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TEL AVIV BLOG: A DETAILED LOCAL’S GUIDE TO VISITING TEL AVIV ITINERARY

ByRachel Shulman | On July 26,24 | 6 Comments

I lived in Tel Aviv in both 2015 and early 2019, and as of October 2019, now live here full-time (still current as of 2024!) and it is, without a doubt, my favorite city in the entire world. Tel Aviv has anything you want in a vacation or living environment; beaches, history, nightlife, food scene and walking distance to everything. The zest for life that Tel Avivians, and Israelis in general (more on that in my Israel Travel Blog here) have is nothing like I have ever seen. I could talk about Tel Aviv all day everyday, but I tried to keep this Tel Aviv blog somewhat condensed. Generally when people visit Israel they only spend 2 or 3 days visiting Tel Aviv but I would argue you need AT LEAST 5 days in a Tel Aviv itinerary to immerse yourself in the bustling city. Keep reading for the ideal Tel Aviv itinerary.

Disclosure: This Tel Aviv travel blog may contain affiliate links. I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As always, all opinions are my own and I would never post about something I have not personally used/verified.

Tel Aviv Blog: Tel Aviv Travel Tips

For all of my Israel travel tips head to my Israel travel blog here (and there are a lot of tips).
The main airport in Tel Aviv (and in the whole country of Israel) is Ben Gurion Airport (TLV). Train and Taxi are your two options to get to the city.
- A taxi is my go-to to get to Tel Aviv from the airport. The airport is about a 25 minute ride to the city of Tel Aviv and should be around ~150-170 shekels normally, and around ~190-200 shekels on Shabbat/middle of the night. It is easier to get one directly from the taxi line as soon as you exit the airport and turn left to the authorized taxi lines. Do NOT go with anyone who comes up to you and says they are a taxi. You have to download the Gett Taxi app (more details later) to get the taxi and then you can pay by card in the app or with cash.
- You can also take the train which is a direct train to any of Tel Aviv’s 3 train stations, however the stations are on the border of Tel Aviv meaning you will have to then take a taxi or bus to your accommodation. The train is a cheaper alternative from the airport for sure, but keep in mind on the location of where your accommodation is.
- If you are just visiting Tel Aviv I do not suggest renting a car in Israel as parking is hard to come by in Tel Aviv and you do NOT need a car by any means for any Tel Aviv activity. However, if you are exploring the country of Israel (which I suggest, duh) then read my Israel car rental guide on my country guide here.
Download Gett app. Gett was made in Israel and is the primary way to get around Tel Aviv and Israel in general. They do not use Uber or Lyft in Israel so Gett makes it super easy. Gett just uses taxis in Tel Aviv but it makes it easier because you can pay by credit card. Speaking of which…
Cabs in Tel Aviv will either give you a set price to your destination within the city or you can choose meter when you get in. I always would choose meter (if I don’t use Gett) because they will rip you off. ESPECIALLY if you are speaking in English and they know you don’t live there. Always do meter. Also most cabs do not accept credit cards, it’s cash only, which is why I like having Gett!
Download Bird or Lime: Scooters are huge in Tel Aviv and one of our main way of transportations. There are bike lanes on almost every street now and the scooters come with helmets.
TRAVEL INSURANCE: Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world. We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Tel Aviv Packing Tips: Tel Aviv is HOT and HUMID in the summer and mild in the winter. It can always be beach weather, even in winter. Sunscreen is an absolute must during any visit to Israel. My favorite face sunscreen ever is this Sunbum stick (buy here). I think I own 5 of them and they last forever. They’re the best for travel since its solid too! For more of my fave packing items I bring on any trip compiled together, head to my influencer page on Amazon here for a complete list or my descriptive carry-on packing guide here or my favorite travel gear here or the best travel items you need under $20!

TEL AVIV ITINERARY: THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN TEL AVIV ISRAEL

Shuk HaCarmel (Carmel Market)

A MUST! The famous Shuk HaCarmel (open-air market) in Tel Aviv is by far one of the best things to do in Tel Aviv and the number one spot not to miss on a Tel Aviv Itinerary. Come to the Tel Aviv Shuk HaCarmel (Carmel Market) any day of the week to shop for anything you could ever think of (clothes, home goods, antiques, candy, falafel, hummus, fruits) and the freshest produce and food. I urge you to try the food in the Shuk, specifically: strawberries (in winter), falafel and halva. Some of the best restaurants are also on the OUTSKIRTS of the Shuk so make sure to weave in and out of the alleys, too, not just the main road! This is also where you will find all of your tourist gifts you could ever want to buy to bring home (IDF sweatshirts, evil eye and hamsa bracelets, keychains and more). I also HIGHLY suggest taking a food tour when visiting the Shuk to really immerse yourself in the history of the Shuk and each of the food stalls. Delicious Israel runs the best food tours I highly recommend (have done it twice!), you can read my review on the tour lower in this guide!

A true local Tel Aviv experience is going to the Shuk on Friday morning right before Shabbat when it is bustling and beyond crowded. Also spending all day here on Fridays is the thing to do – have a drink at one of the many spots on the alleys of the Shuk and people watch until sundown.

TEL AVIV INSIDER TIP: Negotiating the price of what you’re buying is a 100% must at the Tel Aviv Carmel Market! They will always come down.
TEL AVIV INSIDER TIP: If you are a looking to buy produce and food, the farther down in the Shuk you go towards the end, the cheaper the price.
TEL AVIV INSIDER TIP: If you are walking on the outskirts of the Shuk and see the floor is RED, that means you are in the meat section!

Walk (or scooter) the Tel Aviv Promenade (Tayelet)

Walk the whole length of the Tel Aviv Boardwalk (better known as the Tayelet, which technically translates to Promenade). The Tel Aviv Tayelet stretches all the way from the port of Tel Aviv (the Namal) in the North of Tel Aviv all the way down to Jaffa in the South along the Mediterranean Sea. The Tayelet is such a gorgeous place to run, bike, scooter or walk and, for obvious reasons, has the best sunset views. This is one of my top things to do in Tel Aviv every single day. I could walk along the Tayelet forever. Scooters (or Korkinet in Hebrew) have also become wildly popular thanks to Lime, Bird and Wind definitely rent one and ride up and down (in the bike lanes!!).

Jaffa (Yafo)

Jaffa (Yafo) is the southern tip and oldest area of Tel Aviv. It is an absolute must-visit to add into your Tel Aviv itinerary travel time as the history is tremendous and shows a different side of Tel Aviv. You need to spend a good part of a full day visiting Jaffa and all that it has to offer especially since it is also up and coming (there are THREE new luxury hotels that have opened in the past year (18/19). While visiting Yafo, you should do the following:

Walk around the Jaffa Port.
Get lost in the Jaffa cobblestone alleys up and down from the Port to the top while stopping in cute boutique stores.
Shop at the Jaffa Flea Market (Shuk HaPushPashim) (my favorite name ever). Here you will find everything from antiques, jewelry, furniture and more.
See: the Zodiac Fountain, the Gate Of Faith and the Jaffa Clocktower.
Eat at a Middle Eastern restaurant with lots of small plates (see below for my recommendations).
Head to Abu Hassan for the voted best hummus in Tel Aviv (but get there as early as possible because they close as soon as they run out (usually near 2pm) since they make it daily!).
Walk to the top of the hill from the bottom and turn around to see the stunning views of the Tel Aviv skyline.
Walk across the Wishing Bridge and find your astrological sign, hold it and ask for a wish and it will come true!
Favorite Jaffa Restaurants to stop at for lunch include Puaa and Beit Kandinof!

Related Post: One Day In Dubai Itinerary

Shuk Levinsky (Levinsky Market)

Levinsky Market is another one of the best things to do during your Tel Aviv travels that, in all honesty, most people do not get to on their first visit to Tel Aviv but should. A lot of people focus on the beaches and the Carmel Market BUT Levinsky Market should be on EVERYONE’s Tel Aviv itinerary! Levinsky Market Tel Aviv is one of the oldest markets in the country and is located in Florentin (more on Florentin later) and is totally different than the Carmel Market. Shuk Levinsky is a market dedicated to Israeli spices, nuts and fruits as well as popular Turkish and Greek foods (there are two different sides of the street for each of these). It is one of the much more popular local things to do in Tel Aviv (why I love it) and open-air. You won’t find tourist souvenirs here. I also HIGHLY suggest doing a Food Tour in Levinsky Market (more on that in Food Tour section below).

Some of my favorite spots and foods you must try in Levinsky Market are: Levinsky 41 (Cafe Levinsky) for a Gazoz Drink (flavored fresh soda water with an Israeli twist), Yom Tov Deli for olives and vegetables (get the hibiscus flower wrapped goat cheese it is insane), Halva Magic for Halva, duh, Burekas Penso for amazing Burekas and Saluf & Sons for Yemenite Kubaneh.

Rabin Square

[As of 2023 Rabin Square is under construction for the new metro line so you may have to walk a bit farther and in between streets to find the memorial] Rabin Square (Kikar Rabin) is probably the most famous square in Tel Aviv and is largely historical. It is a big square in Tel Aviv on one of the main streets, Ibn Gabirol. Most importantly, you must check out the Rabin Memorial Monument at the edge of the square which has an exact replication of how Yitzhak Rabin’s assassination was carried out in 1995. It is incredibly somber and powerful to see the exact movements of this terrorist act and how it occurred. Rabin Square is also extremely lively at nighttime as there are tons of shows and events for various holidays and also peaceful protests are held here often whenever there is something to protest about in Israel (which is often)!

Rothschild Boulevard

Rothschild Boulevard is Tel Aviv’s oldest street and by far the prettiest street in Tel Aviv. It is lined with trees in the middle and has walking/biking paths. It is such a gorgeous and historical street to walk around. If you walk to the end of it (South) you’ll get to Florentin and the Neve Tzedek neighborhoods and on the other side (North) all the way at Kikar Habima (Habima Square), near Dizengoff Center. At the top of it (South) there is a tourist booth where you can take a DIY walking tour pamphlet to read while walking down Rothschild and it will tell you some important facts as you’re walking! There’s a metal strip down the street how its Independence Road. Rothschild is also a hub for Tel Aviv’s famous nightlife with a ton of bars and clubs lining the street on the South end.

