5 Top Tips for a Tel Aviv Break
There’s a lot to love about Tel Aviv, Israel’s self-styled capital of cool. This modern, cosmopolitan city on the Mediterranean has a little bit of just about everything, from beaches and boutique shops to cutting-edge clubs and a quaint Old Town. It can be hard to know where to start, but this guide should give you a head start…
Visit the old harbour in Jaffa (pictured above)
Jaffa is the oldest part of Tel Aviv and is a lot quieter. Think winding cobbled streets, courtyards and traditional restaurants; it's a real cultural melting pot.
Shop at Tel Aviv’s Old Railway station
Hatachana (below) is the Hebrew name for the old Jaffa railway station. It was originally built in 1892 as the terminus for the Jaffa-Jerusalem railway, and when it closed the site fell into disrepair. Now it has been transformed into a thriving collection of cafés, restaurants and boutiques, all in a historic setting.
Don’t miss Manta Ray
This beach restaurant is a seafood institution and a must for sunset dining - the view is incredible and so is the food. Waiters come round with 12 small appetisers for you to choose from.
Great food & drink
In the heart of Jaffa's flea market lies Puaa, where you’ll find homely and hearty food. We also recommend Popina for dinner – this is the place for cocktails (try the beetroot martini) and innovative cooking.
Know before you go
Windy streets and narrow alleys mean that Tel Aviv isn’t very easy to navigate - in fact it's a great place in which to get lost. If that unnerves you, make sure you know the areas and have a few places earmarked in each.