Israel Travel Blog

Basel Street is not the first place you’d think of visiting in Tel Aviv, but if you fancy a great meal in a sidewalk cafe or a look through some boutique stores on a tree-lined residential street then this is it. Basel Street has a certain calm sophistication that the center of Tel Aviv lacks. Situated in what is now known as the “old north” this used to be a very trendy area, but today the leafy neighborhood is a quieter, almost isolated place.Tourists often visit only a city’s center, and focus on attractions, never seeing where the “real” people live. But as Basel Street is so close to the center of Tel Aviv, it is easy to make a short visit for a quick coffee, an enjoyable meal away from the crowds, or a shortcut to get to the beach.Plan Your VisitLocation - Basel Street, Tel AvivOpen Times - 24/7Prices - FreeAverage Visit Duration - 1 hourPopular Times - Friday and Saturday are popular with locals and visitors who come to enjoy the fresh loaves and pastries from the local bakeries, and to stop for a coffee in one of the cafesTours - The best way to explore Basel Street and its surroundings is with a private Tel Aviv walking tourWhere is Basel Street in Tel Aviv?Basel Street stretches from Dizengoff Street in the west to Ibn Gvirol Street in the east. It runs parallel to Jabotinsky Street to the south and Sderot Nordau to the north.Basel Street from East to WestAt the eastern end of Basel Street is Ibn Gvirol, a street that is home to many restaurants, cafes, bars, and Rabin Square. Basel meets Ibn Gvirol at #148 Ibn Gvirol, where you’ll find the Lily Rose Bar. As you progress along Basel Street from Ibn Gvirol you’ll see typical Tel Aviv residential buildings, with plenty of trees and greenery around the building entrances.When people talk about Basel Street they are usually referring to the middle section of the street, between Sokolov St. and Yehoshua Ben Nun St. where the street opens up to a paved square. You won’t find buskers, crowds, or live entertainment here, but you will be able to enjoy the laid-back neighborhood atmosphere while you sip your coffee. Pro Tips: Looking for a good cafe in this area? Then try Arcaffe at #35 (on the public square), Hamanya at #37, Alkalay at #1 Alkalay Street, or Lulu at #5 Alkalay Street nearby. The square is surrounded by stores and cafes and there are benches and shade, but little else in this public area.There is underground parking beneath the square and charging stations for eclectic cars.Continuing west from the square there are fewer stores and more residential buildings. As you approach Dizengoff Street there are a few more cafes. Basel Street meets Dizengoff Street at #223 Dizengoff where you’ll find the 223 Bar. Pro Tip: If you wanted to keep going from the Dizengoff end of Bazel down Jabotinsky you would reach Hilton Beach which is just a 12-minute walk away.Basel Street NeighborhoodIn the surrounding area are several parks, and large shady trees. And although it is only a few blocks from Dizengoff Street, the Basel Street neighborhood feels like a village within a city. Don’t miss a peek down the side streets where you might find some hidden gems like boutique fashion stores, a cute cafe, or a gallery.