Independence Hall

Tel Aviv Independence Hall is one of the only historical museum-type spots most people visit on Israel tours. It is a must-go just for the history lesson of Israel becoming a country and its independence. It is on Rothschild Boulevard and you really only need less than an hour here.

Related Post: Israel Country Travel Guide

Tel Aviv Port (Namal)

Namal translates to port and this is in the Old North of Tel Aviv. It is the main port of Tel Aviv (and Israel) and you can walk around it. There are a lot of nice restaurants, bars and clubs on the Namal as well with great outdoor seating. There are also a ton of stores to shop at. Definitely suggest walking around the Namal for part of a day. There are always people walking, running or biking around here and the Namal at night is beyond lively.

Tel Aviv Beaches & Sunsets

Obviously the main Tel Aviv point of interest to tourists are the beaches! The beaches of Tel Aviv are some of the best in the world and stretches a vast NINE miles and you can find different types of beaches (13 of them!) for all interests. Tel Aviv sits right on the Mediterranean Sea and this long coast also gives way to some of the best sunsets since it faces West. One of my favorite things to do is sit at the Tel Aviv beach restaurants (like LaLaLand, Calypso, Hilton Beach) and order watermelon and feta and a bottle of rosé. Watermelon is Israel’s summer fruit and you will see everyone eating it on the beach! My personal favorite Tel Aviv beach is Gordon Beach which is right by the Sheraton Hotel and has LaLaLand restaurant right on it. It also has lots of umbrellas, chairs, right in the center of the city and great food.

Some of the best Tel Aviv beaches to people watch are Gordon Beach (LaLaLand restaurant is one of the better beach restaurants), Frischman Beach (a lot of French people head here), the Dog Beach (aptly named), Hilton Bay Beach (the new up and coming trendier beach) and Banana Beach. You can’t go wrong anywhere. You can just walk on to any beach wherever you are staying closest to as well! You don’t need passes as they’re not private.
You can buy a lounge chair for 16 shekels (~$5), a regular chair for 6 shekels (~$2) and an umbrella for 18 shekels (~$6). You have to buy them at the machines attached to each beach restaurant building. The beaches in Tel Aviv are amazing and I urge you to camp out there for more than one day of your trip to relax. And watch the Tel Aviv sunsets. They never ever get old.

Shopping in Tel Aviv

There is SO much good shopping in Tel Aviv. Head to Sheinkin Street for the most trendy street with the best boutique shopping in Tel Aviv. Head to Dizengoff Street, one of the main streets in the city that is lined with stores and a million restaurants and bars. Make sure to walk on Dizengoff Square right in the center, it was just recently reopened after being refurbished in 2019! Head to Neve Tzedek for the most upscale and expensive shopping in Tel Aviv. One of my FAVORITE spots to shop & one of the best things to do in Tel Aviv is to go to Nachlat Binyamin Street (next to the Carmel Market) on Tuesdays and Fridays. There is an outdoor market on these days with stands set up by local artists and designers selling their goods. It is the BEST local Tel Aviv shopping and I have bought so many gifts and home decor and pieces here. A must.

Sarona Market

Sarona Market is somewhat new (<5 years) and is in Central Tel Aviv. It’s basically a food complex and is a bunch of great food/snack places, drinks and shops to check out and just walk around during the day. It reminds me of Chelsea Market in NYC. The Market is an indoor complex with a bunch of spots to choose from and then surrounding the indoor market there is a HUGE outdoor space with more shops and restaurants. It’s a really popular lunch spot since it’s near a lot of Tel Aviv offices. There are about 90 stalls inside so take your time choosing what to eat!

Florentin and Neve Tzedek Neighborhoods

Florentin is a hipster neighborhood in Tel Aviv mostly known for their street art/graffiti (and also Levinsky Market, above). If you are a street art person definitely walk around Florentin Tel Aviv and get lost looking at the amazing Tel Aviv street art! Neve Tzedek is the most chic and trendiest (and most expensive) neighborhood of Tel Aviv. It’s home to some of the most posh stores and restaurants as well. The cobblestone streets of Neve Tzedek make it my favorite though. The main street to walk along in Neve Tzedek is Shabazi Street. You also must stop at Anita’s and have their famous gelato here.

HaTachana

The HaTachana (translates to train station) is an area near Neve Tzedek that used to be an old train station! They repurposed it to be a really cute complex to walk around with a bunch of stores, bars and restaurants! It’s pretty cool how they built this area on top of old tracks and some of the trendiest restaurants and bars in Tel Aviv are in the HaTachana.

HaYarkon Park

HaYarkon Park is in the North of Tel Aviv. My favorite part of the park is that it’s not a tourist destination at all; you’ll almost solely find Tel Aviv locals here. You can find people kayaking on the Yarkon River, walking around the parks and playing sports throughout. The botanical gardens and large concert venues here also make for a great setting for any activity. The park was one of my favorite places to go during my spare time and is a true Tel Aviv local spot.

Related Post: Day Trips From Tel Aviv

Where To Eat In Tel Aviv

One of the best things to do in Tel Aviv is EAT! I am so beyond obsessed with the Tel Aviv food I plan my trips and itineraries around where I am eating in Tel Aviv! I have FINALLLLY finished my MASSIVE beyond massive Food Guide to Tel Aviv. After 10+ visits and living here three times, I know my Tel Aviv food. In the guide, I go in depth into all the cuisines, where to eat for any type of meal you may be craving and more. You can literally find ANYTHING you want to eat in Tel Aviv and this Tel Aviv food guide has it all. I listed a few of the best below in case you are skimming quickly but I highly recommend you read the full guide so you find your perfect spots for your Tel Aviv itinerary.

Visit my massive FULL FOOD IN TEL AVIV GUIDE here!

Best breakfast/brunches: Café Xoho, Bucke Cafe and Yom Tov Cafe
Best street food lunch: HaKosem, Jasmino, Shlomo v Doron, Hummus Abu Hassan, HaShomer 1
Best dinner spots: HaBasta, North Abraxas, Abie, Old Man & The Sea, Ha’Achim, Port Sa’id and La Shuk
Best sweets: Anita Gelato, Tamara and Arte Cafe

Again, visit my massive FULL FOOD IN TEL AVIV GUIDE here!

BONUS: Tel Aviv Food Tour

If you know me at all you know I try to do food tour’s in every city I visit in order to really immerse myself in their cuisine and culture. If you also couldn’t tell from the above, I am beyond obsessed with Israeli food and specifically the Tel Aviv food scene. So when I found Delicious Israel Food Tours during my time living there in 2019, I could NOT pass up the opportunity on taking this tour. I can honestly, whole-heartedly say this was the ABSOLUTE BEST food tour I have EVER taken. This is THE way to eat Tel Aviv. And I am saying that as someone who has taken similar food tours in other countries AND have already tried (what I thought was) the best of the best in Tel Aviv.

Delicious Israel offers a ton of different Israel food tour options around the country, I personally chose the Market Hop tour which is a four hour tour that goes to both the Carmel Market and Levinsky Market. I chose this one so that I could get a taste of each of my favorite markets, instead of focusing on one since they are both so insanely different. The tour was amazing. I thought four hours was going to be too long. NOPE. It felt like 5 seconds. My guide Lainie was amazing and you could tell how much she cared about the Israeli food, the spots she brought us to (which each had a unique story and personality) and the history behind it. If you are in Tel Aviv and love food (duh) BOOK A TOUR WITH DELICIOUS ISRAEL now. This is the most important part of the Tel Aviv travel guide. I am confident their other tours are just as good as the Market Hop. I cannot wait to go back and literally try every single one of their tours until I do them all! I will go more into detail on every single stop we took on my massive food guide as well, but run, do not walk, to booking this Tel Aviv food tour. It DOES sell out daily. I emailed to book in February and didn’t get a free date until April – hurry !! This has to be on your Tel Aviv itinerary no questions.

Book the Delicious Israel Market Hop or any of their other food tours here!

levinsky market delicious israel tel aviv

*Thanks to Inbal for inviting me on the Delicious Israel Market Hop food tour! While I did receive this tour as a gift, my review and experience is, as always, 100% personal and honest*

Related Post: Food Tour in Porto Portugal Guide

Nightlife & Bars In Tel Aviv

Cocktail Bars In Tel Aviv

Imperial Craft Cocktail Bar: The place to go when you fancy cocktails. It’s a SUPER small bar. MAKE A RESERVATION (I’m not kidding). It’s the #1 rated bar in the Middle East and Africa, you literally can’t walk in without a reservation. Coolest cocktails.
Other cocktail bars in Tel Aviv I love: Dizengoff 223, Bellboy, Spicehaus, Concierge, Honolulu, Por do Sol (go for sunset!!).

Fun Bars In Tel Aviv

Sputnik: Super cool bar on Rothschild. Has a hipster vibe and has a bunch of different rooms including an outside spot. Really good drinks and chill bar.
Teder: One of my favorite spots that I frequent weekly. Good vibes outdoor courtyard bar that is fun any night of the week. Many Saturdays there are live music shows as well. Within the complex there is also a restaurant upstairs called Romano, a record bar on the ground floor, and a few other bars within. There is also pizza in the bar. The best pizza in Tel Aviv. Get it.
Drama: 3 floors with different vibes. The second floor has a huge outdoor (covered) area to sit and chat. Super popular, go early if you are going on a weekend night.
Speakeasy: Rooftop bar on Rothschild.

Bar Clubs In Tel Aviv

Kuli Alma: One of the most popular bars in Tel Aviv. It has a hipster vibe but it is so cool. The top floor is all outdoor tables and chill, then the bottom there is a bar area and then in the back room is a club area. They play all hiphop/rap music. Go later on in the night.
Jimmy Who: Fun bar/club on Rothschild, better for people in their young 20s.
Abraxas: Attached to the Abraxas restaurant is a bar that gets really wild on the weekends. However, Israeli night is on Wednesday nights and it is my absolute favorite. If you are looking for a local night I highly recommend going on Wednesdays, otherwise, come any other night of the week and it is a vibe! Probably my favorite bar in Tel Aviv.
Mondo 2000: Rooftop bar/club in Florentin. There is usually a wait to get in.
Secret Garden: My personal favorite club (usually Saturday late afternoon/evening). Super cool Tulum type vibes.
Shalvata: The “it” young club in Tel Aviv for the summers since it’s outside on the port. Only open in the summer. Skews a bit younger.
Other going out/rowdy clubs in Tel Aviv I love: Goat, Emesh, & Kanta.

