manner by various countries by responsibly keeping a check on the pandemic with strict measures being followed. And, we as responsible citizens need to follow these regulations.

Make sure you put on your list at least a handful of the fun things to do in Tel Aviv listed above and if you have any other ideas, please get in touch by sending an email to aworldtotravel @ gmail . com. We’d love to keep this Tel Aviv attractions list as updated as possible.

Tel Aviv Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Latest update: July 13, 2023

In this guest post, Naomi shares everything you need to know when planning your trip to Tel Aviv, the best restaurants and accommodation, things to do, and spending your time there like a local.

My name is Naomi Bubis and I’ve lived in Tel Aviv for twenty years. I grew up in Frankfurt, studied in Paris, and worked as a journalist for German television.

I got to know Israel during my summer vacations and fell in love with Tel Aviv at first sight. The metropolis on the Mediterranean is fun-loving, cosmopolitan, and lively. A bit like New York, but fun-sized and right by the sea.

It takes some insider knowledge to really get the most out of a trip to ever-changing Tel Aviv.

I write about life in Tel Aviv on my blog Telavivnotes. You can also download a free guide there with the best areas for Airbnb accommodation.

Tel Avivians live for the moment, day in and day out. In this guest post, I’ll show you how to spend your time there like a local.

Ten interesting facts about Tel Aviv

• Tel Aviv has at least 300 days of sun per year.
• Tel Aviv is also known as the City That Never Sleeps.
• The old town of Tel Aviv is called Jaffa.
• With over 200,000 attendees, Tel Aviv boasts the largest gay pride parade in Asia.
• National Geographic lists Tel Aviv as one of the top 10 beach cities in the world.
• 30,000 dogs live in Tel Aviv, and the city is considered the world’s most dog-friendly metropolis.
• Tel Aviv is a paradise for vegans.
• The culinary scene in Tel Aviv is considered one of the most creative in the world.
• There are over 100 sushi restaurants in Tel Aviv.
• The Meier-on-Rothschild Tower is the tallest residential building in the city at 155 meters.

Travel tips for Tel Aviv

The best time to travel to tel aviv.

No question, the off-season. In July and August, Tel Aviv is overrun with tourists. Plus it gets really hot in the summer months. Temperatures rise to 31-34 degrees, and the humidity reaches over 80 percent. That means you’ll be sweating. A lot.

If you like hot weather, then you’ll really enjoy yourself here because the heat shows no mercy, not even at night.

The positive thing about these months is the general mood in the city. The people live outside. Even at night. Eating a watermelon at a beach café at three o’clock in the morning has a lot of charm.

But the best time to travel is in spring or fall. In September, October, and November, when it starts getting cold in Europe, you can still swim in the sea in Tel Aviv at temperatures of around 30 degrees. And unlike in August, you can go for a walk without having to cool off in air-conditioned stores.

April, May, and June are also good months for traveling. Tel Aviv literally means “Spring Hill”, and the season sees the city coming out in full bloom.

25 degrees in the shade is just the right temperature to explore the city. And no one will step on your towel at the beach.

How much time should you plan for Tel Aviv?

You should schedule at least one week. But in order to really immerse yourself in the vibe of Tel Aviv, you’ll need even longer. Fast-forwarding through city life would be a real shame.

Tel Aviv is a young city and was founded in 1909. It has almost 450,000 inhabitants, but many Israelis work in the economic and cultural center, so upwards of three million people fill the streets during the day.

The best way to get around Tel Aviv is on foot. The distances aren’t that great and there’s plenty to see.

How to find cheap flights to Tel Aviv

All major airlines fly to Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv. Several Lufthansa and ELAL flights arrive daily from Frankfurt and Munich; and EasyJet and Airberlin fly here from Berlin. The latter two are the cheaper options. It’s a four-hour flight from Central Europe to Tel Aviv.

You’d be well-advised to book early as tickets aren’t cheap and flights are often fully booked. If you want to buy a last-minute ticket, you’ll be quoted horrendous fares of 800 euros and upwards. Ideally, you should to compare flights on Skyscanner and book six months in advance.

The best way to get through security at the airport

Flights to Israel are subject to special security precautions – not unlike flights to the US, but even stricter. You should make sure to be at the airport three hours before departure. If you’re flying with the Israeli airline ELAL, the security check is even more thorough.

Try to remember that you’re being questioned for your own safety. Stay calm. If you have visas from Arab countries in your passport, you may want to think about applying for a second passport from your passport office before your trip.

Stamps from Arab countries won’t bar you from entry per se , but the questioning will be a lot more rigorous.

Answer the officials’ questions as politely and calmly as possible. Questioning upon departure is even more meticulous. You may be asked where you stayed and whom you met during your time in Israel. It helps to keep a phone number for your hotel or an Israeli friend in your pocket just in case.

Tel Aviv: Getting from the airport to the city

Ben Gurion Airport is located between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. You can get from the airport to the city center by taxi in 20 minutes. The taxi rank is on level G of Terminal 3. Prices for long-distance trips are fixed, so you should ask the driver for the current rate.

Normally, the fare should come to around 140 shekels, which is about 35 euros. Taxis are much cheaper than in Germany. In Terminal 3, you’ll find ATMs and bureaux de change.

Buses are the most common means of transport in Israel. But to get to Tel Aviv by bus, you first have to take the shuttle bus to the Airport City. The shuttle bus stops are located on the second floor, at gates 21 and 23.

From the Airport City, take Egged bus number 475 to the central bus station in Tel Aviv. You can buy your ticket directly from the driver.

Alternatively, you can also take the train to the city straight from Terminal 3, on level S, for just 16 shekels. In fact, that’s probably the best option.

If you’d like your trip to be a bit more comfortable, you can also book a private airport transfer ahead of time. You can find more information here: Private airport transfer Tel Aviv .

Important : There’s no public transport on Shabbat (Friday afternoon to Saturday evening).

What to pack for Tel Aviv

Flip flops, shorts, swimming trunks, bikini, bath towel, sunglasses, sunscreen with a high sun protection factor, headgear, T-shirts, jeans, sweatshirt, sneakers, summer dress.

When you go to Tel Aviv, you can pack light. Only during the winter months from December to February do you need to take a rainproof jacket and a thick sweater.

Tel Aviv is a laid-back city. The New York Times crowned TLV the ‘capital of cool’. You can walk around dressed any way you like without people giving you weird looks.

It’s totally normal to walk your dog in your pajamas and slippers in the morning or to sit on a park bench with curlers in your hair. Tel Aviv has an urban hippie flair.

You’ll hardly see any men in suits or women in pantsuits. Eight months a year, the dress code primarily consists of: flip-flops, sleeveless T-shirts, shorts, airy dresses.

In the winter, Tel Avivians exchange their flip-flops for boots and put on layers upon layers of sweaters because 15 degrees are already considered freezing cold.

You’ll also need a power adapter for Israel, such as this universal adapter .

Is Tel Aviv expensive? Tips on saving money

Tel Aviv is definitely an expensive destination. The cost of living is high. Rents have reached New York or Paris levels.

You’ll be shocked by the prices at the supermarket. Sometimes, they’re as much as double that in Germany.

Tip #1 : Buy fruits and vegetables in the markets.

Tip #2 : Tel Aviv has a free WiFi network. This means you can surf the Internet for free on a park bench or at the beach.

Tip #3 : Get your coffee at Cofix. Everything only costs five shekels here (about 1.20 euros): cakes, cookies, beverages, and coffee. Cofix also operates six supermarkets in Tel Aviv where all products cost five shekels.

Tip #4 : Eat street food such as falafel, hummus, and sabich. One portion costs around 5 euros.

Tip #5 : Keep your eyes peeled for business lunch deals and happy hours at restaurants.

Getting around in Tel Aviv

This mostly flat city is great to explore on foot or by bicycle. In recent years, 40 kilometers of cycle paths have been paved. So go ahead and grab a green Tel-O-Fun Citybike . The 150 rental stations are scattered throughout the city. You have the following options:

• A day ticket for 17 shekels
• A 3-day ticket for 48 shekels
• A 1-week ticket for 70 shekels

You can just cycle from A to B and park your bike at any station. Riding into the sunset down the beach promenade to the old town of Jaffa: now that’s something you have to try.

Tel Avivians love their e-bikes. The street scene has completely changed over the past few years. Nowadays, pedestrians need to watch out that they don’t get run over by e-bike-riding teenagers.

If you’d like to experience Tel Aviv with the wind in your back, then hire a battery-powered bike. An e-bike costs 100 shekels a day. Pole Position is a decent rental service – you can book a guide for a city tour by bike here too. They also provide city maps with bike paths drawn in.

