Welcome to my home! This Tel Aviv itinerary is from my 1.5 years of living here. Many of these spots are FREE and are local hangouts, so browse away and let me know if you need help!
I first traveled to Tel Aviv in 2016 without planning to live here. I was drawn to its vibrant arts scene, eclectic culinary landscape, pulsating nightlife, and stunning stretch of beach.
Tel Aviv embodies a modern, progressive spirit and a deep sense of history and culture, which I seek when moving abroad. Expect a whole lot of local recommendations in this itinerary!
Known as the “Non-Stop City,” Tel Aviv, Israel’s cultural and commercial capital, pulses with an irrepressible energy that promotes an irresistible, alluring charm.
Most of you only want to spend 3-4 days in Tel Aviv, so I made this itinerary as flexible as possible. This is enough time to experience Tel Aviv’s diversity without feeling rushed.
3-4 days will allow you to explore the city’s main attractions – including historic Jaffa (where I used to live), the Bauhaus architectural marvels, the vibrant Carmel and Levinsky markets, and the city’s popular beaches – while also leaving room for unplanned/random adventures.
Tel Aviv, while being one of the most exciting cities in the Middle East, is also one of the most expensive. Depending on your travel style, a reasonable daily budget would be around $75-$150 USD per day.
This includes modest accommodations, meals at a mix of budget-friendly and mid-range eateries, public transportation, and admission to some paid attractions.
But most of the activities in this Tel Aviv itinerary are FREE! I host group trips to Tel Aviv every summer, so feel free to join! If not, get in touch with me and I will introduce you to my friends.
Change how you travel and see the world by going deep into the culture. Come and travel with me!
🛬 Arrival in Tel Aviv
The airport that serves Tel Aviv is Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV). Getting from the airport to the center of Tel Aviv is relatively easy, and there are several convenient options.
The most efficient way is by train. Ben Gurion Airport’s train station is located on Level S of the Landside Building, adjacent to the Greeters Hall.
Trains to Tel Aviv Savidor Center station run every 15-30 minutes, taking about 18-20 minutes. From Savidor Center, you can take a taxi or public transport to reach your final destination in the city.
🚆 Note that trains don’t operate during Shabbat (from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening).
If you prefer a direct route, taxis are available 24/7 from the airport. The trip to central Tel Aviv will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Be aware that fares are higher at night.
To ensure you will have a ride no matter what time of the day you arrive, book a private airport transfer (from $34 USD). Make sure to do this before arrival.
If you are arriving during the day and want to take the bus, Egged bus line 445 runs from the airport to Tel Aviv’s Central Bus Station, but the journey can take up to an hour depending on traffic. The bus operates 24/7.
Another option is a shared shuttle service, like Sherut, which operates 24/7 and can drop you off at your accommodation.
🗺️ Notes for this Tel Aviv itinerary
- This itinerary can also be split up to 5 days if you don’t want to rush. Browse it and you’ll see how to split it since a map is provided for each day.
- You can easily spend a no Tel Aviv itinerary day by simply going to all the beaches of Tel Aviv. This is one of the best ways to meet locals, especially if you are traveling alone to Tel Aviv. Play matkot and socialize!
- Tel Aviv is a walking city, so it will be easy to reach all these by foot. Renting a bicycle is best if you only have 3 days in Tel Aviv. I will also give bicycle routes in this Tel Aviv itinerary.
- There are a few restaurant recommendations here (especially street food spots in Tel Aviv). If you still want to add some dinner or lunch recommendations, see my essential Tel Aviv restaurants article.
- Tel Aviv is a party city but as some readers of this blog are not partiers, I did not include that in this itinerary. You can check my Tel Aviv nightlife guide for local suggestions. Plus, I can also introduce you to my friends in TLV!
Let me help you plan your trip! I’ve been giving expert and genuine advice to all types of travelers for the last 15 years. You choose the destination and I will answer all your questions! [ Talk to Trisha ]
🌟 Tel Aviv itinerary day 1: Jaffa & Florentin
Breakfast at Abouelafia Bakery
I used to live close to Abouelafia and go here any time of the day! However, in this Tel Aviv itinerary, I recommend you start to visit it early in the morning to jumpstart your Tel Aviv itinerary.
Founded in 1879, this iconic Jaffa bakery is open 24/7, offering a variety of pastries, bread, and pizza. Their bagels and bourekas are especially popular.
Abouelafia only accepts cash, and food starts from 10-30 shekels ($3-$8 USD). This is usually a standing bakery, but a few chairs are inside if you’d like to sit. You can order coffee here, too!
In any case, Abouelafia is open 24/7, so you can also come here after an evening of nightlife in Jaffa!
From there, walk to the nearby Al-Bahr Mosque
Also known as the Sea Mosque, it is the oldest extant mosque in Jaffa and probably the most famous image of Tel Aviv that we all know.
While the exact date of its construction is unknown, it was first mentioned in written records in 1675. Its architecture and seafront location make it a significant landmark to add to your Tel Aviv itinerary.
Not always open to non-Muslims, but its beautiful architecture can be admired from the outside. Respectful attire and behavior are required.