Sunset Bars in Tel Aviv

Loullie: Chic club right on the tayelet where you can sit at a table and watch the sunset and often has fun DJs on Saturdays. Need to save a table.
Migdalor: Newest sunset spot in the city and a bit far as it’s past the port all the way in the North but has one of my favorite views of the sunset and all of Tel Aviv and is a massive spot with an amazing vibe. Can just walk in – all ages! (often there are kids here!)
Por de Sol: Amazing small bar on the top of the steps at Ben Gurion/Tayelet (Kikar Atarim)
Contento: Another cute bar right on the Tayelet
Any of the restaurants on the beach!

*Tip: A lot of the bars and clubs in Tel Aviv you have to be over 24 years old to get into. This is because Israelis go into the army after high school and THEN college, meaning they are out of college at 24 and the bars do not want college kids there, even though they’re of age (drinking age is 18). Just be mindful of this that you may get rejected, but we rarely had issues at every bar.

imperial cocktail bar tel aviv — Imperial Cocktail Bar

Tel Aviv Hotels & Where To Stay In Tel Aviv

I’ve lived in Tel Aviv, I’ve visited with friends, I’ve been on group trips and I’ve visited with my family, so it’s safe to say I have stayed in many different areas at different budgets. I personally suggest staying at a hotel when you visit Tel Aviv right on the Mediterranean Sea but you still can’t go wrong wherever you choose since Tel Aviv is such a small walking city.

BEACH HOTELS in Tel Aviv are the absolute best. I suggest somewhere near the center of the city (Allenby Street). You will find plenty of ranges of different hotels on Tel Aviv beach. You will find a ton of big chain hotels here (Sheraton Tel Aviv, Hilton Tel Aviv), the David Intercontinental Tel Aviv (which has the best hotel brunch I’ve ever had and is one of the nicer hotels in Tel Aviv). I personally recommend the Royal Beach Hotel (where I had my parents stay when they visited) or the new David Kempinski just opened (Spring 2022) and is the new, nicest hotel in Tel Aviv. It is truly like no other place here, but definitely comes the price. Highly recommend.
BOUTIQUE CASUAL: There are a ton of new boutique hotels that have opened near the beach (personally I like boutique better), I recommend Mendeli Street Hotel (amazing brunch), Brown Beach House or Fabric Hotel I have been in all and they’re both great and in amazing locations!
LUXE BOUTIQUE HOTELS: If you are coming during the winter and don’t need to be close to the beach, there are a TON of luxe boutique hotels near Rothschild and the Tel Aviv Center for a range of budgets. I recommend The Norman (one of the most luxurious and best hotels in Tel Aviv), Hotel Montefiore, The Vera Hotel, The Rothschild Hotel or Poli House!
JAFFA HOTELS: Lastly, there have been luxury hotels popping up all over Jaffa as it becomes the new hot spot in Tel Aviv so if you want to stay in a different area DEFINITELY check out The Setai Tel Aviv(most luxurious hotel in Tel Aviv) or The Jaffa Tel Aviv.
Book the hotels by clicking their names above!

Search and book all Tel Aviv hotels by clicking here! Read reviews on Tel Aviv hotels on TripAdvisor here.

For a cheap hotel in Tel Aviv or hostel in Tel Aviv, I HIGHLY recommend Abraham Hostel. This is THE hostel to stay at – it hosts a ton of bar crawls, events, and is by far the highest rated hostel group in the country and is an amazing place to meet people! Definitely, definitely book Abraham for a fun time and clean hostel in Tel Aviv!

Book Abraham Hostel Tel Aviv here!!

AIRBNB Tel Aviv: There are also so many amazing, modern apartments in Tel Aviv. They are generally cheaper than hotels so if you like the Airbnb route instead of hotels I definitely recommend it in Israel – Israeli hosts are amazing. Airbnb Tel Aviv has tons of options, too! Also, if you use my Airbnb link you get $40 off your first stay!

More Things To Do In Tel Aviv: Weekend & Day Trips From Tel Aviv

Another one of the best things to do in Tel Aviv is to take day trips or weekend trips around Israel, it is a benefit of being a small country and Tel Aviv is situated in the center of Israel so a perfect home base. Travel guides for each of these locations coming soon! For now, check out my Israel travel blog here on what to pack, safety and what to expect when visiting Israel!

Jerusalem
- My extensive Jerusalem guide coming soon – but Jerusalem is an absolute MUST when visiting Tel Aviv.
Day Trips From Tel Aviv: Haifa, Akko, Caesarea and Zichron Yaakov
The West Bank
Masada, Ein Gedi & the Dead Sea
The North of Israel (Golan Heights, The Galilee, & Tzfat)
The South of Israel (Mizpe Ramon, Sde Boker, Ein Avedat, Sderot, Gaza Border & Salad Trail) AND/OR Eilat, Petra and Sinai

Loved this local Tel Aviv blog and Tel Aviv itinerary travel guide? Pin for later or share with friends!

Did I miss one of the best things to do in Tel Aviv Israel that you loved? Let me know in the comments for my next visit. Don’t forget to read my Tel Aviv Food Guide and then see my general Israel travel blog here to know what to expect when visiting Israel! Hope you liked this extensive local Tel Aviv blog!

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About The Author

Rachel Shulman is the owner of From East To West and a seasoned traveler having been to 45+ countries and no intention of stopping soon. She is obsessed with planning and specializes in creating detailed, efficient travel itineraries and guides so you don’t have to when planning your next destination.

Israel

FULL TEL AVIV FOOD GUIDE: WHERE TO EAT FOOD IN TEL AVIV FOR EVERY TYPE OF PERSON & MEAL

ByRachel Shulman | On July 16,24 | 11 Comments

If you know me I am overly obsessed with both Tel Aviv and food. The food scene in Tel Aviv is outrageous and it’s not slowing down anytime soon. I have visited Tel Aviv 10+ times and moved here permanently in 2019 and my list keeps growing, living here for five years now.

I decided to make this extensive guide (so many years, visits and pictures in the making) because the lists were getting too long in my FULL Tel Aviv Itinerary Guide and to help answer ANY question about where to eat in Tel Aviv. This includes: WHAT to eat in Israel, brunch in Tel Aviv, cafes in Tel Aviv, cheap eats and street food in Tel Aviv, casual dinner in Tel Aviv, fine dining in Tel Aviv, dessert in Tel Aviv, best spots for every specific craving, and my absolute favorite and recommended food tour in Tel Aviv. Anything you are in the mood for Tel Aviv has it and this guide will help you plan your itinerary around food and reservations like I do! Keep reading for the best restaurants and best food in Tel Aviv. *I will keep updating this list as I keep trying more restaurants during my time living in Tel Aviv*

Disclosure: This Israel Tel Aviv Food Guide may contain affiliate links. I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As always, all opinions are my own and I would never post about something I have not personally used/verified.

Must-Know Tel Aviv Food Guide Tips

For my full Tel Aviv travel guide and to know everything else of what to do in Tel Aviv head to my Tel Aviv travel itinerary. For Israel travel in general, where to visit when traveling to Israel, safety in Israel, head to my full Israel travel tips guide.
RESERVATIONS: These days post-Covid, tourists are everywhere in Tel Aviv and restaurants are packed. I highly suggest making a reservation at all of your brunch/dinner spots you want to go to well in advance of your trip or you will likely not get in. You can find almost all restaurant reservations HERE on OnTopo (and there is an English option) or Tabit (no English but easy to figure out!).
Travel Insurance: Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world. We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
TEL AVIV PACKING LIST: Tel Aviv is insanely hot during the summer and mild in the winter! For all of my travel/packing essentials I bring on any trip compiled together, head to my page on Amazon here for a complete list or my descriptive carry-on packing guide here.

WHAT FOOD TO EAT IN ISRAEL

Israeli food is the absolute best. Before getting into the restaurants of WHERE to eat in Tel Aviv, you have to make sure you eat all of the Israeli food staples while visiting.

Hummus: Needs no introduction and once you have it in Israel you will never like store-bought brands again. Where to try it: Abu Hassan and Shlomo v Doron.
Falafel: Falafel is one of Israeli’s favorite street food and it is amazing here. And it’s vegetarian so it’s perfect for everyone. Usually comes in pita with a ton of other amazing vegetables. Where to try it: HaKosem, Yashka or anywhere in Shuk HaCarmel.
Shawarma: Shawarma is Israel’s other famous street food and is thinly sliced and cooked meat (can be chicken, beef, lamb, etc. Where to try it: Yashka.
Sabich: Sabich is the lesser known of all the Israeli street foods but might be my favorite one. It’s eggplant and egg served in a pita with different veggies. Where to try it: Sabich Frischman or Sabich Tchernichovsky.
Tahini: Tahini is also known internationally but it is exceptionally good in Israel. Also they call it ‘tahina’ here. Where to try it: Everywhere! ALWAYS ask for it on the side with everything.
Schnitzel: I love a good schnitzel. And Israel happens to have some of the best. Where to try it: Cafe Noir and Malka for fancy sit-down restaurants, and for schnitzel sandwiches (in challah): Etzel Tzion & Java.
Knafeh: I was only JUST introduced to knafeh since I moved here and I’m honestly upset with myself it took this long to find out about it. Knafeh is an AMAZING traditional Middle Eastern sweet dessert of syrup-dipped pastry filled with cheese and often pistachios, ice cream and other treats on top. I’ve never eaten anything like it. Don’t sleep on it!! It’s a Midden Eastern treasure not enough people talk about. Where to try it: Yaffa Knafeh.
Jachnun: Traditional Yemenite pastry. Where to try it: Shuk Levinsky.
Shakshuka: An Israeli breakfast staple and one of my favorite dishes. Baked tomatoes with eggs inside. Have it with Challah on the side to dip. Where to try it: Shakshukia or Java.
Halva: An Israeli dessert that you can find ALL over the markets. Lots of sugar but melts in your mouth. I always bring it home for friends to the states. Where to try it: Shuk HaCarmel or Shuk Levinsky.
Malabi: This is an Israeli dessert that is super sweet and is really good (but you either love it or hate it). It’s kind of like pudding with rose water. Where to try it: HaMalabiya or on the dessert menu of most restaurants!
Fresh Juices/Smoothies: Fruit and produce are beyond fresh in Israel. You can find juices and smoothie stands all over the city. Where to try it: Etrogman, Tamara Juice Bar or in Shuk HaCarmel.
Israeli salad: Served as a side with EVERY meal, all the chopped tomatoes and cucumbers and always fresh. Where to try it: Any restaurant!
Arak: Israeli alcohol! You have to have shots (called chasers in Israel) of these before you leave. Don’t smell it before, trust me. Where to try it: All bars!