Nachmani Street is in the heart of Tel Aviv (Lev Ha’Ir) and runs across several of the city’s iconic boulevards. It is not home to any specific attractions but there is a good chance you’ll find yourself walking along Nachmani as you explore Tel Aviv. And if you do you’ll be treated to some excellent examples of classic Bauhaus style and eclectic style architecture. The area has been gentrified and many of the buildings have been restored bringing them back to their former glory, as they were in the 1920s-1940s.The street was one of the first built after the Neve Tzedek neighborhood in the 1920s and was named after Rabbi Moshe ben Nahman (Nachmanides or Ramban)), a 13th-century Torah commentator.Pagoda House at #20 Nachmani StreetPro Tip: The street could have been called Ramban, which is a more commonly used name for the Rabbi, but Tel Aviv already had a Rambam Street named after Rabbi Moshe ben Maimon, and they thought it would be confusing. So they came up with Nachmani, one of several terms of endearment for the widely respected scholar.Plan Your VisitLocation - Nachmani Street, Tel AvivOpen Times - 24/7Prices - Free.Average Visit Duration - 30-60 minutesTours - You’ll probably only discover the hidden gems of Nachmani Street if you take a private tour of Tel Aviv From Yavne Street to Menachem Begin RoadKing Albert Square, Tel Aviv- In 1933 King Albert of Belgium visited the Holy Land and spent time in Tel Aviv at the invitation of the city’s first mayor, Meir Dizengoff. Albert died a year later in a mountaineering accident, and Dizengoff honored him by naming one of Tel Aviv’s city squares after the late monarch. The square is actually a circle road at the intersection of Nachmani, Montefiore, Bezalel Yaffe, and Melchett Streets. The buildings surrounding King Albert Square are designed in the International and Bauhaus styles.Pro Tip: Spot one of Tel Aviv’s earliest water towers.Pagoda House at #20 Nachmani Street - On the corner of the street is Pagoda House constructed in 1924 in an eclectic style with architectural features from several traditions. Its columns and arches give it a distinctly Oriental look. The building was home to American David Morris Bloch and his family as well as several tenants. The architect of the building, Alexander Levy died in Auschwitz in 1942. Pro Tip:Take a short walk down one side of Pagoda House to #46 Montefiore Street, a magnificent Art Deco structure.The Norman Hotel, 23-25 Nachmani Street - Housed in a restored historic building, this is one of Tel Aviv’s top luxury boutique hotels. Pro Tip: Just past the hotel at #26, is a picturesque sidewalk cafe.#23 Nachmani Street - Another outstanding structure built in the 1930s and featuring unusual windows, shutters, and balconies.#28 Nachmani Street - Just before crossing Rothschild Blvd. check out this example of Bauhaus design with its narrow vertical windows.Rothschild Boulevard - This boulevard is a must-see attraction in Tel Aviv and is well worth exploring with a private guide.#34 Nachmani Street - Pause here to see another typical feature of Bauhaus architecture, the portholes that help to keep the structure cool.#43 Nachmani Street - The Red House or Lodz House, is a red brick building best seen from Goldberg Street. It was constructed in 1924 by Akiva Arie Weiss, and once housed the iconic Lodzia underwear factory.#48 Nachmani Street - On the corner of Bezalel Yaffe Street is an attractive building with a snowflake design on the exterior.