🥐 Tip: Bring your food from Abouelafia and sit here, overlooking the sea!
Continue on to Saint Peter’s Church which is also nearby
A beautiful Franciscan church in Jaffa, featuring stunning architecture and a bell tower with panoramic views, Saint Peter’s Church has an amazing view of the port, and the Mediterranean Sea.
The church often hosts concerts due to its remarkable acoustics. Entrance is free, but modest attire is required. Its architecture and historical significance make it worth adding to your Tel Aviv itinerary!
Take a short walk to the Jaffa Clock Tower
One of seven clock towers built in Palestine during the Ottoman period, it’s located in the middle of Yefet street at the northern entrance of Jaffa.
The tower, made of limestone, is one of the most iconic symbols of Jaffa. Located on Yefet Street, this Ottoman-era clock tower is one of seven remaining in Israel.
Built in 1903, it’s a central landmark in Jaffa. It’s on the street, so there is no entrance fee!
🧭 Jaffa walking tour: This Tel Aviv itinerary is pretty much a DIY guide as it is relatively easy to do everything on your own. However, if you want a guide who will explain the history of Jaffa, the walking tours start at $89 USD per person. [Book Jaffa Walking Tour]
From the clock tower, you can:
- Take a walk around Abrasha Park: This park is located in the heart of the Old City, and it offers some of the most amazing views of the Tel Aviv skyline and the Mediterranean.
- Stop by the Wishing Bridge on your way out of the park: A charming little spot overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it is said that if you hold onto the metal plate bearing your astrological sign, look out to sea, and make a wish, it will come true.
Head to the Ilana Goor Museum
A unique art museum located in an 18th-century building in Old Jaffa, the Ilana Goor Museum houses a collection of works by Ilana Goor and a variety of other artists, focusing on Israeli and international contemporary art.
🎟️ Tickets and hours: Admission is around 40 shekels ($11 USD) for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Open from Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
From the museum, walk to the Jaffa Flea Market
This market is located in Jaffa and is an excellent place for antiques, vintage items, and second-hand goods. It’s generally open Sunday through Thursday from 10 AM to 6 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 2 PM.
The surrounding area also has many shops and galleries open later in the evening. This street has places to buy snacks and freshly pressed juice should you get hungry while walking.
Jaffa Flea Market by @nechjay
As for me, I can easily spend hours in this Flea Market. There is nothing like it in Tel Aviv!
Israelis are expert hagglers, so you can haggle with them, too. They are generally outgoing and nice but since they are already hagglers on their own, you have to beat their techniques!
👌 Tip: There are many ways to say discount in Hebrew but I usually use “hanakha.” If you want to use a full phrase asking for a discount, you can say, “Efshar ktsat hanakha?”
Then, take a bus or a taxi to the Levinsky Market in Florentin
This market is known for its spices, dried fruits, nuts, and other specialty foods. It’s a favorite among locals.
After your walking spree in Jaffa, Levinsky Market is a great place for eating and sampling small portions of food.
Levinksy Market is open Monday-Thursday from 8 AM to 6 PM, Friday from 8 AM to around 2 PM (in preparation for Shabbat), and is closed on Saturday.
🎭 Tip: If you are in Tel Aviv for a special occasion where you need to find costumes (like Purim, the Israeli halloween), Levinsky Market is the best place to shop for costumes!!!
Explore Florentin and Neve Tzedek
This trendy neighborhood is known for its vibrant street art scene, bohemian vibe, and bustling nightlife. A street art tour is highly recommended.
In Florentin, you can also visit The Zionist Museum, which focuses on establishing the state of Israel and the Zionist movement.
You can end the afternoon in Florentin for cocktails or a heavy (but hearty and healthy) lunch in one of the cafes in Florentin.
The Casbah is the best place to eat in Florentin. You can chill here after a long day of walking and chat with locals!
☕ Optional from Florentin: Neve Tzedek, one of the oldest and most beautiful neighborhoods in Tel Aviv is just an 8-min walk. The neighborhood is filled with charming houses, boutique shops, and some great cafés. If you decide not to eat in Florentin, head to Café Alma in Neve Tzedek.
Map of Tel Aviv itinerary day 1
🏢 Tel Aviv itinerary day 2: The Bauhaus route
Tel Aviv, often called “The White City” due to its distinctive Bauhaus architecture, is a vibrant, modern city with a mix of tradition and contemporary culture.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, the White City is a collection of over 4,000 Bauhaus or International Style buildings built in Tel Aviv from the 1930s by German-Jewish architects who immigrated to the British Mandate of Palestine after the rise of the Nazis.
It’s the largest number of buildings in this style of any city in the world. Here is a suggested walking route to see some of the best examples of Bauhaus architecture in Tel Aviv:
Start at Dizengoff Square
One of Tel Aviv’s most iconic squares, surrounded by several notable Bauhaus buildings. Check out the Cinema Hotel, originally a Bauhaus-style movie theater, before being converted into a hotel.
Even if you are not staying in the hotel, you can go to the rooftop restaurant of Cinema Hotel for brunch or sunset drinks. Here, you’ll have a full view of Dizengoff Street.