Related Post: Tel Aviv Travel Itinerary

FOOD IN TEL AVIV BY MEAL TYPE

Brunch and Breakfast in Tel Aviv

Café Xoho: My most favorite brunch spot, but if you only have a few days in Israel, this is not the spot to get traditional Israeli breakfast and brunch. It is definitely a Western brunch place. Still, my favorite. You must get the egg and cheese bagel. It’s not JUST an egg and cheese, there is a special onion jam in there that makes it unbelievable. Other things to consider are their beer bread specials. They’re SO good and always have the freshest ingredients and change weekly. Their vegan desserts are also amazing and they’re known for their ice cream cookie sandwiches. Also their Matcha smoothie. They make their own ice cream and cookies from scratch.
Bucke Cafe: Bucke is my other favorite brunch spot in the city. They are known for their trays of food that comes with a ton of different options and changes with fresh in-season produce. The place is super cool and hipstery. This is a must on your brunch in Tel Aviv stops and packs all the fun Israeli breakfast foods into one tray.
Yom Tov Cafe: Another must for brunch in Tel Aviv, Yom Tov is crowded with their outside seating everyday of the week and is the best for people watching. Yom Tov is at Shuk HaCarmel and has the freshest and most eclectic brunch menu.
Benedict Tel Aviv: Everyone loves Benedict. It’s overrated when you live here, but amazing when you’re visiting. It is very tourist and English friendly. It is also 24 hours so it is also always a good idea at 4AM. Get the eggs benedict (duh). Also their banana pancakes are the most famous.
L’chem V’Shut (Bread & Co.): Super local spot with amazing breakfasts and breads – when you walk in the smell of fresh bread is unreal.
NOLA American Bakery: An American inspired brunch spot on Dizengoff based on New Orleans. The owner is from New Orleans and moved to Tel Aviv which makes me the happiest since I went to university in New Orleans.
Manta Ray: Fancier brunch when you want a more upscale brunch with a view! Great menu and their location is RIGHT on the sea with amazing views.
Java: This is my favorite local Tel Aviv spot and they have my favorite Shakshuka and Challah ever here. Also my favorite schnitzel sandwich.
Dallal: Another nicer sit down spot but one of my favorite spots to go for brunch in the trendy Neve Tzedek neighborhood. The space is huge and beautiful and the food is amazing.
Anastasia: This is for the vegans! Full vegan brunch spot with amazing smoothie bowls, vegan shakshuka and more.
Cafe Cucu: Newer spot on the list! Super cute brunch spot on Dizengoff Square with amazing twists on classics like Beet Hollandaise on Eggs Benedict.
Orby Cafe: Newest spot on the list. Amazing proper trendy brunch cafe in the middle of Florentine.

Cafes in Tel Aviv

Need a tea/coffee break or just want to sit and people watch? The cafe culture is thriving in Tel Aviv. Check out some of my favorite cafes with the best coffee in Tel Aviv to hang at.

Nabi Yuna (best for people watching)
Chachos (my fave Matcha!)
Cafelix
Saga Cafe
Nahat Cafe
HOC

Related Post: Israel Travel Guide

Lunch, Cheap Eats & Street Food in Tel Aviv

Shlomo and Doron: Amazing local hummus spot off Shuk HaCarmel with different twists on hummus. Get the shakshuka hummus or the falafel hummus!! Also make sure you eat hummus with an onion as Israelis do.
Miznon: World class. Eyal Shani is THE most famous Israeli chef probably in the world and Miznon is his most fast-casual. It is a street food spot and you can get anything in a pita. I get the cauliflower or minute steak pita but the chicken, meat, veggies ANYTHING is amazing. They also put so much inside of the pita (hummus, veggies, tahini, etc). You also MUST order the side of a cauliflower head. I can’t even explain why it is so unbelievably good but Shani totally changed the pita game. This isn’t as fun anymore if you are a tourist from NYC, Miami, Vienna, and more as there are tons of Miznons all over the world, but I still believe it is the best here.
HaKosem: Best falafel and shwarma in Tel Aviv. Truly the best you will ever ever have. They put fried eggplant inside too. Get the original falafel pita with everything in it. Must go.
Frishman Sabich: Best Sabich in Tel Aviv. It is right on the corner of Frischman and Dizengoff and is a small take-out place.
Hummus Abu Hassan: Best hummus in Tel Aviv. It will not disappoint. It will actually blow your mind how you ever thought any other brand packaged container is good. Must go before 2PM as they close after the daily batch finishes (that’s how fresh it is).
Jasmino: Super casual AMAZING pita place on Allenby. Always a line here. Best pitas with meat ever (similar to Miznon).
Aboulefia: Best takeaway burekas and other savory and sweet pastries (also amazing late night).
Etzel Tzion: Best schnitzel sandwich in Tel Aviv.

hummus abu hassan tel aviv — Hummus Abu Hassan

Casual Dinner in Tel Aviv

Port Sa’id: Same chef as Miznon and probably his most popular and by far my favorite place to eat in Tel Aviv. This is THE #1 spot I tell any visitor to go to when traveling to Tel Aviv. The food, drinks and vibe are always perfect and it is in a fun, trendy area by the Great Synagogue on Allenby. No reservations though so be prepared to wait.
Ha’Achim: This is one of the most standard Israeli restaurants and is consistently amazing. I would ALWAYS recommend Ha’Achim and love going here. You MUSTTTT get the artichoke dish.
Beit Kandinof: Amazing Israeli restaurant in the center of Jaffa. Perfect spot for big groups as well, the restaurant is massive. Also the architecture and building that this restaurant is in is pure Jaffa vibes. I always bring tourists here.
M25: Best meat restaurant in all of Tel Aviv. Part meat shop, part restaurant M25 sits right in Shuk HaCarmel and you quite literally pick what meat you want out of the freezer and how you want it cooked. It’s amazing. You MUST get the arayes and salad as appetizers, and the crack pie as dessert. Thank me later.
Old Man And The Sea: One of the most popular tourist restaurants in Tel Aviv and honestly a must-go for the experience. This is a typical Israeli restaurant in Jaffa on the port that comes with the 1 million little dishes that keep refilling. A must.
La Shuk: Super casual, right in the middle of the city on Dizengoff Square. Such delicious Israeli food and great prices. I love the cauliflower and eggplant dishes. Highly, highly recommend…I always brought visitors here when I lived there.
Romano: Another one of Eyal Shani’s masterpieces (same as Port Said, Miznon, etc). This is located on top of Teder and has the best vibes and the same amazing food. This one takes reservations if you can’t get into Port Said and is the same food!
Ouzeria: Amazing amazing spot in Florentine neighborhood. Fresh ingredients and middle eastern dishes. One of my newest favorite spots.
Café Noir: Solid restaurant, known for their schnitzel in Tel Aviv.
Santa Katarina: Also right behind the Great Synagogue. Really good Israeli dishes and fun crowd. Highly recommend and try to make a reservation.
Saluf and Sons: Traditional Yemenite small spot in the center of the Levinsky Market. Amazing amazing Yemenite dishes and fun and casual vibe. Try to sit at the bar.
Merloza: New casual restaurant in Shuk HaCarmel with amazing fish dishes. Love the Shuk vibe so this is great if you are going out after or want to be in the local scene, not touristy at all.
Onza: Amazing Georgian restaurant in Yafo.

Fine Dining in Tel Aviv

North Abraxas: One of my oldest, favorite restaurant. Same chef as Miznon and Port Said. Their fish is OUT OF CONTROL good. Just ask for the fish of the day. They change their menu daily BUT my recommendations (tried and tested 20+ times): Bread salad, cauliflower, steak, green beans, burning potato & zucchini pizza. And you must get the Cucumber Gin drink. You also must make a reservation here beforehand. Make sure to choose the restaurant (North Abraxas) not the bar (Abraxas Bar) when making a reservation. Though, Abraxas Bar also has similar (smaller) menu and gets rowdy later at night (my favorite bar).
HaBasta: One of my other favorite restaurants. Was in the top 50 Middle East restaurants of 2022. The food is always fresh and amazing and the dishes change every night. It is right in the middle of Shuk HaCarmel.
Malka: Another Eyal Shani restaurant and his first fully Kosher one – but don’t let that deter you. Has my most famous dish in the whole country maybe ever here – his Queen Malka dish which is schnitzel with mashed potato inside. It’s literally insane. The restaurant becomes super fun and a rowdy party during later seatings. A must.
Shila: One of the nicest restaurants in Tel Aviv, known for its fish dishes and amazing Israeli cuisine. Probably my favorite high-end restaurant in the city. Highly, highly recommend. They also opened a bar across the street that has a different menu and is a more casual bar but same chef.
George & John: One my newer favorite restaurants. Kind of in a random location in between Florentine/Jaffa but the food is truly incredible. Highly recommend for a fancy upscale restaurant.
Claro: Really amazing restaurant with amazing dishes at Sarona Market. Highly recommend sitting at the bar.
Cafe Popular Bar: Newer spot in the Old North for a super fun and good solid dinner. Make sure to reserve the downstairs bar area. The food is AMAZING. This place is super trendy and fun scene and gets really fun later at night. When my parents visited me for the first time this was their favorite of all the nice restaurants I brought them too.
Abie: B the same chef as Ha’Achim but his fanciest restaurant and it was INCREDIBLE. Order everything, literally. Not one thing is bad. You must get the side of potatoes (trust) and the crispy fish.
Social Club: High quality, good vibes restaurant on Rothschild with amazing food. Get the gnocchi or the salmon dish as well as the artichokes. You must also get the special dessert (see dessert section).
OCD: One of the most interesting food experiences I have had in a long time. A private seating with only about 20 seats sitting around the kitchen, everyone served at the same time, about 13 courses of amazing food. Super expensive and a long evening but an awesome experience.
Mashya: Highly, highly recommend for a fine-dining amazing meal.
Topolopompo: One of the best meals I have ever had. Must make a reservation. It’s insane Asian cuisine dishes with a twist. If you only have a two or three nights in Tel Aviv I would probably stick to more Israeli centric restaurants but if you have more you must add this.
Taizu: One of the best restaurants for Asian food in the city.
Naifa: Newest restaurant in TLV and on this list and my new favorite restaurant by far. Haven’t been this excited about a new restaurant in the city since I moved here! Naifa is a Druze restaurant and every dish is better than the next. I have been twice now and both times were inside. Try to eat at the bar or table inside.