Another popular rental service is O-Fun – e-bikes here cost 120 shekels a day.

Tip : Take shared taxis. The yellow and red minibuses stop at the wave of a hand and are a quick and reliable way to get through the city.

Is Tel Aviv safe?

Israel is always in the headlines, and perhaps you’re one of those people who are concerned about traveling to Tel Aviv because of the security situation. But since terror attacks have gone global these days, a trip to the Mediterranean metropolis is no more dangerous than a trip to any other major city.

You can feel safe in Tel Aviv. Before you enter shopping centers, cinemas, hotels, and clubs, a guard will search your bag. Be nice to him – after all, he’s being paid (poorly) to ensure your safety.

Don’t be frightened when you see soldiers with machine guns eating a falafel at lunchtime. The guns aren’t loaded. You can walk through the city without fear.

Just never leave your backpack out of sight. Not because of thieves. But because Israelis have a short fuse when it comes to abandoned bags. Suspicious items are blown up by special units.

Tel Aviv is a safe place for women traveling alone. The city is alive at all hours. So you don’t have to worry about walking through the city after dark as a woman.

Even in Hayarkon Park, the Central Park of Tel Aviv, you’ll see women going for a solo run late at night. Still, use some common sense – don’t go through dark alleyways on your own.

The best Tel Aviv city tours: My tips

Tip #1: book a bauhaus tour.

Tel Aviv is also known as the White City because around 4000 houses here were built in the Bauhaus style. UNESCO has registered the White City as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Every Friday, there’s a group tour in English. The meeting point is the Bauhaus Center on centrally located Dizengoff Street where you can buy high-quality books and souvenirs.

More infos on the Bauhaus Center Tel Aviv

Tip #2: Book Florentin street art tour

The tour guide will take you on a stroll through the trendy southern quarter of Florentin. The tour is in English and takes 2 hours.

The experienced guide knows all the stories behind the countless graffiti that adorn the walls of Florentine. Explore the hidden gems of the underground art scene.

More infos on the Florentin street art tour

Tip #3: Book the TLVEG tour

TLVEG organizes vegan culinary tours through Tel Aviv. The metropolis is a mecca for anyone who’s chosen to forgo animal products. The tour will take you to the vegan hot spots of Tel Aviv. And there are lots of them.

You should start the tour on an empty stomach because there’ll be plenty to eat on the way. The tour of the city’s vegan scene is a culinary adventure where you’ll get to meet cool people and try creative food.

Highly recommended, and not just for plant-eaters.

More information on the TLVEG Tour .

Tip #4: Read the alternative city guide DIY Tel Aviv

I wholeheartedly recommend the alternative city guide DIY Tel Aviv. It’s available as a paperback or an e-book.

To the travel guide

Ten Hebrew words for beginners

1. Toda – thank you 2. Bevakasha – you’re welcome 3. Café Hafuch – café latte (but milkier) 4. Yam – sea 5. Malon – hotel 6. Alaan – <em>slang for</em> hello 7. Eifo – where? 8. Kesef – money 9. Monit – taxi 10. Shalom – hello, bye, see ya, peace

Where to stay in Tel Aviv

Cheap hotels in tel aviv.

Abraham Hostel Tel Aviv is the coolest guest house in town. Lots of digital nomads hang out here. It’s got it’s finger on the pulse of Tel Aviv’s nightlife: just two minutes from Rothschild Boulevard and right next to the legendary Levontin 7, the best live music club in Tel Aviv.

The hostel has 350 beds, a great roof terrace, and a bar where locals like to relax with a cool beer. You can book a dorm bed (for around the 100 shekels) or a private room (for 300 shekels).

Another option is The Spot Hostel . Here you’ll find tastefully decorated rooms, a sun terrace, and stylish lounges where you can play pool, for example.

The hostel is a stone’s throw from Hilton Beach, Hayarkon Park, and the Gordon Swimming Pool at the marina, with its 50-meter saltwater pool.

Hotels in Tel Aviv for mid-range budgets

A cool hotel right on the beach is the Embassy Hotel . It’s located in the heart of Tel Aviv, just a 15-minute walk from Carmel Market. The colorful rooms, decorated in 1950s style, are particularly striking.

The funky Yam Hotel is located in the quieter north of Tel Aviv. From there, it’s just five minutes to the sea and the Namal. The renovated warehouses along the wooden deck boast cafés, restaurants, and shops with a view of the sea.

The rooms at the Yam (Hebrew for sea) have a surfer flair. They’re small, but cool. The perfect choice for beach lovers.

Boutique hotels in Tel Aviv

Besides all the major hotel chains by the beach, Tel Aviv also has a variety of tasteful boutique hotels. There’s a lot to choose from. Here are my favorites:

The classic is the elegant Norman Hotel in a side street off Rothschild Boulevard. The Norman resides in two renovated historic buildings from the 1920s. The 50 rooms and exclusive suites each have a unique individual design. The highlight is the infinity pool and the Japanese restaurant on the roof. If you really want to pamper yourself, then this is the place for you.

The Shenkin Boutique Hotel is located on Brenner Street, Off-Sheinkin. Sheinkin Street’s glory days as Tel Aviv’s answer to Soho have faded somewhat in recent years, but the area still has its charm.

The location is central and the hotel is a perfect retreat from the hectic hustle and bustle on the streets. The 30 rooms have been furnished with great attention to detail, and on the roof terrace, you can relax in a hammock after a massage in the mini-spa.

The Dizengoff Avenue Boutique Hotel is located in the very center of Tel Aviv, on the lively Dizengoff Street. It couldn’t be closer to the pulse of the city! It’s also close to several great beaches.

In the unique rooms of the hotel you will find details of the famous sights of the city. Here you will get a taste of Tel Aviv’s attractions, which are located right outside the door.

The Market House Tel Aviv Jaffa is located in the old town of Jaffa, right next to the flea market. The hotel runs the Milk Bakery, one of the best bakeries in the city. So it’s no surprise that breakfast here is a veritable feast for palate.

In the lobby, the remains of a Byzantine church are preserved under the glass floor. Boutique hotels generally know how to pamper their guests and this one is no exception.

The Lily & Bloom is yet another of Tel Aviv’s hidden gems. The hotel is a declaration of love to the Bauhaus style of the city. It’s centrally located on Lilienblum Street with its cool bars and restaurants.

The boutique hotel serves a delicious breakfast, and boasts a terrace and a bar with a happy hour. If you’re looking for a stylish intimate hotel, then this is the place for you.

More great places to stay in Tel Aviv

Mendeli Street Hotel with the award-winning Mashya Restaurant Cucu Hotel – colorful, young, urban The Poli House Hotel – a brand new hotel by star architect Karim Rashid

Tel Aviv experiences you have to try

TIP #1 : Browsing the ‘Shuk Ha’Pishpishim’ flea market in Jaffa TIP #2 : Strolling along the wooden deck of the renovated harbor, the Namal TIP #3 : Drinking a cup of coffee at a kiosk on Rothschild Boulevard TIP #4 : Eating a bowl of ramen soup at the delicatessen market in the Sarona district TIP #5: Taking a break from it all in Hayarkon Park by the river

My food guide for Tel Aviv

If you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat in Tel Aviv. You’d have to be spectacularly clueless to have a bad dining experience here. Creative chefs characterize the restaurant scene.

The food in Tel Aviv is among the best in the world. The ethnic influences in this melting pot of over 70 nationalities are particularly pronounced in the culinary world.

Tel Aviv has a wealth of sensational restaurants, making it difficult to pick out a handful of favorites. But I’ve given it my best shot.

Tip : Make reservations as soon as possible.

Tel Aviv restaurant tips

Star chef Yossi Shitrit runs three restaurants in Tel Aviv, all of which are among the top ten: Mashya, Kitchen Market, and Onza.

Mashya was recognized as the best restaurant in town in 2016: modern cuisine with a Moroccan touch, sensory ecstasy for the eyes and the palate. Perfect for a romantic evening.

Kitchen Market is on the first floor right above the Farmers’ Market at the Namal Tel Aviv. In the evening, you’ll feel the full vibe of the city, as the locals end their day feasting on brick oven pizzas, tapas, and gourmet fish dishes.

Onza boasts the coolest location in the middle of the flea market in Jaffa. The old town with its Jewish-Arabic inhabitants is home to many a trendy restaurant.

Onza’s motto is “Food & Vibe”. Two young talented chefs cook Ottoman dishes here with a modern twist. The food is sensual, the music loud, and the audience exuberant.

