Traveling to Tel Aviv

The Escape Room craze has swept many parts of the world, including Israel, and if you’re visiting Tel Aviv and looking for something a bit out-of-the-ordinary to do then you’re in luck. Tel Aviv’s Escape Rooms are enormous fun, endlessly intriguing and - best of all - many have English language options.Escape Rooms are more than just pure fun - they’re the ultimate ‘team activity’ where you work together to solve logical puzzles, work out hidden cues and follow a storyline in the hope that you’ll solve the mystery.Perfect for a date night, birthday celebration, bachelorette party, team building activity or just a gang of friends looking for an unusual evening out, all you need to do is decide which one appeals most. Here’s our guide to what we think are some of the best escape rooms in Tel Aviv…so get your sleuthing hats on.1.TitanicOne of the most visited and popular escape rooms in Tel Aviv, Titanic (as you’ve guessed) refers to the infamous cruise liner that, after hitting an iceberg, sank in the Atlantic in 1912. The game is set on the ship, with panic and hysteria sweeping the decks as passengers realise there aren’t enough lifeboats and, in the cold and dark, are desperately trying to save themselves and their loved ones.As for you, along with some friends, you had earlier been caught stealing from the upper deck and, as punishment, were locked up. Can you break free and escape death by drowning as this incredible ship slowly sinks to the bottom of the ocean?Titanic comes highly recommended - it’s quite technical and mechanical and has some cool effects (although the flashing lights might be problematic for some) and the problems can be quite maddening. But those who go there say it really forces you to think creatively.An attempt to solve a Mexican-style puzzle2. Motel PanoramaA young woman approaches a private investigator, telling her she spent the night in a motel in south Tel Aviv and felt the presence of someone watching her whilst she slept. The company sends out a woman named Jane to check out the motel but after two nights Jabe goes missing.Where is Jane and has something terrible happened to her? It’s up to you to find out and try and save her - time is of the essence and with a human life hanging in the balance. you don’t have a moment to lose. With a well-decorated room, interesting riddles and even the experience of a live actor, you’re going to love this one.A young team searching for clues on a map while solving a mystery3. Alice in WonderlandIdeal for those with young children, Alice in Wonderland is, as you might imagine, rather a magical experience where, just like Alice, you’ll be following a white rabbit down a hole and into a very special Kingdom named Wonderland. Your task will be to help Alice escape and return home - and who knows what bizarre characters and odd experiences you’ll have in the meantime…With plenty of color and magic, this is an ideal escape room for the little ones (note there are two versions, and the one just for adults is a bit harder). The kids’ version also includes a unique clue book, which will let them solve the puzzles for themselves.Intriguing style escape room4. The IlluminatiMost who’ve experienced this one rave about it but with one caveat - this is not an escape room for the faint of heart! The Illuminati (a secret society which controls the world through shadowy tactics) have - over hundreds of years - amassed so much power and money, they’re causing havoc on the world stage at every turn.You are a group of investigators, whose tireless efforts have led you to the Dizengoff Centre in Tel Aviv, where this ‘shadow order’ has their HQ. Will you be able to get inside, expose them and save mankind in the process?The Illuminati escape room is both challenging and interesting with a room full of unusual puzzles. Complex (probably best for teenagers rather than young children) this is really one for those who want to flex their grey matter.A team looking in the bucket in search of a conundrum solution to get out of the trap5. ShabakKnown as ‘Shin Bet’ to the rest of the world but in the Hebrew language named ‘Shabak’, Israel’s internal secret service is legendary, recruiting the brightest and best for a career in homeland security - gathering intelligence, recruiting informers and protecting the state. But it’s no easy task to be accepted into this agency - there’s a grueling set of challenges you have to deal with before you can become a bona fide spy.‘Shabak’ is perfect for anyone who ever wondered what the world of subterfuge was all about, or secretly fancied themselves as the next James Bond. If you want to find out whether a life of adventure (and some danger) is right for you, then come to this escape room where, in one hour, you’ll be given a set of challenges to see if you’re cut out for a career in this ‘cloak and dagger’ industry.6. Prison BreakAfter having been accused of a serious robbery (in which the police fabricated evidence against you) you’ve been sentenced to life imprisonment at the notorious Etzel Prison. At the moment you’ve almost begun to lose hope, you learn that a small group of prisoners are planning to ‘break out’ and you’re going to be put in the cell with them. Is this your final chance at freedom? You’ll have 60 minutes to make it happen.With excellent background music and lighting just perfect, reviewers say this is a fantastic experience. There are lots of riddles and puzzles that have been very well thought out, this is a game where teamwork is paramount so it’s great for those who want to get to know each other a little better.7. Hotel CaliforniaMade famous by the Eagles rock band, the song everyone knows talks about the hotel you can check out of any time but never really leave. This escape room’s a homage to that theme, with you investigating the mysterious Room 138 of the Hotel California - strange sounds, odd activities. The question is, if you enter this room, will you come out alive?Visitors here talk about the creepy atmosphere, with quite a high ‘fear’ level (though the operator can dial it down if you get too scared!) The plot is fascinating and there are some complex puzzles to decode - this escape room is certainly not for the faint-hearted!

Israel might be a small country but it packs a huge punch, boasting an array of historical sites, beaches, nature, deserts and an extraordinarily eclectic culinary scene, which often leaves foodies feeling like they’ve died and gone to heaven.From street fare bursting with flavour to refined and gourmet Israeli cuisine served up by world-famous chefs, the epicentre of Israel’s food scene is in Tel Aviv and Jaffa, where you’ll experience Israeli cuisine at its very finest. Fluffy pita and crispy falafel…tender shawarma and sizzling fish…crumbly halva and sweet Knafeh…you’ll never go hungry in Tel Aviv and Jaffa!Israeli Cuisine - Rich Flavourful and DiverseIsrael’s a true melting pot, with Jews from around the world settling here from the early 19th century onwards. This means that the dishes you’ll be able to try range from typical Eastern European food (chicken schnitzel, goulash, matzah ball soup) to North African delights (Moroccan baked cod, Tunisian shakshuka, Yemenite breads), and everything served up is a reflection of the diverse population and the recipes they brought with them from lands across the globe.Shakshouka - Middle Eastern traditional dish with poached eggs in tomato sauce with feta cheeseCulinary Treats at the Carmel MarketIn many senses, there’s nothing more satisfying than Israeli street food - it won’t break the bank and will leave you wonderfully satisfied. And whilst there are tiny places on every street, there’s no better place to head than Tel Aviv’s liveliest and most famous street market for a quick bite.This bustling, lively market is a must-visit on any visit to Tel Aviv - head to Shlomo and Doron, open since 1937 for a plate of their legendary hummus, or grab a tasty pita filled with pita chicken, sheep fat and spicy tomato sauce at ‘Carmel’. The tender lamb shawarma at Gertis is fantastic, and vegans can pick up a Sabich (an Iraqi sandwich, filled with egg, potato, salad and a spicy mango sauce drizzled over it named amba).To finish, pick up with a classic Hungarian pastry at Kortush - these caramelised, nut-filled confections (sometimes filled with whipped cream) are decadent and delightful and go perfectly with a cup of traditional thick Arabic coffee. Alternatively, the raspberry cookies, plum cake and chocolate babka at the renowned Lehamim Bakery are all hard to beat!A baklava stand in the Carmel MarketGourmet Cuisine for the Discerning TouristTel Aviv’s fine dining and gourmet chef restaurant scene (offering plenty of special Israeli touches) has really been making a name for itself in the last ten years, with a number of simply unmissable restaurants, offering stunning creations, bursting with flavour and attention to detail. With too many to write about, we’ve narrowed it down to three you have to try!Yaffo-Tel Aviv, headed by superstar chef Haim Cohen, draws on childhood memories in Jerusalem combined with classic French techniques he learned abroad - your bread will be baked in a tabun (clay oven) and the sea bass in a tomato butter and white wine sauce is extraordinary.Popina is another fine-dining must - nestled in the picturesque Neve Tzedek neighbourhood, it’s overseen by Orei Kimchi, who is considered to be one of the country’s most creative chefs. Serving both signature and seasonal dishes in an open kitchen, don’t miss the gin and tonic tartar and the foie gras buns, with one of their marvellous cocktails. For dessert, it has to be the chocolate praline mousse!Finally, you can’t miss Taizu, serving up exceptional South East Asian cuisine with a twist, inspired by chef Yuval Ben Neriiuh’s own journey to the Far East. Inspired by the colours, textures and flavours of the street food there, he returned to Tel Aviv and opened this place. The Shanghai dumplings (filled with veal cheeks and a pistachio masala, and butterflied sea bream with coconut, ginger and macadamia are phenomenal and their dessert ‘Charcoal corn’ (polenta cake, dark truffles and potato ice cream) really has to be tasted to be believed!Tel Aviv's gourmet chef restaurants are experiencing a culinary renaissance, making the city a hotspot for food enthusiastsA Taste of History in Old JaffaOld Jaffa is a magical place, home to an ancient harbour, a charming Artist’s Quarter and a vibrant flea market, not to all kinds of yummy delights. Don’t miss breakfast at Dr Shakshuka - this traditional Tunisian dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce is the perfect way to start your day. In the flea market, stop for a craft beer at the Beer Bazaar or a jug of fresh lemonade with mint at Pua, one of the area’s oldest and most quirky cafesAnyone with a sweet tooth should head to Yaffe Knafeh, which serves up traditional Arab pastries, made with spun pastry, soaked in sweet syrup and layered with cheese and pistachios (if you’re feeling decadent, order a scoop of vanilla ice cream with it!)And dinner plans? Carnivores could do worse than booking a table at Onza, which serves up traditional Ottoman and Turkish cuisine with a twist - try the tender lamb shawarma, the beef pide and their unusual dessert ‘chocolate nemesis’.For fish lovers, you have to head to ‘The Old Man and the Sea’ which is a legendary Jaffa restaurant, overlooking the Mediterranean. Before you’ve even ordered your mixed seafood or grilled St, Peter fish you’ll be presented by twenty little meze plates with a variety of traditional Middle Eastern salads, and with free lemonade and coffee and an extraordinary view over the sea, you’ll be in your element.Dr Shakshuka, one of the most populat restaurants of the cityFinally, if you've been bitten by the food bug, why not take a food-tasting tour in Tel Aviv where you can take a deep dive into the flavours and spices of Israeli food and learn more about the backstory of this country’s incredible culinary heritage.

