While you may think of Tel Aviv as a modern, cosmopolitan and financial hub, don’t be too hasty to write it off. This beautiful city, located on Israel’s Mediterranean coast, is also full of culture and history. Its wonderful architecture, many museums and various art galleries all capture the country’s important Jewish heritage. Discover the unmissable cultural gems that this city has to offer…
Travelling through Israel? Check out our detailed guide to the best activities here.
Stroll Around Jaffa’s Old City and Take in the History
You won’t quite believe the array of cultural attractions to be discovered in Jaffa’s Old City. There is no better way to explore it than by casually winding through the alleys and lanes riddled with ancient mosques and churches. It is one of the oldest port cities in the world and has so much to offer. While you can’t miss the awe-inspiring clock towers, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for the wishing bridges.
Visit the Tel Aviv Museum
This is the biggest museum in the city and boasts an impressive array of local and international art, as well as both contemporary and modern pieces. Its best selling point, however, is the beautiful large plaza on which it’s located. Full of sculptures and monuments, it’s like an extension of the galleries. The museum can be found on Tel Aviv’s Main Street at 27 Shaul Hamelech Boulevard.
Tel-Aviv Museum of Art by Preston Scott Cohen is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Visit the Helena Rubenstein Pavilion
For contemporary Israeli art, the Helena Rubenstein Pavilion is the place to be. Most exhibitions change regularly, but there are two permanents displays dedicated to the Danek and Jadzia Gertner Collection. Even if you don’t spend long in the gallery looking at the great range of paintings, its tranquil atmosphere is a good enough reason to go. Partially hidden inside the charming petite park called Gan Yaakov, it’s a great place to stop and read a book under the shade of the tall trees. Part of the Tel Aviv Museum, it is situated at 6 Tarsat Boulevard.
Attend a Classical Concert in Habima Square
If you’re a music lover (and even if you’re not) you have to take a trip to Habima Square. It is home to both the philharmonic orchestra and the national theatre. You can’t beat spending an afternoon sitting in the sun and admiring the beauty of the square while being lulled by the classical music which plays in the background day and night. Sounds wonderfully peaceful, don’t you think?
Visit the Nahum Gutman Museum of Art
You can’t go all the way to Tel Aviv and not see the versatile illustrations, paintings and writings of Israel’s most celebrated artist! This charming little museum is housed in the historical Writers House in Neve Tzedek at 21 Shimon Rokach Street.
How to Get to Tel Aviv
British Airways and El Al offer a direct flight from London to Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, while Swiss International Air Lines and Lufthansa have connecting flights, though these are much longer because of the lay-over.
After a five-hour flight, you don’t want to waste time trying to flag down a taxi or figuring out the complicated public transport system. It’s much easier to book a private transfer with Shuttle Direct. A friendly driver will meet you outside the terminal, help you with your bags and safely take you to your hotel in just 20 minutes.
Where to Stay
Market House – An Atlas Boutique Hotel: Located in the Old Jaffa neighbourhood, this hotel combines luxury with accessibility. It is just two minutes away from the sandy beach and promenade, and boasts beautifully decorated rooms fitted with air-conditioning, cable TV, a kettle and a mini fridge. A complimentary breakfast and afternoon refreshments are also on offer.
Hotel Nordoy: Set in a renovated 1920s building, this hotel is the oldest one in the city. It is conveniently located, just ten minutes from the beach, and offers stunning panoramic views of Tel Aviv. In the morning, you can indulge in a tasty breakfast at a nearby café as part of your hotel deal. Then, at the end of the day, this hotel offers you the chance to relax in the cosy seating area or out on the terrace or balcony.
Yerimiyahu Apartment: Situated just 700 metres from the Hilton Beach, this air-conditioned luxury apartment boasts stunning views of the city. It is stylishly furbished, with cosy sofas and comfy beds. There is a living room with a flat screen TV, a private bathroom, and a kitchen with an oven, microwave and toaster. You can also enjoy your meals or a cup of tea on the charming little balcony.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is Europe and North Africa’s leading airport service, offering fast and cost-effective transfers. Visit the user-friendly website to organise all of your travel arrangements in advance. A friendly driver will then meet you outside of the terminal and take you straight to your accommodation.