The Thai at Har Sinai is located in a nightlife hot spot. Scattered around the Great Synagogue on Allenby Street are some of the best bars and restaurants of Tel Aviv. The Thai at Har Sinai is located right next to the legendary Port Said and serves authentic Thai dishes every night of the week. The atmosphere is young, with live DJs and lots of alcohol.

Santa Katarina right next door is also pretty great. Mediterranean cuisine doesn’t get any better than this. Sitting outside in the summer, surrounded by crowds of people in the bars and restaurants nearby, the magical energy of Tel Aviv is almost palpable.

When Taizu opened, it was like a revelation to the spoiled foodies of Tel Aviv. Rarely was a new restaurant received with such unanimous praise. Taizu combines Asian street food from different parts of the continent to create high-end dishes. The ultimate culinary experience.

Every Sunday, the Taizu celebrates Indian cuisine. The confectioner Ana Shapiro was recognized as the best in Tel Aviv in 2016. You know what that means: You’d better leave room for dessert!

More great dining experiences in Tel Aviv

Brasserie : An institution in Tel Aviv, open all hours. Yaffo-Tel Aviv : The flagship of Israeli cuisine by chef Haim Cohen. Romano TLV : Lounge restaurant with a live DJ by crazy cook Eyal Shani. Ramesses : Mediterranean hipster bistro bar in Jaffa with live DJ. LaShuk : Open kitchen with local delicacies. HaBasta : Located in a side street of Shuk Ha’Carmel. Daily changing menu inspired by seasonal produce at the weekly market.

Tel Aviv street food – My tips

Miznon : Gourmet fast food by star cook Eyal Shani. All the dishes are served in pita bread. The all-time classic: pita with roasted cauliflower. The Miznon has branches in Paris and Vienna. Hakosem :  The best falafel in Tel Aviv. Right around the corner from the Dizengoff Center, a popular shopping mall. Pasta Basta : The cheap pasta bar has several branches all over town. The pasta is homemade, the service quick, the customers young. Sabich Frishman : This unassuming snack bar has the best sabich in Tel Aviv. Sabich is the sister of falafel: pita bread stuffed with hummus, tehina, roasted eggplant, hard-boiled egg, tomato and cucumber salad, and pickles.

The best cafés in Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is teeming with coffee shops. That’s because Tel Avivians are communicative people, love good coffee, and appreciate their local barista.

Bucke has two cafés in Tel Aviv: uptown in the north and midtown near the Habima Theater. Its breakfast buffets with colorful salads, dips, and vegetable creations are renowned throughout Tel Aviv. Bucke only serves vegetarian dishes.

Loveat  has the best organic coffee in town. The cafés of the Loveat chain, scattered all over the city, have delicious sandwiches and lunch deals with lots of vegetables, tehina, quinoa, wild rice, tomatoes, and chillies.

Nahat Cafe is just the place for coffee lovers. It smells of freshly ground beans and panini. A great place to open up your laptop and take a seat next to the locals.

Café Xoho is an international meeting place for students and tourists. You’ll hear a great many languages ​​spoken here. Enjoy gluten-free chocolate cakes, matcha tea, and kale salad.

Cafelix is another coffee bean paradise. The coolest branch is located in lively Levinsky Market, nestled in between spice merchants and hipster bars.

Tel Aviv’s hidden gems : The best vegan restaurants in Tel Aviv

Fact: Tel Aviv is among the top five vegan destinations in the world. You can find vegetarian options on the menu in almost every café. And no, not just a side salad, I’m talking full-blown dishes. Cappuccino with almond or soy milk is available everywhere.

Here are my recommendations for 100% vegan restaurants:

Herzog on lively Ivn Gvirol has a daily changing menu featuring dishes that chef Roey Herzog calls ‘mountains’: rice mountains, quinoa mountains, lettuce mountains, buckwheat mountains, topped with vegetables, tehina, chilli.

Roey knows how to conjure up delicious food with vegetables. The best (but rather pricey) place for a quick lunch. Recommended: zoodles with tehina spirulina dressing.

At peak times, you’ll have to join a long line if you want to eat at Marketlv on Dizengoff Street. It serves different stews and soups every day: Indian, Mexican, Moroccan, and more. The food is cheap and tastes great.

The Dosa Bar is a wonderful place to go for lunch. The South Indian street food is vegan, gluten-free, and, most of all, delicious. Dosas are a kind of pancake, which are varied with spicy fillings.

Zakaim , a self-styled vegan boutique, plays in the culinary big leagues. The restaurant is run by the Zakaim siblings. The menu is Persian-Israeli-vegan. This very hip and stylishly furnished restaurant is located right in the middle of the nightlife district surrounding the Great Synagogue on Allenby Street. Essential eating: the potato wedges.

Tel Aviv’s beaches: The most beautiful beaches

Gordon Beach has everything a beach-lover’s heart desires. A laid-back beach café called LalaLand, volleyball nets, fitness equipment, and lots of sun worshipers. Right next door is the Olympic-grade Gordon Pool and the Topsea Surfing Center.

Mezizim Beach is located at the northern tip of the beach promenade. A bay bordered by the religious beach (yes, that exists too) and the harbor (Namal). The 9Beach lounge café is located on Mezizim Beach. It’s especially lively in the evenings. And if live football matches are being broadcast live on the big screen anywhere in town, it’s sure to be here. A nice hangout for a beer with your feet in the sand.

Hilton Beach is located in a bay right next to the dog beach and the gay beach. This is the place to be for water sports enthusiasts. You can hire SUP boards, kayaks, or surfboards at the Sea Center Club. Lots of kids and teenagers come here every Saturday morning to learn how to surf.

Banana Beach is located closer to the old town of Jaffa and stands out with its characteristic yellow beach chairs. A beach without an attitude, laid-back, fewer tourists. It also has a surfing school.

Tip : On Friday afternoons, Banana Beach morphs into Drum Beach. Standing on the cliffs, the drummers get out their bongos and congas to welcome Shabbat with a drum session.

Do you have some great tips for a city trip to Tel Aviv?

Have you ever been to Tel Aviv want to share a tip of your own? Then leave us a comment and tell us all about it.

Also read our other posts: 

Amsterdam Travel Tips + Best Sights & hidden gems What to see in Tallinn! Our favorite sights + travel tips What to do in Hamburg! 7 Fun Things you need to try

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Middle East » Tel Aviv

Is Tel Aviv Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Tel Aviv is Israel’s vibrant urban culture-capital. A seaside destination that combines centuries-old history with cool 1930s architecture, a pumping nightlife, and an amazing food scene.

It may generally be thought of as the Middle East, but it’s also a Mediterranean destination sanguine bars and beaches to chill out on. If you have never visited before, then chances you will be pleasantly surprised by this contemporary, cultural capital.

However Tel Aviv is in Israel and is part of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. Concerns around terrorism and attacks from Gaza, for example, may also come to mind when you are planning a trip here – it’s only natural.

We are here to put your mind at ease. We have put together this huge guide to the safety of Tel Aviv, not to scare you or put you off, but to give you the straight facts and equip you with all the travel tips and information you’ll need to have an awesome time in this cool city.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

How Safe is Tel Aviv? (Our take)

Is tel aviv safe (the facts.), is it safe to visit tel aviv right now, tel aviv travel insurance, 19 top safety tips for traveling to tel aviv, keeping your money safe in tel aviv, is tel aviv safe to travel alone, is tel aviv safe for solo female travellers, is tel aviv safe to travel for families, is it safe to drive in tel aviv, is uber safe in tel aviv, are taxis safe in tel aviv, is public transportation in tel aviv safe, is the food in tel aviv safe, can you drink the water in tel aviv, is tel aviv safe to live, how is healthcare in tel aviv, helpful israel travel phrases, faq about staying safe in tel aviv, final thoughts on the safety of tel aviv.

Staying in Tel Aviv is a lot of fun. Behind the attention-grabbing headlines, Tel Aviv is known as “the city that never sleeps” for its 24-hour culture. It has even been dubbed the “gay capital” of the Middle East. It sure is a fun-loving, open-minded city.

That does not mean that there are not issues to consider on a trip to Tel Aviv. After all, it is a big city and like many big cities comes with the usual selection of things to watch out for. Petty theft, while not a big problem, does occur and it is not unheard of for credit cards or passports to go missing. Theft from bags left unattended on beaches an is fairly common.

Public transport and transport hubs, especially on the outskirts of the city, require greater vigilance and

On top of that, there are cultural and religious sensitivities to be aware of. For example, don’t take pictures of people in Muslim and Orthodox Jewish areas. Also, note that a LOT of things totally shut down on the Shabbat (Friday night and Saturday).

