Tel Aviv, Israel is a unique destination in the Middle East that offers travelers a number of great attractions. From the city’s beach scene to its historical buildings to the charming shops, cafes and galleries, there is so much to see and do here. Embrace everything this Israeli city has to offer when you experience these top things to do in Tel Aviv.
Old Jaffa
What Is It? Old Jaffa, which was an old port town, is found at the southern end of Tel Aviv. Full of gorgeous architecture, coastal views, and local shops, visiting Old Jaffa is a must while in Tel Aviv.
Why Do It? Aside from just strolling the streets in Old Jaffa, this area of Tel Aviv draws travelers and locals here due to its art galleries, great restaurants and impressive flea market. For shopping enthusiasts looking to get a great deal on some local goods, a visit to the flea market shouldn’t be missed.
Good to Know: To soak in all that Old Jaffa has to offer, you can actually go on a walking tour of the area. Some popular spots to see along the tour are the Wishing Bridge and the Clock Tower.
Beach
What Is It? Tel Aviv is a coastal city with a couple of great sandy shorelines perfect for beach lovers and sunbathers. The beaches here are a top attraction, so expect bathrooms, showers, and chair rentals at popular beaches like Gordon Beach and Banana Beach.
Why Do It? Since Tel Aviv has such great urban beaches, it would be a shame to forgo visiting the sandy shores here, as it’s one of the city’s most popular attractions. Even if you aren’t interested in swimming or sunbathing, a stroll along the boardwalk is a great way to experience Tel Aviv’s shoreline.
Good to Know: The paved boardwalk that runs along the beach is referred to as “The Tayelet.” There are a number of eateries and cafes found along the Tayelet.
Carmel Market
What Is It? Carmel Market is Tel Aviv’s biggest market, which has a number of vendors selling fresh produce, street food, clothes and other goods.
Why Do It? A stroll through Carmel Market is a great way to experience the vibe of Tel Aviv. From the colorful displays of spices to the bustling sounds of vendors and hagglers, Carmel Market is an exciting sensory overload for first-time travelers to the city.
Good to Know: The busiest day to visit Carmel Market is Friday. Some travelers prefer to visit during a slower day to soak in the sights, while other travelers prefer to experience the bustling enthusiasm that Friday markets bring.
Tel Aviv Museum of Art
What Is It? Home to iconic art works and the largest collection of Israeli art in the world, the Tel Aviv Museum of Art is an impressive gallery that wows everybody who enters this modern-style building.
Why Do It? Aside from viewing a variety of Israeli art, the Tel Aviv Museum of Art also houses art from popular artists, such as Van Gogh, Monet and Picasso.
Good to Know: The Tel Aviv Museum of Art isn’t just home to indoor art galleries; guests can also stroll the outdoor sculpture garden here too.
Bauhaus Architecture
What Is It? Tel Aviv is commonly known as “The White City” due to the number of white Bauhaus buildings that were built here in the 1930s and 1940s. The best areas to view these Bauhaus buildings are along Rothschild Boulevard and near the Cinema Hotel.
Why Do It? With a nickname as “The White City,” it would be a shame to visit Tel Aviv without seeing what gave this city its second name. Tel Aviv even earned UNESCO recognition because of its Bauhaus architecture.
Good to Know: There are thousands of Bauhaus-style buildings in Tel Aviv. However, only a few hundred of the buildings have been restored. As you view these buildings, take notice of the flat roofs, which were meant to be used as communal spaces.
Neve Tzedek
What Is It? Neve Tzedek Quarter is a stylish neighborhood perfect for art lovers and hipster travelers. This area of town is one of Tel Aviv’s oldest neighborhoods, so many of the galleries, cafes and restaurants operate out of historic buildings.
Why Do It? There are two popular points of interest in the Neve Tzedek Quarter that draw travelers to this part of Tel Aviv: Rockach House and the Nachum Gutman Art Museum.
Good to Know: Another part of Neve Tzedek Quarter to not miss is the old Ottoman railway station known as HaTachana, which was restored into boutique storefronts and restaurants.
Park Hayarkon
What Is It? If the weather is nice in Tel Aviv, head to Park Hayarkon. Found along the Yarkon River, this Tel Aviv park is where locals go to jog, bike, play sports and picnic.
Why Do It? As the largest park in the city, Park Hayarkon has plenty to offer visitors. Home to a petting zoo, boat rentals, picnic areas, and a sports center that has a skate park, basketball courts and a rock wall, there’s nothing boring about this Tel Aviv park.
Good to Know: Don’t miss the rock garden and the tropical garden also found at Park Hayarkon.
Sarona Market
What Is It? Sarona Market is a massive boutique complex where a variety of upscale goods are sold, from designer clothes to specialty food stores.
Why Do It? Shopping at Sarona Market is a unique experience. Sarona offers shoppers a boutique market experience, versus the more street-style feel of Carmel market.
Good to Know: Foodies will love the Sarona Food Market, where prepared foods, ingredients and spices from all over the world are found.
