Everyone knows about the quality of the beaches in this part of Israel, but the fantastic city of Tel Aviv is one of the most exciting and beautiful destinations anywhere in the world. There are a host of fantastic sights that make it a perfect trip for those who are interested in more than just the world-class beach. It’s a small city but it packs in enough to cater for foodies, fashionistas, culture-fanatics and just about any other type of person. Read on for three of the main reasons why I think Tel Aviv is a destination like no other!
Architectural Heritage
There are a number of reasons why Tel Aviv’s architecture is so fascinating and draws the crowds and the recognition it does. Whether it’s the old or the new, there’s something to capture the imagination and the attention of everyone.
The White City & UNESCO
The Bauhaus architecture that the city is so famous for has a long and interesting past, and you can see many of the tremendous Modernist buildings while walking around central Tel Aviv.
Top Tip: Enjoy the White City with a walking tour so you catch the best of the architectural gems!
Ancient Jaffa
The ancient port area of Jaffa is just a short trip from the centre of Tel Aviv and is worth seeing on any visit, especially if architecture is your thing. It has a fantastic flea market and the winding streets are busy with visitors, diners and merchants at any time of the day. The streets are electric and alive at night, yet the atmosphere still retains an authenticity that you rarely find in a modern city.
Museums and Galleries
One of the very best reasons for a visit to Tel Aviv is to see its collection of enchanting and beguiling galleries and museums. Below are just three of the very best, but there are a great many more just waiting for you to discover.
Tel Aviv Museum
The largest museum in the city plays host to some of the finest Israeli and international art. There are fantastic temporary and permanent displays for art lovers, and the building itself is a sight to behold. The museum is set in a charming square with many fine sculptures.
Top Tip: Close to the museum is a large theatre and the opera house. A trip to either can top-off a perfect cultural day.
Beit Hatefutsoth
This museum which carefully and engagingly explores the history of the Jewish people is, in my opinion, a must-see for any culturally-minded visitor to Tel Aviv. With engaging exhibits from the vast and deep history of Judaism, including a fascinating exhibit on Bob Dylan, this place is fascinating on every level.
Bauhaus Center
For any fans of the prominent ‘international style’ of architecture that is found throughout the city, this is a great place to visit for books and postcards detailing the history and contemporary importance of the Bauhaus style. Great for a cultural day out and even better for souvenirs!
Food and Drink
There are a number of world leading restaurants in Tel Aviv and the suburban areas that surround it. The nightlife is varied throughout here and there are places to suit all tastes and styles. Having visited more than a few, these are some of my favourites in the city; they are full of life and will leave feeling happy, full and eager to return.
Teder Pop Up Bar and Restaurant
This trendy bar is housed in a fantastic building in the city’s old textile region, and it’s full of the hippest and most on-trend people. There is a pizzeria, a bar for dancing and sampling cocktails, and a great fish restaurant all in the same venue. It’s got everything you need under one roof for dinner and a night out.
Jaffa and the Port
The old city of Jaffa and the port area of Tel Aviv are brimming with some fantastic restaurants that are perfect for light lunches during the day, or for enjoying a sunset meal in an authentic and unique setting in the evening. There are more than enough great spots dotted around these areas, and the best way of getting a delicious meal is finding where the locals have flocked to.
Nightlife at the Synagogue
Some of Tel Aviv’s best nightlife spots are in the area around the Great Synagogue. It’s a unique and captivating area with restaurants and bars galore, and is the type of place that welcomes newcomers and visitors alike. The friendly bars, comfortable atmosphere and the restaurants here are individually special and it’s hard not to recommend them all! See where the night takes you is my advice.
Hopefully you are now inspired to visit this vibrant and exciting destination. Start with the highlights above and your trip will be off to the perfect start.
Where to Stay
Herzliya Marina Lagoon Apartment – This is a stylish and modern apartment with a chic contemporary design, located close to the beach. Guests can also make use of the excellent spa and wellness centre, which includes a high-quality fitness facility.
House of Palm – One of a Kind– The impeccably laid out House of Palm is perfect for visitors who enjoy the quality that comes from a boutique, luxurious apartment. It’s in one of the best parts of town but is on a quiet street which makes it the perfect place in which to relax.
The Vera – Perhaps one of the classiest boutique hotels in Tel Aviv, The Vera provides guests with a fantastic location close to museums and attractions, within a setting that provides a subtle balance of quality and comfort. Your stay here will be a pleasant one!
How to Get There
There are a number of good quality airlines that make the journey direct from the UK to Tel Aviv (TLV), with British Airways being one of the more popular choices for the trip. At just under five hours from London to Ben Gurion International Airport, it’s a popular choice for a quick and easy getaway.
A good way to avoid the hassle that comes from a difficult public transport system in a new and unfamiliar city is to use Shuttle Direct’s airport transfer service. They have experienced and friendly drivers who can meet you outside the terminal and will have you at your hotel in just over 20 minutes. I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Overview
- UK to TLV Flight Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- TLV to Tel Aviv Distance: 20 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 22 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is the first name in airport transfer services in Europe and North America, and our drivers are friendly, professional and knowledgeable about the local areas in which they drive. Our user-friendly website is just as simple and straight-forward as our transfers are, and both help to take the stress out of your trip. Book in advance and look forward to seamless onward travel.
