Welcome to Tel Aviv!

The city of Tel Aviv is located on Israel’s Mediterranean coast. It is famous for being one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world! This beautiful city is 24/7 on the go. It has much to offer its visitors; from spectacular sea views and golden beaches to traditional Bauhaus architecture (this building style is UNESCO recognized) to museums, music, and cultural scene, you'll love. Tel Aviv also has bustling markets, delicious food, and a happening nightlife.

Founded in 1909, Tel Aviv has grown to become world-renowned for its culinary scene, cultural experiences, and fabulous nightlife.

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Fun fact: Tel Aviv has been named the ‘Mediterranean Capital of Cool’ by the New York Times.

Before I share my fabulous Tel Avivan tips with you, some practical information you need to know especially if this is your first trip to Tel Aviv.

FAQ about traveling to Tel Aviv

The best time to visit Tel Aviv: The summer months from June through to early September are my personal favorite period to visit, mostly because I love the heat and summer vibes. If you are not used to the Mediterranean climate, it might be too hot for you. In that case, springtime from late March through to late May could be a better option, so you can enjoy more pleasant temperatures.

Shabbat: Shabbat is the Jewish day of rest; starting just before sundown on Friday, it lasts until the first three stars appear on Saturday evening. This means that everything shuts down early on Fridays and remains closed throughout.

Keep in mind that there is no public transportation running throughout the Shabbat (with the exception of a couple of places). Street shops will be closed, most malls too, kosher restaurants will be closed, and other activities will be unavailable during the weekend.

Planning in advance is vital!
Please, this is a holy day for us, be respectful!

Getting around Tel Aviv: Tel Aviv isn't that big so much of it can be experienced on foot. Buses, moniyot sherut (taxis operating like buses charging the same fare), and Uber are popular choices. You will find green bikes you can rent for the day along the coastline & city center. Please, be very careful! Israel and Tel Aviv are not designed for bikes, and bike paths are limited.
Another more spontaneous care-free way of getting around the city is using the electrical steps scattered throughout Tel Aviv's city center.

Note: Driving and especially parking in Tel Aviv can be a real nightmare. I recommend avoiding it!

How long should I stay in Tel Aviv? Tel Aviv may not be huge, however, it has so many things worth seeing. I would recommend if possible to spend at least 4 full days.

Is Tel Aviv an expensive city? Well, it's certainly not cheap. Having said that, costs will also depend on your personal choices and style of traveling. There are always ways to keep your expenses down.

Pro Travel Tips for Israel

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What Should You See And Do In Tel Aviv?

Where Are The Trendy Restaurants You Must Eat At?
Let's Go!

All roads lead to the beach! Wander through the Port of Tel Aviv. You'll find boutiques here, pretty restaurants offering glorious views of the Mediterranean Sea, and an indoor farmer’s market selling delicacies. From here walk to my favorite beach called Mezizim Beach. There are beach amenities, a bar restaurant, and an atmosphere. Perfect for watching the sunset.

Go on a food tasting tour through the Carmel Market: Shuk Hacarmel is probably the most famous of all of Tel Aviv's markets. There is so much color, charm, and character here! Having a stroll through is a must!
You'll find different stands in the market selling everything you can think of ~ Fruit and veg, clothes, accessories, Judaica, and MORE. In between these stands and branching out to the smaller alleys of the market, you will find delicious small market restaurants cooking cuisines from around the world.

Think Mediterranean, Mexican, Georgian, and Greek to name a few. I promise you that this will be an outside-the-box culinary experience!

Take a surf lesson at Beach club TLV: After burning some calories on the water have drinks and bites on the beach. They have a delicious menu (I love their sushi), music, and a beach boutique.

Walk on one of the most charming streets of Tel Aviv; Dizengoff Street: Window shopping, unique old-fashioned stores you won't see anywhere else, and cafes to stop and have a pit stop at.
Walk all the way to the iconic Dizengoff Square, where you can relax around the fountain and even have a picnic on the grass. There are great restaurants located around the square.
Sit on Dizengoff Square and feel as if you're in Paris!

Top 3 restaurants around Dizengoff Square:
La Shuk:This is an authentic Mediterranean restaurant serving a tasty menu featuring fresh local ingredients. Great vibes too!
Cafe Cucu:A retro bar offering a European culinary experience.
Bonsai Sushi Shop: Beautiful sushi and unique combinations.

Tel Aviv is an outdoor city so go wander and explore!

Treat yourself to a rooftop spa in the Nordoy Hotel: Do it urban style! On the rooftop, you can enjoy fab views of the city and Nachlat Binyamin below. You have a jacuzzi, a sundeck, a supply of Cava, and a small spa with a treatment room for two. What else would you need, right?

Enjoy a walk through Rothschild Bulavard: This green lung is situated in the heart of the city. Here you can see renovated Bauhaus buildings and lots of beautiful green.
Stop to have traditional Israeli Hummus and falafel with the locals, it's YUM!

If you're in the mood for Italian cuisine then don't miss out on these two hotspots! Reservations in advance are a must!
Have lunch at Magazzino and try their famous lemon pie for dessert.
Have dinner at Cicchetti, where the atmosphere is fab, the food is divine and the service matches it all. Aim to sit at one of the tables outside on the pavement for the maximum Tel Aviv vibe.

For sushi lovers, TYO is the place to be! Combine it with a walk through the artistic neighborhood of Neve Zedek.

Are you staying long enough in Israel to explore outside of Tel Aviv?

Check out these posts!

The best hiking trails in Israel PLUS gear guide

6 X Best Cities To Visit In Israel ~ An Insider's Guide

Tel Aviv travel guides

Jerusalem travel guide

How To Make The Most Of Your 72-hours In...Eilat!

Before we say goodbye, don’t forget to follow me on social media for more inspiring and valuable travel content ~ @mytrendytrail

Yours,

Diti