Tel Aviv is a city which has its own identity setting it apart from the rest of Israel. A mix of NYC and LA with a Middle Eastern flair it is full of life and energy. Here people feel free to express themselves how they want. It is full of the arty, the hip, the rich, the glamorous, the grungy, the sporty… honestly I’ve never seen a city with so many attractive people in my life.
On the other end of the spectrum I was shocked at the amount of homeless and destitute on the streets, particularly near the bus station. Some were really looking in a bad way which wasn’t nice to see.
How long to spend in Tel Aviv? I’d say two or three nights is enough to see the main sights and get a decent feel for the city. There’s not an overwhelming amount of things to do in comparison to say Jerusalem, and if you’re struggling for time I’d say cut days here and spend more time in Jerusalem.
Whether you’re in Tel Aviv for 5 days or 5 hours here are 5 cool things to do in Tel Aviv…
1. Explore the beaches. Tel Avivs main draw has to be its huge stretch of beach meeting the Mediterranean Sea.
There’s a beach for everyone- whether you’re a volleyball player, a French speaker .. there’s even a gay beach.
Prices along the public beaches are regulated. Sunloungers can be rented for a mere 12 shekels for the day- a bargain! Just pay at the machine, take the receipt and then grab a sunbed! Make sure you head to the beach at sunset for incredible pink skies.
2. Step back in time in Old Jaffa where Tel Aviv originated as a port town. It remains a world away from modern Tel Aviv with more of an Arabic flair. Wander the old walls where you get one of the best views of Tel Aviv, followed by the narrow passageways exploring the art galleries and shops before heading to the wishing bridge where it is said that by holding your starsign your wish will come true. The flea market also makes for interesting viewing and make sure you get an early lunch here for the best prices and food in town.
3. Go shopping at Carmel market. Here is where you will find anything you need and plenty you don’t. Pick up IDF t-shirts, a fresh juice and a bite to eat.
4. Sip a coffee at one of the outdoor kiosks as you watch the rich and glamorous living their lives at tree lined Rothschild Avenue.
5. Check out the nightlife! Most hostels run pub and bar crawls where they show you the best places to go in the city and they take you to places with free entry. Otherwise ask around as to what’s happening and where.
Overall just enjoy your time in Tel Aviv, don’t set a strict agenda- Tel Aviv is more a go with the flow kinda place.
Things to be aware of in Tel Aviv…
Tel Aviv is expensive. Incredibly expensive. Eyewateringly expensive.
On Shabbat a lot of the city still runs as normal. You will still be able to find restaurants open unlike in Jerusalem. However public transport is limited.
If you’re arriving by train make sure you check the station names. I got off at central however it turned out that actually that was very far from where I needed to be and I’d have been much better waiting another two stops.
If you’re a vegan you’re in luck- Tel Aviv has a wealth of vegan and vegetarian restaurants offering fresh meat free plant based produce. Did you know Israel is home to a relatively high proportion of vegans?
Where to sleep?
Hotels are eyewateringly expensive and I would recommend either booking an Air B&B or staying in a hostel.
Good budget hostels suited to solo travellers:
Abraham Hostel- with a solid reputation built up over years, this well organised hostel has all the facilities a traveller could need and then some. Perfectly suited to those new to independent travel. For those used to a proper hostel experience Abraham may feel more like a clinical hotel. Book here
Beachfront Hostel- situated across the road from the beach it is in a perfect location with more of a typical laid back hostel feel than Abraham’s. Watch the locals cycle and skate along the boardwalk from the Hostel rooftop bar. Book here
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