The fact that there are underground bomb shelters dotted around Tel Aviv should tell you something. In recent years there have been threats of rockets fired from Gaza. It shouldn’t worry you though, people who live in Tel Aviv are generally unaffected, and unperturbed, by this apparent threat, and many of its citizens go about their daily business, walking to work and then partying the night away.

Most visits to Tel Aviv are trouble-free. In fact, given its location and situation, Tel Aviv is surprisingly safe and laid-back.

Now, let’s get deeper into the city and uncover how safe it is by looking at the statistics.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Tel Aviv Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Tel Aviv. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Tel Aviv.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

Though it may be thought to occupy a precarious geological location, Tel Aviv is a big attraction to tourists. Many people who arrive in Israel to visit the historic sights will, usually, at some point find their way through Tel Aviv.

Tourism is one of the major sources of income for Israel and they take it very seriously. In 2017, the country welcomed 3.6 million tourists – a huge 25% growth on the previous year – and the sector contributed NIS 20 billion to the economy.

Fast-forward to 2019. It is estimated that around 4.7 million visitors came to Israel, beating the record-breaking numbers of the previous year (4.12 million). Every year has seen a significant rise in tourists, making each year a record-breaker – in spite of the country’s perceived problems.

Tel Aviv is the country’s financial and technological capital and according to the UN, also its diplomatic capital. Home to 3.9 million inhabitants, it is estimated that 44% of Israel’s population live in Tel Aviv.

According to Israeli police, in terms of crime, murders have been continually decreasing. It’s claimed that in 2018, 103 people were the victims of homicide (down from 136 in 2017); a rate of 1.14 per 100,000 inhabitants. Looking at Tel Aviv away from the general overview of Israel, crime is relatively low: Gun crime is negligible, as is mugging and other violent crime.

That said, on the 2019 Global Peace Index (which measures the general safety of 163 countries) Israel ranked 146 – just below Mali (145) and just above Lebanon (147) putting it at the lower end of the “Low State of Peace” bracket.

Though it is situated in a country that may not be regarded as “safe”, Tel Aviv feels like any Mediterranean city and is statistically one of the best places to visit in Israel.

It is difficult to say whether Tel Aviv is safe right now, as the country is in a constant state of conflict, and has been for decades, with both Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Hamas in Gaza .

Tensions can rise every now and then creating pockets of small-scale war, with rockets fired over borders.

In the region in general, there have been increased tensions. In January 2020, a U.S. airstrike in Baghdad killed an Iranian general, sparking anti-Western sentiment across the Middle East.

Previous to this (November 2019), more than 60 rockets were fired from Gaza into southern Israel, with at least two being intercepted over Tel Aviv by the city’s “Iron Dome” missile defense system.

Ongoing tensions, culminating with the firing of rockets, can lead the Israeli Home Front Command to close workplaces and schools, including in Tel Aviv. This is the case at the time of writing this article, for example.

The back and forth of projectile fire between Israel and Gaza can affect Tel Aviv. Warning sirens will sound in the case of an imminent emergency.

Essentially it is a fragile situation that can change quickly.

Protests also affect Tel Aviv, and can feature violent clashes between protesters, and law enforcement.  Bystanders and tourists are also sometimes caught up in it all. Route 443, between Tel Aviv to Jerusalem also sees such incidents occur.

All these issues are subject to change – sometimes tensions are high, sometimes they are low. Checking the latest developments in Israel’s conflict, and the Middle East in general, maybe a good idea before you travel.

For the most part, however, Tel Aviv and its citizens remain calm and carry on with their lives as per usual. In fact, that the city is referred to as “The Bubble” for how different it feels – and is – from the rest of the country.

To stay up to date with the situation, you should get yourself a local sim card , and turn on notifications for a local news station. Staying connected is another way to stay safe!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Tel Aviv is a bubble of a city. It remains relatively unaffected by the conflicts. it is both a safe city to travel to and a fun one at that. However, despite how good it sounds, it is still probably a very city different from the one you live in – or different from the cities you are used to. Here are some tips specially curated for staying safe in Tel Aviv to help you have a great time without worrying;

• Be sensitive – NOT voicing your views on the conflict, being aware of religious sensitivities, and generally being respectful is a good way to travel in Tel Aviv
• Pay attention around Religious holidays – There can be civil unrest and increased tension around Jewish holidays, after Friday prayers and other religious holidays
• Be vigilant at large gatherings – As with above, even the famous Pride Parade has seen rising tensions. Extra vigilance is always a good idea
• Don’t leave things unattended at the beach – Things do, and will, go missing if you leave them unwatched
• Limit the amount of money you carry around with you – The less you have, the less you could potentially lose
• Keep your passport close – There is a risk of your passport details being stolen, so don’t hand it over to anybody else (even Israeli police); only do so if absolutely necessary
• Carry copies of your ID with you at all times including the card they give you at immigration
• Monitor media reports – This will keep you up to date with travel advice, what is happening in the region, and in Israel
• Careful what you photograph – You shouldn’t be snapping pics of military/police personnel and installations, and be sensitive of photographing people in Muslim and Orthodox Jewish areas
• Don’t do any drugs – If you are caught in possession, penalties for smuggling/trafficking are severe
• Know what to do when you hear an air raid siren – Public underground bomb shelters called miklat can be found all over Tel Aviv. Strengthened rooms called mamad can be found in some buildings, too
• Dress to fit in – Depending on where you are in the city, what you’re wearing should adhere to local standards; an ultra-religious area may find what you wear offensive. This will also help you look less like a tourist
• Get a sim card – If your phone doesn’t work, make sure it does! A sim card will help you get around and keep in touch with people back home, amongst other things
• Learn a little Hebrew – Most people speak English, but knowing some phrases can help you get by
• Know that the weekend is different in Israel – Lots of shops are closed on Saturday, but Sunday is business as usual! You should be aware of this when making travel plans. Public transport stops on Shabbat.

Any traveller is going to be concerned with how they keep their money safe. Whether you are worried about losing money, or having it stolen from you, it safe to say that it is an important part of travel.

A simple solution to keeping your money safe in Tel Aviv, as with anywhere in the world, is a money belt.

A money belt will allow you to keep your money safe without having to worry about it going missing or being stolen from you.

Some money belts, however, aren’t as good as others; we think that they can look obvious when worn under clothing, and can be pretty uncomfortable sometimes, too.

The Pacsafe Money Belt is our best bet. It’s affordable, it looks and acts like a belt, and it’s sturdy – what more could you ask for out of a money belt!

Not only does this money belt look and act like a regular belt, but it is sturdy and affordable too. All you have to do is use the secret zipper pocket on the belt to stash your cash for the day and your money will be safe and sound.

Tel Aviv is the perfect place for solo travel. People here are open, friendly, helpful and will always be happy to give you any advice you might need.

It’s also a great place to join in with everyone else, mixing and mingling and partying till the early hours, then hanging out at a coffee shop after you’ve woken up late – just like everybody else.

Still, we have some tips for solo travellers in Tel Aviv to keep you on the straight and narrow.

• You should definitely do research when it comes to accommodation. You will want to find somewhere that suits your travel type, works well for you, and is secure. Read reviews and make sure that you are looking forward to staying at your accommodation, and you aren’t just staying at the cheapest possible place. Abraham Hostels is very sociable.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Lots of people in Tel Aviv speak good English, and most people will be willing and happy to help you if you need directions, need to ask for advice, or feel unsafe.
• Have different ways to access your money. Consider having a couple of bank accounts, and keep the bank cards separately, as losing everything all at once is something that can cause a big headache. An emergency credit card could also really help you out in a pinch.
• Download all of the top apps for Israel before you travel to Tel Aviv. Moovit, which is details the country’s public transport schedules, is a good place to start; other apps to search for include those related to emergency situations, and offline maps apps like Maps.me.
• Join city-centric Facebook groups like Secret Tel Aviv. Here you will be able to get into contact with locals, ask advice and keep up to date with what is going on in the city.
• Make sure that your travel plans and plans for exploring the city aren’t affected by big public holidays like Yom Kippur, which sees the city’s public transport system shut down and virtually empty streets.
• Just because you are travelling solo, it does not mean that you have to go off grid; in fact, doing so could be quite unsafe. Make sure that you keep in touch with people back home, which will be good for your mental health as much as it will stave off homesickness. It is good to hear a familiar voice.
• Do not get crazy drunk. Just because Tel Aviv is well known as a 24 hour party city, it does not mean that you have to get completely wasted. Doing so would only put yourself at risk of making bad decisions, getting lost, or worse.
• If you are at the beach by yourself, and you have your things with you, know that it is not an unusual thing to ask somebody nearby to keep an eye on your things while you go swimming.
• Travel light. Rocking up in Tel Aviv with heavy luggage is not only not a good look, but it will not be a comfortable way to first arrive, leave or get around the city. For example, opt for a light, packable day-pack rather than arriving with multiple bags.

