Best Things to Do in Tel Aviv
The best things to do and see in Tel Aviv remind us why it should be at the top of your list of cities to visit. For starters, a visit to Old Jaffa, a historic neighborhood, and the Carmel Market, the biggest in the city, are definitely in order. Other spots in town will cater to an array of interests. Independence Hall, for example, is a great option for someone searching to learn more about Israel’s History. The Tel Aviv Art Museum, on the other hand, is better geared towards modern and contemporary art lovers. Keep reading and you’ll discover what other scenic attractions you should see next.
Tel Aviv-Yafo
Rabin Square is Israel’s most famous plaza, and a great place for people watching. Over the years, it’s been home to many political demonstrations, and now houses a memorial for Yitzhak Rabin, the prime minister assassinated after a pro-peace rally. Over by the scenic fountain, you’ll find plenty of free lawn chairs available, so you can grab food, pass the afternoon, or use it as a starting point for exploring the rest of the square. In addition to the ecological pool with lotus flowers and koi, visitors can also check out the Tel Aviv City Hall, located a few minutes north.
Dizengoff Street 77
Tel Aviv is acclaimed for its collection of Bauhaus architecture, a German art school in operation during the early 20th century. In the center of the city, you can visit UNESCO Heritage sites that have come to be known as the “White City,” built during the 1930s and unlike any other architecture you’ve seen before. To make it easier, opt for a walking tour, which happens every Friday morning at 10 and lasts about two hours. Departing from Dizengoff Street 77, you can choose a group-led option or request an audio guide that allows you to explore the homes at your own pace.
Sderot Sha'ul HaMelech 27
The Tel Aviv Museum showcases a collection of local and international artists. Aligned with the building's contemporary architecture, however, you can expect to find an abundance of modern art, rather than a selection Old Masters or Pre-Columbian artifacts. Some highlights from the European collection include works by Wassily Kandinsky, Camille Pissarro, and Auguste Renoir, as well as a famous Van Gogh titled, The Shepherdess. In terms of Israeli art, you can anticipate experimental works by Reuven Rubin, Yohanan Simon, and Ze’ev Raban. Also, don’t forget to check out the rotating exhibitions, right now, there’s a group show called Code vs Code, featuring Ronit Citri, Yasmin Davis, and Asaf Elkalai, among others.
Old Jaffa
Old Jaffa, located in the greater city area, represents a quintessential Tel Aviv neighborhood. As such, it’s a must-see for any visitor (even those without much time). Explore the winding cobblestone streets, where you’ll stumble upon artisan jewelry and craft shops before proceeding to architectural landmarks. Dating back to the Ottoman Era, The Clock Tower and St. Peter’s Church will draw you, as they still stand proudly as a symbol of Israeli political and cultural heritage. Other potential activities include a visit to the nearby Ilana Goor Museum, which houses a variety of contemporary Israeli art and sculptures. End the night with some Mediterranean food at any one of the great restaurants in town, like Onza, and you can officially cross off a major attraction from your itinerary.
Rothschild Blvd 16
A visit to Independence Hall will prove an intriguing activity for any history buff. The accessibility of the historic site, whose steps were the staging ground for the birth of Israel, allows those interested in learning more about the history of Tel Aviv to take a self-guided tour of the building. Technically in business as a museum, you’ll be educated through interactive video and sound exhibits that detailed how the state was created in May 1948. Primary sources, like original recordings and documentary footage, are also available for you to peruse. Alternatively, if you’d prefer a guided tour, you can email to set it up in the language of your choosing.
Ganei Yehoshua, Rokach Blvd
Though it’s the biggest and most popular in Tel Aviv, Park Hayarkon is still a great place to escape the city. Running east to west along the Yarkon River, the park includes a small petting zoo, ideal for entertaining children, and an array of open space to bike, cycle, jog, or take in the sun. Pack a picnic and you can make a day of it, or rent a bike at Tel-O-Fun so you can simultaneously explore the park while getting some exercise. If you’re really feeling ambitious, however, then you should definitely rent a boat to paddle upstream and see where the current takes you.
The Florentin Urban Culture and Graffiti Tour
Florentin Street 28
Tel Aviv is booming with street art, and Florentin, the city’s Bohemian neighborhood, is where you’ll find most of the good stuff. Luckily, you won’t have to search very hard, because you can now take a guided tour that takes care of the grunt work for you. Walking through hidden alleyways and side streets, informative guides teach visitors about the social meaning behind the murals and about colloquial expressions and tendencies that are prevalent in the city’s thriving urban scene. When the tour concludes, the group will be walked to various workshops, where they can actually interact with local artists.
Allenby, King George and Sheinkin Street
The bustling Carmel Market is home to traders selling anything from clothing to spices and street food. Between all the colors, smells, and sounds, it may be a little hectic entering. Once inside and you’ve become accustomed, however, you’ll notice that all the vendors are categorized relatively simply, and it won’t be difficult to navigate from the electronic section to the cosmetics. Plus, between all the locals interacting and bargaining, those interested in observing culture will likely have a field day here. A short food tour that introduces visitors to all the city’s flavors is also available upon request.
Hayarkon Street 48
Let’s face it: Even if you aren’t much of a drinker, you shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to experience a Tel Aviv pub crawl. Departing every Thursday and Sunday from the Hayarkon Hostel, the crawl runs about five hours and includes VIP entry. If you’re traveling alone, it’s also a great way to meet some like-minded Americans looking for a good time. Plus, you can get buzzed for a bargain. The tour runs through four rotating venues with completely distinct ambiances and music choices, ranging from hip-hop to rock (and everything in between). At the beginning, you’ll be given a complimentary beer, followed by four free shots at each venue.
Levinsky 41
Cafe Levinsky is home to some of the city’s best gazoz: an old-fashioned drink made with simple syrup and soda water. Located within the Levinsky Market, the unassuming cafe is lined with illuminated jars of fruits and other botanicals, sourced locally to compliment the seasonal menu. Like many other locals, you won’t know what to expect coming here. The baristas concoct drinks based on availability of ingredients and whatever mood they’re in, so you’ll always be guaranteed an adventure. At the very least, it’s an authentic way to end a long day of sightseeing in Tel Aviv.
CHEAT SHEET
For more on the best things to do, see in Tel Aviv, also see:
· TimeOut – Top Things to Do in Tel Aviv
· My Adventure Across The World - 23 Things To Do in Tel Aviv That Are Absolutely Incredible