Things to Do in Tel Aviv

Choose from 10 Fun Things to Do in Tel Aviv

Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

Hemmed in by the rocky peaks of the Judean Desert to the west and the salty shores of the Dead Sea to the east, the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve is the largest and most beautiful oasis in Israel. A popular spot for hikers, it’s also famous for its biblical importance: This is the place where David hid from King Saul around 1000 BC.

The Basics

Ein Gedi has several well-marked hiking trails traversing its wadis, waterfalls, and desert oases, and guided hikes typically take in landmarks like Dodim’s Cave (Lovers’ Cave), Wadi David, Ein Gedi

Springs, and David Waterfall. Most travelers opt to visit on a day trip from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, often combining a hike at Ein Gedi with a cable-car ride to the mountaintop fortress of Masada and a soak in the Dead Sea.

Things to Know Before You Go

There is an entrance fee to enter the reserve, and tickets include a map of the park’s hiking trails and attractions.
Wear comfortable shoes, and bring sunscreen and plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking; temperatures can reach 100°F (38°C) in the summer months.
The uneven and often gravelly tracks mean that Ein Gedi is mostly inaccessible to wheelchair users.
Visitor facilities include restrooms, a kiosk, and a gift shop at the reserve entrance.

How to Get There

The Ein Gedi Nature Reserve is located along Road 90, which runs along the coast of the Dead Sea. To arrive by public transport, take bus 486/487 from Jerusalem or Ein Gedi, or bus 421 from Tel Aviv. The park entrance is at the southeast edge of the park, just off the highway.

When to Get There

An early start is recommended to avoid the midday heat, especially during the summer months (June–August); here is very little shade in the reserve. In winter, the reserve closes early for conservation reasons, so be sure to check the closing times before setting out on an afternoon hike.

Wildlife of Ein Gedi

Covering 6,250 acres (2,529 hectares) and fed by four natural springs—David, Arugot, Shulamit, and Ein Gedi—the park hosts a wealth of tropical flora and native wildlife, with endemic species including Nubian ibex, Syrian hyrax, Afghan fox, and striped hyena, as well as a large population of migratory and resident birds. The reserve is also dotted with archaeological sites, with key attractions including the Chalcolithic Temple of Ein Gedi and a village dating back to the AD first century.

Ein Gedi Reserve, Ezor Yam Hamelah, Israel

From $ 69

Palmach Museum

The Palmach was founded on May 15, 1941 as an elite unit of the underground army of the Jewish community. At the innovative Palmach Museum, visitors are transported back in time, where they follow the story of a group of young Palmach recruits who fought and eventually died fighting for the establishment of the state of Israel.

Each tour begins in a memorial hall dedicated to fallen Palmach members. Rather than the artifacts and informational placards common to most museums, the Palmach Museum uses audio visual effects and three-dimensional decor to recount various experiences in the personal stories of Palmach fighters.

Practical Info

The Palmach Museum is open by appointment only, so be sure to call ahead to schedule your visit.

10 Levanon St, Tel Aviv 67195, Israel

Open Sun-Fri by appointment

30 NIS

From $ 395

Neve Tzedek

Neve Tzedek (נְוֵה צֶדֶק) is one of the most charming neighborhoods in all of Tel Aviv. The first Jewish neighborhood to be built outside of the ancient Jaffa walls, it enjoyed a prosperous beginning as the first modern city in the Hebrew world. Today, it is stylish and full of life. Galleries and restaurants dominate the area's streets, and the small cafes and artist studios make the colorful streets look like a sort of Bohemian haven. For great shopping, be sure to visit Shabazi Street (ברחוב שבזי) for lovely boutiques and specialty stores.

Be sure to visit the Nachum Gutman Museum (נחום גוטמן במוזיאון), devoted to the famous Israeli artist, as well as the Suzanne Dellal Center for Dance and Theatre (מרכז סוזן דלל למחול ותיאטרון), an incredible cultural center surrounded by beautiful gardens. Neve Tzedek is one of the most enthralling, beautiful, and culturally blooming area in Tel Aviv, and is certainly not to be missed.

Practical Info

Located in the southwestern part of the city, just south of the Yemenite Quarter, Neve Tzedek is very easily accessed from the heart of Tel Aviv by foot, bus, or car. There is also a light rail that is rumored to go into central Tel Aviv very shortly.

Some of the best restaurants in the entire city are in the neighborhood, so be sure to sample some of the local fare.

