Tel Aviv is a Hipster Haven

A Cool, Livable City with a Stunning Urban Beach

Tel Aviv is the economic and cultural center of Israel. A more modern city that had its population boom from Jewish refugees after World War 2, in some ways Tel Aviv is Israel - at least in its modern incarnation. Unlike many of the historic cities throughout the country, Tel Aviv was largely built up after World War 2 - and is a way to see how the Jewish State builds a city and grows a culture from scratch. From its cafe culture to its many vegan restaurants - and from its vibrant gay scene to its diverse graffiti - Tel Aviv is a youthful, trendy, livable city with a strong tendency to embrace counter culture movements. While it may not top a list of beautiful places, Tel Aviv is indisputably cool.

 

Relax at the Beach

Tel Aviv may have the best urban beaches I’ve spent time at. With free spaces throughout the entire coastline - mere minutes walking from the city’s urban core - Tel Aviv’s beaches are clean and beautiful. Bring a towel and a book - and just spend a day lying about.

 

Learn About Bauhaus Architecture

Tel Aviv is a UNESCO heritage site for its enormous collection (over 4,000 buildings) of Bauhaus and other international modernist architecture. Some of the best places to get a feel for this style are along Rothschild Boulevard, Bialik Street, and Dizengoff Square (where you can also learn more about the architectural style at the Bauhaus Center).

 

Just Explore Tel Aviv’s Many Hip Places

To be honest, I don’t think Tel Aviv excels as a sightseeing destination. It is, however, a vibrant city that feels like a good place to live. Travel with or make a friend - and just enjoy your time more like a local.

  • Grab a Coffee: Tel Aviv has a packed coffee scene - so try out a few of its coffee shops as you walk around.

  • And a Drink: The city also has a 24/7 culture - so head to a bar or go dancing. Explore the city’s exciting night life.

  • Find Street Art: Tel Aviv is full of interesting street art - so as you walk, keep an eye open for some fun graffiti.

  • Eat Some Hummus: Many consider Tel Aviv to have the world’s best hummus - so grab a bowl while you’re there. Try Abu Hassan hummus or Hummus Abu Dabi - but go a little off hours to avoid the worst of the crowds.

  • Go Shopping: If you want a souk shopping experience, walk through the Caramel Market. But don’t stop there as the city is packed with local, independently owned boutiques. As you walk around, just watch out for stores that catch your interest.

  • Head to a Museum: Tel Aviv is an art focused city, so it’s worth popping into either the Tel Aviv Museum of Art or Helena Rubinstein Pavilion for Contemporary Art.

I wouldn’t recommend going too far out of your way for any specific sightseeing in Tel Aviv. Any individual destination just isn’t worth it. The city, though, is engaging and fun to explore. So, just walk around slowly and pop in to some places that catch your fancy.

 
Devin ScottMiddle East