If you’re visiting Tel Aviv and find yourself in the mood for some Italian cuisine, then you’re in luck. The Non-Stop City has a fantastic dining scene and the city is home to many top restaurants, many of which specialize in Italian fare, whether it’s simple pizza and pasta dishes or elegant Roman cuisine and Sicilian desserts that will make you sigh.Using high-quality ingredients, either grown locally (Israel’s famous for its cherry tomatoes!) or imported from the old country, even with minimal ingredients you’re talking about flavors and textures that never fail to hit the spot.From old-school trattorias to fine dining establishments, and from neighborhood haunts to celebrity haunts, here are what we think are seven of the best Italian restaurants in Tel Aviv…Neapolitan pizza, one of the most popular Italian dishes1. Cafe ItaliaIn the heart of Tel Aviv’s business district lies Cafe Italia, whose approach is ‘classic Italian food, served in a laid back atmosphere by professional yet warm staff’. And boy do they succeed in their mission! The dishes might be simple but they’re always well thought-out and presented and whilst the prices are high, you get good value and - hey - you only live once!From delightfully fresh salads to homemade tortellini, linguine and fettuccine (gluten-free options available) you’ll sigh with delight, and meat eaters will be in heaven with the Osso Bucco. For dessert, try the chocolate mousse or perhaps a classic Italian almond, lemon and polenta cake. And if you really want to indulge, take some of their gelato home…you won’t regret it. The wine list is also excellent by the way!Carbonara pasta. Italian traditional pasta2. ProntoPronto is a veritable institution in Tel Aviv and with good reason. One of the first trattorias in Tel Aviv, it’s headed by chef David Frankel, who has a reputation for creativity in his work…and the entire dining experience here perfectly combines formality. His desire to be innovative (reflected in the modern design) and yet traditional (using simple ingredients, that change with the season) is what makes this dining experience so wonderful.The menu is truly magnificent - buffalo mozzarella with aioli and anchovies and smoked pink trout with creme fraiche are excellent appetizers, not to mention dishes with figs, salty sheep's cheese and red snapper. Meat lovers will delight in the offal ravioli and sweetbreads with tartar, and seafood offerings include blue crabs with Jerusalem artichoke and red snapper with miso butter.With so much consideration taken in the composition of the dishes, truly this is Italian cuisine at its finest, which is why Pronto is consistently rated as one of Israel’s best restaurants).Arancini balls - Italian entree meal3. GemmaClose to the famous Gesher Theatre, in the trendy Noga area of south Tel Aviv, you’ll find this unassuming restaurant which serves tasty Italian fare with a slight Middle East twist, in warm and welcoming surroundings. Start with the artichoke and avocado salad or some crispy bruschetta, then pasta lovers should move on to lamb pappardelle or the gnocchi. The pizzas are particularly good - crispy, with just the right amount of cheese - and the tiramisu is divine.Gemma also has a lovely terrace on which to dine in warmer weather and inside you’ll find high ceilings and minimalist design, which make for a very comfortable dining experience! Afterward, if you’re not groaning from the large portions, take a stroll in nearby Jaffa, where you can enjoy the charm of the flea market and Artists’ Quarter as well as work off some calories!Lasagna Bolognese baked in the wood oven4. RusticoWith three branches across Tel Aviv, whether you dine at Rothschild Boulevard, Sarona or in the Old North you’re in for a treat at Rustico, which is beloved by locals for its intimate atmosphere and consistently good Italian dishes. The menu isn’t huge but everything on it is excellent - from the beef carpaccio and onion bruschetta to the spinach and lemon pappardelle and the mushroom risotto.The stars of the show, however, have to be their pizzas, which are a factor. Pizzas Tartufo (with truffles) and the Rustico (a Margherita with arugula added) are particularly good, and with a bottle of Chianti go down a treat. Plenty of sweet desserts to end your meal mean you’ll leave Rustico content and smiling.Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto with Thyme5. CantinaLocated on trendy and elegant Rothschild Boulevard, and is regularly frequented by the celebrities, artists and intellectuals of Tel Aviv. Cantina, this Italian eatery - with its huge balcony overlooking the people on the street, is the place to be, as well as enjoy authentic Italian food (just be aware that you absolutely have to book in advance!)Food is made with love from fresh ingredients, with all the dishes you’d expect including eggplant with mozzarella, beef carpaccio, pizzas, risottos and meat and fish grilled to perfection. They have an excellent wine list and are also open in the morning, so if you’re looking for breakfast in Tel Aviv then they can accommodate you. For dessert, it has to be the affogato!Afterward, take a stroll in this beautiful historic neighborhood and admire the Bauhaus architecture, or continue onto one of the areas's many trendy cocktail bars.Mushroom-stuffed ravioli pasta with creamy parmesan cheese sauce6. PankinaOn the corner of trendy Dizengoff Street with Gordon, you’ll find Pankina, an Italian restaurant and wine bar that has been delighting diners since it opened in 2017. As well as serving up excellent food, it has two other special attributes - it’s kosher (so perfect for orthodox Jews) and it also caters to those who are gluten-intolerant.Dishes that diners rave about include the Concia di Zucchine (a staple of Roman-Jewish, made up of courgettes marinated with olive oil, mint., garlic and parsley) four cheese gnocchi, arancini (fried risotto balls) and seared salmon. The desserts are all excellent, but the standout choice has to be their creamy, fluffy semifreddo. Cozy and charming, you'll want to return once you’ve eaten dinner on their terrace.Pasta alla Norma with eggplant, tomato, parmesan and basil7. Amore MioLast but not least, we had to include Amore Mio, a local restaurant on our list, because of its fantastic ambiance, great food and reasonable prices. Located on Ibn Givrol, close to Rabin Square, it's a trattoria that’s really stood the test of time and with its large portions and casual is very family-friendly (though not a bad place for a date either!)Whether you’re looking for a salad (their ‘Amore’ with lettuce, arugula, croutons, roasted red bell peppers, walnuts and Parmesan is fabulous) antipasti (the eggplant with tomato sauce comes highly recommended) or an enormous plate of pasta (adventurous eaters will enjoy the ‘Zio Giovanni’ which comes with goose breast) you won’t be disappointed. The pizzas are - without exception - all wonderful and the Millefoglia and chocolate fondant will both leave you speechless.Order a Peach Bellini, a Negroni or a simple glass of house red and enjoy! Amore Mio - what’s not to love?Tel Aviv offers a wide variety of culinary experiences beyond single-cuisine restaurants. In addition to dining at these restaurants, we recommend joining food tours in Tel Aviv to not only taste but also learn about the diverse range of dishes.

Vibrant, colorful, youthful and dynamic, few people who make it to Tel Aviv don’t fall in love with the city. Whether you’re dying for some beach time, a foodie who can’t wait to taste some new flavors, an architecture lover who’s curious about the city’s Bauhaus history, or someone who simply loves wandering the streets and capturing the people on them, Tel Aviv offers endless photographic opportunities.Even better, Tel Aviv’s a relatively small city by world standards, and perfect for walking (unlike hilly Jerusalem, it’s flat!).From Levantine food markets and quirky independent cafes to renovated buildings and dreamy beach sunsets, Instagram lovers will be in their element, with perfect captures on every street corner.View of Kedumim Square and St. Peter's church in old JaffaSo if you’re traveling to Israel for the first time, you’re a big fan of the ‘Gram and can’t wait to find some of the best photo locations in Tel Aviv, to make your feed even more exciting and colorful, here are ten spots you really can’t afford to miss:1. Old Jaffa - The Flea Market, the Artist’s Quarter and the HarbourTop of our list - without a doubt - has to be Old Jaffa. Ancient, magical, charming and achingly beautiful, down every small side street and tiny alley you’ll find a new photo opportunity. Jaffa’s history stretches back to Biblical times and as you wander around, you’ll see many old Arabic-style houses, built in the Ottoman era, with stone walls, ornamental windows and carved wood latticework.Rummage at the famous Jaffa flea market (the Shuk ha Pishpeshim) and snap vendors selling their wares, head onto the Artist’s Quarter (and pop into some of the many studios), stroll through Abrasha Park (don’t forget to photograph St. Peter’s Church and the ‘Gates of Faith’ statue) then head down to the port, where you’ll see fishermen patiently sitting with their rods.Jaffa’s so special that the best way to see it really is with someone who knows its history - so why not consider taking a ‘Perfect Tel Aviv Walking Tour’ which is an excellent introduction to the areaA view of Jaffa Old City Port2. Carmel Market - Food Stalls GaloreThe Carmel Market is Tel Aviv’s largest and liveliest market and, in the heart of the city, is a must-see for any visitor to Tel Aviv, not to mention Instagram lovers, because of its endless photographic opportunities, in the shape of hundreds of different stalls, selling everything from fruit and vegetables to local cheeses and breads, and from oriental spices, olives, halva and typical Israeli street food.The market itself is nestled in the Yemenite Quarter (‘Kerem ha Teimanim’) which is a joy to stroll in and take pictures of as well - it’s full of tiny streets, small houses and quirky cafes, bakeries and local eateries, as well as a short walk from Jerusalem Beach. And for anyone who loves food, don’t think twice and book a Carmel Market Food Tour, where you’ll learn all about the history and culture of this terrific spot.Shuk HaCarmel, the most popular market in Tel Aviv3. Frishman Beach - Late AfternoonIt’s truly difficult to pick Tel Aviv’s most Instagrammable beach, because there are so many of them - from surfers at the Hilton Beach to Israeli folk dancers at Gordon Beach and Friday afternoon ‘Shabbat drummers’ at Banana Beach, there’s no shortage of perfect photo opportunities - from sunrise to sunset.But of all the beaches in Tel Aviv, there’s one we love - Frishman. With its powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and lovely promenade on which you can stroll, cycle, or Segway, it’s probably the most popular beach in Tel Aviv, and with good reason. The beach cafes there are a fantastic place to order a coffee or lemonade and stare at the Mediterranean before golden hour sets in and you can grab the perfect capture.People enjoy a sunny day on Tel Aviv’s Frishman beach4. Neve Tzedek- Charming BackstreetsNeve Tzedek is, arguably, one of Israel’s loveliest areas and has an illustrious history - it was the first Jewish neighborhood to be constructed outside of Jaffa (in 1883) and in Hebrew, it means ‘The Place of Justice.’ Packed with tiny, winding streets, beautifully restored houses and plenty of upmarket boutiques, cafes and top restaurants, it’s a popular area for tourists to visit.Nevertheless, if you wander its backstreets, you’ll soon realize that its reputation for being ‘a village within a city’ is well-deserved and if you step off the main drag - Shabazi Street - and hit the sidestreets, you may well hear the birds singing! With a rich history and culture, Neve Tzedek is a lovely place to stroll aimlessly and opportunities to find your perfect Instagram capture will not evade you!The streets of Neve Tzedek5. Nachalat Binyamin- Eclectic Street ArtNext door to the Carmel Market lies the buzzy pedestrianized street of Nachalat Binyamin, which is home to a twice-weekly arts and crafts market (where everything is made by locals), beautiful old buildings that have been wonderfully renovated, and plenty of cafes and shops. But the area is home to something else too - some very cool street art!Many of the streets are chock-a-block with murals, colored art and street graffiti, from up-and-coming works by Dede Bandaid to established artists like Rami Meiri (look out for the mural that features two friends standing on a balcony together one playing the violin, the other the accordion). Nor should Instagrammers miss some of the stand-out pieces such as ‘Bubble Girl’. ‘Theodor Herzl Dreaming’ and ‘In Complete.’Real street art aficionados might want to take a Tel Aviv street art tour, to understand the history and politics behind a lot of these pieces.Nachalat Binyamin Street market6. Rothschild Boulevard - Bauhaus GlamourRothschild Boulevard is one of Tel Aviv’s most glamorous walkways, tree-lined, tranquil, full of cyclists, locals, top Tel Aviv restaurants and European-inspired architecture in the form of Bauhaus buildings. This ‘international style’ which came out of 1920’s Germany means Tel Aviv is the Bauhaus capital of the world and thus known as ‘The White City’.A typical Bauhaus building (which always places form above function) will have classic modernist elements - think curved balconies and ribbon windows (Corbusier style) to white exteriors and outdoor communal spaces. This part of Tel Aviv is older than others, a more historic area, and wandering Rothschild and the surrounding streets provides endless Instagram moments.Meir Dizengoff statue, at the Rothschild Boulevard7. Dizengoff Square - the Iconic Dizengoff FountainDizengoff Street is Tel Aviv’s most famous walkway and in its heart sits a square that is home to the iconic Dizengoff Fountain. Designed by the Israeli architect Yaakov Agam, the municipality has put a lot of time and money into renovating the square and setting up shady areas, where you can pull up a free chair and start snapping.Not only is it the perfect place to find ‘cityscape’ opportunities for Instagram, but there are some beautifully restored Bauhaus buildings on the square, notably the striking Cinema Hotel. Once a cinema (there are artifacts from the 1950s, including a projector, which you can see in its lobby), it now offers ‘boutique’ accommodation and its curved white balconies will make your followers swoon. Head up to the rooftop if you want fabulous urban views.Aerial view on Dizengoff Square, Tel Aviv8. Bialik Square - City HallBeyond Dizengoff, you’ll find some beautiful squares in Tel Aviv and one of them that’s perfect for photographing is Bialik. It’s a lovely old street in Tel Aviv, where many of the European Jews who arrived in the early 20th century set up home, and in recent years the area has transformed, with lovely renovated residential buildings and the beautiful Bialik Square at the bottom.Home to the city’s first town hall, today this beautiful building is a museum (after you’ve finished photographing, feel free to pop inside and enjoy the free exhibition, then grab a cup of coffee in their garden cafe). Bialik Street is also where you’ll find the Nachman Bialik House (a pioneer of modern Israeli poetry) and the Rubin Museum (a Romanian-corn artist who drew landscapes of the Holy Land, today referred to as the ‘Eretz Israel’ style). They both afford great Instagram captures.Exterior view of the Beit Ha'Ir museum, the old city hall building of Tel Aviv, located on Bialik Street9. The Namal Port - Mediterranean VistasIf you’re looking for some classic Tel Aviv waterfront photos, then head north to the Namal (the Hebrew word for ‘port’). In the last two decades, it’s undergone enormous renovation and now is an incredibly popular spot for locals and tourists alike, boasting all kinds of restaurants, nightclubs, shops, and cafes that can keep you busy for hours.With a chilled vibe and distinctive wooden deck that acts as a promenade, a gourmet indoor market (and local farmer’s market every Friday morning), at the weekend it’s particularly buzzy (it’s ideal for young families since there’s a ‘Skyjump’ for older kids and carousel for the infants, it’s the perfect place to find that special Tel Aviv Instagram spot.View of the Tel Aviv PortFinally, if you’re traveling to Israel and want to make the most of your time in the country, we offer a wide range of day trips, which can take you from Jerusalem and the Dead Sea/Masada fortress to the Crusader city of Akko, the pastoral hills of the Galilee and the lush and dramatic Golan Heights.

Plan Your VisitLocation: The museum is in building 14, at 11 Aluf Albert Mendler St, Tel Aviv-Yafo.Open Times: Daily pre-booked tours 09:30-14:00. Visitor Center: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 09:00-17:00, Wednesday 10:00-18:00 (September-May), 10:00-21:00 (June-August), Friday and holiday eves 10:00-14:00. Saturdays by appointment only.Prices: Entrance to the Sarona complex is free, but visiting the museum, Beit Habad and Templer Tunnel is 10 ILS. Payment by cash or credit.Average Visit Duration: 1 hour.Tours: Pro Tip: Tours of the Sarona Museum must be arranged in advance on the Sarona website, and are available in Hebrew, English, Russian, French, and Spanish. If you are visiting on a private Tel Aviv tour, your guide will arrange it for you.The Sarona complex is an entertainment and leisure complex housed in the buildings of a Templer colony dating back to 1871. The Sarona Museum is in one of the historic Templer buildings and is the best place to start your exploration of this fascinating complex.Pro Tip: The museum goes by the name Sarona Museum, Sarona Visitor Center, and the Sarona-HaKyria Visitor Center.Sarona Visitor CenterHoused in the same building as the Sarona Museum is the Sarona Visitor Center. Here you can get information about upcoming events in Sarona. Most importantly, the center sells tickets for the tour of Sarona and other Sarona events.Pro Tip: You need to pre-book a visit to the Sarona Museum and then pick up your tickets at the Sarona Museum and Visitor Center.What Does a Visit to the Sarona Museum Include?Sarona Museum - The museum is housed in the former home of the Templer Baldenhofer family. Carl Baldenhofer was an engineer who worked for the Wagner brothers. After the establishment of Israel, the Ministry of Police and Minorities occupied the building. Later the Israel State Archives and the Prime Minister's Library were kept here. In the 1950s Israel’s Shin Bet (the Israeli version of the FBI) used the building.Pro Tip: Spot the Templer bowling alley located next to the beer garden.Olive Press (Beit Habad) - In Pflugfelder House you can learn how the Templers introduced an olive press run by a diesel engine, to replace the traditional olive press that was turned by a donkey. See the olive press in action and watch a short film about the process and history of Sarona. Today the building holds a cafe, Beit Habad Cafe.Templers’ Tunnel - During the restoration of the Templers’ wineries an underground tunnel was discovered connecting them. The Templars used the tunnel to move barrels of wine between the cellars of the two winery buildings. Barrels were loaded onto a small wagon and pulled by a donkey. In the following years, the tunnel was used by the Jewish underground. The tunnel was later used during the War of Independence, in an operation to dismantle, smuggle, and reassemble 15 British planes captured by the Jewish underground.Pro Tip: Visitors are always accompanied by a representative/guide from the Visitor Center so you won’t get lost and you’ll learn about the sites!History of Sarona and the TemplersThe Templars, a German Christian sect, believed that populating the Holy Land would hasten the coming of the Messiah. And so they moved to Ottoman-ruled Palestine and set up self-sufficient colonies in various parts of the country including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa. The colony prospered and the Templers were known for their advanced agricultural methods.When Hitler came to power in 1933, Sarona became the headquarters for the Israel Nazi Party. When World War II broke out, the ruling British in Palestine declared the German Templers enemy subjects and turned Sarona into a detention camp for the residents. Many Templers were deported, and others left on their own.When the State of Israel was established in 1948, Sarona was taken over by Israeli government offices. Then in 2006, after tireless work by the Council for the Preservation of Heritage Sites and the Tel Aviv-Yafo municipality, a plan was approved to preserve 36 of the original Templar buildings. Even some of the trees were preserved and still grace the gardens of Sarona.The original architecture of the colony buildings has been preserved and pleasant park areas, trees, and playgrounds surround the buildings. The complex covers 8,700 square meters and includes over 90 stores and restaurants. Perhaps the biggest attraction here is the Sarona Market, an indoor food hall with a variety of culinary offerings. But if you want to find out more about Sarona, then the museum and visitor center are the place to go.Why Visit the Sarona Museum?The Visitor Center and Museum focus on the history of Sarona and how it transformed from a Templer village to a British detention center, headquarters to the Jewish underground, Israeli government offices and IDF headquarters (the Kirya), and finally to the restored complex we see today.The beauty of this museum is that you are walking inside one of the Templer structures as you learn about their history. See the ground floor, basement, and attic. View the handmade stenciled walls and floor tiles. The museum has several recreated rooms from the Templer period all with authentic artifacts, as well as displays of historic photographs and documents.But there are also rooms in the museum devoted to different periods in history. For example, one room illustrates the settlement during World War I, and another covers World War II. One room has photos and memorabilia related to the British Mandate and another recreates the office of the Minister of Police who used the building after the establishment of Israel in 1948.On the Sarona Museum tour, you’ll learn about the Templers’ arts and crafts, the Jewish pharmacist who acted like a doctor for the Templers, and the winery run by the Templers. See the IDF antenna that received top-secret messages and learn how the Jewish underground built airplanes in the ancient Templer tunnel during World War II. You will also learn about the restoration process used to bring this remarkable complex back to its former glory.Pro Tip: If you like the idea of historic places being turned into leisure, shopping, and dining hubs, then you should also visit HaTachana in Jaffa, and Tel Aviv’s Old Port.Sarona Whiskey BarToday one of the winery cellars connected to the Templer Tunnel is home to the Whiskey Bar and Whiskey Museum. You’ll pass the bar restaurant en route to the Templer Tunnel and see the 1,000 whiskey varieties lining the ancient walls of the cellar.

