Tel Aviv, Israel 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Vibrant City of Tel Aviv

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Dizengoff Center Food Court. This popular food court offers a variety of Israeli cuisine options.
  • Visit the Carmel Market (Shuk Hacarmel), one of Tel Aviv’s largest and busiest markets, to experience local life and shop for fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs.
  • Head to Neve Tzedek, the city’s first neighborhood, filled with beautiful architecture, art galleries, boutiques, and cafes.

Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at Manta Ray, a trendy restaurant offering delicious seafood dishes in a unique setting.
  • Visit Jaffa Port and explore the ancient port city of Jaffa, where you can find the picturesque St. Peter’s Church and the Old Jaffa Flea Market.
  • Take a stroll along Tel Aviv Beach, relax, and enjoy the Mediterranean sea views.

Evening:

  • Dine at Beit Ariela, located in a historic building, serving modern Israeli cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients.
  • Experience Tel Aviv’s vibrant nightlife in the Florentin or Neve Tzedek neighborhoods, filled with bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Things to Know:

  • Israel operates on the Hebrew calendar, so remember to check for both the Hebrew and Gregorian dates when planning your trip.
  • Israel is a predominantly Jewish country, but it’s essential to respect the religious and cultural diversity of its population.
  • English is widely spoken in Tel Aviv, but learning a few basic Hebrew phrases can enhance your experience.
  • Weekends in Israel are Friday and Saturday due to the observance of Shabbat (Sabbath). Plan accordingly.

Transportation:

  • Tel Aviv has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. A Ramabim (Rav Kav) card is required for using public transport, which can be purchased at most stations or convenience stores.
  • Taxis are readily available, but Uber also operates in the city.
  • Walking is a great way to explore Tel Aviv’s neighborhoods and soak up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Historical Sites and Modern Art

Morning:

  • Begin your day with breakfast at Café Xoho, known for its cozy atmosphere and tasty breakfast options.
  • Visit the Eitz Chaim Museum, Israel’s first museum dedicated to the history of the Bnei Menashe people from northeast India.
  • Explore the White City, Tel Aviv’s UNESCO World Heritage site, consisting of over 4,000 Bauhaus buildings. The Aldrich House is a great example and offers guided tours.

Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at Café Noir, located in the heart of the White City, offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
  • Visit Yad Vashem, Israel’s official memorial to the Holocaust. Allow several hours to explore the museum, memorial, and gardens.

Evening:

  • Dine at Miznon, a popular restaurant specializing in creative takes on traditional Israeli dishes.
  • End your day with a visit to Rosh Pina Street, known for its street art, vibrant nightlife, and various food stalls.

Stay: Tel Aviv offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget. Some popular options include the Brown TLV, a boutique hotel in the heart of the city; The Drisco Hotel, a historic luxury property overlooking the Mediterranean; and TLV Hostel, a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to socialize with fellow backpackers.

Tips:

  • Israel is famous for its innovation, so be sure to check out some of the startups and tech companies based in Tel Aviv.
  • Israeli cuisine varies greatly across the country, but make sure to try falafel, shawarma, hummus, and sabich during your visit.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Always carry small change for parking meters, public toilets, and vending machines.
  • Enjoy your trip to Tel Aviv!