Things To Do
in Tel Aviv-Yafo

Tel Aviv-Yafo is a fast-paced Mediterranean city known for its golden beaches, Bauhaus architecture, and vibrant tech-driven culture. It sits along the white-sand shoreline, blending the modern, cosmopolitan beach scene with the ancient port of Jaffa. The city thrives on cafe culture, nightlife, and a creative arts scene that welcomes locals and visitors alike.

Its neighborhoods range from the historic alleys of Jaffa to the stylish boulevards of Sarona and the White City, a UNESCO-listed example of modernist architecture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ancient port city of Jaffa, where you can wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the stunning Mediterranean views. Explore the Jaffa Flea Market, where local artisans sell handmade crafts and antiques. Don't forget to stop by the iconic Jaffa Clock Tower for some great photo opportunities.

afternoon
:

After lunch at one of Jaffa's seaside cafes, head over to the Ilana Goor Museum, showcasing contemporary art and historic artifacts. Spend some time at the beautiful Jaffa Port, where you can watch fishermen at work and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. As the afternoon winds down, stroll along the waterfront promenade towards Tel Aviv and soak in the lively beach vibes.

evening
:

In the evening, dine at a renowned seafood restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, indulging in fresh local dishes. After dinner, explore the nightlife scene in Jaffa, where bars and music venues come alive with local talent. Cap off the night with a stroll along the beach, enjoying the sound of waves and the cool evening breeze.

day 2
Art and Culture in Tel Aviv
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, where you can explore an impressive collection of contemporary and classical art. Take your time to appreciate both Israeli and international artists, including works by Van Gogh and Picasso. The museum's architecture is also a sight to behold, blending modern design with the city's vibrant spirit.

afternoon
:

After a lunch break at the museum cafe, make your way to the Neve Tzedek neighborhood, one of Tel Aviv's oldest districts known for its charming streets and boutique shops. Visit the Suzanne Dellal Center, a hub for dance and performing arts, where you might catch a rehearsal or workshop. Enjoy some coffee at a local café while you admire the beautiful architecture around you.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a trendy restaurant in Neve Tzedek that offers a fusion of Israeli and Mediterranean cuisine. After dining, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Rothschild Boulevard, known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful gardens. End your night at a rooftop bar, where you can sip cocktails while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$3-6
🚆One-way public transport$1-3
🍷Three-course mid-range restaurant$25-45
🏖️Beach day (chair/umbrella rental)$0-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Vibrant beach culture and nightlife
  • World-class food scene and walkable neighborhoods
  • Diverse architecture and historic Jaffa
  • Strong startup vibe and cultural events
  • High cost of living
  • Can be crowded and touristy in peak season
  • "שלום" - Hello/Peace
  • "תודה" - Thank you
  • "בבקשה" - Please/You're welcome
  • "כן" - Yes
  • "לא" - No
  • "איפה השירותים?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Tel Aviv-Yafo

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Jaffa Port

A historic harbor with orange-toned houses, blue boats, and atmospheric light for golden-hour shots.

Dizengoff Street & White City Bauhaus Architecture

A UNESCO-listed area with clean lines, white façades, and striking modernist buildings.

Tel Aviv Promenade (Tayelet)

Long beachfront path from Jaffa to north Tel Aviv—great for sunrise and sunset photography.

Rabin Square & City Skyline

A hub of city life with notable modern towers and a vibrant street scene.

Neve Tzedek Streets

Cobblestone lanes, colorful doors, and boutique storefronts perfect for candid photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tel Aviv-Yafo

Tel Aviv’s cuisine is a dynamic Israeli-Mediterranean fusion built around fresh produce, hummus, falafel, and street-food delights, with many vegetarian and vegan options.

Tel Aviv-Yafo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shakshuka

A tomato-pepper sauce with eggs, served with bread or pita, a staple breakfast and brunch dish.

Must-Try!

Sabich

Pita stuffed with fried eggplant, hard-boiled egg, salads, and tahini, a popular street-food classic.