Tel Aviv’s not known as the ‘City that Never Sleeps’ for nothing! Along with its stunning beaches, fashionable restaurants, beautiful Bauhaus architecture and pretty people, this is a city that comes to life when the sun goes down and for party lovers and thrill lovers, the city is packed full of nightclubs, all with their own style and charm.Whether you’re looking for a chilled outdoor scene, clubs that give dance lessons before the party starts, or ‘underground vibes’ with hard-core techno you’ll find it in the Non-Stop City - Tel Aviv has bars and clubs to suit every taste and budget. So prepare yourselves, and rest before you hit the town, because chances are you might not return to your bed before the sun comes up…1. Kuli AlmaNestled in South Tel Aviv, and a bit of a neighborhood institution, you’ll find Kuli Alma (‘The Whole World’ in Aramaic, the language spoken in Israel in ancient times). Owned and operated by a number of DJs, artists and party people, it’s a cool underground bar that’s consistently voted one of Tel Aviv’s best night clubs and if you visit you’ll know why.Kuli Alma has a number of rooms, all playing different music…and the fact that it’s split into levels means it’s a club, bar, art space and entertainment hub all rolled into one. Cool, hip and artsy, if you want to experience Tel Aviv like the locals do, this is where to head. The music tends to be electric (and gets more extreme as the night goes on). Arrive before 11 pm if you don’t want to join a line and expect it to be packed on the weekends. Unmissable. 2. Jimmy WhoThis lounge bar on Rothschild Boulevard is a tried-and-tested favorite on the Tel Aviv club scene, and an ideal spot for clubbers who like electronic music (save for Mondays, when the beats are more techno and house) Split into three different spaces.Jimmy Who offers clubbers a large dance space, a designated smoking area and a buzzy atmosphere. Good drinks, although a little pricey, and themed evenings make for plenty of fun. Prepare to party in the early morning!3. ShalvataIf you want to party next to the Mediterranean coastline, under open skies and aren’t too worried about the price tag, then Shalvata is the spot for you. This lounge bar, in the heart of the Tel Aviv Namal Port area, is popular both with locals and tourists, and because it's set up as both open plan and open air, it’s an amazing place to drink a beer in the afternoon then just dance all evening and into the small hours.Shalvata’s music is quite mainstream, but the atmosphere is great - expensive sound system, modern lighting, live shows - and the vibes chilled. The whole ‘indoor-outdoor’ concept is quite unique by Tel Aviv nightclub standards, and at the weekends - with the DJd in overdrive - expect it to be crowded.4. SputnikDown a small alleyway, off Allenby Street, down in historic Tel Aviv, you’ll find Sputnik, a club that opened in 2016 and in no time at all gained cult status. Describing itself as a ‘multi-retro futuristic bar’ it has wildly cool decor (think mannequins, street signs and odd paintings) and is known for its specialty cocktails and light bites.For those that want to dance, head inside to the large dance floor where. techno music rules the scene but different DJS work each night. With an underground feel to it, Sputnik tends to host a young, hipster crowd but the atmosphere is so welcoming and staff so friendly that, no matter your age, you're bound to have fun.Credit: Sputnik Insagram5. HavanaIf you’re a fan of Latin music and dance, you can’t miss the Havana club down in Tel Aviv’s business district. With three different rooms where you can take lessons at the beginning of the evening, as the night progresses the place fills up. The largest space has an enormous parquet floor which is perfect for those wanting to discover their inner dancer or just strut their stuff and it’s a great place both to brush up on basic steps or simply perfect your moves.Salsa and bachata songs are very popular here and the expensive sound system and great cocktails just add to the magic. The reasonably priced food menu and outdoor seating areas are both bonuses! Be prepared for Havan to be busy on the weekends but if you’re a night owl then you’re in luck because it’s often open until 5 am.6. DuplexWith multiple dance floors and a rooftop space as well, Duplex is known for its diverse music scene, including 90’s rock, hip hop, reggae and themed events. Located in hipster Florentin, the biggest bonus for many is that there’s no smoking allowed inside the club (nicotine addicts can head to the balconies). With DJs who know their stuff and a relaxed crowd, you get several experiences for the price of one ticket!Credit:Duplex Insagram7. Zoo ZooLocated on beautiful and elegant Rothschild Boulevard, you can’t miss Zoo Zoo’s entrance because there are flamingos outside it! Whilst it markets itself as a gastropub, there’s a fun dance floor inside and the music (Latin, reggaeton, hip hop) attracts a great crowd, particularly at the weekends when it’s packed to the gills.Zoo Zoo has outdoor seating, cozy corners and a small but tasty menu - the music pulses, the people are young and beautiful and you can see it’s a spot where Tel Avivis love coming to kick back after a long work week. With every night a new experience, no wonder it's always so busy.8. Lima LimaWith a reputation for epic partying, Lima Lima’s got to be on the list for anyone visiting Tel Aviv. This is a spot that has a reputation for serious partying, with different themes each night (Thursdays are old school hip-hop, Friday's mainstream and each Monday it hosts a gay-friendly evening).With a large dance floor (always packed) and a great seating area outside, it’s well designed and with a great sound system and DJs who know what they’re doing (plus take requests), you can’t not enjoy yourself. They also have deals for ‘all-you-can-drink bracelets’ until certain hours, so head on down to Nahalat Binyamin where you can dance for hours or just sit outside and chill.

Even if you are in Tel Aviv on a tight budget you can still see the sites and have a great time. Here’s a rundown of the top 15 free things to do in the beautiful city of Tel Aviv.View of Tel Aviv beachfront from Jaffa.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin1. Tel Aviv BeachesTel Aviv has some magnificent beaches which run continuously from Tzuk Beach in the north to Alma Beach in the south. Each beach has its own character like the Separated Beach which has separate hours for male and female bathers; Atzmaut Beach which is popular with the gay community and Drummers Beach or Dolphinarium Beach where musicians jam each Friday at sundown. Beach season in Tel Aviv is April to October when lifeguards are on duty.androm2. Tel Aviv MarketsAmong Tel Aviv’s top markets there is the Carmel Market a lively outdoor market where fresh produce and other goods are sold. This market is colorful and exciting, not only that but it is in the heart of the city just off Allenby Street. Adjacent to Carmel Market is Nahalat Binyanim Street Market. This pedestrian walkway hosts an arts and crafts market on Tuesdays and Fridays.There are often street performers at the market. Nahalat Binyamin is lined with great coffee shops where you can sit and enjoy the atmosphere. Levinsky Market is the least gentrified of the three markets. Here you’ll find streets veering off of Levinsky Street from the corner of HaAliya Street to HaMashbir Street. The streets are crowded with small hole-in-the-wall stalls selling fresh produce and everything including the kitchen sink.Orange juice seller, Carmel Market, Tel Aviv.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin3. Free Walking ToursTel Aviv municipality offers free walking tours in English on Saturdays at 11 am which meet at 46 Rothschild Boulevard. The tours take a look at the amazing Bauhaus architecture of the White City and introduce participants to a little of the history of Tel Aviv. There is also a tour of Old Jaffa which takes you through the Jaffa flea market and the Old City examining some of Jaffa’s archeological sites and ending up in the Hapisga Garden. This tour meets on Wednesdays at 9:30 am at the Jaffa clock tower. You can also pick up a free map of self-guided walking tours from City Hall. On Mondays at 11 am there is a free tour of Tel Aviv University which gives an introduction to some of the campus’ innovative architecture and environmental sculptures. The university tour meets at the Dyonon bookstore at the campus entrance by the intersection of Haim Levanon and Einstein Streets.4. Self-Guided Tour of Neve TzedekYou don’t need a professional tour guide to explore one of Tel Aviv’s oldest and perhaps most picturesque neighborhoods – Neve Tzedek. This neighborhood was the first Jewish neighborhood established outside of the ancient Port of Jaffa in 1887. Many of the beautiful historic buildings have been restored and now house boutique stores, quaint cafes, and restaurants giving it a small village within a city feel. The neighborhood has some notable Bauhaus and Art Nouveau buildings. A few museums like the Nachum Gutman Museum; art galleries and the Suzanne Dellal Center for Dance are all in this neighborhood. At the southern end of Neve Tzedek is HaTachana, a restored historic train station that has been converted into a shopping and entertainment compound.The lighthouse path, Tel Aviv. Photo by Mor Shani on Unsplash5. Tel Aviv Port The old Tel Aviv Port has been given a make-over and has become a primary entertainment and retail hub for locals and visitors. The port has an expansive boardwalk covering 14,000m² and is lined with interesting restaurants, playgrounds, a carousel, an organic produce market, and fashion stores. When the sun goes down the port becomes the city’s hot nightlife spot. The port is often the site of special events and street performers.6. Ben Gurion HouseThis is one of the city’s smallest museums and is often overlooked by visitors. Ben Gurion House is the former residence of Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben Gurion at 17 Ben Gurion Boulevard. Visitors to the museum can walk through the Ben Gurion library; see the living quarters and the study where the prime minister worked. There is a free guided tour of the house where you can learn about the house’s history and the life of Ben Gurion.7. SaronaSarona is a former German Templer colony established in 1817 in what is now one of Tel Aviv’s busiest neighborhoods near the Azrieli towers. The Templers were a German Protestant sect which aimed to realize the apocalyptic vision of the prophets in the Holy Land. They established Sarona as an agricultural settlement and at its peak, there were 41 homes, a winery, workshops, a communal hall, and barns. In 1941 the British deported the residents of Sarona who were believed to be Nazi supporters. Today this compound of buildings has been restored and turned into a shopping and entertainment complex. The former Templer homes are now house restaurants, cafes, and boutique stores. The open spaces between the houses are beautiful plazas where you can relax and enjoy people watching special events and street performers.Tel Aviv Promenade (Tayelet). Photo by Shai Pal on Unsplash8. Yarkon ParkAt the northern end of Tel Aviv is this urban oasis; an expansive green Yarkon park with the Yarkon River meandering through the lawns towards the sea. The park is home to many attractions including climbing walls, paddle boat rental, playgrounds, basketball courts, bicycle rental, and if you continue north you can even reach the safari park in Ramat Gan. So even if you are looking for free things to do in Tel Aviv you can relax on the lawns and enjoy the pleasant surroundings and river views.9. Old JaffaAt the southern end of Tel Aviv along the coast is the old port city of Jaffa which is associated with the biblical story of Jonah, Saint Peter, and mythical tales of Andromeda and Perseus. As far back as the Middle Ages, the port was a gateway to the Holy Land, and many travelers, armies, and merchants landed here including Napoleon. Today you can wander along the narrow cobbled lanes between stone buildings leading down to the water and the old port. There are many art galleries, cafes, and restaurants as well as historic sites and museums in Jaffa. Among the sites to see, there is the Libyan Synagogue, St. Peter’s Church, the Zodiac Fountain, the home of Simon the Tanner, the Mahmudiyah Mosque, the Wishing Bridge, Andromeda’s Rock, the Sea Mosque, and the Ilana Goor Museum.10. Tel Aviv RollersDon’t be surprised if you are taking a stroll through Tel Aviv on a regular Tuesday night when a huge group of people on rollerblades whiz by. Each Tuesday skaters meet at Habima Square at 10 pm and the group begins rolling through the city. They roll through the city showing off their skating skills and having fun. Everyone is welcome to join in so get your skates on!Children at Tel Aviv Old Port. