Things to do in  Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is nicknamed the White City on account of its UNESCO-protected Bauhaus landmarks. The buildings—designed by German-Jewish architects fleeing Nazi persecution in Europe—are some of the city’s most famous attractions. Also popular are Tel Aviv’s downtown Mediterranean beaches and bustling Carmel Market, the largest shuk.

With only a day to spend in Tel Aviv, take a walking tour or food tour to get an insider’s peek into the local culture in just a few hours. If you prefer to visit on your own, wander down the beachfront promenade down to the historic seaport of Jaffa.

When in Tel Aviv, do not miss a visit to the city’s Yemenite neighborhood, known as Kerem Hateimanim. It’s tucked downtown between Carmel Market and Allenby. There, you’ll find most of the world’s Yemenite Jewish population and tiny, family-run eateries where you can taste the community’s cuisine.

Tel Aviv is the superior destination for nightlife, cafés, and anything related to the beach—you won’t find any coastlines in Jerusalem. However, Jerusalem can’t be topped when it comes to its history and religious significance. The Old City is home to dozens of landmarks considered sacred to three faiths.

Two of Tel Aviv’s best features are free. One is the 4,000 or so UNESCO-protected Bauhaus buildings that are scattered around downtown. Simply walk around and try to find them all. You can also take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea, with beaches located right in the city center.

Tel Aviv is a safe city. Nicknamed the Bubble, it feels very far—culturally, if not geographically—from the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. You can feel confident walking around and exploring on your own. Violent crime is rare, although you’ll want to exercise normal precautions, especially in parts of South Tel Aviv.