Falafel

Crispy chickpea croquettes served in pita with tahini, pickles, and salads.

Hummus

Creamy chickpea dip often served with warm pita and toppings like olive oil, paprika, and ful (fava beans) side.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shuk HaCarmel (Carmel Market)

Vibrant market with produce, spices, street food, and casual eateries.

Levinsky Market

A spice and pulse market known for Middle Eastern specialties and flavorful snacks.

Nachlat Binyamin Arts & Crafts Market

Street stalls with crafts, food and live music on Fridays.

Climate Guide

Weather

The city has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Spring and autumn are pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities, while summer requires sun protection and hydration. Sea breezes temper the heat along the coast, but humidity can rise during peak months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress and behavior

Tel Aviv is liberal; casual dress is common, but modesty in religious sites is appreciated; social interactions are direct and friendly.

Greetings and communication

Handshakes are common; use Hebrew phrases when possible; be patient in markets and queues.

Photography etiquette

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in traditional neighborhoods.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tel Aviv-Yafo is generally safe for travelers, though common-sense precautions apply in crowded markets and nightlife areas. Watch belongings in busy places and avoid isolated spots at night. In case of emergencies, dial 101 for Magen David Adom; police and ambulance services respond rapidly.

Tipping in Tel Aviv-Yafo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary unless service is included; many people round up taxis; small tips to hotel staff.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common; cash is still used in markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures, blooming jacarandas, great for outdoor markets and walking tours.

Summer

Hot and sunny; stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan visits for early mornings or late evenings at the beach.

Autumn

Warm days with cooler nights; ideal for strolling neighborhoods and outdoor dining.

Winter

Milder, with occasional rain; sea swimming is rare but beaches are atmospheric.

Nightlife Guide

Tel Aviv-Yafo at Night

Tel Aviv earns its reputation as the region’s nightlife capital, with a dense mix of bars, clubs, live music venues, and beachside venues. Popular districts include the port area, Florentin, and Neve Tzedek, where you can find casual lounges and late-night eateries. The city blends international DJs with local acts, and the vibe ranges from refined rooftop spots to gritty speakeasies. Expect long nights that often start after 10 pm and run into the early hours, especially on weekends.

Hiking in Tel Aviv-Yafo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yarkon Park & River Trails

Offers paved paths, lakes, and wooded trails ideal for easy hikes and cycling.

Old Jaffa hillside viewpoints

Gentle trails near the old city walls with sea views and historic architecture.

Airports

How to reach Tel Aviv-Yafo by plane.

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)

Primary international gateway to Tel Aviv; from the airport, trains and taxis provide quick access to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tel Aviv-Yafo is highly walkable in central and beachfront areas, with pedestrian-friendly promenades and dense neighborhoods. Some older parts of Jaffa and hills add minor elevation changes. The city’s public transit, including buses and light rail, complements walking well.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Diversity in residents

Tel Aviv-Yafo is diverse: secular Jews, immigrants, expats, and a growing Arab minority in Yafo; LGBTQ+ friendly city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv are popular clubs; games draw large crowds.

Basketball and beach sports

Basketball leagues and beach volleyball are common; beachgoers enjoy matkot (beach paddleball).

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy during rush hours; the city has a growing network of buses and a light rail; ride-hailing and taxis are widely available. Parking can be challenging in central areas; consider using public transit or bike-share options where possible.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tel Aviv-Yafo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Tel Aviv has abundant vegetarian and vegan options; look for veggie-forward menus, ask for 'vegetarian' or 'pareve,' and enjoy fresh produce, salads, and spreads.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Israel provides high-quality healthcare; residents are covered by national health insurance, with private options available. In Tel Aviv, you’ll find major hospitals such as Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov), Assuta, and various clinics. For emergencies, dial 101 (Magen David Adom).

Discover Israel

Read more in our Israel 2025 Travel Guide.

Israel Travel Guide