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin11. Tel Aviv University Botanical GardensExplore the 34,000m² of the university botanical gardens where there are rare and endangered species of plants from around the globe. There are 3800 plant species from Israel and around the world growing in the campus botanical gardens. The gardens are arranged in ecological groups and themed gardens. Sections in the gardens include the ecological garden of Israeli plants and Mediterranean woodlands; tropical plants from the rainforests; plants utilized by humans; medicinal plants; cacti; poisonous plants; a Palm House; succulent plants and root trees in the Sarah Racine Root Laboratory. The gardens are used by university students for research in ecological and botanical studies and visitors are welcomed for free.12. Rabin SquareIn modern Tel Aviv history, this is one of the most significant sites of the city. Back in 1995, this public square that faces the Tel Aviv Municipality building was called Kings of Israel Square. The tragic events of November 4th, 1995 led to the renaming of the square in honor of Yitzhak Rabin, former Israeli political icon and Prime Minister. It was here on that fateful night during a peace rally that Rabin was assassinated while returning to his car. You can see the exact spot where the assassination took place and the memorial which now marks this location in the northeastern corner of the square. There is also a section of wall covered in graffiti which was drawn by mourners who came to pay their respects in the days following the assassination. In addition, there is a memorial sculpture commemorating the Holocaust at the south end of the square, pleasant trees, and an ecological pool in the square. Rabin Square is often used for concerts, special events, and rallies.Rokach House, Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin13. The Photo HouseAt 5 Tchernichovsky Street is a store/ archive of historic photographs documenting the early days of Israel. The collection includes posters, postcards, and photographs. The store is legendary; it is still run by the Weissenstein family which established the shop in 1936. It is the city’s oldest photoshop and it is more like a museum than a store. In addition to the displayed photos which are on sale, there are regular exhibitions. The private archive of photographs has won several awards and has been exhibited across the globe. All of the photos in the archives were taken by Rudi Weissenstein and all of the prints and souvenirs featuring photographs are taken from the negatives of Weissenstein’s collection. Weissenstein photographed the first performance of the Palestine Symphony Orchestra in 1936; Weissenstein was the only official photographer to document the signing of the Declaration of Independence of the State of Israel in 1948; Weissenstein’s image was featured on an Israeli banknote in 1958 and he won first prize at the International Photography Exhibition in Moscow in 1961.Tel Aviv and Jaffa aerial view. Photo by Shai Pal on Unsplash14. Tel Aviv Art GalleriesTel Aviv has many independent art galleries but there is a particular concentration of galleries along Ben Yehuda Street and Gordon Street which intersects Ben Yehuda Street. You can wander along these pleasant Tel Aviv streets popping into each of the galleries to see current local and sometimes international art. Start with Gerstein Gallery at #101 Ben Yehuda Street and work your way towards Gordon Street. Along the way you will see JOJO Gallery with unique utilitarian and decorative art; Engel Gallery; Gordon Gallery and then on Gordon Street there is the Stern Gallery and Givon Gallery. Along the way and in the adjacent side streets you will discover other fascinating galleries. If you continue on Ben Yehuda Street you will reach Frishman Street where there are even more galleries.15. Musical FountainTel Aviv has a spectacular sound and light musical fountain show to rival those in Barcelona and Las Vegas. The modern music is synchronized to dancing lights illuminating fountains squirting up into the air. This spectacle takes place at Tel Aviv Port during the summer (July and August). There are nightly performances Sunday to Thursday with the fountains at 6:30 pm, 7:15 pm, and 7:45 pm and the sound and lights joining in for performances at 8:15 pm, 8:45 pm, 9:15 pm, 9:45 pm, and 10:15 pm.If you are interested in Tel Aviv tours and attractions, feel free to check out this article.Hamsas sold at Carmel Market, Tel Aviv. Photo by Bartosz Kwitkowski on Unsplash

Plan Your VisitLocation:Beit Eliyahu Golomb House, 23 Rothschild Street, Tel AvivOpen Times: Sunday-Thursday 08:30-16:00, Fridays and Saturdays closed.Prices: Adults 20 ILS, seniors, soldiers, and children under 18 yrs 15 ILS, disabled visitors free.Average Visit Duration: 1 hour.Special Events: There are regular special evening and afternoon programs geared towards school children and groups. On Family Day, and Israeli school holidays there are special activities for parents and children.Relevant Tours: Tours of the museum can be arranged in advance and are available in English, Hebrew, Russian, and French. The museum may be able to offer a tour outside the museum of Rothschild Blvd. If you take a private Tel Aviv tour, remember to ask your guide to stop at this interesting attraction.Golomb House - The Hagana Museum, Tel Aviv(Image source:Avishai TeicherCC BY 2.5)The literal translation of ”Hagana” is defense, but in this case, the name of the museum refers to the armed Jewish force that operated in Palestine from the 1920s to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. The Hagana (or Haganah) fighting force protected Jewish settlements from Arab attacks in British Mandate Palestine. Following the British “white paper” that restricted immigration to Palestine, the Hagana organization assisted more than 100,000 Jews to immigrate illegally, escaping war-torn Europe. Later, the fighters of the Hagana participated in the War of Independence fighting side by side with other Jewish military groups and the newly founded Israeli Defense Force.The museum covers the formation and activities of the Haganah organization as well as its heroes, and major achievements. It is located in a house built by the Sharet family in the 1920s which was one of the first houses built in Tel Aviv. The house is the former home of Eliyahu Golomb, one of the founders of the Haganah organization. It was here that Haganah members met in secret to discuss and plan the defense of settlements and the illegal immigration of Jews to British Palestine.Pro Tip: The museum is located on one of Tel Aviv’s most beautiful boulevards, where you can see examples of Bauhaus architecture, and visit Independence Hall where Israeli independence was declared in 1948.What to See at the Hagana MuseumThree floors have been added to the original house and a different topic is covered on each floor. In addition, the museum has a large auditorium and a smaller audio-presentation room and it holds the Hagana archives. The museum displays use the latest museum technology to bring the subject matter to life. There are huge video screens, historic photographs, recreated scenes, models, and authentic artifacts.Original RoomsAt the entrance level of the house, two of the rooms have been preserved as they were in the early 1940s. These rooms are used for changing exhibitions.Eliyahu Golomb's apartment, the Hagana Museum (Image source:Hagit.B CC BY 4.0)Birth of the Defense ForceOn the first level, you can delve into the establishment of the organization in 1919, learn about its roots in Bar Giora and Hashomer, and discover the many daring missions and battles of the Hagana.Hagana on the BattlefieldAlthough their fighting methods were more guerilla warfare, this section of the museum looks at the Hagana’s battle against the British from 1945 to 1947. It also covers their weapons and brings to life the personal story of a young Palmach member and a young holocaust survivor who participated in several major battles. There is a moving audio presentation about the immigration ship, Exodus.Pro Tip: If you enjoy this museum then you might want to check out the Palmach Museum, Lehi Museum, and the Etzel Museum, all dedicated to the pre-state Jewish underground movements.War of IndependenceTake a journey through the events of the War of Independence and learn about the Hagana’s integration into the Israel Defense Force after the establishment of the State of Israel.Pro Tip: On Independence Day entrance to the museum is free, and there are special events and exhibits.Know Before You Go - Hagana MuseumThe museum is fully accessibleThe Hagana Museum is suitable for childrenDisplays are in Hebrew and EnglishA visit starts with a short film about the period

Looking for a fun night out in Tel Aviv with drinks that will make your eyes widen and taste buds tingle? Well, you’re in luck, because the Non-Stop City, known for its pulsating nightlife, is home to any number of excellent cocktail bars, all offering visitors a mixology experience that won’t be forgotten in a hurry.From swish and opulent spaces to 1920’s ‘Speakeasy’ style bars and local ‘down-and-dirty’ drinking dens, you’ll be blown away by the edgy vibes and the flair and creativity of the creations being served up. Here are what we think are some of the best cocktail bars in Tel Aviv…just remember to pace yourself!1. SpicehausThis ‘cocktail lab’ of a bar, on trendy Dizengoff Street, is a must-visit - not just because of the serious mixology going on but for the ‘themed’ element of it all. Staff where white chemists' coats and drinks are often served in lab equipment such as flasks and beakers. Add to the atmosphere the wild decor touches (bras hanging in the windows) and the Edgar Allen Poe poem recording in the bathroom and how could you not be enticed?Spicehaus has ‘sharing cocktails’ (ideal for couples or gangs of friends) and as well as the classics, there are plenty of unusual creations (the ‘Istanbul’) and the bar team are always up for requests. The food they offer really hit the spot - the ‘crack toast’ comes highly recommended and up until 08:30 pm, the happy hour means you’ll get a great deal. Forget your dull days in chemistry class - this science lab is fun!2. BellBoyAt this achingly hip bar, the general premise revolves around the idea that life is something that needs to be enjoyed. So if you’re looking for fun, head to the Berdichevsky Hotel, because fun you will have. Inside, you’ll find BellBoy, where everything at this 1920’s inspired bar is both beautiful and, as the owners remark, ‘out of the ordinary’.Extraordinary cocktail servings - BellBoy (Credit:BellBoy Instagram)Inspiringly-named cocktails include the ‘Tooth Fairy’ (mate-infused pisco, syrup, mint and soda), ‘Holy Water’ (mastika, eucalyptus, lime, Sauvignon Blanc and Myrrh) or ‘Monkey Business (dark rum, sour rum, Vermouth and Benedictine) are all gorgeously presented. As for bar snacks? Order the duck pate, which is actually molded into the shape of a rubber duck. Truly a unique night out…3. ImperialUnder the watchful eye of some veteran cocktail bar staff at this upscale hotel, the Imperial’s aim (as it boasts) is to create a ‘temple to the lost art of the cocktail.’ And this they do - which is why they’ve won award after award for their creations, all served up in upscale, elegant surroundings, with dim lighting and old-world ambiance, swing jazz playing quietly in the background.Credit: Imperial Cocktail Bar Instagram The drinks at the Imperial are nothing short of fabulous. Try an ‘East of Eden’ (Bombay Sapphire gin, Fino sherry, fresh apple juice and bay leaf-white pepper cordial), or ‘Silver Buddha Punch’ (Banana and pineapple-infused Agricole rums, Amaro Montenegro and silver needles tea cordial). Daring drinkers should sip at the famous ‘Prelude to a Kiss’ (Pere Magloire apple brandy, pisco capel, fresh lime and peach jam) and if you’re not in the mood for alcohol, order their ‘Dollar Shake’ (a show-stopping strawberry milkshake creation).4. Bar 223Up in the Old North, on a quieter part of trendy Dizengoff Street, close to the Namal Port and Park Hayarkon, you’ll find 223, a fine establishment, without pretensions, which has been serving up mouthwatering creations since 2008. The bar staff are knowledgeable and expert at their craft, and with a chilled mood and high-quality drinks, you’re assured of a good time.From classics like the Negroni and Old Fashioned to bespoke creations (the bar staff all speak English so don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions) you can’t go wrong. Teamed with their hamburgers and pizza, you’ll never want to leave. Prices are high but luckily they have a happy hour, so get there early and enjoy.The yard is waiting for you at Dizengoff 223 (Credit:223 Bar Tel Aviv Instagram)5. The Library BarCocktail bars in Tel Aviv don’t come much more stylish than the Library Bar at the elegant and luxurious Norman Hotel. Elegant creations, served in this uber-chic space (the decor is 1940’s British colonial style) and, open all day, this means you can begin enjoying cocktails at lunchtime (and in bar this good, you may stay until closing time). With an extensive list of spirits, and an expert team, as night falls the lights are dimmed and the atmosphere is transformed, making the Library Bar a glamorous choice not just for martinis and daiquiris but also some excellent complimentary bar snacks. To say this place is stylish is an understatement - the Library Bar is probably Tel Aviv’s most coveted spot for an evening drink so reserve well in advance!6. MargozaSet in beautiful and historic Old Jaffa, in the heart of the famous Flea Market, lies Margoza, a friendly neighborhood bar where, just like Cheers, everyone knows your name. A gastrofood haven, with a variety of tapas snacks, their cocktails mixed by expert bartenders who are always friendly and ever-obliging, will go down a treat.Margoza has seating both inside and out (perfect for spring and summer evenings) and great cocktails at very affordable prices. The food they serve up is also very good - try the lamb hummus or ‘flea market platter’ with your drink. Margoza is really a place that makes you feel you’ve come home, and with one of their mean Moscow Mules in your hand, just sit back and enjoy the Jaffa vibe.Credit: Margoza Bar Instagram7. FantasticWith its extraordinary design (inspired, as the owners remark, by ‘fairy tales, poetry, literature and wild animals’) there can’t be a bar in Tel Aviv that’s had so much time, money and effort put into it - and it shows. Up in the Namal Port area, Fantastic (owned by the BellBoy group) is a cross between 1920’s glamour and ‘Alice in Wonderland’ and the moment you enter their ‘Ball Room’ cocktail bar you’ll feel the magic immediately.Credit: Fantastic Bar InstagramFantastic serves up well-mixed cocktails, all in their own special cups and glasses (designed specially) with plenty of little gimmicks beside (go and see for yourself if you’re curious). Accompanying food plates are delicious - try the goose breast or the scallop bisque. Oh, and the decor and drinks at this place are incredibly photogenic so Instagram lovers will be in their element. Costly but a great night out and perfect for a special occasion.8. Social ClubLast but not least, don’t forget Social Club, just off beautiful Rothschild Boulevard, a New York-style bistro which is perfect for an early-evening drink, before the restaurant gets crowded. This ‘happening’ spot in Tel Aviv is always lively and whilst it might look chaotic (staff aren’t assigned to particular tables), there’s a method to the madness and a vibrancy to the place which you can’t miss.As well as the classics (their gin-based cocktails are particularly recommended) the bartenders will be happy to listen to your suggestions and the food bar, in the centre of the restaurant, is very well-designed. If you want to eat with your cocktail, the tataki tuna, grilled aubergine and beef bresaola. Social Club also has a space upstairs for private events, if you’re looking to throw a birthday bash or family event. Pricey but, hey, you only live once.