If you are a solo traveller looking to go travel around the best sights of Israel , Tel Aviv should definitely be on your list.

In fact, Israeli people are used to travelling and are used to mingling with people from other places. In addition, Tel Aviv’s hostels are good, and clustered around a fun beachfront area.

For fun and good times, this city is a great option. Just bear in mind that it isn’t a playground where nothing bad can happen, and be sensible, and you’ll be bound to have a good time.

Like many cities in the world, Tel Aviv does, unfortunately, come with a handful of issues when it comes to visiting the city as a solo female traveller.

However, for the most part, Tel Aviv’s laid-back feel and free-spirited mindset make it not just a safe place for women to travel by themselves, but a very fun one at that.

To help you stay extra safe, we’ve put together a mini guide for solo female travelers in Tel Aviv below.

• Never leave your drink unattended and keep an eye on it at all times. Drink spiking does happen in Tel Aviv. Ensure that you keep your drink in your hand to be on the safe side. Don’t accept drinks from strangers, either.
• Do not walk around dark, isolated areas by yourself at night – a deserted beach, or a shortcut home, or anywhere like that. It is not worth the potential risk.
• It is ok to say no and be firm with it. Some men can be a little too forward with the flirting. If you feel that this is unwanted attention – it is normal to be firm with how you respond. Usually, this is harmless, and more annoying than anything, but if you do feel like you are being harassed, then you should make a scene, and find someone nearby who can help you.
• Catcalling does also occur, but it is best to just ignore this and move on.
• Take care when exploring the city even in the daytime. While some neighbourhoods, such as Florentin are cool and accepting, others may not be as nice.
• Do not tell people your personal details: where you are staying, your room number, where you are from, what you’re doing tomorrow, your marital status… No stranger needs to know things like this, and sharing this with strangers could put you in danger.
• Walk confidently. This means walking with purpose, like you know where you are going (even if you don’t). Looking like a lost tourist could make you look vulnerable.
• Meeting up with local ladies will be a cool idea. They will give you the best insight into Tel Aviv’s various scenes and neighbourhoods. Simply searching for female-focused meetups will yield results, as will joining Facebook groups like Host A Sister, which will allow to put out a request to meet up with other women wherever you are in the world.
• Go on a tour if you’re not sure about exploring the city by yourself. It is very important, however, to check reviews of the tour company or guide you may use; only use very reputable, well-recommended companies and guides.
• Let people know what your travel plans are. Send your itinerary to a trusted friend or relative back home, ensuring that you check in with them every couple of days to let them know you’re OK. Lessening other people’s anxiety may make you feel more at ease.
• Keep your phone charged at all times. Going out all day without full charge is not a good idea, and you may want to invest in a spare battery pack that will keep your phone topped up with battery life.

Solo female travellers are going to have an amazing time in Tel Aviv. With music venues, art exhibitions, chilled cafes to people-watch at, and some great dining experiences, you will have no trouble filling your time with cool things to do.

It is always nice to find like-minded people to hang out with and enjoy your time with, though, so think about meetups with locals, or staying in a social hostel. Use the same precautions for yourself as you would anywhere in the world, and you will have a trouble-free time.

Tel Aviv may have a reputation for being a party city, but actually, by day this place is a fantastic hub for families, with museums, parks, cafes and markets to enjoy.

Plenty of young families call the city home and this is something which has helped shape the city into the child-friendly destination it is today. In fact, the city’s ethos largely derives from the importance played by the Hebrew word mischpacha  – family, including distant relatives.

This has not always been the case though.

Rewind a few years and Tel Aviv’s inhabitants were made up of mostly students and retirees. Things have changed, for the better, and investment in green spaces particularly has meant that the city is so much more liveable and enjoyable for families.

Today Tel Aviv is a green city: there are parks galore. The biggest one is Park HaYarkon; situated on the banks of the Yarkon River, it comes complete with rolling grassy areas, a petting zoo and plenty of playgrounds. It’s a great place to make a beeline for if you have active kids.

There is also the spacious Independence Park, for the perfect picnic spot overlooking the sea (plus playgrounds); the Old Port is also good for little ones as this historic area has sandpits and fountains for little ones.

Beaches, of course, are a huge draw to the city; in fact, Tel Aviv boasts 14 kilometres of sandy beaches. Here is where you can enjoy relaxing while your children play in the sand and splash around in the Mediterranean Sea.

There is not too much to worry about in terms of safety when it comes to the beaches; all of the city’s beaches have lifeguards on duty, and the current is not too strong close to shore. The water here is good for all ages to enjoy swimming.

There are, however, occasional “Black Flag” days when it is forbidden to swim. This will often be after a storm.

Some of the best beaches for families are Metzitzim Beach in the north of the city (this has both a seafront playground and a beach bar); Gordon Beach comes with its own swimming pool, plus children’s and babies’ pools.

Be careful with beach days though – the sun can get extremely hot during the summer months and it is not a good idea to be out in the midday sun. It is advised to go the beach either in the morning, or later in the afternoon; make sure to use sunscreen, wear T-shirts and sunhats, too.

For educational things to do in Tel Aviv, there are museums such as Beit Hatfutsot – the Museum of the Jewish People – and the Steinhardt Natural History Museum, which houses more than a million pieces in its collection, or the Tel Aviv Museum of Art with surreal sculptures and colourful paintings to capture children’s imaginations.

Tel Aviv is relatively compact and quite easy to get around with kids in tow. The pavements are well maintained, pushchairs can be used, and even the inner city bus can accommodate pushchairs. In fact, children under 5 ride free on public trains and buses.

When it comes to food, there is not much to worry about. Most places have children’s menus and are used to catering for families; it is not unusual to see families out late into the night, eating meals with their children.

It is best not to visit Tel Aviv with young children in July and August, which is when the country sees its highest humidity and temperatures. Spring time and September – both the “shoulders season” – are good times of year to visit, with pleasant temperatures and plenty of sun.

You don’t need to drive yourself around the city to get around. However, if you do want to self-drive, then you should know that you will need a lot of patience.

Though you don’t need to drive yourself or rent a car, self-driving can be a good option if you want to travel further afield. The highways are, in general, modern and well kept. Signage is in Hebrew, Arabic and English, which makes it easy to navigate.

Though there are frequent accidents owing to erratic driving, in general, Israel on does not have a high rate of road traffic deaths, which indicates that it is not all that dangerous.

Drivers in Tel Aviv, however, don’t have the best of reputations – sometimes it would seem that the road rules are more like suggestions to people than actual rules. The horn will be used a lot, people may flash their lights at you, and there may be a few crazy U-turns to watch out for. You will have to be alert and assertive at all times.

There are speed cameras, though, and it is common to be fined for breaking the speed limit.

A satnav / GPS will help with a lot of the stress of driving in Tel Aviv.

When it comes to parking, there is an additional headache of it being very, very difficult to find a space – especially in downtown Tel Aviv. There is a list of complicated rules and regulations, such as cars only being able to park along blue-and-white kerbs; parking along a red-and-white kerb, on the other hand, is illegal and doing so will get your car towed.

Privately owned car parks can be found around town, but larger public car parks can be found south of Jaffa Port and around the Old Railway Station; at Reading Terminal, near Park HaYarkon, is Tel Aviv’s largest car park and has good bus connections into the centre of town.

There can be parking machines, but these can be complicated to use; the signs accompanying them aren’t always in English.

On the Shabbat (Friday night and Saturday) parking can be easier – many of the city’s car parks remain open and many of its residents head out for day trips.

You can get an app to pay for parking; called Pango, it means you can pay for parking via the app, which can make things easier.

Parking, however, is generally not a great experience.

All in all, driving in Tel Aviv is safe, but it is not really worth it. If driving is your thing, however, then there’s nothing really stopping you – though we recommend that you have some experience of driving abroad, and are a confident driver.

Uber in Tel Aviv is safe.

Gett, an Israeli ride hailing app, works the same as Uber in Israel – meaning it’s only for taxis.

The plus side of both Uber and Gett is that you won’t get messed around by any taxi driver, as the price is what you pay through the app via your bank card. You are also guaranteed a licensed taxi. Other perks include being able to track your ride, and check driver ratings, amongst other things.

Taxis are generally safe in Tel Aviv, but there can be a chance of getting ripped off. There are a few things you should know about taxis in Tel Aviv.

