Things to do in Tel Aviv
Sandy beaches, white Bauhaus buildings and a restaurant scene that never sleeps. Tel Aviv is the Mediterranean at full volume.
Beaches for everyone
Tel Aviv's coastline is lined with beaches, each with its own crowd, from families to surfers and volleyball players.
Tel Aviv: a beach city with big-city energy
Tel Aviv stretches along the Mediterranean, with about 14 kilometres of coastline and a promenade that runs almost the whole length of the city. Life here moves between the beach, the cafés and the bars, and the city is known for being open, creative and lively around the clock.
The centre is famous for its Bauhaus architecture, and the White City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Read more about the country in our Israel holidays guide.
A walk along the beach
The seafront promenade is perfect for walking, running or cycling from the north of the city to old Jaffa.
The best things to do in Tel Aviv
Start the day with a swim or a walk on the promenade, then explore Carmel Market and the narrow streets of the Yemenite Quarter next to it. Wander through Neve Tzedek, one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods, with boutiques and cafés, and on to the old port city of Jaffa with its flea market and harbour.
Rent a bike from the city's bike-share scheme, visit the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and end the day watching the sunset from the beach or a rooftop terrace.
A long lunch
Lunch in Tel Aviv is often a long, sociable affair with lots of small plates to share.
Food and nightlife in Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv is one of the most exciting food cities in the Mediterranean. Try hummus at a simple local hummusia, sabich and falafel from street stalls and modern Israeli cooking in the city's many chef-led restaurants.
At night, the city really comes alive. Rothschild Boulevard, Florentin and the area around Dizengoff are full of wine bars, cocktail bars and clubs, and many keep going until sunrise.
The city that never sleeps
Tel Aviv's nightlife is famous, and weekends start on Thursday evening.
Best time to visit Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv has a warm Mediterranean climate. Spring and autumn, roughly April to June and September to November, are ideal for combining beach days with sightseeing. July and August are hot and humid, while winters are mild, with some rain.
Remember that much of the city slows down during Shabbat, from Friday afternoon to Saturday evening, although many cafés and bars stay open. Always check the latest FCDO or government travel advice before planning a trip.
Tel Aviv: frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Tel Aviv?
Three to four days is ideal to enjoy the beaches, the markets, Jaffa and the food and nightlife at a relaxed pace. Add a day trip to Jerusalem or the Dead Sea if you want to see more of the country.
Is Tel Aviv a good beach destination?
Yes. Tel Aviv has a long, sandy Mediterranean coastline with lifeguards, beach bars and sports facilities, and the sea is warm enough for swimming for much of the year. It is one of the few cities where you can combine a city break with real beach days.
Where should I stay in Tel Aviv?
Stay near the seafront for easy access to the beach, in the centre around Rothschild Boulevard for restaurants and nightlife, or in Neve Tzedek or Jaffa for a quieter, more historic atmosphere with boutique hotels.
What is Tel Aviv famous for?
Tel Aviv is famous for its beaches, Bauhaus architecture in the White City, its food scene, Carmel Market, the old port of Jaffa and lively nightlife that has earned it the nickname the city that never sleeps.