Walk down Dizengoff Street
One of Tel Aviv’s major streets, it features numerous examples of Bauhaus architecture. Keep an eye out for the shops, galleries, and cafes that are housed in Bauhaus buildings.
☕ Breakfast in Dizengoff: Go get breakfast at Cafe Cucu. The tables are outside which is perfect for people watching on Dizengoff Street! For a vegan option, go to Anastasia at the other side of DIzengoff Square (Frishman Street).
Visit the Bauhaus Center at 77 Dizengoff Street
This is a must-visit for anyone interested in Bauhaus architecture. It houses a gallery, library, and shop focused on the Bauhaus style, and it offers guided tours and maps for self-guided tours.
Head towards Bialik Street
This street, named after Israel’s national poet, Chaim Nachman Bialik, boasts many fine examples of Bauhaus buildings. Be sure to stop by Bialik House, where the poet lived and which now serves as a museum dedicated to his work.
Optional: turn onto Gordon Street for a beach break
Make a right onto Gordon Street and walk towards the sea, passing by many well-preserved Bauhaus buildings. Don’t forget to stop at the Bauhaus Center at 77 Dizengoff Street.
When you reach the end of Gordon Street, you’ll find yourself at Gordon Beach, one of Tel Aviv’s most popular beaches. Take a break to enjoy the sand or watch surfers.
Continue to Rothschild Boulevard
This beautiful, tree-lined street is known for its distinctive kiosks, outdoor cafes, and the large number of Bauhaus buildings. Look out for the Bruno House and the Rubinsky House.
At 16 Rothschild Boulevard, is the site where David Ben-Gurion proclaimed the independence of the State of Israel. While not strictly Bauhaus in design, its history is intertwined with the development of Tel Aviv and its architectural heritage.
Engel House in Rothschild Avenue
Finish your walk at the Engel House on the corner of Rothschild Boulevard and Mazeh Street. Built in 1933, it was one of the first buildings in the world to be constructed using pillar construction.
Head to Habima Square
The Habima Theater and the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion for Contemporary Art are great examples of Bauhaus architecture. You can sit or park your bike and snack at the square!
End in Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel)
Off Rothschild Boulevard, take Allenby Street to reach Carmel Market, the biggest market in Tel Aviv, where you can find food, clothes, and souvenirs.
☀️ Remember, Bauhaus buildings were designed for the hot Mediterranean climate and feature elements such as long narrow balconies, flat roofs, and thermic and solar controlled features, among others. Bring water during your walk and wear sunscreen!
Map of Tel Aviv itinerary day 2
🚲 Tel Aviv itinerary day 3: The local biking route
Biking is the best way to explore Tel Aviv, a city designed with cyclists as a pirority. Its flat terrain and extensive bike lanes make navigating the city easy.
This day 3 of the Tel Aviv itinerary is a half-day biking route that covers all the other things you have not seen in Tel Aviv (mostly local stuff and out of the touristic area).
If you are biking for three days, you can see my other recommendations for Tel Aviv bike routes which also tackles how to rent a bicycle in Tel Aviv (with prices).
Start: Tel Aviv Port (Namal Tel Aviv)
Start your day early at the Tel Aviv Port. Grab breakfast at one of the cafes along the waterfront, such as the popular Cafe Landwer.
Bike south along the seafront promenade, enjoying the beach views on one side and the cityscape on the other.
Metzitzim Beach
This beach is family-friendly, with calm waters and plenty of amenities, making it a great spot for a morning swim and breakfast at one of the nearby cafes.
Hayarkon Park
Take a detour into Hayarkon Park, Tel Aviv’s largest green space. There are plenty of bike paths to explore. Don’t miss the Rock Garden and the Bird Safari.
Eretz Israel Museum and Yitzhak Rabin Center
From Hayarkon Park, head east to the Eretz Israel Museum. This complex includes several pavilions dedicated to different fields of knowledge and culture, such as archaeology, folklore, Judaica, and more.
Nearby, you’ll find the Yitzhak Rabin Center, dedicated to the memory of the late Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. The center’s exhibits focus on Rabin’s life and on the development of Israeli society.
Lunch at Sarona Market
Head south towards the city center, passing through the beautifully restored Templar colony of Sarona, now a culinary and cultural hub. Stop by Sarona Market, an indoor food market offering a variety of local and international cuisine.
Map of Tel Aviv itinerary day 3
✈️ Book this Tel Aviv itinerary
Love this Tel Aviv itinerary? You can book this trip with me and we can personalize your itinerary according to how many days you plan to be in Tel Aviv!
The packages start at $1,500 USD (all-inclusive, with accommodations) and we can modify/add some activities for you. It also comes with transportation and guides for each tour.
🇮🇱 Tel Aviv travel recommendations
Trisha is one of those people who left their comfortable life to travel the world and learn about life. Her style is to stay in one place she likes for 3 months (or more) to know what it feels like to eat, cook, speak, and sleep in another culture that isn’t hers. She’d like to believe she’s not traditionally traveling but she just chooses to be somewhere else all the time. In no particular order, her favorite cities in the world are Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Hong Kong, Mexico City, and Tel Aviv.