You shouldn’t have any problems with finding a taxi in Tel Aviv, as they are absolutely everywhere. Licensed taxis- regulated by the Israel Transportation Ministry – are usually white, and are usually Mercedes, Skoda or Kia.

Taxis in Tel Aviv will be painted with the word “TAXI” or “MUNIT” on either side of the cab, and will have a yellow light-up sign on the roof. Don’t let the sign confuse you too much, however; differently to other countries’ systems, the taxi sign is always lit up and, confusingly, doesn’t indicate whether or not it’s available.

The thing to look out for is a green light on the base of the main yellow light; if it’s off, there’s someone on board. However, this isn’t always the case, so the best thing to do is just to try to wave down any taxi, regardless of lights.

Taxi drivers, by law, have to use a meter. If a taxi driver tries to scam you by saying the meter’s broken, or it’s cheaper not to use the meter, or whatever, just get out and find another taxi. Tourists can be targets these sorts of shenanigans, and your driver will more than likely suggest a flat fare, which can be much, much higher than the meter would work the fare out at.

If you have found a taxi and you get into it, it is ok to sit in the front with the driver – it is not unusual. Taxi drivers are friendly and will have a chat to you about their city, and what they’re doing.

Note that it is not customary, nor expected, to tip your driver.

If the driver is smoking, picking up other passengers, or you feel you have been scammed, you can make a complaint. Either request a receipt from the end of your taxi trip, or note down the taxi number, driver name and the vehicle registration, and contact the Transportation Ministry Office.

Know that there are two different tariff systems: the lower one operates between 5:30 a.m. and 9 p.m.; the higher one – 25% higher than the lower one – runs between 9 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., as well as on Shabbat (Friday night and Saturday) and Jewish holidays.

There are also charges for specific inter-city routes, for which you can request the designated price.

Everything about taxis in Tel Aviv can be made easier by using one of the aforementioned apps – Gett or Uber – or you could ask your accommodation to call one for you.

There is no metro in Tel Aviv (yet) and public transport in Tel Aviv mostly revolves around buses. These can be a little bit confusing for visitors to the city to get to grips with. However, these are in general safe and fairly straightforward once you have learned how they work.

The Moovit app shows you realtime updates of bus routes if you do get confused with it all.

Tel Aviv buses are operated by a company called Dan , but there are also a number of other smaller companies that traces routes around the city.

You can catch a bus in Tel Aviv from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m., which means party animals can ride them home in the early morning after a night of dancing.

It is relatively cheap to use the bus; a one way ticket costs around NIS 5, and you pay the fare as you get on the bus.

It is a good idea, however, to consider purchasing a one day pass or hofshi yomi – for NIS 13.50, this gets you unlimited travel around the city and its suburbs. There is also the weekly hofshi shavoui (NIS 64).

Alternatively, those of you who will be in the city for a few weeks or months can pick up a Personal Rav Kav. These top-up travel cards can be picked up from a Dan information centre; note that getting one involves paperwork, and requires a photo and a passport.

If you get one from a bus driver – an Anonymous Rav Kav – however, none of that is needed; just ask the driver as you get on.

There are three big bus terminals in Tel Aviv: Central Bus Station, Arlozorov Bus Terminal, and the Carmelit Bus Terminal. You should be careful – especially around the Central Bus Station – late at night and early in the morning. As in many cities, transport hubs don’t tend to be the nicest places. Keep your belongings close to you and try not to look lost.

Trains in Israel are run by Israel Railways. They’re modern, with aircon, and are clean, reliable and frequent, making for a good way to get around and see the country.

On a trip to Tel Aviv, a train may be the first public transport you encounter. There is a train line that runs to and from the city via Ben Gurion Airport; other train lines connect the city centre both with its surrounding suburbs and other cities.

Trains don’t yet make for a good way to get around Tel Aviv. The Tel Aviv Light Rail has been delayed multiple times and is set to be opened. Likewise, planned three-line Tel Aviv Metro is also on the cards and is due to open in 2021.

Taking the train however, is a normal thing to do in Israel, and can be a good way to get between destinations if you want to travel around the city. There are four main train stations serving mainly commuters on the line running north-to-south on the east side of the city; the main station is Tel Aviv Center (or Tel Aviv Savidor Mercaz), which is conveniently located next door to the Arlosorov Bus Terminal.

From Tel Aviv Center, you can get the train to Israel’s third-largest city, Haifa (which does have a metro). There is a high speed service in the works between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, but at the moment it is quicker to get the bus.

As an alternative to the bus, there is a city-wide bike hire scheme, dubbed Tel-O-Fun . These bright green bicycles are actually one of the quickest and easiest ways to get around, with an impressive 120 kilometres of dedicated bike path, and many drop-off/pick-up stations across the city. All it costs is around NIS 17 for a daily travel card for the bikes.

With this, you can travel along Rothschild Boulevard, Ben-Gurion Boulevard and Chen Boulevard without having to contend with traffic.

There is also a 10 kilometre-long coastal promenade that you can pedal along, plus a bicycle ride around the huge HaYarkon Park is epic.

On a safety note, if you choose to cycle around the city make sure you stick to the cycle paths. You will get fined if you cycle on pavements. The road can be dangerous, too.

Whilst Tel Aviv does not yet have a metro system, or even a light railway system, they soon will do. Before that happens, it is pretty safe to use the bus to get around the city – just make sure to keep an eye on your belongings and be careful around transport hubs. Enjoy!

Food in Israel is part of the culture and in Tel Aviv that is no different. This city boasts a vibrant gastronomy scene with a high standard of top restaurants, casual eateries, street cafes and bars.

There is a wide range of food from a wide range of backgrounds on offer in Tel Aviv: you want it, you can get it. To help you do just that, here are a few pointers.

• In Israel, more than half of all restaurants are serving kosher food. Nearly all hotels will serve kosher food. Good news if you’re kosher. Others may find it difficult to find milk for tea or coffee, and if you were thinking of having a creamy surf and turf meal of some kind, think again.
• Food is generally of a good standard in Israel, but some restaurants are going to be more run down and less hot on the hygiene than others. It is always a good rule of thumb to follow crowds; Tel Avivians will know the best places to eat in the city, so when the lunch rush starts, go where it’s busy.
• Do not be afraid to eat at the street food stalls – you will be missing out if you don’t. At falafel stands or kiosks, for example, you can get fries, pickled salads, fried eggplants (often cheap and healthy); there are also hummusia, which – you guessed it – specialise in hummus.
• Be careful of falafel sauce! This stuff can very, very spicy. Unless you are an old hand at consuming – and enjoying – spicy food, when the guy at the kiosk asks if you want any, just say “a little bit” otherwise you may have a shock.
• Know that Jewish restaurants will be closed on Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday).
• If you are backpacking Israel on a budget, we recommend checking out a misada mizrahit. Literally translating “Eastern Restaurant”, these are great places to get cheap eats such as fried kibbeh, basic salads and grilled meat. Just make sure you go to one that looks as though it has a good standard of hygiene, or that’s busy, or that has good reviews – preferably all three.
• There are probably going to be some different flavours and spices going on that you may not be used to. Most likely, it won’t be bad hygiene practices that get to your stomach, but it will be the fact that you’re devouring something new; a change in diet is a common cause for an upset stomach.
• Just in case, it’s a good idea to bring anti-diarrhoea medication. Tel Aviv is a safe, clean city to eat around, but having something in your bag for those just-in-case situations is a good idea.
• Don’t be afraid of the fruit and veg: the stalls look amazing and the fruit is almost always fresh and delicious. To be on the safe side, however, it is always a good idea to wash your purchases before you tuck into them.
• Beware the hotel buffet. While it seems like a great, convenient place to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, it’s the hotel buffet where many visitors to many countries around the world get an upset stomach. With different people passing in and out of the buffet, and food sitting around in metal trays, these can be hotbeds for germs.
• Wash your hands. It is normal to practise to wash your hands before you eat anyway, but when you are exploring a traffic-filled city all day and then sit down to eat something with your hands without having washed them beforehand… that’s not a good move.

The cafe culture is bustling, the street food stalls are always busy, and everyone claims to know the best place to get hummus, falafel or shwarma; and in the summer months, you can wash it all down with a thirst-quenching limonana – fresh made lemonade with mint.

Tel Aviv is the place to go to eat. Mostly, the problem you will have here is eating too much, or not having enough room for all the delicious dishes you’ll find. Follow your nose, and follow the crowds, and you won’t have too much difficulty finding some amazing food.

The tapwater in Tel Aviv is safe to drink.

There is no reason why you shouldn’t bring a refillable water bottle and take that around with you as you explore the city; there should be places for you to fill up your water dotted around.

