ISRAEL
This traditional yet buzzing country offers not only some of the best food in the world (think the most amazing hummus on every corner!) but also lively neighbourhoods, beautiful beaches and thousands of year old geological sites waiting to be explored. Though it might be tempting to hit the Tel Aviv beaches during summer months, it’s best to visit in European Spring and Fall for the most pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
5 Must-Do’s in Israel
1. Swim in the Dead Sea
One experience you certainly cannot miss when exploring Israel is going for a swim in the Dead Sea, the lowest point of the earth. The salty water lets you float in a seated position without having to paddle! Better avoid diving in – even a small drop of The Dead Sea’s water is unimaginably salty. A face mask with the rich Dead Sea mud is also a must!
2. Visit the Old City in Jerusalem
The Old City of Jerusalem is a melting pot like no other with important religious sites such as the Western Wall which represents the holiest site in the world for Jews, the Dome of the Rock which is of utter importance to Muslims and the Church of the Sepulcher where Christians believe Jesus was crucified and buried, each are only a few minutes walk apart.
TAC tip: Wear a long dress and light scarf when exploring the Old City; it’s also best discovered walking at your own pace rather than joining a tour!
3. Go for a scuba dive and snorkel in the Red Sea
Israel mainly lies on the Mediterranean Sea’s Eastern shore but also touches the Gulf of Aqaba in its South. As an avid diver or passionate snorkeler, you shouldn’t miss visiting one of the world’s shore diving capitals, Eilat. Explore the mesmerizing underwater world classed as one of the best-protected coral reefs in the Red Sea. Don’t miss the Wreck of the Satil ship with its fascinating bridge, engine room and missile launching area waiting to be explored!
4. Visit the Baha’i gardens in Haifa
The Bahai Gardens are to be found on Mount Carmel in Haifa, a port city on the northern west coast of Israel. Climb up the 1,700 steps of this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site for the most breathtaking views over the deep blue Haifa Bay passing emerald lawns and bright flower beds.
5. Soak in the hustle and bustle of Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv is a city like no other – combining tradition with buzzing beach city vibes it’s an experience that will certainly be with you forever. From cute corner cafés to busy nightclubs, from the historic old town Jaffa to sunsets at the beach filled with families, tourists, millenials and locals alike, this town is one best to be explored at your own pace. Enjoy browsing our Tel Aviv must-do’s listed below – you shouldn’t miss them when exploring the vibrant city!
Visit one of the many Tel Aviv Markets
When asking native Tel Avivian’s which market is the city’s best you’ll most likely receive many different answers. From the famous Carmel market with its trendy clothing stalls and unique food offerings, to the indoor Sarona market with its never ending culinary choices and the infamous Jaffa flea market for hidden treasures, you’ll surely be spoilt for choice! Mingle with locals and tourists alike and don’t forget to bargain for the ultimate souvenirs.
Go on a Street Art Tour
Cosmopolitan city Tel Aviv boasts a myriad of mural pieces by local and international artists. From hidden alleyways to century-old synagogues, there’s endless art waiting to be explored. Join a walking tour or explore the bohemian Florentine neighbourhood at your own pace!
Explore the old town Jaffa
One of Israel’s most ancient cities (over 7,500 years old!) is a melting pot of cultures, culinary highlights and monuments. Wander around at your own pace getting lost in the small alleyways which are packed with art galleries, historic stone buildings, mosques and churches as well as the must-stop’s – Jaffa Flea market and the port.
TAC tip: Head to Dr. Shakshuka for a traditional meal – not only is the food to die for, also the interior will leave you in awe!
Spend the day beach hopping
Enjoy the incessant tick tack of “matkot” Israel’s local beach ball game at Jerusalem Beach join in for a heated game with the locals or zick-zack through them to cool off in the sea. If a game of Volleyball and saltwater pools are more your thing you’ll love Gordon Beach which is popular amongst locals and tourists alike. Located just South of Old Jafa is Ajami Beach – bring your favourite book and indulge in some local hummus, beach life has never been better! Another must-visit is Bograshov Beach a hotspot for people watching and grabbing bites to eat from nearby eateries – pack your best swimmers and get amongst the crowds!
Go bar hopping
Kuli Alma was voted one of the best bars in Tel Aviv and its easy to see why! From a live music space and various exhibitions as well as pop up shows, this is the ultimate hotspot for hip locals and tourists alike. Yavne Bar & Restaurant is a hip speakeasy bar packed every night of the week! Expect eclectic neon signs, 70’s music, an impressive open kitchen and a DJ booth entertaining the dining and drinking crowd. Teder.FM in South Tel Aviv is located in the middle of an old art gallery offering mouthwatering thin-crust pizzas created by Tel Aviv’s celebrity Chef Eyal Shani, crowd-drawing guest DJs, movie nights, and second hand markets, Teder.FM has to be on your Tel Aviv bucket list!
Best Hotel In Israel
Address: Nahmani St 23-25, Tel Aviv-Yafo
The Norman Tel Aviv is located right next to central Rothschild Boulevard and some of Tel Aviv’s best cultural attractions. Capturing the timeless elegant of the 1920s, the luxury boutique hotel is located in two buildings, with the first one built in the eclectic style and is brimming with Renaissance and oriental influence whereas the main building is grand Modernist, featuring clean colours and wooden shutters.
The rooftop with breathtaking city views not only offers an infinity pool but also hosts an amazing Japanese tapas restaurant. Make sure to go for a wander in the hotel’s own citrus garden between the two buildings and sooth your soul and body at their very own wellness center before adventuring to Tel Aviv’s nearby sunny beaches.
- Rooms start from approx. US$570 per night at The Norman Hotel
You cannot wait to plan your next trip? Email our stay curators at [email protected] – they’d be more than happy to create the ultimate getaway for you!