Tel Aviv, Israel

Free

From $ 98

Rosh Hanikra

The dramatic white cliffs of Rosh Hanikra are one of Israel’s most visited natural attractions, looming 210 feet over the Mediterranean coast and close to the border of Lebanon. Preserved as part of the Achziv Natural Reserve, the soft rock of Rosh Hanikra has been sculpted over millenniums by the action of the waves to form a warren of sea caves and limestone grottos ripe for exploring.

There are a number of ways to take in the highlights of Rosh Hanikra and visitors can ascend by cable car to the cliff top, where the views expand along the coastline; take a train or bike ride along the scenic seafront promenade; or follow the dimly-lit walking trail through the labyrinth of caves, among them the remains of a manmade railway tunnel dug out in 1943 by the British to connect the Cairo-Haifa rail line to Beirut. Along with its unique geology, Rosh Hanikra also has another claim to fame – the border station was also the location for the signing of the 1949 armistice between Lebanon and the State of Israel.

Rosh Hanikra, Israel

From $ 107

Nazareth

According to the Christian faith, Nazareth was home to Mary and Joseph before the birth of Christ. Located in northern Israel, this once-sleepy village is now a bustling metropolis full of Ottoman-era mansions and Roman ruins. Lofty churches, mosques, and temples pepper the city, along with both Christian and Muslim holy sites.

The Basics

Nazareth is an important Holy Land site on par with Bethlehem, Haifa, and Jerusalem. Here you can find some of the most beautiful churches in the Middle East, such as the Basilica of the Annunciation, the Church of St. Gabriel, and St. Joseph’s Church. The White Mosque is also a must-see, along with the Peace Mosque and Ela-Nabi Sa'in Mosque. For a taste of Nazareth’s diverse culture, visit the Diwan El Lajun, a multicultural performing arts center.

Nazareth is a popular day trip destination from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Most tours last at least a day, and some multi-day excursions visit Nazareth along with other important Holy Land sites such as Jericho, Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, and the Sea of Galilee. Private tours are also available for a personalized experience.

Things to Know Before You Go

Nazareth is a must-see for history buffs and culture lovers.
Remember to dress modestly if you plan to visit churches or mosques—you should cover up from your shoulders to below your knees.
Because this is a predominantly Arab city, most stores and restaurants are open during Shabbat on Fridays and Saturdays.

How to Get There

Nazareth is located in northern Israel, near the borders of Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. By road, the city is roughly two hours from Jerusalem and 90 minutes from Tel Aviv. It’s possible to travel by bus from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, although be aware that public transportation does not run during Shabbat or on Jewish holidays.

When to Get There

You can visit Nazareth year-round, although Israel’s weather is most pleasant during spring and autumn. Most restaurants and stores close on Sundays.

Holy Sites in Nazareth

The Basilica of the Annunciation is a modern church built upon Crusade-era ruins, the remains of which are still visible on the lower level. The site’s mix of architectural styles and stunning works of art make it one of the most unique churches in Israel. Mary’s Well is another important spot, known for its beautifully restored Roman arches.

Israel

Free

From $ 92

Golan Heights

A rocky plateau straddling the borders of Israel and Syria, the Golan Heights is one of Israel’s most scenic regions, with its hilly landscape dotted with ancient ruins and biblical sites. Despite the long-standing dispute over Syrian and Israeli occupation of the territory, the Golan Heights are still an increasingly popular tourist destination, home to Mount Hermon, Israel’s highest peak at 2,284 meters, and the Gamla Nature Reserve, renowned for its population of rare birds.

Other top attractions of the Golan Heights region include the Hammat Gader hot springs, located on the Syrian and Jordanian border; the ancient Jewish town of Katzrin, where the extensive ruins include a synagogue dating back to the 6th century; Israel’s largest Byzantine monastery in Kursi; and the extinct volcano of Mount Bental, which offers magnificent views over the Golan plateau and the Syrian Quneitra Valley.

Golan, Israel

From $ 135

Masada

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Masada, an ancient fortress built by King Herod the Great, dates back to 37 BC. It’s location on a cliff overlooking the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea is a spectacular spot from which to watch the sunrise.

The Basics

Ride the cable car up to Masada or hike the Roman Ramp or the Snake Path. At the top, explore remnants of Roman encampments, synagogues, homes, and ruins of Herod’s Palace complex, with its ancient bathhouses and well-preserved mosaics. Most impressive are the views, which span the vast Judean Desert and the Dead Sea.

