Whether it’s architecture, markets or the beach that piques your interest, here are the top places you need to visit in Tel Aviv.
Tel Aviv may be small, but it is packed with history, culture and nightlife. These spots will show you the pulse of the city and what makes it such a special destination.
Recently renovated, this promenade runs along Tel Aviv’s coastline. It offers easy access to the beach or any of the countless cafés and public gyms dotted along the shore, but most of all, it’s the best place to take in the sunset.
HaTachana, as it is known in Hebrew, opened in 1891 – making it the first train station built in the Middle East. Located in Neve Tzedek, it has been restored into a compound with boutique stores and trendy restaurants. Check out the weekly events on offer, which range from sunset yoga classes to Israeli art and craft fairs.
To soak up a typical, hip Tel Aviv atmosphere, check out the plaza surrounding the Great Synagogue on Allenby Street. Dine al fresco at Eyal Shani’s Port Said restaurant, or check out the magic produced by Santa Katarina’s tabun oven. There are several other lively spots in the area, just go and see where the night takes you.
Tel Aviv became an up-and-coming global city in part because it made the conscious choice to become the Middle East’s LGBTQ capital. If you find yourself in the city in June, the annual gay pride parade is a city-wide event, and people of all orientations and genders are always welcome to join the party.
Just behind Carmel Market lies the Yemenite Quarter, or Kerem HaTeimanim in Hebrew. This quaint neighbourhood pre-dates the city itself and is home to a number of spice vendors, hipster cafés and humble, generations-old eateries. Shlomo & Doron has arguably the best hummus in Tel Aviv, while Anat’s Kitchen is the place to go for some soul-nourishing home-cooked food from a charismatic Israeli grandmother.
Home to an impressive collection of local and international art, ranging from photography to old masters, this is the White City’s biggest museum. It is located in a large plaza full of sculptures and is right next door to an even more impressive plaza, which is the site of Israel’s second-largest theatre and main opera house.
At the bottom of Bialik Street lies a semi-secret spot that was once the main square of Tel Aviv. Encircling a fountain, here you’ll find some of the city’s most beautiful architecture. Most notable is Beit Ha’ir, which was built in 1924 as a hotel in a grand and classical style, and served as Tel Aviv’s city hall until 1965.
Skip breakfast and come to Tel Aviv’s largest open-air market, which will send you into sensory overload. Here, you’ll find some of the freshest produce and most delectable street food in the city – don’t miss the gourmet pita bread from Panda Pita.
This article is an updated version of a story created by Bryony Hatherley.