Dessert in Tel Aviv

Anita/Golda Gelato: Best gelato in Israel. Anita is in Neve Tzedek right on Shabazi Street with 3 locations on the same street. It’s my favorite location but Golda is found in more locations around the city (literally every other corner) and big secret: it’s the exact same flavors, they’re owned by the same owner. Get the cookieman flavor, you won’t be disappointed. Anita also just opened their first NYC location on the UES as well!
Showroom Bakehouse: Amazing, amazing cookies! They are the Levain Bakery of Tel Aviv.
Arte Cafe: Israeli gelato spot in the middle of Nachalat Binyamin with insane flavors you would never think about ordering in ice cream – but do it. Try the bread flavor (trust me) it’s the best. This is hands down my favorite not-so-popular gelato spot.
Otello: New gelato spot with two locations in the city.
Yaffa Knafeh: If you are eating dinner in Jaffa or walking around, do not skip Yaffa Knafeh for dessert.
Social Club: NOT a desert place, it’s a VERY good dinner spot BUT I had to add this here because I think I had the best dessert of life here – the massive pistachio ice cream with halva on top!
Tamara: Best frozen yogurt in the city. They have 2 locations and then a ton of other locations for smoothies and pops but go to their froyo spots – the one on the beach is new and amazing!

Related Post: North Day Trips From Tel Aviv

FOOD IN TEL AVIV BY CUISINE

We all have serious cravings some times and in Tel Aviv you can find ANY food you possibly want in all cuisines. Here’s where you should go if you are looking for the….

Best Pizza in Tel Aviv: Teder.fm, Har Sinai and Lila
Best Burger in Tel Aviv: Vitrina, Fat Cow, Jango and American Burgers
Best Thai in Tel Aviv: Thai at Har Sinai, Nam, Kab Kem
Best Sushi in Tel Aviv: Fu Sushi and TYO
Best Italian in Tel Aviv: Rustico, Cicchetti, La Repubblica and Cafe Italia
Best Asian in Tel Aviv: Taizu and Topolopompo
Best Mexican in Tel Aviv: Mezcal and Taqueria
Best Steak in Tel Aviv: M25, Triger, Whiskey Bar Museum
Best Bagel in Tel Aviv: Cafe Xoho and Tal’s Bagels
Best Middle Eastern/Local Cuisine in Tel Aviv: Old Man & the Sea, Ouzeria, Ha’Achim and La Shuk
Best Acai Bowls/Juices/Healthy in Tel Aviv: Hamaniya, Anastasia, Jusa, Etrogman
Best Concept Dining in Tel Aviv: OCD, Burek
Best Kosher Restaurants in Tel Aviv: Malka, Whiskey Bar Museum, Devora

FOOD MARKETS IN TEL AVIV

Shuk HaCarmel: The central Tel Aviv market and the market people are usually referring to when they say they are going to “the shuk”. It has everything you could ever want from food, souvenirs, produce and more. Come here for Israeli candy, falafel, hummus, smoothies, and everything else. Always always negotiate here – once they hear English they will rip you off.
Shuk Levinsky: This is a different type of market with more flavors from different cultures – think Yemenite, Turkish, Greek, etc.
Sarona Market: This is the newest, most modern market in Tel Aviv and is an indoor/outdoor market with a ton of different restaurants and food stands within the massive complex. Good for winter since most is indoors!

BEST FOOD TOUR IN TEL AVIV

I wrote about this beyond amazing tour on my general Tel Aviv itinerary but it’s worth noting again because its that amazing and it’s all about Tel Aviv’s FOOD! Delicious Israel Food Tours has different tour options to learn and taste the different Israeli foods. I could not recommend this tour more. I did the Market Hop tour which went to both Shuk Carmel and Shuk Levinsky and I LOVED it. I had visited Tel Aviv 8+ times before and thought I knew Israeli food – but I still learned SO much on this tour and tried so many new foods between the two Shuks. I can honestly, whole-heartedly say this was the ABSOLUTE BEST food tour I have EVER taken. It is a MUST-DO when visiting Tel Aviv no matter what. I would take any tour that fits your schedule/budget as I know they all are AMAZING. You must book in advance – it does sell out. I had to book two months in advance!

BOOK A TOUR WITH DELICIOUS ISRAEL now!

*Thanks to Inbal for inviting me on the Delicious Israel Market Hop food tour! While I did receive this tour as a gift, my review and experience is, as always, 100% personal and honest*

Related Post: Porto Portugal Food Tour Review

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Israel

WHAT TO DO IN EILAT, THE NEGEV DESERT, MIZPE RAMON & MORE IN THE SOUTH OF ISRAEL

ByRachel Shulman | On December 20,23 | 2 Comments

As I wrote about extensively in my Israel Country Guide, I’ve visited Israel 7+ times before moving here, including two times living there for an extended period of time and now currently live here permanently as an expat since October 2019, so it’s fair to say I’m very knowledgeable on Israel. Whenever people ask me where to include when traveling around Israel, I ALWAYS say the South of Israel. The Middle East region is KNOWN for its desert so why should you miss out on the Israeli desert areas and only see the cities?! The unique terrain is such a contrast just a few short hours out of bustling Tel Aviv or Jerusalem and should not be missed. This guide will share everything you need to know on what to do in Eilat, the Negev Desert, Mitzpe Ramon and more in the South of Israel.

Disclosure: This South Israel, Negev Desert and Eilat travel guide may contain affiliate links. I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As always, all opinions are my own and I would never post about something I have not personally used/verified.

Should I Visit the South of Israel On My Israel Trip And For How Long?

YES! If you are traveling to Israel on a long holiday with a few days in each area, I highly recommend not skipping Israel’s desert region. I highly encourage both – they are both amazing and totally different! It is such a special and distinct area of Israel – fun facts about the Negev Desert: Israel is comprised of 55% desert, and that’s mostly the Negev! If you like adventure, I suggest AT LEAST TWO NIGHTS, THREE DAYS visiting the Negev Desert. If you are doing that as a stop on the way more South to Eilat (and Jordan/Sinai) you need to add THREE NIGHTS IN EILAT. The Gaza Border/West Negev area can be added on stops as well, but they can also be day trips from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem! The Negev Desert must be a part of your Israel holiday trip!

Must-Know Southern Israel Travel Tips

For all of my Israel travel tips and what to expect when visiting Israel including renting a car, visas, safety in Israel and more, head to my detailed Israel Country Guide .
Names!?: Negev, South Israel, Mitzpe Ramon, Makhtesh Ramon… lots of names regarding the Israel’s Southern region! All of these will be used throughout the article:
- South of Israel here is referred to as the entire area SOUTH of Jerusalem within Israel above and including Eilat (the Southern tip city on the Red Sea).
- The Negev Desert is the massive desert region within Southern Israel. The Negev makes up 55% of Israel’s entire land! It’s main city is Be’er Sheva which you likely will not visit except to stop in for gas or a bathroom break on your road trip.
- ***Mitzpe Ramon (or Mizpe Ramon) is a tiny city in the Negev that is home to the WORLD’S largest crater: Makhtesh Ramon (Ramon Crater). It is in the center of the Negev, which is where the hotel I recommend below is.***
- This guide will also have tips on what to do in the Western area of the Negev Desert (near the Gaza Border) as well as Eilat region.
Renting A Car In Israel: I write extensively how to rent a car in Israel and why you should in this article: Israel Travel Guide. I highly suggest renting from Eldan. Getting around Israel is easiest by car, not public transport!
TRAVEL INSURANCE: Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world. We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

When To Visit The Negev Desert/Packing for the Israel’s South: Visiting the Negev is great in ANY season. I have been in the dead of summer and the dead of winter. In the summer it is EXTRA HOT and humid and dry. Bring lots and lots and lots of water. A Swell bottle to keep cold water is a MUST especially for hiking the Ramon Crater (buy one here)! In the winter it is pretty mild around but may be windy and at night it gets pretty cold- so bring layers! For all of my travel/packing essentials I bring on any trip compiled together, head to my page on Amazon here for a complete list or my descriptive carry-on packing guide here!

How To Get To South Israel & The Negev Desert

DRIVE ON YOUR OWN! Have I mentioned this enough?! Driving in Israel and driving to the Negev is the easiest and quite frankly the only way to get to the Negev Desert. Getting around Israel is by far easiest by car. Yes you can take public transportation but it will involve transferring at least 2x whether you are coming from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. You also can hire a car service but it’s insanely expensive. If you do have a tour guide for your entire trip to Israel then it will be easy to get here but for cost efficiency and overall ease, rent a car! Ben Gurion Airport, Jerusalem or Tel Aviv to Mitzpe Ramon are all only a 2.5 hour drive so it’s really not bad! The drive is also BEAUTIFUL. As you drive out of the massive cities you see how the terrain changes so drastically, you pass through lots of greenery and then through Be’er Sheva (a big city) and then brown sand and desert views. It’s really a peaceful drive on one main highway that goes from North to South Israel (Road 40). Make sure to read my tips for driving in Israel and traveling around Israel and how to rent a car in Israel with Eldan before going!