Ben Yehuda Street cuts across Tel Aviv and is home to many of the city’s top restaurants, pubs, and several hotels. It’s a popular street not only because of its proximity to many attractions but also because Ben Yehuda Street is where you’ll find interesting stores, trendy designer shops, bakeries, and more. For foodies, Ben Yehuda is a dream, and for getting a feel for Tel Aviv’s vibrant street culture this is the place. Pro Tip: Look out for graffiti art, and Bauhaus architecture on Ben Yehuda Street, Tel Aviv.Ben Yehuda and Allenby Streets interjectionBen Yehuda Street runs from Allenby Street in the south to Dizengoff Street in the north. It runs parallel but not adjacent to Tel Aviv’s seafront. It crosses iconic Tel Aviv streets such as Bograshov St., Frishman St., Gordon St., Ben Gurion St., Arlozorov St., Nordau Blvd., and Allenby and Dizengoff.Ben Yehuda Street is named after the founding father of modern Hebrew, Eliezer Ben Yehuda (1858-1922) who is best known for compiling the first modern Hebrew dictionary which was published between 1908 and 1922. Pro Tip: When researching your trip, don’t get confused with Ben Yehuda Street in Jerusalem.Plan Your VisitLocation - Ben Yehuda Street, Tel AvivOpen Times - 24/7Prices - FreeAverage Visit Duration - 1-2 hoursTours - Take a food tour of Tel Aviv to discover the hidden gems along Ben Yehuda Street, or include this street in a private walking tour of Tel AvivBen Yehuda Street Restaurants#1 - Brown Hotels Lighthouse - This boutique hotel offers a delicious breakfast at its terrace restaurant.#9 - Hong Kong Dim Sum - A casual dim sum restaurant.#73 - Cafe Xoho - A quaint cafe with an emphasis on healthy fresh dishes, and options for vegans and vegetarians.#89 - Mochikva - Authentic bubble tea and mochi shop, with a contemporary hipster vibe.#90 - Ernesto 90 - An Italian restaurant with, an affordable and top-quality menu with indoor and outdoor seating.#94 - Shakshukia - A great place to try Israel’s popular breakfast dish, shakshuka, with eggs baked in a rich spicy tomato sauce.#170 - HaLevantini - Authentic Israeli and Middle Eastern/Mediterranean classics prepared to perfection by a well-known chef.#182 - Shila - One of the top restaurants in the city offering an innovative dining menu in a sophisticated atmosphere.#188 - Dosa Bar - Fancy some vegan Indian food, try this place with its casual atmosphere.#192 - Barbunia - A popular blue-collar seafood restaurant with a buzzing atmosphere, and classic Mediterranean fish dishes and salads.#202 - Under the Tree - Popular with locals, this restaurant serves a varied menu of generous portions, all fresh, with an emphasis on comfort food.#228 - Nini Hachi - Great kosher sushi served in modern relaxed surroundings.#256 - Shtsupak - A seafood restaurant with a variety of vegetarian dishes, and options for kids. (not kosher).Ben Yehuda StreetBen Yehuda Street ShopsBeh Yehuda Street is known for its excellent Judaica stores, as well as Jewelry stores and souvenir shops. The quality of the goods varies but is generally good. There are Thai massage places on Ben Yehuda Street and service businesses including a laundromat, pharmacies, supermarkets, kiosks, and nail salons.Ben Yehuda Street Bars#15 - Sami Burger & Beer - Both a restaurant and a bar, this is where you’ll find the best burger in town and a lively atmosphere.#59 - Campus - Turn the lights down low, a casual place with no frills.#83 - Little Prague - A restaurant bar with a cozy atmosphere and menu of classic Czech dishes.#124 - Nimi Cocktail Experience - Great cocktails.#155 - Jango Wine Bar - Chic and warm atmosphere.#196 - Java - A cute bar and coffee place with a great outdoor area.See and Do on or Near Ben Yehuda Street Tel AvivWhere Ben Yehuda Street crosses Ben Gurion Street you can visit the home of Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben Gurion. The house has been turned into a museum and offers insights into the early days of the State of Israel.Ben Yehuda Street is close enough to the beach for easy access, and at the northern end, you can walk to Tel Aviv Port, a gentrified commercial and entertainment area on the waterfront. The port is a short walk from Tel Aviv’s marina.Gordon Street which crosses Ben Yehuda is known for its many private art galleries.

