Things To Do
in Hod HaSharon
Hod HaSharon is a leafy suburb in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area, blending residential neighborhoods with parks, schools, and local shops. Just north-east of Tel Aviv, it serves as a comfortable base for families and visitors seeking a relaxed pace while remaining within reach of major urban amenities. The city is well-connected by roads and public transit, making day trips to beaches and nature easy.
With a mild Mediterranean climate and plenty of green spaces, Hod HaSharon offers a convenient gateway to the broader Sharon plain and central Israel.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Hod HaSharon Historic Center, where you can stroll through its charming streets lined with beautifully preserved architecture. Visit the local museum to learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring traditional Israeli pastries and coffee.
After lunch, head to the nearby parks, such as the Park of Peace, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk or a bike ride amidst lush greenery. Take some time to relax by the water features and maybe have a picnic with fresh local produce. As the sun begins to set, capture the stunning views of the city from the park.
For dinner, explore a local restaurant known for serving authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Indulge in dishes like shawarma or falafel while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the dining area. After dinner, take a stroll through the vibrant streets, perhaps stopping for gelato or a drink at a local bar.
Begin your day at the local market, where you can immerse yourself in the daily life of Hod HaSharon. Browse through stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and handmade crafts while chatting with friendly vendors. Make sure to sample local delicacies, such as freshly baked bread or sweet pastries.
After exploring the market, take a short walk to a nearby art gallery showcasing local artists. Spend your afternoon admiring the unique pieces and perhaps even purchasing a souvenir. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, where you can try some traditional Israeli dishes made with ingredients from the market.
As evening approaches, head to a local theater or cultural center to catch a performance or an art exhibition. Engaging with the local artistic community will give you a deeper appreciation for Hod HaSharon’s vibrant culture. End your day with dinner at a restaurant known for its innovative takes on classic Israeli dishes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week for two | $60-120 |
| 🚆Public transport (one-way) | $1.50-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient access to Tel Aviv and central Israel
- Strong family-friendly amenities and parks
- Good public transit links and walkable neighborhoods
- Relaxed pace with a safe, suburban feel
- Nightlife is limited within the city itself; options are in nearby cities
- Summer heat can be intense; plan outdoor activities accordingly
- "Shalom" - Hello / Peace
- "Toda" - Thank you
- "Bevakasha" - Please / You're welcome
- "Ken" - Yes
- "Lo" - No
- "Ani medaber ivrit me'at" - I speak a little Hebrew
- "Slicha" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Lehitraot" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Hod HaSharon
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide pedestrian avenues and storefronts framed by early-evening light, great for street photography and candid city scenes.
Tree-lined pathways and open lawns with seasonal flowers; ideal for sunset shots and family photography.
A riverside landscape with bridges and water vistas; strong lines and reflections make for dynamic landscape photos.
Quiet streets and architecture that showcase modern Israeli suburbia, perfect for architectural and lifestyle photography.
Food in Hod HaSharon
Hod HaSharon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Eggs poached in a spicy tomato-pepper sauce, commonly enjoyed for breakfast or a light lunch; look for it in many cafes around Hod HaSharon.
Must-Try!
Pita stuffed with fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, salads, and tahini, a popular street-time staple nearby and in Tel Aviv area eateries.
Crunchy falafel balls served in pita with fresh salad and tahini; widely available at casual eateries and street food spots.
Skewered meat with vegetables, often accompanied by fresh salads and bread at casual grills and local taverns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce stalls and ready-to-eat street foods, especially on market days; great for sampling seasonal fruits, olives, and bakery goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; address people by first name after a brief introduction. Direct eye contact is appreciated.
Casual but neat clothing is typical; modest dress is respectful in religious sites. In conversation, Israelis are usually direct and expressive.
Tipping and sharing dishes are common; try to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. When visiting homes, bringing a small gift is thoughtful.
Safety
Tipping in Hod HaSharon
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants a tip of about 10-15% is customary if service is not included. It’s common to round up taxi fares and tip hotel staff modestly for daily service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash in local currency (New Israeli Shekel, NIS) is still useful for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees and flowers; ideal for walking and outdoor photography. Expect a mix of sunny days and occasional showers.
Hot and dry, with temperatures often rising into the 80s-90s °F (27-35°C). Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
Warm days and cooler evenings; great for outdoor markets, city strolls, and nature walks without the peak heat.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; comfortable for city exploration, indoor cultural venues, and lush greenery after rains.
Hod HaSharon at Night
Hiking in Hod HaSharon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible network of trails along the Yarkon River and nearby green spaces, offering scenic water views and easy-to-moderate hikes.
Gentle coastal and inland nature routes within a short drive, suitable for day trips and family adventures.
Airports
How to reach Hod HaSharon by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about a 20-40 minute drive from Hod HaSharon depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families attracted by good schools, parks, and a safe suburban environment.
Many residents travel to Tel Aviv or other employment centers within the metropolitan area for work.
Proximity to universities and colleges in the greater Tel Aviv area brings a steady student presence.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved sport across communities; local clubs and school teams provide regular matches and youth programs.
Accessible in community centers and local clubs; common as a recreational sport and youth activity.
Public pools and club swimming are popular during the hot months and for summer programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hod HaSharon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafes and eateries offer vegetarian versions of shakshuka, falafel-based plates, salads, and veggie-driven mains. Look for exchangeable sides like hummus, tahini, and stuffed vegetables; ask for salt or spice adjustments if needed.