Where To Stay In The Negev: Beresheet Hotel Israel

When planning an overnight trip to the Negev you want to base yourself at a hotel in Mitzpe Ramon. Mitzpe Ramon is a small city in the middle of the desert and a 2.5 hour drive from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. All of these hotels and hostels in Mitzpe Ramon offer a ton of different excursions where you can book all the different activities of what to do in the Negev. Mizpe Ramon is the most popular spot to stay because it is the town that overlooks Makhtesh Ramon (Ramon Crater) with stunning views and excursions at your fingertips.

There are a ton of hostels (search here for Mitzpe Ramon hostels) and smaller Ramon Crater hotels to stay at. However, Israel’s Beresheet Hotel looking over the crater steals the show. You have likely seen pictures of this hotel with its beautiful turquoise blue infinity pool. This is THE HOTEL in Israel. If there is one place to splurge on your full Israel trip, it is at this hotel. Beresheet Hotel exemplifies luxury, nature and perfection altogether. The hotel was built into the edge of the crater so the views could not be any better, the hotel blends right in with the terrain and there are ibex roaming around the property. There are different levels of rooms with different budgets to fit every size group and cost. No matter what room you choose they all maintain the luxury of the hotel. We stayed in the ‘cheapest’ and it was still phenomenal. The main infinity pool AS WELL as their indoor pool for those few colder days are the heart of the hotel. They even built the indoor pool overlooking the crater so it didn’t lose the allure of the infinity.

Besides the room and keep of the hotel, there are a number of other factors that make Beresheet the top hotel in Israel.

THE FOOD. They have one main dining room that is kosher (meat) and then a restaurant in the lobby bar next door. We ate at the dining room and had steak and it was delicious and worth the price of the meal which includes a massive appetizer buffet (which literally was enough food to be dinner), one main course and a dessert. The brunch buffet, which is included in the hotel room price, was probably one of the best hotel brunches I have had. Ever.
THE SPA. I had one of the best massages ever at the Beresheet Hotel. If you have time to relax, I highly recommend one.
An every season hotel. We went in February (one of the coldest months in Israel) and the weather was not in our favor. It was pretty cold and windy and raining half the time. It was still amazing and SO worth it. While we wish we could have gone in the outdoor pool at Beresheet Hotel – that’s what the indoor one is for!

Overall, if you couldn’t tell, I HIGHLY recommend Beresheet Hotel Israel (book here). You can’t go wrong here. It’s by far the best hotel in Mitzpe Ramon and likely the best hotel in Israel itself. Whether it’s one night (we only did one) or three, you will not want to leave. It’s also the perfect stop on the way to Eilat. They have everything you could need in a luxury hotel in the desert you won’t even want to leave to go on your excursions (but trust me, they’re worth it).

Book Israel’s Beresheet Hotel here (and trust me, it sells out, fast)! Alternatively, search here for cheaper hotels and hostels in Mitzpe Ramon by clicking here.

Related Post: Israel Country Travel Guide

WHAT TO DO IN MITZPE RAMON & THE NEGEV DESERT

Sde Boker & Ben Gurion Grave

Once you make your way into the Negev Desert Israel from the cities towards Mizpe Ramon, your first stop is right on Route 40 – Sde Boker and Ben Gurion’s Grave.

You know the name Ben Gurion because of Tel Aviv’s main airport. David Ben Gurion was the first prime minister of Israel so he is a very important figure in Israeli history. Sde Boker is a Kibbutz within the Negev and where Ben Gurion retired. The house has turned into a museum so you can learn about Ben Gurion and his legacy in Israel and walk around the premises. A few meters away is the Ben Gurion Memorial and Ben Gurion’s tomb, which is the main attraction here and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Israel. Honestly what steals the show here is the view from the Memorial overlooking the Zin Valley (more on that later). I highly recommend visiting Ben Gurion’s Grave (it’s free!) as a stop on your Israel road trip South.

Sandboarding in the Negev Desert

One of the cooler activities I have done in my lifetime. I first heard that you could sandboard in the Negev in 2020 and it felt like the perfect COVID activity day trip from Tel Aviv and it was! It’s RIGHT next to Sde Boker, legit a 5-minute drive so it is the PERFECT activity to do on your South Israel trip. It is also geared toward kids (even though we were 3 29-year-olds that went) so it is PERFECT for the entire family. I highly, highly recommend this sandboarding activity and booking this excursion. It’s so much fun, inclusive, and such a unique travel experience. The sand is SO soft here (I fell plenty) – this is the only place in all of Israel’s desert that it is soft enough to sandboard. It also takes place around sunset due to the weather, so you get to see an amazing sunset over the sand dunes. You can book the Sandboarding trip here.

Book the Sandboarding trip here! Read re v iews on TripAdvisor here – you’ll see why this activity is so amazing.

Kornmehl Farm

When you or your kids are starving after a 2 hour drive from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv to Mitzpe Ramon, or as a break on the drive to Eilat, Kornmehl Farm is your spot for lunch. This might be one of the best meals I have ever had in Israel and I do not say that lightly. This is a small goat farm on the side of the highway with a tiny outdoor restaurant with amazing views overlooking the Negev. Every dish on the menu at Kornmehl Farm has goat cheese in it and they are all AMAZING. By far, the goat cheese Knaffeh is an absolute must. But the salads, pizzas, sandwiches and more desserts are all amazing too. Highly recommend stopping here on the way to or from your Negev Israel travel trip or on the way to visiting Eilat!

After Sde Boker, it is only about another 20 minute drive until you are in the town of Mitzpe Ramon. Check into your hotel and get ready for the excursions! You definitely should pre-book excursions from your hotel or book a separate tour before arriving no matter what hotel you are staying at as they fill up especially in the summer months! The below are my favorite and most recommended Negev desert tours and adventures in Israel to take.

Jeep Tour In Ramon Crater (Makhtesh Ramon)

One of (if not THE) most popular things to do in Mitzpe Ramon is take a Jeep Tour in Ramon Crater. Mitzpe Ramon jeep tours are the BEST (and most efficient) way to go deep into the crater and learn about how the crater was formed, see the different layers of the crater, some wildlife if you’re lucky and really feel how vast the crater is. I HIGHLY recommend booking a Jeep Tour with Adam Sela. His tours are by far the most well-known in the area and have the best tour guides. I did their “Ramon Machtesh in a Nutshell” which was perfect for my 2 day Negev trip but am confident that their other longer tours are amazing. Next time I am definitely doing their Tzin Valley tour since it’s one of my favorite areas in Israel (more on that below). Adam Sela tours are totally private and you get a jeep fully to yourself and your guide. You can really tell how passionate these guides are about their land, which is my favorite part. Even during my Mitzpe Ramon tour, which was one of only seven days it rains in the area (my luck), it was still amazing and our tour guide made the best of it. They also have rappelling trips in the Ramon Crater which is a super popular activity for the adventurous ones! Highly recommend booking Mitzpe Ramon tours of the Negev desert areas with Adam Sela here.

Book a Mitzpe Ramon Jeep Tour here!

*Thanks to Adam for helping set up my private Ramon Crater jeep tour and customizing it to my desire and the weather in order to make this blog post possible! While I did receive this tour as a gift, my review and experience is, as always, 100% personal and honest*

Related Post: Tel Aviv Insider Travel Guide

Ride A Camel / Experience Bedouin Culture

One of the most popular photos you see of people traveling around Israel is riding camels in the desert! This is a must-do one time experience in Israel and the Negev Desert is the spot to do it. All of the hotels offer this experience! Many of the Negev camel tours combine with visiting a group of Bedouin people and lunch. Bedouins are the indigenous people to the desert and make all their food and live in tents in the desert. They are BEYOND friendly and just truly want you to experience their culture within Israel (they are also in many other desert locations around the world) and enjoy their special cuisine and camels. I have now done a Bedouin experience four different times in Israel (three of which in the Negev Desert, once in the North). The most recent was only a ten minute drive from Beresheet and we sat in their tent while listening to their stories while they gave us tea and a meal (the food was SO good, especially the cheese). After lunch they took us on a private camel ride along the edge of the Ramon Crater and the views were INSANE. The day was so windy and cold walking around on the camels but the views were totally worth it. I highly recommend visiting a Bedouin community in Israel and riding camels in the Israel desert. You can book this camel Negev desert tour with your hotel!

Hike Mitzpe Ramon

Another option to seeing Mizpe Ramon besides a Jeep Tour is to hike Mizpe Ramon! There are SO many different hike trails you can take ranging from an easy hour to half a day to a full day! Ask your hotel for hike paths and you’ll be on your way. I have done a few different Mitzpe Ramon hikes over the years (around the perimeter as well as within) and they are all different and breathtaking. The Makhtesh is MASSIVE! Of course you can also book a guided Mizpe Ramon hike through your hotel or book a hike inside Mitzpe Ramon here!

Zin Valley & Ein Avdat National Park

The Zin Valley is another area of the Negev Desert that is an absolute MUST-VISIT on your trip in Israel’s desert. Ein Avdat National Park is within the Zin Valley and is one of the most serene and beautiful places….especially after hiking to get there! The Zin Valley is the view you are overlooking from Ben Gurion’s grave as mentioned above and is by far the best view overlooking the valley. The best way to explore the Zin Valley and Ein Avdat is the same as Mizpe Ramon – hike or take a jeep tour! I personally did the Ein Avdat hike and I think it was my most memorable hike I have EVER taken in Israel (and I have taken 20+!). The area is so quiet and peaceful and when you finally make it to Ein Avdat (the Avdat Spring) you are blown away with the springs as well as the panoramas you get of the valley! If you want to hike yourself, there is an entrance into the valley from Ben Gurion’s grave or one a few more miles down. Otherwise I recommend booking a tour guide from your hotel to explore! Do not miss the Zin Valley and Ein Avdat in the Negev tours in South of Israel on your next Israel trip!

Stargaze Mitzpe Ramon

Being in the middle of a desert surrounded by barely any cities and urban areas means little to no light pollution at night which means CLEAR SKIES! The Negev Desert is the best place to stargaze in Israel due to its perfectly clear skies every night. You can book a full stargazing tour here or through the Mitzpe Ramon Visitor Center…or you can just step outside of your hotel and look up! It’s truly breathtaking. Don’t forget a sweatshirt – it’s cold in the desert at night!

Book a Negev Stargazing tour in advance here!