Plan Your VisitLocation: Ben Gurion Boulevard, Tel Aviv.Open Times: 24/7. Ben Gurion Househours are - Sun, Tues, Wed 09:00-16:00, Mon 09:00-19:00, Fri 09:00-13:00, Sat 11:00-15:00. Gordon Pool: Sun 13:30-21:00, Mon -Thurs 06:00-21:00, Fri 06:00-19:00, Sat 07:00-18:00.Prices: Free.Average Visit Duration: 1 hour.Tours: Ben Gurion Blvd. (and the rest of Tel Aviv) is packed with hidden gems that can only be discovered on a Tel Aviv personalized private tour.Fresh juice stall, Ben Gurion BoulevardBen Gurion Boulevard or Sderot Ben Gurion in Hebrew, is a beautiful tree-lined boulevard in Tel Aviv that is far enough from the tourist center to make it a hidden gem, yet close enough to reach on a short walk through the city. It connects two sites worth visiting - Rabin Square and the beachfront. The boulevard was named after Israel’s first prime minister and is also the site of his former home.Where is Ben Gurion Boulevard?Ben Gurion Blvd. runs west from between City Garden shopping mall and Rabin Square on Ebn Girol Street to HaYarkon Street on the beachfront. It brings you to Kikar Atarim, a plaza overlooking the marina and the Gordon Pool. Ben Gurion Blvd. runs parallel to Gordon Street and Arlozorov Street and intersects several streets including Ben Yehuda Street and Dizengoff Street.What to See on a Walk Down Ben Gurion Blvd.Most of the houses along Ben Gurion Blvd. were built in the 1930s to house Jews fleeing war-torn Europe. They were designed in the Bauhaus or International style. This functional architectural style with clean lines, and rounded balconies, earned Tel Aviv UNESCO status as the White City for its high concentration of Bauhaus buildings.Bauhaus style building,Ben Gurion BoulevardA walk down Ben Gurion Blvd. will give you a great overview of Bauhaus as well as other classic architectural styles. The shady boulevard is surprisingly green with an eclectic mix of ficus, olive, sycamore, and tamarisk trees as well as a few palm trees. Pro Tip: Israel’s most prominent street artist, Rami Meir has painted graffiti art at two places on Ben Gurion - on the corner of Ben Yehuda Street and Ben Gurion Street on the wall of Kiyosk Eli, a kiosk in the middle of the street, and at the junction with Dizengoff Street.Square of the Righteous Among the NationsAs you leave Rabin Square and start walking west on Ben Gurion Street, you’ll see a park on your right. This memorial park is dedicated to gentiles who risked their own lives to save Jews during the Holocaust.Pro Tip: The park was home to Tel Aviv’s first zoo but was eventually moved because the residents complained about the noise and the smell. Today the best zoo in Israel is the Safari Park in Ramat Gan. Beit Hannah Just before the intersection with Reiness Street at #75 Ben Gurion is a one-story house named in honor of Hannah Chisik who lived here in the 1920s. In 1926, she established training farms for young women to help them become self-sufficient. The farm produce was then sold from a store in this house. The building itself was designed in 1935 by Jacob Pinkerfeld in the Bauhaus style. Today Beit Hanna (which has another branch in Florentin) offers a space for women to come together and enjoy sport, spirit, and personal growth in classes and activities. Ben Gurion HouseIsrael’s first prime minister, David Ben Gurion lived in a modest house at the western end of the boulevard for about 40 years. #17 Ben Gurion Blvd. was perfectly located for Ben Gurion to walk down to the beach where he would stand on his head for a few minutes as part of his exercise routine. The house has been restored and furnished as it would have been when Ben Gurion and his wife Paula lived here and is now a house museum open to the public.KiosksAs in the past, several kiosks line the boulevard selling food and drinks. The boulevard also has several cafes, many with outdoor seating.A kiosk at the intersection of Boulevard Ben Gurion and Ben Yehuda StreetPro Tip: Along Ben Gurion Street there are Tel-O-Fun bike stations where you can rent a bike, explore the city’s many bike paths, and return the bike to any other bike station throughout Tel Aviv.Gordon PoolCreated in 1956, this iconic Tel Aviv pool is filled with salt water from underground springs. It is a large complex with a gym and exercise studio.Gordon PoolPro Tip: Enjoy a meal at Stolero in the Gordon Pool lobby overlooking the Tel Aviv Marina.

If you’re visiting Israel and find yourself hungry, gone are the days when you’d have to hit the streets to satisfy your cravings.Today, food delivery is incredibly common, particularly in Tel Aviv which is home to lots of young people, many of whom work in high-tech and are cash-rich but time-poor.Even better, Tel Aviv is a serious ‘foodie’ city, and home to thousands of restaurants offering every kind of cuisine under the sun, from favorites like burgers, pizza and sushi to traditional Levantine dishes, artisan gelato and classic Israeli street food.Whether you’re staying in an Airbnb, a hotel, or even with friends, as long as you have a SIM card and a credit card, food is just a few clicks away! Let’s have a look at the hows and whys of this trend that’s making all of our lives so much easier…What are the Best Apps for Food Delivery in Tel Aviv?Without a doubt, the easiest way to go about getting food delivered to your door in Tel Aviv is by using an App. Since almost everyone these days has a cellphone, the best thing to do is to download one of the following - from there you can see exactly which restaurants, bars and cafes each app works with.Wolt - this is a very popular app in Tel Aviv and probably the Israeli equivalent of ‘Uber Eats.’ It will deliver food to you from restaurants in the city that, in other circumstances, would not offer a delivery service. Wolt features thousands of restaurants from which you can order food, and it also lets you schedule deliveries in advance and specify the time you want your food to arrive. Quick, reliable and affordable, it’s the most used app in Israel.Wolt delivery manTapingo - Israel’s second largest food app, you can download Tapingo to your iPhone or Android device or Blackberry. Just like Wolt, you can schedule your delivery in advance, which means you can order whilst you’re on the go in Tel Aviv and know dinner will be waiting for you the moment you walk in the door.Ten Bis - popular in Israel with lots of workers (whose company gives them cards with credit loaded onto it) you can also buy a prepaid card. Ten Bis may not be as popular as Wolt and Tapingo but has a unique selling point - it works with restaurants that you can’t find on other apps.Ten Bis delivery in Tel AvivMishlohof - this app was designed for the beach bunny - yes, they’ll deliver to your chair or sunbed on one of Tel Aviv’s finest beaches. Not only can you order food, but they’ll also bring you cold beer, ice cream, towels and even sunscreen right up to the sand!Birds eye aerial view on Tal Aviv beachWhat Kind of Restaurants Can I Order from in Tel Aviv?The choices are endless. Pizzerias and burger joints do a roaring trade in Tel Aviv, as do sushi and Asian places. As we’ve become a more ‘phone-focused’ world, more and more restaurants in the Non-Stop City are offering food delivery so all you need to do is log in, and browse the categories until you find what you’re looking for.Do I need a credit card to order food in Tel Aviv?Not necessarily - though you do need a payment method, which you should add to your app as soon as your download it.Whilst credit card is still the most popular way to pay, it’s increasingly common for people to use PayPal, Google Pay (Android) Apple Pay (IPhone) and a few others such as Klarna (a Swedish fintech app), Edenred (an international payment service provider) and Smartum (another mobile pay app).Can I Pay With Cash for My Food Delivery in Tel Aviv?This really depends on the restaurant you’re ordering from, but certain places actually do take cash on delivery.You’ll have to check before making the order - either online or by giving the restaurant a call personally.Should I Tip My Food Delivery Guy in Tel Aviv?We say ‘yes’ for sure. Food delivery personnel work very hard and deliver in all weathers and at all hours. Not only is it a common courtesy (and much appreciated) but the tips these guys get are often something they really rely on, since they’re usually working for minimum wage.So as long as the delivery arrives on time, and all your items are in the bag, common etiquette is that you should give them something. In Israel, you would usually leave between 10-15% of the bill in a restaurant, so factor this into your order if possible.What Should I Do if My Order Shows Up Late?If your food order isn’t delivered as soon as promised, don’t panic! Between a busy kitchen in peak dining hours and traffic on the roads of Tel Aviv, there’s always the possibility that you’ll have to wait a little longer than expected.However, the common view is that anything over an hour’s wait for your food is too long!First of all, get in touch with the service (either by phone or live chat) and ask politely for an explanation. If what they say sounds reasonable to you, just hang on.If you feel you’re not being helped sufficiently, then you can always ask what their refund and cancellation policies are…after all, if you were in a restaurant and your food didn’t arrive after an hour, you’d be well within your rights to walk out.In the majority of cases, however, drivers are really ‘on the ball’ in Tel Aviv and unless there’s a major pile-up or the kitchen’s caught fire, your food should be with you in no time at all…So as we say in Hebrew: ‘Betaavone’ - Enjoy your meal!

