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City guide - Tel Aviv, Israel
Tel Aviv is a city that never stops moving, and that’s probably because there’s just so much to experience: great food, vibrant night life, relaxing beaches and stunning views. If you’re seeking a destination with ‘round the clock action, Tel Aviv won’t disappoint!
Tipping: It is customary to leave a 12-15% tip in restaurants.
Popular Accommodations
Transportation from Ben Gurion Airport
Train
Israel Railways operates the Ben Gurion Airport Railway to Tel Aviv and other destinations. You can take the train from the ground level in Terminal 3.
Bus
As a longer and more expensive option, the bus is not your best bet for traveling from the airport to the city center. Should you choose it, you can take the 5/5A line from Terminal 3 to El Al junction. You will then need to switch to the 475 or 500 line to get to Tel Aviv-Yafo New Central Bus Station. You can plan your trip from El Al junction here.
| Cost |
about 17.50 NIS |
| Trip Duration |
approximately 50 minutes |
| Hours |
5:00 am to 10:30 pm except on Saturdays and Jewish holidays |
Taxi
The airport’s taxi stand is located on the ground level of Terminal 3. You can register with the attendant if there is a line.
| Cost |
Cost depends on destination and time of day. Enter your information here for an estimate. |
| Trip Duration |
20-30 minutes, depending on traffic |
Transportation Companies
You can pre-book the following shuttle services online: here
Metzitzim Beach
With sandy toes and salty hair, the beach is the perfect place to experience Tel Aviv like a local. Take a break from life in soft sand and clear water, and just breathe. Metzitzim Beach’s facilities include bed,chair and parasol rentals, as well as showers. The area around the beach is worth exploring, too, with plenty of restaurants and cafes should you work up an appetite. We recommend grabbing a table just before sundown for some hummus, falafel and drinks. And don't forget to order the watermelon with feta, the favorite summer snack of Israelis. This family-friendly beach (There’s a playground nearby!) is close to Tel Aviv Port and parking facilities.
Sarona Market
Israel's largest indoor culinary market is located right in the heart of Tel Aviv, offering up a mix of traditional and contemporary with a whole host of flavors. Food stalls within sell everything from freshly ground tahini, spices, fish, meat and produce to halva, juices, wine, beer, handmade pastries, gelato, gourmet cheeses and more. You’ll also find stores selling home goods, kitchen supplies and gifts. The market is indoors and air-conditioned, a perfect escape from the heat amid the many colors, tastes and scents. Sarona Market gets very busy on weekends and holidays, but if the indoor market is too crowded for you, step outside to enjoy the many shops and restaurants around. There’s even a small park where you can have a picnic. The entire Sarona area is steeped in history, and we recommend taking a tour to hear all about it.
Old Tel Aviv Port
There’s always something doing in this beautifully restored and newly trendy area, also known as the Namal. Here you’ll find shops, cafes and restaurants, all with a gorgeous view to the sea. Stroll the boardwalk during the day to see the sun glistening on the water, enjoy a truly special sunset come evening, or enjoy the nighttime’s buzzy atmosphere. An indoor farmers market full of food stands and restaurants is one of the Namal’s highlights, a spot for dining out or buying high-quality, fresh ingredients. The port area can get quite crowded in the high season, especially on weekends and holidays, so visit midweek if you can.
Dizengoff Street
Always bustling, Dizengoff street is home to some of Tel Aviv’s best cafes, restaurants, bars and boutiques. Towards the end of the street (itself a shopper’s paradise), you’ll find the Dizengoff Center shopping mall and a colorful Agam sculpture, a historic landmark. Visit Dizengoff day or night to experience the pulse of the city.
Jaffa Flea Market (Shuk HaPishpeshim)
Located next to Jaffa's old city and the ancient clock tower, this charming market is the perfect combination of old and new. Check out the wide variety of antiques, handmade pieces and secondhand items on offer for a glimpse into the past. Then, explore the bars, restaurants, shops and cafes of the surrounding neighborhood for a taste of the modern. To experience the area like a local, enjoy a cold beer and some snacks at Shafa Bar, or visit Italkiya Bapishpishim for delicious Italian street food. The market is open Sunday through Friday from morning through early evening.
Neve Tzedek & HaTachana
This charming neighborhood near the beach is a piece of old Tel Aviv, with a distinct atmosphere at once historic and trendy. As Tel Aviv’s very first neighborhood, Neve Tzedek has been artfully restored to preserve its historic character, with striking architecture and a bevy of photo opportunities. Its narrow, winding streets are filled with independent boutiques and local art galleries, as well as high-end restaurants, intimate cafes and bars, and one of the city’s best gelato spots, Anita on Shabazi Street.
Once you’ve finished exploring Neve Tzedek, take a short walk to HaTachana, home to the historic Jaffa Railway Station, the first in the Middle East. Today, HaTachana has been restored to offer a variety of restaurants, bars, shops, art shows and public events amid the train station’s charming setting. The locals love Vicky-Cristina, a tapas and wine bar with lovely outdoor dining and delectable food.
Florentin
Many refer to Florentine, in the southern part of the city, as Tel Aviv’s SoHo. Known as the home to Tel Aviv hipsters and the city’s best urban street art, it has become wildly popular with young people in recent years thanks to its lively bars, restaurants and nightlife. Don't miss the Levinsky Market (Shuk Levinsky) located on Levinsky Street between the central bus station and Florentine. Lesser known among tourists, the market is one of the city’s most popular among locals and offers a glimpse of authentic Tel Aviv life, especially on busy Friday afternoons. Enjoy sampling street food, shop for fresh spices, and pick up quality delicacies for great prices.
Old North
The Old North area usually refers to the neighborhood north of Basel Street running to Yarkon Park. It has evolved over the last few years from a quiet residential area to a bustling hub, with plenty of Tel Aviv hot spots located within. Populated mostly by young people, the Old North is home to many bars, shops, restaurants, cafés and nightlife.
Yarkon/Boardwalk
Recently renovated, Tel Aviv’s boardwalk is ideal for a seaside stroll, jog or bike ride. It’s centrally located for access to some of the city’s best restaurants, bars and cafes—but with this kind of view, the only place you’ll want to be is on the beach.
Jaffa’s Old city
Wind down Jaffa’s old, narrow alleyways and past its ancient buildings to be transported back in time for a unique cultural experience amid spectacular ocean views. Exploring the neighborhood’s galleries, antique shops, boutiques, restaurants and bars is a must when visiting Tel Aviv. Don't miss the vibrant Jaffa Port for its many tasty dining options, striking marina setting and vibrant antiques market.
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