Plan Your VisitLocation: Sheinkin Street, Tel AvivOpen Times: 24/7Prices: FreeAverage Visit Duration: 1-2 hours.Popular Times: Sheinkin Street is at its liveliest on Fridays but you might prefer to visit on a Thursday when there will be vacant tables at the cafes and fewer crowds on the street.Notes for Visitors: During Pride Week, Sheinkin hosts street partings, live entertainment, and accommodation for visitors. Pro Tip: Sheinkin is home to some of the most popular gay bars in Tel Aviv.Tours: Combine a walking tour of Tel Aviv with a visit to Sheinkin, or opt for a graffiti tour of the city to see some of Sheinkin’s hidden gems.Local juice store at Sheinkin StreetIf you ask anyone in Tel Aviv what’s the trendiest, most bohemian street in the city, they’ll tell you Sheinkin. Sheinkin has been the go-to hipster hangout, and street for alternative urban culture, cool cafes, galleries, and unique one-off specialty stores for years. Sheinkin Street is conveniently located in the heart of Tel Aviv, starting at Magen David Square where it meets Allenby Street, Nachalat Binyamin Street, and the colorful Carmel Market. The street crosses iconic Rothschild Blvd. and extends to Yehuda HaLevy Street, where it becomes Lincoln Street.Pro Tip: Use this handy guide to shopping in Tel Aviv to find the best places to shop on Sheinkin, and maybe take a food tour in nearby Carmel Market.What Can You See and Do on Sheinkin Street?The main attraction of Sheinkin is simply wandering along the street and exploring the concept stores, boutiques, street art, and cafes. Take your time looking at the trendy clothing and accessory stores like Heavens, or the secondhand stores. Some of the clothing stores in Sheinkin are boutique designer stores. You can find the unique designer jewelry store of Michal Negrin on Sheinkin as well as jewelry by Maya Geller.Take a walk on the wild side at Miss Sunshine TLV, an alternative clothing store, or get a tattoo at TLV Ink. Stop at the bookstore, or pick up some vintage clothing. Find the perfect handbag at Starjelly, or get a unique outfit for your child at Taflaya. One of the longest-running boutique stores on Sheinkin is Belle &Sue, selling high-end casual wear. Halfway down the street is a small park with a pleasant cafe, and playground.Pro Tip: At the northern end of Sheinkin, near Magen David Square there are a lot of interesting shoe stores.A busy cafe on Shenkin StreetAfter exploring the stores along Sheinkin you’ll need to sit down for a cup of coffee at one of the sidewalk cafes. Try the Coffee Club for an all-day breakfast, Frenchy for a healthy sandwich, or Salene Freitag bagel shop. Indulge yourself at Alon Shabo pastries and wash down those delicious sweet treats with freshly squeezed juice from Beautiful and Juices. The stores and restaurants on Sheinkin come and go so some of those listed here may have been replaced by the time you visit.Pro Tip: The best way to explore Sheinkin is to start at Magen David Square and walk along the street to Rothschild Boulevard.History of Sheinkin StreetIn the early days of Tel Aviv in 1913, the area around present-day Sheinkin was buzzing with small industries, craftsmen’s workshops, and artisans' studios. That original free-spirited artsy ambiance persisted even after the workshops and industries had gone.In the 1980s Sheinkin was the place to see and be seen by the who's-who of Tel Aviv’s celebrity scene. It gained a reputation for its liberal character and live-and-let-live vibe. The street was even immortalized in a Hebrew pop song, Living in Sheinkin, and was the setting for the TV series Florentin, and the film The Bubble. It has remained a bohemian hangout although it has calmed down considerably and is more conservative since the 80s. Today Sheinkin is synonymous with anything artsy, funky, or flamboyant.Who Was Sheinkin?Menahem Sheinkin (or Shenkin) was one of the original Zionist leaders who helped establish Tel Aviv. He was responsible for setting up the Sheinkin neighborhood in 1913 to provide workshops and studios for tradesmen and cottage industries.