Experiencing Tel Aviv's markets (shuk or souk) is a must on any visit to Israel. All of your senses will be stimulated by the cacophony of sounds; delicious and strange aromas; spices and clothing in every color of the rainbow and the diverse mix of people on the streets. Tel Aviv has markets to suit all tastes and preferences; there are elegant and sophisticated markets; rough and dirty market; markets where the focus is on food and others where you'll just want to people-watch and hang-out with local hipsters. At Tel Aviv markets you'll find produce fresh from the farms; gourmet delicacies; clothing; rip-offs of luxury brands; authentic handmade textiles and junk with a few hidden gems to be discovered. Visit any of these Tel Aviv markets for an experience to remember.One of the Carmel Market stalls, Tel Aviv.Photo credit: © ShutterstockCarmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel) – For Rough and Ready Day to Day ShoppingTel Aviv's most famous and central market, Shuk HaCarmel is the market visited by most tourists to Tel Aviv. The Shuk runs along HaCarmel Street from Allenby Street towards the beach, ending at a park near the Intercontinental Hotel. The market is usually very crowded with streams of people going in both directions; it's loud and a little grubby (authentic). Stalls on both sides sell groceries, fruit, and vegetables, clothing, meat, fish, sweets, spices, household goods, toys, rip-off luxury items, jewelry, perfume, gadgets, and more. Shuk HaCarmel has become a hot spot for foodies who come to sample the food sold at eateries and cafes, each with its own unique dishes. Some of the eateries double as street bars where patrons stand on the sidewalk. The food on offer comes from multiple cultures and is often a fusion of many. Don't hesitate to wander through the side streets that lead off the shuk's main drag. Here you'll find hole-in-the-wall eateries, bars, beautiful crumbling buildings, and some small unique stores and stalls.Spices at Carmel Market. Photo credit: © ShutterstockSarona – For Sophisticated Gourmet Goods and Elegant SurroundingsSarona is a restored German Templar Colony originally established in 1871. Today the historic buildings house sophisticated stores and up-market restaurants. In the complex is the Sarona Market; an indoor culinary market with stylish décor reminiscent of La Boqueria in Barcelona. With a focus on food and kitchen products Sarona is cleaner; more expensive and less crowded than other Tel Aviv markets. The specialty goods on sale make it a destination specifically for buying and eating food and not for souvenirs or people watching. If you are a foodie, then Sarona is a must. The products on sale come from across the globe and are diverse in their flavors and cultural origins. Some of the stalls are operated by top Israel chefs and the adjacent restaurants are also gourmet. Unlike most other Tel Aviv markets, Sarona is open seven days a week including Saturdays. There are regular special events such as cooking demonstrations and musical performances.Assorted necklaces at Jaffa Flea Market. Photo byTamara MalaniyonUnsplashLevinsky - For Hipster Hang-Outs and Ancient Spice StoresThe Levinsky Market in the Florentin neighborhood was once the "bad" end of town; then it morphed into a bohemian neighborhood and finally into a gentrified haven for hipsters with some of the old neighborhood charm thrown in. In the 1950s the market vendors were mainly Iranian and Iraqi Jews selling spices. Now a new generation has blended old with new and stalls sell a mix of traditional market goods and modern necessities. You'll find stores selling Middle Eastern spices from large sacks that spill out onto the sidewalk; dried fruits and nuts; household goods and everyday items. Several restaurants and cafes spread out across small tree-covered plazas and some eateries have even gained a faithful following with customers lining up along the street. Enjoy traditional foods from different cultures from Tunisian sandwiches to Polish salted herring.Jaffa Flea Market.Photo credit: © ShutterstockJaffa Flea Market (Shuk HaPishPashim) – For Antiques, Junk, and Hidden TreasuresThe Shuk HaPishPeshim is perhaps the most unique market you can find in Tel Aviv. At first glance the market offers heaps and heaps of junk – some stalls look like they have been stacked high with all those bits and pieces everyone has in one of their kitchens draws. On closer inspection some of the market stalls sell genuine antiques; others sell second-hand goods in bad condition and some of the stalls sell a mix of the two – so you have to dig out the good stuff. Here you'll find vintage items; authentic antiques; classic furniture; souvenirs; home appliances; top designer stores; musical instruments; accessories; car parts; artwork; jewelry; and clothing – new and second-hand. Like most of Tel Aviv's markets, Shuk HaPishPashim has become a popular foodie destination. After nightfall, the market stalls shut down and the place turns into a vibrant nightlife destination with lively bars and chef-style restaurants.Carmel Market, Tel Aviv.Photo byNicole BasteronUnsplashNahalat Binyamin - For Arts, Crafts, Bauhaus, and Parisian-style CafesRunning parallel to Carmel Market and connected by several lanes is Nahalat Binyamin, a wide, pedestrian-only street lined with Bauhaus houses and some pretty impressive graffiti art as well. The stores in the buildings along Nahalat Binyamin mainly sell fabric but the real attraction is the market set up along the street each Tuesday and Friday. The stalls specialize in handmade arts and crafts and you'll often find the artist or designer manning the stall. Some of the items on sale include wind chimes, handmade soap, unique handmade jewelry, paintings, toys, and organic products. This sophisticated market is somewhat reminiscent of European markets. The outdoor cafes along the street will remind you of a romantic European movie with picturesque bougainvillea dripping over the buildings, umbrellas, and bustling waiters serving brunch. Nahalat Binyamin has a more relaxed atmosphere than Carmel Market; here you can linger, enjoy an ice cream or coffee; watch street performers, and get to know local artists.More Tel Aviv MarketsBelieve it or not, there are even more markets in Tel Aviv! In an addition to the top Tel Aviv markets listed above you can also explore Bezalel Market for budget items on King George Street; Shuk HaNamal, an indoor farmers' market at the old port; Dizengoff Square antique market on Tuesdays and Fridays; the Greek Market in Jaffa; Rothschild Allenby Market for high-end cuisine and the Friday market on Givon Square for vintage everything.Fresh strawberry at one of Tel Aviv markets.Photo bybec s.onUnsplash

Thanks to Tel Aviv’s unique geographical location and cultural make-up which includes people from across the globe and across the religious spectrum the city’s graffiti holds many poignant political and social messages.Tel Aviv Graffiti.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe quality and variety of the thought-provoking graffiti are also varied. Among the graffiti you’ll see there are works by famous Israeli artists including the renowned and prolific graffiti artist Rami Mairi; INSPIRE; street art photography artist Millikatz and by the MAS graffiti School. Tel Aviv is also home to the world’s youngest graffiti artist AYA.Art is often born out of difficult social, cultural, and political situations so it is no wonder that here in the Middle East so much art is produced. In Tel Aviv, the municipality has a tolerant attitude to graffiti and if it is deemed artistic it is often left untouched. The Tel Aviv Museum of Art even holds an annual exhibition featuring some of the top street artists.You can learn a little Hebrew even on a short trip to Israel just by noticing signs, graffiti, and bumper stickers. The most bohemian parts of Tel Aviv are known for their artistic graffiti and there are tours that take you on a walk through the streets of these areas pointing out the graffiti and explaining the Hebrew and social messages Graffiti in Tel Aviv, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin1. Tel Aviv Graffiti ToursA graffiti tour of areas like Florentin, Tel Aviv is an innovative and cool way of getting to know the city. Not only will you learn a bit of Hebrew but also get to know the social issues which artists choose to comment on. On a graffiti tour, your guide will also point out interesting street signs and bumper stickers. Tours of this kind are led by young and hip locals who know the best places to go and the most “in” neighborhoods. You’ll find out about the best cafes, bars, and nightclubs and can ask your guide for recommendations. Your guide will explain the artist’s “tags” and signature styles.There are works of art on the walls of Tel Aviv by international and local graffiti artists. Your guide will tell you about the local street art culture and contemporary art scene and the many forms it comes in. A tour of the city’s graffiti and hip neighborhoods usually takes about two hours. Other interesting and unusual tours on the streets of Tel Aviv include cooking tours, restaurant tours, market tours, pub crawl tours, and cycling tours. All of these tours add an extra dimension to regular tours and allow you to really interact with locals and get to know another side of the city and Israeli culture.A touA tourist taking a picture of Tel Aviv graffiti. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin2. Top Tel Aviv Street ArtistsIf you’d rather discover these hidden gems by yourself then take a self-guided tour of the city discovering the street art as you go. One of the top street artists is “Know Hope” who has been on the street art scene since 2004 and left his signature image of a man with his heart on his sleeve. He recently exhibited a project entitled Truth and Method at the Gordon Gallery. “Dede” painted the clever and witty piece entitled Wind up Teeth on the Tel Aviv Dolphinarium. His signature image is a band-aid which he says is a symbol of the search for solutions to personal and social problems. His work often comments on current events. He has also left his mark on the walls of New York, Germany, and Switzerland. “Sened” is a stencil artist recognizable by his images of little box people. His work is smaller than most street art and is often found in places you wouldn’t expect. Wonky Monkey is recognizable by the monkey which appears in most of his pictures. He likes to comment on the human condition. “Signor Gi” uses stencils, paste-ups, and painting. His signature mark is of a skull. “Dioz” paints large, colorful street art which fills up entire walls. His work is less political and more about fun and bringing a little light humor to the streets. Green Graffiti in Tel Aviv.Photo byAna KlipperonUnsplash“Nitzan Mintz” was named one of the country’s most prominent artists in 2013 and has since gone on to be mentioned in Timeout and Calcalist. She makes social comments in beautifully formed Hebrew text on the walls of Tel Aviv. “Klone Yourself” is a local artist whose street art often features creatures that are half-human and half animals. His work has been shown in New York. Maya is one of the few female graffiti artists in Tel Aviv. She exhibits in galleries, has featured in TED Talk, and paints on public walls. She uses a wide range of materials and in 2015 created a large-scale installation in Japan of her signature blackbirds.So get out your walking shoes and explore Tel Aviv’s street art either on an organized Tel Aviv street art tour or by yourself, you’ll be amazed at the art you discover!Graffiti in Tel Aviv. Photo byRonit ShakedonUnsplash