Some restaurants will also provide you with a glass of water when you sit down at a table, too.

No need to buy plastic bottles of water that will only contribute further to the world’s plastic problem.

Tel Aviv is a big, vibrant city with – as we’ve just established – fantastic food, beautiful beaches, a 24-hour lifestyle and energetic nightlife.

However, there are problems that come with living in a city such as Tel Aviv. Though it is different, safer and more laid-back than the rest of Israel, living here can take some getting used to at first.

Its location and ongoing disputes and conflicts with neighbouring countries make the city a unique place. It is therefore protected by the Iron Dome – a missile defence system.

There is more security than you are probably used to, with bag searches and metal detectors at museums and other such buildings, as well as some armed personnel patrolling or even just strolling around the city.

Depending on the levels of tension at any time, the security may be more or less strict. There may be more or less personnel around.

You will also have to know what to do in the rare instances that the siren goes off. If it does, you need to get to a bomb shelter, either underground, in a building, or in a stairwell of a building.

Living in such a security-oriented environment may take its toll on some people, others may like it, or outright not be bothered about it – this will depend on your personality and experiences while living in Tel Aviv.

However, even with all this going on the doorstep, Tel Aviv is not a particularly bad, or even dangerous, city to live in. Fashion, museums, cafes – they are all there to be enjoyed, and there is always something going on.

In fact, with its Bohemian spirit, Tel Aviv is often referred to by Israelis as “The Bubble”. It can be easy to forget that you are even living in Israel, being much more secular and liberal than the rest of the country.

Just don’t go talking about the politics of the region. Growing up in a place like this will give people a different view to the one you probably have; besides, Tel Aviv tends to be more about partying than politics.

Another thing to note is that Tel Aviv can get unbearably hot. In the summer, air con is necessary. You will be dipping in and out of air-conned places just to get some respite from the heat outside.

People in Tel Aviv will be friendly and welcoming in general, and you may find it to be the kind of place where you can make friends very easily.

Just be sure to do thorough research on neighbourhoods to live, areas that will fit your lifestyle and personality. Look online to see how other expats have found living in Tel Aviv, visit the city to see how it all works, and then make the leap if you feel like it!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Healthcare in Israel can be pretty expensive, and Tel Aviv is no exception.

It is very important if you are going to Tel Aviv, that you have appropriate medical travel insurance before you go. Some facilities may ask for payment upfront and may take legal action if you don’t pay your bills. Good insurance is a must.

However, the healthcare in Tel Aviv is good. The system is efficient and there is high-quality care on offer. In fact, there is an oversupply of doctors in Israel on the whole, as well as a host of modern hospitals and clinics.

In Tel Aviv, you will never be too far from top quality medical care, so much so that the city is actually becoming quite a popular destination for medical tourism – especially from the United States.

If you have a medical emergency whilst you are in Tel Aviv, you should call 101 and request an ambulance. One of the hospitals you may be taken to is Ichilov Hospital, which is a big facility in the centre of the city and has a 24-hour Emergency Room (ER).

For less serious ailments, there is Tel Aviv Doctor – a well-equipped clinic used to foreign visitors with English-speaking staff, with the capacity for procedures from lab tests and X-rays, to medical check-ups. They can also cater for emergency visits.

If you are in need of a doctor and you are staying at a hotel, you can ask your accommodation for a house visit from a local physician. However, it is important to note that house calls will be expensive and may require you to pay there and then; if you plan on doing so, you should contact your insurance provider.

Pharmacies across the city are well stocked. Superpharm is one of the biggest chains that you will find, with numerous branches around town; one of these, on Dizengoff Street, is open on Shabbat, which is good to note since practically all others will be closed.

These pharmacies have international brands that you will recognise, but can be quite highly-priced for things like aspirin or anti-diarrhea medicines (so come well stocked).

All in all, the healthcare in Tel Aviv is great – just don’t forget that travel insurance.

While Hebrew is the official language of Israel. Roughly 20% of the population speaks Arabic. Signage across the country is displayed in both Hebrew and Arabic. English is widely spoken in Israel.

Here are a few useful phrases in Hebrew for your backpacking Israel adventure:

Hello – Shalom

Morning— Boker

Please – Bevakasha

Cheers – L’chayiym!

What? – Mah?p

Where? – Heykhan?

No plastic bag – eyn sekyt nayylun

No straw please – bli kash, bhvakasha.

No plastic cutlery please – bli ” ma plastik, bhvakasha.

Beer — Biyrah

Thanks! — Todah!

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Tel Aviv.

Can you drink alcohol in Tel Aviv?

Alcohol is only available in Western hotels in Tel Aviv. Drinking is forbidden and considered abhorrent by traditional followers of Islam, so you should really avoid getting drunk and going out to the public. If possible, avoid alcohol completely.

Is it safe to walk around Tel Aviv at night?

Most neighborhoods in Tel Aviv are safe, however, it is smart to be a bit more cautious at night. Stick with a group of friends when going out and opt for a taxi instead of walking.

What should you avoid in Tel Aviv?

Avoid these things when visiting Tel Aviv: – Don’t express any political or religious opinions – Don’t disrespect local culture – Don’t leave things unattended at the beach – Don’t do any drugs

Is Tel Aviv safe for female solo traveller?

As long as you stay cautious and aware of your surroundings, you won’t face any issues as a solo female traveller in Tel Aviv. Link up with other female travellers on your trip to increase your safety even more.

Tel Aviv is a city of contradictions. Plenty of people visit, plenty of people live there. It’s liberal, it’s fun, it’s clean and there’s a lot to do. There are beaches, great nightlife, good eating.  But it all just happens to be on a knife-edge of tension from the Gaza Conflict and other disputes with neighbouring countries. However, outright hostilities are very rare and Tel Aviv deservedly keeps its nickname of “The Bubble”.

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ana Pereira

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Israel Tourism
• Israel Hotels
• Israel Bed and Breakfast
• Israel Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Israel
• Israel Restaurants
• Things to Do in Israel
• Israel Travel Forum
• Israel Photos
• All Israel Hotels
• Israel Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Israel
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Friday and Saturday in Tel Aviv! - Israel Forum

• Middle East    
• Israel    

Friday and Saturday in Tel Aviv!

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Middle East forums
• Israel forum

I suggest that you read a guidebook to figure out what appeals to you. The hours should be there, too.

My recommendations:

Friday Evening, take one of the last buses down to Jaffa port, explore the area and watch the sunset. Have dinner down there. There are plenty of places there open on Shabbat. Walk back along the beach.

There is a lot to do in Tel Aviv, you won't be bored and you won't be hungry. Now you will have to use taxis to get around as there are no buses on Shabbat, but there are some suggestions to get you started thinking.

There are sheruts (shared taxis) running on Shabbat on a few routes, notably the route of bus 4 and I think also bus 5 - along main traffic arteries in the city centre. The 4 goes along Allenby and Ben-Yehuda (passing near the old port - "Namal"), and the 5 along Rothschild. Yellow-and-white minibuses with the route number prominently displayed in front. I've seen them on weekdays, when they run in parallel with the buses.

The 4 sherut goes along Allenby and Ben Yehuda to the Reading Terminal (the 4-aleph continues to Ramat Aviv Gimmel via Shikun Lamed and the University). The 5 sherut goes along Rothschild, then up Dizengoff to Nordau, Yehuda Hamaccabi, into the Bavli neighbourhood. The 66 sherut goes along Dizengoff, Arlozorov, Weizmann, Pinkas into Ramat Gan, then along Jabotinsky to Petach Tiqva. All run on Saturdays.

Skip Jaffa port. It is almost deserted, only a few businesses are open. Jaffa on Friday evening can be fun near the area of the flea market(closed) and Clock Tower with many restaurants.