Naot Farm

True story, I am obsessed with goat cheese. I eat it straight out of the packaging with nothing else. So when I learned how many goat farms there are in the Negev and in Israel itself and you can hang with the goats AND taste goat cheese, I was in. I have been to a few different goat farms (like Kornmehl above, but that is more of a restaurant and see the goats) but Naot Farm I think was my favorite for the goats! It’s a great farm where you can hear the story of the owners of the farm, play with the goats, and of course taste the cheese in the tasting room!

Click on any of the destination stop names above to learn more!

Don’t forget to book Beresheet Hotel here, book your Mitzpe Ramon Jeep Tour here, book Stargazing tour here, and book Sandboarding Tour here.

WHERE TO VISIT IN THE WEST NEGEV (all are day trips from Tel Aviv/Jerusalem, too!)

Like I said, the Negev and South Israel is the biggest area of Israel! There are so many other places to explore around South Israel that I would recommend if you spend way more time down in South Israel and are making your way to Eilat. The West Negev is closer to Tel Aviv if you drive along the coast and these could easily be day trips as well!

Sderot & The Path To Peace Project (Gaza Border)

Sderot Israel is a city on the northwestern side of the Negev Desert (ie. near the coast ie. on the border of Gaza) there are also a ton of different kibbutzim and areas to visit that are worth your time on a visit to the South of Israel and are totally contrasting the desert areas and other cities of life in Israel. Sderot is a beautiful city with around 25k locals and is mostly well-known because it is the closest Israeli city to Gaza (1 KM). When in Sderot, you have FIFTEEN seconds to find a shelter when a rocket siren goes off. That’s it. I recommend visiting Sderot as a tourist because it shows the TRUE LIFE of what living on the Gaza Border is like. You can tour a school playground that consists of shelters, the Sderot Media Museum which explains life on the border and shows rocket remains areas that have been hit, and more.

The Path To Peace project is a joint mosaic along the Gaza Border in the Moshav of Netiv HaAsara. It’s FOR SURE worth a visit to see the mosaic on the border in order to help understand the reality of life.

There are a ton of Gaza Border day tours from Tel Aviv that focus on the conflict that visit both Sderot and the Path To Peace project that leave from Tel Aviv. HIGHLY recommend taking one if you are not visiting on your own from the Negev. These tours are so important to see the reality of conflict life on the Gaza Border on both sides.

Book this Gaza Border Conflict tour from Tel Aviv here!

The Salad Trail

The Salad Trail is another must-visit tour in South Israel for everyone who likes food! The Salad Trail is a tour on a beautiful farm located on a Kibbutz in the North West area of the Negev and is by far the best way to learn all of the AMAZING produce that comes from Israel! You can take a 3 hour tour of the farm to learn (and taste!!) the different foods (like 15 types of tomatoes!?) that come from the land of Israel. It’s also beautiful! You must book a tour in advance. This is also a great activity when visiting Israel with kids! You also could do this as a day trip from Tel Aviv it’s only a 1.5 hour drive!

Related Post: Tel Aviv Food Guide

The Israel Air Force Museum

Another must in the Western Negev area where you can learn everything you could ever imagine about the Israel Air Force is at the Hatzerim Base where they have the main Israel Air Force Museum and you can tour the airbase and their aircraft!

WHAT TO DO IN EILAT REGION

Another 1.5-2 hour south drive of Mitzpe Ramon is the Eilat region. You need at least another minimum 3 days to visit Eilat, which is located on the Red Sea in the most Southern tip of Israel. Eilat is known for its diving in the Red Sea, proximity to Timna Park (a massive National Park in the Arava Desert in Israel and is known for its geological attractions) and its proximity to both Jordan and Egypt! Eilat is a beautiful (mostly tourist) town with tons of big hotels right on the beach.

Hidden Lake Eilat

On your drive down to Eilat, you MUST MUST MUST stop at the Hidden Lake Eilat. This is right on the outskirts of Timna Park and a 5-minute drive from the Eilat entrance and right on the highway. It’s an abandoned hidden lake (hence the name) and is SO vast and stunning and totally outdoes the pictures of it. I was blown away. It’s a must (free entrance, drive right up to it).

Eilat!

Eilat is known as the beach town in the South which has likely the best weather in Israel year-round. It sits on the tip bottom of Israel and is surrounded by Jordan and Egypt, both of which are literally right next door (if there were no borders, driving would take less than 30 minutes to get to each country!). On a good day, you can also see the mountains of Saudi Arabia. The sunrises in Eilat are simply stunning as they come over the Jordanian mountains. Eilat is mostly known for its coral reef – the only one in all of Israel, so a ton of people visit Eilat to dive! There is so much to do in Eilat Israel, even as simply as walking along the boardwalk. You can also fly to Eilat from Tel Aviv in 30 minutes if you don’t want to road trip! Either way if you have extra time and want to see a totally different Middle Eastern region I suggest visiting Eilat Israel!

Things To Do In Eilat

Coral Beach Nature Reserve Eilat: The only Coral Reef in all of Israel! This is THE spot to snorkeling (can rent there or buy on-site) free-range or can take a tour, and this is also the place to take diving classes! I highly recommend doing this – the only place to do it in the country. Book an Introductory Guided Diving tour here! Book a guided Snorkeling tour here!
Dolphin Reef Eilat: This is definitely a highlight of the things to do in Eilat Israel. If you’re going with kids (or not) and want to swim with dolphins – the Eilat Dolphin Reef is the place to go! They work with their dolphins a lot and no harm is done to swimming with the dolphins. You also do NOT have to book a tour/excursion – you can come here and pay just the entrance fee and see the dolphins from the beach!
Underwater Observatory: If you love sea life but don’t want to go in the water, you can’t miss the Eilat Underwater Observatory. Great kids activity too.
Timna Park: A massive National Park surrounded by yellow sandstone mountains with so many different hikes and viewpoints that are good for all ages. Timna Park is a vast part of Israel in the Arava Desert (another big Israeli desert region) and you can’t miss it when driving – it’s only a ten minute drive from the center of Eilat! You can either take your car and do hikes/drive around yourself and tour it, or book a guided tour! Book a Timna Park guided tour here.
Red Canyon Hike: One of the COOLEST hikes in Israel and an absolute must-do. Looks just like the hike in Utah with the red canyons. It’s stunning. You can go and do the hike on your own (totally able for kids and not difficult at all) or can do a guided tour. Book a guided Red Canyon tour here.

Where To Eat In Eilat Restaurants

Visit Petra, Jordan or Sinai, Egypt from Eilat

Eilat is also the perfect base to visit either Petra, Jordan (book a day tour from Eilat to Petra here) or Sinai, Egypt (I suggest staying over in Sinai in a nice hotel that are like $50 per night! or can book a day tour to Sinai here) since the borders are right on Eilat! HIGHLY recommend both and you MUST book a tour in advance for both locations. You can read more about what to expect in Jordan here.

Book a diving tour in Eilat here, a full day trip to Petra here or book a full day trip to Sinai here!

Click on any of the destination stop names above to learn more!

Where To Stay in Eilat

A lot of big name hotels have been popping up in Eilat too recently, like the Shangri-La. I highly recommend staying at a hotel near the center or if you are going to Eilat with a big group to get an Airbnb – my last trip there we were 16 people and we stayed at one of the most amazing Airbnbs with amazing views and sunrises – and a 2 minute drive to the boardwalk.

Eilat Hotels

Royal Shangri-La Eilat: New in Eilat and a huge luxury hotel chain across Asia. Book the Shangri-La Eilat here.
King Solomon Eilat: More mid-range hotel right on the boardwalk. Book the King Solomon Eilat here.
Royal Beach Eilat: Another luxury level hotel right in the center of Eilat. Can’t go wrong with one of the Isrotel chain resorts like Royal Beach. Book the Royal Beach Eilat here.
Dan Eilat: Another big luxury Israeli chain hotel highly recommended in all major cities in Israel. Book the Dan Eilat here.
Queen of Sheba Eilat: one of the older, fanciest luxury hotels in Eilat. Highly recommended and has the best views. Book Queen of Sheba here.

Airbnb Eilat

As mentioned, I HIGHLY recommend getting an Airbnb massive villa when visiting Eilat with a big group. It is the best way, the most cost-efficient and there are amazing villas right in the center. Also, if you use my Airbnb link you get $40 off your first stay!

Related Post: North Day Trips From Tel Aviv

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Did I miss one of the things to do Eilat, Mitzpe Ramon, the Negev Desert, or South Israel? Let me know in the comments for my next visit! See my general Israel Travel Guide to know what to expect when visiting Israel, my North Israel Day Trips From Tel Aviv, or my Tel Aviv travel guide here!

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About The Author

Rachel Shulman is the owner of From East To West and a seasoned traveler having been to 35+ countries and no intention of stopping soon. She is obsessed with planning and specializes in creating detailed, efficient travel itineraries and guides so you don’t have to when planning your next destination.

Israel

NORTH ISRAEL DAY TRIPS FROM TEL AVIV

ByRachel Shulman | On March 13,18 | 6 Comments

As I mentioned in my Tel Aviv travel guide, Southern Israel guide and my Israel travel blog, I have visited Israel various times and lived there for a while back in 2015 and then moved here permanently as an expat in October 2019. So it’s safe to say I know my way around Israel. Northern Israel has so much to offer but many people focus on the Galilee and Golan Heights (which are amazing!) and not just a quick weekend or day trip from Tel Aviv. Haifa and Akko (Acre) are only an HOUR train ride and drive from the city and makes the perfect short trip from Tel Aviv OR as perfect spots to stop at on your way North into the Golan Heights (my Golan Heights guide coming soon!). Keep reading to find out my favorite North Israel day trips from Tel Aviv to Haifa and Akko as well as about Caesarea and Zichron Yaakov! If you’re driving, you will also want to stop at Caesarea and Zichron Yaakov which are both amazing areas in Israel to see too and are beyond close to Tel Aviv (more info on each area at the bottom of this guide!).

Disclosure: This “North Day Trips From Tel Aviv” guide may contain affiliate links. I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As always, all opinions are my own and I would never post about something I have not personally used/verified.

For all of my travel/packing essentials I bring on any trip compiled together, head to my influencer page on Amazon here for a complete list or check out my descriptive carry-on packing guide here!

TRAVEL INSURANCE: When visiting the North of Israel, I highly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know what may happen to your flights, a death/personal emergency in your family, or an accident happening while traveling (think: getting mugged, falling while hiking and spraining your ankle, literally any accident than can happen ANYWHERE!). World Nomads makes it super easy and I never leave for a trip without getting their insurance. Most importantly it’s extremely affordable: get your World Nomads travel insurance before your trip here!

NORTH DAY TRIPS FROM TEL AVIV: HOW TO GET TO HAIFA AND AKKO

The easiest way to get to these North Israel cities if you are touring around the whole country would be to drive from Tel Aviv. It is only about an hour drive on a main highway! The best part about driving to Haifa from Tel Aviv is that you can stop at Israel points of interest on the way such as Caesarea and Zichron Yaakov (more on those at the bottom of this article). Alternatively, you can take a direct train from Tel Aviv to Haifa, which also takes an hour. The train is beyond easy and I have taken it various times and this is one of the top reasons why seeing Haifa is a must on my list when visiting Israel! After you make it to Haifa, it’s just a quick 30 minute train or drive to the port city of Akko! There are even ferry options available between both Israel port cities now too! So Haifa and Akko are both super accessible from the center of Israel and are some of my favorite weekend and day trips for experiencing another Israeli perspective of the country.

HAIFA

Haifa is one of my favorite cities in Israel. It is a gorgeous Israeli port city (the biggest port in Israel) with the most amazing panoramic views. The city is built on the Carmel Mountains so the views from the top are incredible. Haifa has something for everyone; beaches, hiking, markets, food, UNESCO sites and street art. Don’t miss this small, amazing port city in Israel when visiting.

THINGS TO DO IN HAIFA ISRAEL

Bahai Gardens

The Bahai Gardens are the top reason people go to Haifa. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And they are incredible, no words can do it justice. I will let my pictures below speak for them (and all the perspectives I have of the gardens). Make sure to leave plenty of time for stopping here. You are going to spend a lot of time taking pictures of the incredible views looking downwards and outwards while at the top, and then while you actually walk through the gardens, and then when you get to the bottom and look up! They really are incredible. Each time I go back (I have been five times) they are even more amazing!

Haifa Port & Beaches

After you get to the bottom of the Bahai Gardens, you should keep walking straight through the German Colony for a good meal (more on that below) and then on to the Haifa port and beaches if you want some relaxation time! Haifa is the biggest port city in Israel and you’ll often see cruise ships docked here (you can spot them from the top of the Bahai Gardens). I would check out the port area and walk to the public beaches to relax in that Mediterranean heat! Two of the top Haifa beaches are Bat Galim and Dado Beach.

Walk around Masada Street for Street Art

Masada Street is one of the most popular streets in Haifa and is well-known for its graffiti-filled street art! If you are into street art I highly recommend taking the time to walk along this street and stare at the walls!

things to do in haifa israel masada street

things to do in haifa israel masada street 2

things to do in haifa israel masada street 3

things to do in haifa israel masada street 4

Elijah’s Cave

Elijah’s Cave is situated in the base of Carmel Mountain and is an interesting historical site where the Prophet Elijah is said to have lived and taught. The cave holds values for all religions and the is set in a beautiful chapel.

Merkaz HaCarmel (Carmel Center)

Popular, bustling area on the slopes of the Carmel Mountain with tons of restaurants and bars at the top of the city. Also the views from here overlooking the city and Mediterranean Sea are the absolute best. This is a must!

German Colony

Located directly at the base of the Bahai Gardens, the German Colony is the trendiest area of Haifa and consists of a main street, Ben Gurion Avenue, which is lined with trees, restaurants, bars and shopping. Tourists and locals alike come here after visiting the Bahai Gardens or to enjoy their nightlife and food experiences! The German Colony is not to be missed when visiting Haifa.

Click on any of the titles above to learn more information about each spot!

HAIFA RESTAURANTS & BARS

Fattoush: Really solid restaurant with amazing salads and a twist on regular Middle Eastern food in the German Colony. The best part is the garden terrace in the restaurant! Also a great nightlife spot.
Cafe Louise: Best spot for breakfast and brunch in Haifa.
Aroma: An Israeli staple. You can never go wrong with breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a coffee at Aroma.
Libira: A microbrewery that is a must for beer lovers, located in the Haifa port area.

WHERE TO STAY IN HAIFA

If you are staying over in Haifa, there are many hotels (both chain and boutiques) and hostels in Haifa! Haifa is a big city and you will find any level of hotels you are looking for. Search all Haifa hotels here!

AIRBNB Haifa: There are also so many amazing, modern apartments in Haifa. They are generally cheaper than hotels so if you like the Airbnb route instead of hotels I definitely recommend it in Israel – Israeli hosts are amazing. Also, if you use my Airbnb link you get $40 off your first stay! I stayed in an Airbnb when I visited and I loved the apartment and host.

AKKO (ACRE)

Akko is a lesser-known small port city in North Israel known for its crusader style old walls surrounding its old city. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a holy city for the Baha’i faith. Akko is not one of the main stops tourists make when visiting Israel but I disagree with this and think it should be on EVERYONE’s Israel itinerary – especially if you are visiting Haifa!

THINGS TO DO IN AKKO ISRAEL

Get lost in the Old City

One of my favorite things to do pretty much in any city! The Old City of Akko is surrounded by walls so I suggest getting lost within the walls and wandering through the alleys imagining what ancient crusader life was like. The Old City has not been modernized so you feel like you were taken back in time while in Acre’s Old City. You also can walk on top of the walls of the Old City which I highly recommend for the amazing views. Be sure to stop at the many observation points with your camera ready!

Kingdom Of The Knights

Probably the most popular thing to do in Akko is the Kingdom of the Knights. This is right next to the visitor center in the Old City and is a self-guided (with audio device) tour that consists of a bunch of streets and alleys that give a multimedia experience (think: moving visuals and sounds) that display how the streets used to be back in the crusader time period. One of the best rooms to see during the tour is the dining hall with how vast and largely untouched it still is. Another one of the best areas in this part of the underground city is the Medieval market area next to the Crusader’s Fortress where you can watch real artisans create medieval crafts and arts that you can buy! It is very cool and unlike anything I have ever experienced. The Kingdom of the Nights tour is a unique experience where you learn the history in a fun way and is a must-do when visiting Akko.

Boat Ride from the Marina

Akko has a big marina and fisherman’s harbor within the Old City. I suggest taking a short boat tour (they’re super cheap) around the Marina which will give you a different perspective and picturesque views of the stunning Old City walls and the city of Akko. If you just walk to the marina there will be tons of people there asking you to come on their boat for a 30 minute trip – do it!

The Templars’ Tunnel

This tunnel system runs under the Old City and was only discovered in the 1990s! It is fun to walk through as you can hear the sea above you. You enter the tunnels within the Old City and end up by the stunning Mediterranean Sea.

Old City Market/Bazaar

The Old City market reminds me of Shuk HaPishpeshim in Jaffa, Tel Aviv and you can find all the local products you imagine while walking around in the bustling market. Be sure not to go here on Shabbat when everything is closed.

Click on the titles above to learn more about them!

WHERE TO EAT IN AKKO

Hummus Said: Known to be the BEST HUMMUS IN ALL OF ISRAEL. Yeah, I said it. Akko is not only famous for its port city but also for its hummus. Hummus Said is located within the Old City Market. Hummus Said is said to be the best in the entire COUNTRY! I can attest this, I have been to Hummus Said twice and both times blew my mind how amazing it is – even better than Hummus Abu Hassan in Tel Aviv! This is a must-go, and be prepared to wait! Be sure to get there early – they close up after their daily fresh batch is finished (around 3PM).

WHERE TO STAY IN AKKO

While Akko is quite small, there are still some good hotels and locations to stay in. Generally Akko is done as a day trip with no overnight needed, but if you do stay over, you have hotel and hostel options! I suggest staying in or as close to in as possible the Old City Walls that you can. Search Akko hotels and hostels here.

AIRBNB Akko: There are also so many amazing apartments in Akko with super nice hosts if you are staying overnight! They are generally cheaper than hotels so if you like the Airbnb route instead of hotels I definitely recommend it in Israel – Israeli hosts are amazing. Also, if you use my Airbnb link you get $40 off your first stay!

OTHER ISRAEL AREAS TO SEE FROM TEL AVIV ON THE WAY NORTH

CAESAREA

Caesarea is a ruins town situated right in the middle of Tel Aviv and Haifa on the coast. It’s known for its famous national park which includes tons of ancient ruins, an amphitheater and old port. The ancient Roman ruins here make up an archaeological park with remains of some big statues and monuments as well as mosaics. Caesarea is unlike anywhere else I have ever seen (and I have been to a lot of ruins) and should not be missed while traveling in North Israel along the coast. You only need about 2 hours here to walk around or you can spend an afternoon here on the beach at Caesarea National Park!

ZICHRON YAAKOV

Zichron Yaakov is one of the more modern settlements in Israel and is situated on top of Mount Carmel, providing stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea. The town is extremely small with a small pedestrian only shopping street with tons of cafes and restaurants. Zichron Yaakov is the perfect pit stop for lunch to walk around this cute little town and grab a bite either on the way North or on the way back to Tel Aviv. I have been a few times and love how quaint and cute it is. Zichron Yaakov is also famous for its wineries, its original one being the Carmel Winery as well as Tishbi and Binyamina wineries. I definitely suggest checking one of these out, I went to Tishbi and loved the winery and tasting room. The lunch at Tishbi is amazing! Another stop you should make if you go to Zichron Yaakov is to Ramat HaNadiv, a garden/park right outside the town. It is actually a memorial garden for Baron Edmond de Rothschild. The gardens are absolutely gorgeous with amazing views and it is nice to just walk around her for a bit. Do not miss Zichron Yaakov if you are driving in Israel!

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Did I miss something awesome that you loved in Haifa, Akko, Caesarea or Zichron Yaakov in this North Day Trips From Tel Aviv guide? Let me know in the comments for my next visit! Head here for my Tel Aviv guide, my Tel Aviv food guide here, my South Israel itinerary guide here or see my general Israel travel blog here!

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