Full-day tours to Masada run from Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Eilat, or Herzliya, and typically combine a visit to the mountaintop fortress with a soak in the Dead Sea and a hike through the nearby Ein Gedi Nature Reserve.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Snake route is the most popular and easily accessible hiking route to Masada and takes around 45 minutes, but it’s a steep uphill climb with many steps.
Wear comfortable shoes, and bring sunscreen and plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking; temperatures can reach 100°F (38°C) in the summer months.
The cable car and viewpoints at Masada are fully wheelchair accessible, although some of the ruins may be tricky to reach.

How to Get There

To reach Masada, take bus 486 from Jerusalem or Ein Gedi, or bus 421 from Tel Aviv. Or, travel on either Road 90, which runs along the coast of the Dead Sea, or Road 3199 from Arad by taxi or private vehicle. There’s a parking lot near the Masada Visitor Center at the bottom of the cliff, from where you can set out by cable car or the Snake Path.

When to Get There

Sunrise is the best time to watch stunning views from the mountaintop, and an early start is recommended to avoid the midday heat, especially during the summer months (June–August). On Tuesday and Thursday evenings between March and August, the open-air theater on the western side of Masada holds a sound and light show, which tells the story of the ancient fortress.

History of Masada

In AD 68, Jews took over the fortress of Masada to seek refuge from the Romans. They held out for several years, until the Romans used a ramp to reach the fortress. Once defeat was inevitable, around 960 Jews chose mass suicide over captivity. Today, the Israeli people look at the fortress as a symbol of bravery and self-sacrifice in the face of adversity.

Masada, Israel

Varies

From $ 69

Museum of the Jewish People (Beit Hatfutsot)

Tel Aviv’s Museum of the Jewish People (Beit Hatfutsot) tells the ongoing 4,000-year story of the Jewish people from the past into the future. The permanent collection includes exhibits on trailblazers and heroes of Jewish history, Israel’s War of Independence and the past and present of synagogues.

At the heart of it all is the Core Exhibition — a story through the eras of Jewish life and history through a collection of dioramas, murals, models, film and multi-media displays on topics like family life, community, martyrdom, faith, culture and the interaction between the Jewish people and their host environments throughout the world.

As of 2016 the museum is undergoing a comprehensive renovation, which will culminate in a new 66,000-square-foot permanent exhibit in 2019 — this reinvented space will place greater emphasis on narrative, identity and participation.

Practical Info

The BH Museum App includes a free audio guide with pictures, videos and commentaries on the exhibits.

Klausner Street, Matiyahu Gate #2, Tel Aviv, Israel

Sunday to Tuesday 10am to 4pm; Wednesday to Thursday 10am to 7pm; Friday 9am to 1pm

45/35 Adult/Child

From $ 14

Sheinken Street

Notorious for being one of the swankiest, hippest streets in all of Tel Aviv, Sheinken Street (שיינקין) is home to some of the best shops and restaurants in town. Elegance and culture reign in this bustling district, and if you're looking for a great shopping experience, this is the place to be.

Speciality stores and boutiques for every visitor line the streets along with delicious restaurants and charming cafes. If you're looking for a calmer experience, people-watching on Nafha Street (רחוב נפחא) is the prime location, with beautiful al fresco cafes. Whatever you're looking for, Sheinken Street is sure to have something for you.

Practical Info

Sheinken Street is located in the heart of Tel Aviv, and is incredibly easy to access by any mode of transportation. Be sure to check out all of the connecting and side streets in order to get the full Sheinken experience.

Tel Aviv, Israel

Free

From $ 98

Acre

Frequently referred to as 'Akko,' Acre is situated in the Western Galilee region of northern Israel. Populated with beautiful ancient buildings, Old Akko, a subset of Acre, has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its cultural vibrancy makes it a prime place for visitors. Hosting festivals and markets year-round, the port of Acre is lively and beautiful.

Steeped in history, you can visit the ancient walls and fortresses of the city that tell the complicated story of the area.

Further afield are the Baha'i Gardens, which are meticulously designed and gorgeously preserved. The gardens surround the Bahji mansion northeast of Acre where the Bahaullah is buried (not to be confused with the Bahai gardens on the slope of Mount Carmel in Haifa).

Be sure to visit the astounding Knights' Halls, which are comprised of 6 different joined halls that have been recently excavated from the time of the Knights Hospitallers.

Practical Info

The best way to access Acre is via bus, operated out of any major city in Israel. There are also inner-city buses that run frequently to many of the main destinations and tourist attractions.

Israel

From $ 83