Jaffa is an ancient port city in Israel, mentioned in the Bible and renowned for its association with Jonah, Solomon, and Saint Peter as well as the mythological story of Andromeda and Perseus. There are many interesting attractions in the Old City of Jaffa plus a church, great fish restaurants, and quaint lanes with specialty stores. However, if you follow those meandering lanes downwards you will find yourself coming out on the water’s edge of the actual port. The Jaffa Port underwent a complete facelift in 2012 when it was cleaned up and new businesses moved into the revamped hanger that stands near the water. The dream was to create a food market similar to the ones at Tel Aviv Port and the Sarona complex however the market didn’t really get off the ground. The port failed to become a top destination and is still a hidden gem to most!Jaffa aerial view. Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Old JaffaWhen people refer to Old Jaffa they are talking about the restored ancient city perched on a cliff at the southern end of Tel Aviv’s beachfront promenade. Jaffa Port lies directly below Old Jaffa; a historic gateway to the Holy Land which has also been significantly restored. Both these two Tel Aviv-Jaffa attractions offer endless things to see and do. For the last 6,000 years, Jaffa Port has welcomed travelers, immigrants, and armies. The city is associated with the legends of Andromeda and the Biblical figures of Jonah and St. Peter. The city has been ruled by Egyptians, Philistines, Alexander the Great, Romans, Napoleon, Muslims, Crusaders, and the Ottomans. Each has left its mark on the city. Today Jaffa is home to a mixed population of Christians, Jews, and Muslims. Old Jaffa is built from pristine cream-colored stone similar to the Old City of Jerusalem. The windows of Jaffa homes are painted bright blue and window boxes overflow with colorful blooms. Visitors can discover trendy restaurants, picturesque alleyways, historic churches, archaeological remains, and a unique artists’ colony.When you arrive in Old Jaffa’s central Kdumim Square you will see a magnificent fountain with stone characters representing the zodiac signs. Each of the alleyways in Old Jaffa leading down to the port is named after a zodiac sign. On Kdumim Square you will find the Old Jaffa Visitors Center. Here there is the “Images of Jaffa”, a multi-sensory experience that introduces visitors to the history of Jaffa. The Jaffa Old City.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThe center also holds archaeological remains from Jaffa’s ancient past. In the restaurants that flank the square, you can find delicious culinary delights from Middle Eastern cuisine and seafood to Yemenite and French food. Some of the restaurants offer brilliant views across the sea all the way to Tel Aviv’s beachfront. From Old Jaffa you can look out to sea and spot Andromeda’s Rock. This group of rocks jutting out of the water is associated with the Greek legend of Perseus and Andromeda. Andromeda had been chained to the rocks as a sacrifice to the sea monster Cetus when Perseus rescued her.Attractions in Old Jaffa include the Home of Simon the Tanner where St. Peter is said to have spent the night. While here he had a dream which was interpreted as a message from God telling Peter that non-Jews should be welcomed into Christianity.Jaffa is the site of Ramses Gate which has survived 4,000 years since Egyptians ruled Jaffa. The intricately carved gate was once part of a grand Egyptian palace. Make a wish on the Wishing Bridge as you enter Park HaPisga. In the park, there are several works of art and canons left here by Napoleon in 1799. Visit St Peter’s Church built in 1654 and dedicated to the saint who visited Old Jaffa.The narrow stone alleyways of Old Jaffa are lined with over 50 galleries, design stores, and art studios. Among the most well-known galleries, there is Adina Plastelina, the Ilana Goor Museum, and a gallery of Ethiopian art. Artists live and work here, displaying and selling their creations to the public. The Antiquities Museum of Tel Aviv-Jaffa is housed in an Ottoman-era building. Here you can see archaeological remains excavated in Jaffa. When the sun goes down Old Jaffa comes alive with restaurants and cafes. People come to Old Jaffa at night to enjoy the cool sea breeze, beautiful surroundings, and the view across the sea to Tel Aviv’s glittering lights.Discover Jaffa PortThe Jaffa Port.Photo credit: © ShutterstockIt is possible to walk from Tel Aviv's beach promenadeall the way to Jaffa Port. At the southernmost point of Tel Aviv is the Charles Clore Park. From here the Sea Wall Promenade leads you all the way to the old port. Jaffa Port has Old Jaffa as a backdrop; built on the cliffs overlooking the water. Today the port no longer welcomes pilgrims and travelers by water but it is a port for fishermen and sailboats.You can walk along the edge of the water and imagine Jonah setting sail for Tarshish; Jaffa oranges being shipped from here across the globe or the first Jewish immigrants arriving in Palestine. As you walk out on the pier look back at Jaffa and see the red and white striped lighthouse. You can also look up towards St Peter’s bell tower.As you immerge from the lane which leads down to the port you will be just a few meters from the water. A jetty juts out into the water where you can get brilliant views of the Tel Aviv coast. Local boys like to show off their acrobatic skills jumping off fishing boats into the water and couples often come down here to get their pre-wedding photos taken. After you’ve enjoyed the waterside you can continue exploring the businesses along the water’s edge. The boats at Jaffa Port.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe NaLagat (Please Touch) Center is run by and for the hearing and visually impaired. The center has a theatre where you can see performances by hearing-impaired actors about their challenges. There is also a restaurant called Black Out in the center where the diners sit in the dark and are served by visually impaired waiters. The center holds workshops and activities to teach about how handicapped people experience the world. In the large modern hanger alongside the NaLagat Center there are a number of businesses, an ice-cream shop, and fine dining restaurants. The best thing to eat if you dine here is fish; specialty fish restaurants use fish which was probably caught in the waters you see from the windows. There are also several art galleries where local artists display their creations. There are several retail outlets including the Women’s Courtyard at The Port where Israeli designer clothing is sold at outlet prices. On Fridays in the summer from 10 am to 5 pm there is the free live entertainment; market stalls; family activities and yoga lessons all free or for a small fee. The “Almina” Theatre presents children’s theatre productions for a small fee and offers workshop activities for kids after the show.Jaffa Flea MarketJaffa flea market.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinTo get a feel of a real Middle Eastern character there is nothing better than a tour in one of Israel’s traditional markets or shuks. Perhaps one of the most atmospheric is the Jaffa shuk. The Jaffa flea market consists of several parts. There is a long street where each storefront spills onto the sidewalk selling antiques, some genuine junk.Here many avid antique collectors scourge the second-hand furniture stores, Persian carpet stores, and bric-a-brac stores which sell mainly old things rather than antique things. One street over there is a covered bazaar, a narrow row of vendors sell from hole-in-the-wall stores an assortment of clothing, old and new, jewelry, and second-hand goods. The clothes and other items for sale hang above your head and on every available stretch of wall. Outside in the open air, the Jaffa market continues with household goods, DIY equipment, ceramics, toys, musical instruments, and even the kitchen sink. You will also find local places to eat in this area which is safe to walk about in even if you are on your own.The Jaffa Shuk HaPishpeshim (flea market) is a vibrant, dynamic area with lots to see and many exciting stores and stalls. In the last few years, the area has become not only a fun and unique place to shop and people watch but also a hidden gem for foodies. Among the junk and antiques are several outstanding restaurants some of which are housed in historic buildings and serve both local and international food. Here are just a few of the many Jaffa Flea Market’s finest dining establishments.Shuk Hapishpeshim restaurant, Jaffa.Photo credit: © ShutterstockPuaa, 8 Rabi Yohanan- This unique restaurant/café is in the heart of the flea market. It was established in 1999 and is named after the owner. The place is magical, with décor featuring many authentic antiques and memorabilia including the furniture, pictures on the walls, and tableware. The menu is unpretentious and the food wholesome and homely yet unique and innovative. There are dishes like broccoli and cashew pasta, spinach with raw tahini and faro, and date syrup salad. There is a good selection of Israeli boutique wine. On Tuesday nights you can get amazing fish and seafood cooked on the grill situated on the outside porch and in winter there are live performances on Thursday evenings.Fleamarket, 7 Rabi Yohanan -The décor of this restaurant will take your breath away. The eclectic furniture comes from flea markets in Israel and abroad; the ceilings are high and the walls feature exposed brick and dark wood. Fleamarket has a large bar with an open kitchen. The restaurant is managed by top Israeli restaurateurs led by Shy Gurevitch. Fleamarket serves mainly seafood and Asian menu with several local and European dishes. The restaurant has a breakfast, brunch, and evening menu. At Fleamarket they give some classic Israeli dishes a gourmet twist like adding truffle to Israeli shakshuka. They also give an Israeli twist to some International classics like adding mangold to eggs Benedict. The menu reads like a European fine dining establishment with dishes like beef Carpaccio, sea bream tartar, and mushroom and truffle risotto. There are kid’s dishes and vegetarian dishes as well as a good selection of alcohol and cocktails.Sifo, 3 Nachman Street -This is one of the more recent additions to the Jaffa flea market culinary scene yet it has been attracting the attention of local foodies. It is located down a narrow lane full of character. The restaurant was opened in 2011 and is run by Chef Idan Mezner. As the name implies they specialize in seafood – si (sea) fo (food). The flavors and styles of the dishes are diverse including fusion dishes that blend Middle Eastern flavors with international flavors. Diners have the option of eating from the cold kitchen, hot kitchen, or the chef specials and desserts. Popular dishes on the menu include the fish patties with Ethiopian tahini, the red mullet fish in Arak, and the kubbeh soup with seafood.Leimech, 11 Amiad Street -In among the market stalls is this modest street bar. The bar was named after Noah’s father in the Bible who lived to an incredible age of 777; maybe because he took things easy and enjoyed a good drink like this bar’s patrons. The bar serves Thai beer on tap and simple dishes from the Far East and the Middle East. The bar often hosts live musical performances.Yasso-Saloniki, 4 Olei Zion -This Greek restaurant celebrates the Greek culture in every way – from the décor and music to the menu. On the walls are framed photos of the owner and his family plus some celebs that have eaten here.Onza, 3 Rabbi Hanina Street, Shuk HaPishPeshim -The tables of this popular seafood and Greek restaurant spill out onto the cobbled streets of the market. It is always buzzing with people coming here for the food, music, and atmosphere. Indoors there is a large bar and a few tables while on an upper level you’ll find an area for large groups. The atmosphere is created by great music, dim lighting, and an upbeat vibe. Food is prepared by Chef Yossi Shitrit and on the menu, you’ll find fish, seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes. Don’t miss happy hour on Saturdays from 4 pm to 6 pm.Charcuterie Restaurant, 3 Rabbi Hanina -You’ll smell the delicious aroma of BBQ meat before you even reach this restaurant. The chairs and tables are spread out over the cobbled stones of a narrow lane as diners wait to sample delicious smoked and barbecued meat as well as handmade sausages. If you’re a confirmed carnivore then this is the place for you. If you prefer fish or pasta you can find some non-meat dishes on the menu as well. The best time to come here is on weekends after 10 pm when the music is loud and the crowd turns the place into a street party.Lima Nippo, 6 Rabbi Tanhum -Where Japan meets Peru! Lima Nippo is a sleek fine dining establishment with refined décor and artistically presented food. The menu includes Japanese and Peruvian fusion dishes, a new trend in the culinary world. When Japanese immigrated to Peru in the 20th century the Nikkei cuisine was born. Dishes on the menu include pineapple duck, beef tartar with miso.Jaffa Old City House decoration.Photo credit: © ShutterstockJaffa flea market is not only a gourmet destination but a one-of-a-kind experience and it's better to explore it with a guided tour. It is possible to combine an excursion to Jaffa with one of various Tel Aviv trips.