The Jewish Museum mentioned is closed on Saturday, the other two are open. August is a very hot month and walking along the sea promenade might be too hot as there is no shade. Sarona is shaded with a indoor food market and cafes and shops. http://www.saronatlv.co.il/en/

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Trip Report: Volunteering and More 9:45 pm
• Updated taxi option at Ben Gurion Airport yesterday
• Is Jaffa safe for Orthodox Jewish tourists to visit? yesterday
• Landing at 4am in TLV yesterday
• Using the Gett App Apr 27, 2024
• How is August or September??? Apr 26, 2024
• Happy Passover Apr 26, 2024
• Can you please recommend a Dead Sea hotel for a frum family? Apr 26, 2024
• Laundromat in Tel-Aviv Apr 26, 2024
• Travel Health Insurance in times of war Apr 22, 2024
• UK travel insurance policies and claims for a cancelled trip Apr 22, 2024
• public transit Ben Gurion to Beer Sheva on Saturday May 25 Apr 22, 2024
• Douglas's Trip Report: Jerusalem Wedding Visit, April 2024 Apr 20, 2024
• How safe is “the North” right now? Apr 19, 2024
• Israel adapter plug 21 replies
• What kind of weather can I expect in late March? 11 replies
• what to buy in Israel 14 replies
• Israel Tour Companies 9 replies
• Power socket Israel? 4 replies
• Power adapter for Israel 4 replies
• Driving from Tel Aviv to Eilat 13 replies
• souvenirs from Israel 13 replies
• Israel Tourism Consultants 161 replies
• Ashdod port to Jerusalem 113 replies
• Getting from Ben Gurion airport to....
• Border Crossing - Beit She'an ("Jordan River" / "Sheikh Hussein bridge")
• Rav Kav- ( details on how to ride and PAY for public transportation)
• Border Crossing - Allenby Bridge (King Hussein bridge)
• Private guides?
• Amman to Jerusalem/Tel Aviv/Nazareth and back
• Eilat - Driving to and visiting
• Detailed Report of Muslim Entering Israel
• Money exchange and ATMs and VAT refund
• Border Crossing - Eilat/Aqaba
• Visiting Petra from Israel
• Visiting the North
• Cruises: Shore-excursions from Ashdod and Haifa ports.
• Touring the Negev
• Visiting Bethlehem from Jerusalem
• Dead Sea region
• Public transportation information in Israel
• Escorted tours
• Can I visit the Temple Mount? Dome of the Rock?
• Border Crossing - Taba (Israel/Egypt near Eilat)
• Visas to Israel
• National and religious holidays, and the effect on travelers
• Things to do with children in Israel
• Off-the-beaten-track places to visit in Israel? ( multiple threads)
• Luggage storage locations across Israel
• Day Passes & Coupons to popular Israeli attractions
• Electrical outlets, converters, and plug adapters in Israel
• Where can I find good, on-line maps of the Old City of Jerusalem?
• Top Guide Books for Israel
• Handicapped tourists information
• Driving in Israel (with/without GPS)
• Gluten free Israel
• How do I pay for fuel with a credit card at the self-serve station in Israel?
• Restaurants open on Shabbat in Jerusalem
• Safety concerns in Israel
• Passover seder in Israel: Options
• Cell Phone Use in Israel -- collected threads
• The Machane Yehuda visitors guide thread
• Iphone/IPad Apps
• Summer Activities for kids (and more)
• Clothing suggestions
• Details on Crossing the Sheik Hussein Crossing. ( northern crossing to Israel
• Tipping in Israel
• Getting from the airport to Jerusalem by bus
• Restaurants in Israel with a view
• Tel Aviv markets
• Quality Christian and Jewish souvenirs
• What to see and do in Tel-Aviv
• Safety in travel to Israel during war in October 2023 (Non-political only!)

• Middle East
• Why You Should Visit Tel...

Why Tel Aviv Should Be on Your Bucket List

Acclaimed for its liberal spirit, 300 days of sunshine a year and a stretch of 14 beautiful beaches, Tel Aviv pulsates with energy from day to night and back again.

Tel Aviv is the first modern Israeli city. It was founded in 1909, and the city’s population grew rapidly during the 1930s and 1940s, as did its appeal within the country. Tel Aviv’s non-stop action is attractive to all types of travellers, as are its exemplary culinary scene, authentic outdoor markets, thriving LGBTQ community and effervescent nightlife. With cultural appeal and entertainment galore, here are some of the reasons to visit Tel Aviv.

The city’s neighbourhoods brim with charm

Tel Aviv’s neighbourhoods are especially unique given that the city spans only 52 square kilometres (20 square miles). At the southern end lies the ancient port city of Jaffa with its charming enclaves and maze of alleyways. A city of coexistence dating back more than 3,500 years, it is known as the location of many biblical tales as well as having some of the trendiest spots for shopping, dining and drinking.

The markets offer a snapshot of local culture

Tel Aviv’s markets showcase the past and offer a glimpse into the daily life of the city’s residents today. Carmel Market, located off Allenby Street, is bustling with activity six days a week with Tel Avivians buying daily provisions from groceries, fresh fruit, vegetables and baked goods to spices, flowers, fish, meat and homeware.

The Levinsky Market in Florentin was established in the 1920s by Jewish immigrants from Greece and later taken over by immigrants from Eastern Europe. The market maintains much of its original shabby-chic allure, with exotic aromas filling the streets from vendors selling spices and local delicacies. The Shuk Hapishpeshim in Old Jaffa has been in existence since the early 20th century and still maintains its old-world charm. The market specialises in fine furnishings, antiques, bespoke jewellery, clothing boutiques and home-made cosmetics.

The nightlife is second to none

Thanks to its youthful spirit, year-round warm weather, creative use of the limited space available and the ‘live for today’ attitude of the locals, Tel Aviv’s party scene is guaranteed to provide fun all night long. The city has been transformed into one of the world’s top nightlife destinations, with bars and clubs often open past dawn and playing an eclectic mix of beats to suit every musical taste.

For a flavour of what the city has to offer, check out Kuli Alma, a supreme hipster hang-out and one-of-a-kind venue with some of the best DJs in town; it’s also renowned for its alcoholic slushies. Alternatively, BuXa on Rothschild Boulevard is an uber-cool venue regularly hosting parties with guest DJs playing to a diverse crowd of Tel Avivians. For late-night fun, The Block, located by the central bus station, is a mega-club inspired by 1970s and 1980s old-school New York and the ultimate spot to soak up the city’s unparalleled party vibes until well after sunrise.

The vegan dining is outstanding

Some of the world’s most creative plant-based cuisine can be found in Tel Aviv, which boasts a superlative vegan culinary scene. In fact, Israel has the highest percentage of vegans per capita in the world, with an estimated 400,000 people (5 percent of the population) embracing the lifestyle – just one of the reasons it has earned the nickname ‘ Vegan Nation ’. The country’s abundance of fresh produce heavily influences culinary trends from north to south, with hundreds of restaurants catering to vegans.

Treat yourself to lunch at Bana, a vegan hotspot with an imaginative selection of plant-based mains and mouthwatering sweet treats, such as ‘nice cream’ and chocolate bark with berries. Rainbow Burgers does a great job of imitating the classic beef burger, both in taste and presentation. It’s crafty in its use of cashew cheese, seitan and vegan mayo, and even the city’s meat lovers are fans. Zakaim is a popular dinner spot just steps away from the buzz of Rothschild Boulevard. The eclectic restaurant infuses fresh, raw ingredients into its creative menu, showcasing just how good vegetables can taste – as proved by its skewer of wild oyster mushrooms grilled on coals.

The art scene is impressive

Tel Aviv’s street art is excellent, with many neighbourhoods, particularly in the south, canvassed in imaginative and captivating art. Many artists’ platforms are cropping up throughout the city, and there’s plenty to see in the galleries and artistic spaces, from contemporary works to exquisite sculptures.

The Under 1000 Gallery on Florentin’s Abarbanel Street is an inclusive platform where a range of Israeli artists hang their affordable artworks, with no one piece costing more than $1,000. Meanwhile, in North Tel Aviv, Israeli and international artworks are handpicked and displayed across the stylish loft that is Art Market, located on HaTa’arucha Street on the corner of Dizengoff.

The Pride Week is out of this world

A visit to Tel Aviv in June extends a special opportunity to be a part of the largest Pride parade in the Middle East. Attended by hundreds of thousands of city locals and international visitors, it features a jam-packed week of events, celebrations and all-day parties. Since Tel Aviv’s first Pride parade in 1993, the event has grown in size and popularity year after year. It’s an exciting time for the LGBTQ community and others to experience rainbow-flag-decked streets, endless fun in the sun and the liberal spirit of Tel Aviv.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

See & Do

10 recommended tours in tel aviv.

The Best Unique Experiences in Tel Aviv

The History of the Dizengoff Center in Tel Aviv

Places to Stay

Hip holiday apartments in tel aviv, israel, you’ll want to call home.

The Best Hotels to Book in Tel Aviv for a Fun Beachfront Stay

Must-Visit Attractions in Tel Aviv

Online Creativity: How Tel Aviv’s Art Community Has Gone Digital in 2020

11 Best Experiences in Tel Aviv, Israel

Guides & Tips

Stay curious: experience tel aviv from your living room.

The Best Family-Friendly Experiences in Tel Aviv

The 10 Best Day Trips from Tel Aviv

All Hands on Deck: The Women of Israel’s Underground Music Scene

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1000914121
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload