Business trips don’t have to be all work and no play. If you’re planning to land in Tel-Aviv you can enjoy the city’s fabulous atmosphere even if you’re on a tight meetings schedule.
The small city center keeps most of the popular attractions very close to each other. Combined with the informal Israeli culture and the fact that it’s second name is “The City That Never Sleeps”, Tel-Aviv always has something to offer.
So here are some of the best places that will let you have a taste from one of the most vibrant cities in the world:
Old Jaffa Port
Namal Yafo (in Hebrew) is one of the oldest in the world, still used by local fishermen, but mostly operates as a cultural attraction. the old hangars were converted to stylish restaurants, shops and art galleries and the port also offers a gourmet food market. The old architecture is unique and beautiful, and the Jewish-Arab Coexistence gives the place a special warm vibe.
imperial craft cocktail bar
The imperial craft cocktail bar is Hidden within the imperial hotel, and was created as “a temple to the lost art of the cocktail”. The kitchen is Asian-colonial inspired, and the music varies from swing jazz at happy hour to surf and rock n’ roll come late-night. The small place is serving super-inventive cocktails and is not only considered to be the number One bar in Israel but has also won many international prizes.
Habima Theater
Israel’s national theater was rebuilt in 2009 and now offers a beautiful urban landscaping as part of the White City of Tel Aviv. in front of the theater lies Habima Square, a very popular public space which offers a quiet get away from the city’s chaos. The sunken garden, playing classical music, and the infinity pond attracts all kinds of people looking for a bit of relaxation.
Neve zedek
Even though it’s one of Tel-Aviv’s oldest neighborhoods, Neve Tzedek is extremely fashionable. It was established in 1887 as the first Jewish neighborhood outside of the old port city of Jaffa. The low buildings, along narrow streets built in Oriental style are still preserved although they have been restored. The beautiful neighborhood offers not only amazing architecture but also many boutiques, galleries, craft shops, as well as the Suzanne Dellal center that offers an elegant piazza and garden.
Jaffa Flea Market
Shuk Hapishpishim (the Hebrew name) is another proof that Tel Aviv knows how to make lemonade from lemons. During the day the flee market, located not very far from Jaffa’s famous clock tower, offers second hand items of all kinds: jewelry, cloths, antiques, furniture, Judaica, house utensils and much more. But if that’s not enough, the market area offers a very Cheerful night scene with pubs, restaurants and cafes that is extremely popular with the locals.
Levinsky Market
If you’re into waking up you senses, Levinsky Market is the place for you. flavors, spices, nuts, dried fruits and fusion cuisines all combined with a 120 years old history make this place one of the most colorful and interesting food markets in Israel.