Plan Your VisitLocation- HaYarkon Street, Tel AvivOpen Times- 24/7Prices- FreeAverage Visit Duration- 2-4 hours.Popular Times- Fridays.Notes for Visitors- HaYarkon is better explored on foot because of the heavy traffic.Tours- Finding Tel Aviv’s hidden gems is a lot easier when you’re being guided by a local professional. To discover all that HaYarkon Street has to offer, take a Tel Aviv walking tour.HaYarkon Street in Tel Aviv runs parallel to the seafront promenade, starting north at Tel Aviv port and continuing to Charles Clore Park where HaYarkon becomes Kaufmann Street which travels south into Jaffa. It is a busy, often congested street, packed with hotels, interesting sites, embassies, and service businesses. The street is named after the Yarkon River that runs into the sea at its northern end. You probably won’t be coming to HaYarkon Street specifically to see an attraction but any visitor to Tel Aviv will at some time drive or walk along this iconic street. The main reasons you’ll find yourself on HaYarkon Street are for hotels, embassies, access to the best beaches, and nightlife.The intersection of Yarkon and David Ben Gurion streetsPoints of Interest on HaYarkon StreetKikar Atarim - At the northern end of HaYarkon, this public square was completed in 1975 in the Brutalist style. It doesn’t offer much to tourists except perhaps sea views, and proximity to the marina, beach, Gordon Pool, and “Crazy House.” Pro Tip: If you’re interested in art then Kikar Atarim offers some interesting graffiti art as well as its proximity to the Leonardo Art Hotel where there is an art gallery, and Gordon Street which is known for its many private galleries.Independence Park - The first trees were planted here on Israel’s first Independence Day in 1949 and is perched on a limestone cliff overlooking the sea. The park has evolved over the years, once being the go-to place for gay hookups and having been neglected for several years. But today it is a fully renovated park with several sculptures, memorials, and statues. There are paved paths and open green lawns leading to a lookout point over the sea.181 HaYarkon Street (the Crazy House) - Designed by Leon Gaignebet and inspired by the work of Gaudi it is in the deconstructive style. It is difficult to describe, with its white balconies that look soft, as if they were paper stuck haphazardly to the frame of the building. This fascinating and extremely unusual structure has been called an architectural curiosity.181 HaYarkon Street (the Crazy House)Embassy Buildings - HaYarkon Street is home to several embassies including the British Embassy, Indian Embassy, Russian Embassy, and a branch of the American Embassy.96 HaYarkon Street - A building in the International Bauhaus Style built in 1935, and restored in 2012. The building’s penthouse apartment is one of the most expensive properties in the country.96 HaYarkon StreetLondon Square - A memorial park sandwiched between HaYarkon Street and the promenade, dedicated to British casualties in World War II. In the park are several interesting monuments such as the ship-shaped monument to illegal Jewish immigrants, and the monument to the Altalena immigrant ship that anchored here in 1948. Don’t expect expansive lawns as the park is more concrete than grass.Opera Tower - Facing a spacious plaza, the Opera Tower stands on the site of a historic cinema, where Israel’s first parliament was convened in 1948.Hassan Bek Mosque - Just before HaYarkon changes its name and becomes Kauffmann Street, is this magnificent historic mosque. If nothing else it is worth a photo. It was built in 1916 in the classic Ottoman style with a tall majestic minaret. Pro Tip: It is lit up at night and is very Instagram-friendly.Pro Tip: If you want to experience HaYarkon Street you can follow a walk along the street and double back returning to your starting point by walking along the seafront promenade.Tourist Hotels on HaYarkon St.There are many hotels on HaYarkon Street, mainly because of the excellent location for reaching both the beaches and the city’s attractions. Tourists can choose from some of the city’s top luxury hotels like Dan, Sheraton, Renaissance, and the Brown Hotels. Or opt for mid-range options that still provide everything you need such as the Prima Hotel, Tal By the Beach, Melody Hotel, and the Maxim Design Hotel. For budget travelers, there are popular hostels like the “HaYarkon Hostel”.Nightlife, Entertainment, and RestaurantsHaYarkon Street never sleeps! When the beachgoers have gone home, and businesses have closed for the day, HaYarkon is still buzzing with restaurants, clubs, and bars as well as hotels and hostels. It is not the top nightlife spot in Tel Aviv, but it is certainly one of the places where you’ll find all-night parties and plenty of bars.Imperial Cocktail Bar - classy Asian colonial-inspired.Molly Blooms - An iconic Irish pub with tasty pub grub.Bar 51 - Modern slightly hipster hangout with an extensive wine menu and small meals.Jachnun Mul HaYam - Try some traditional Yemeni food at 22 HaYarkon.Aperitivo - a wine bar at 78 HaYarkon with classy decor, outdoor seating, food, and cocktails.Ultra Cocktail Bar - There are live musical performances at this simple bar in the Sea Tower.Asimi - A bright and airy restaurant in London Garden with sea views.Yassou Tel Aviv Greek - At the corner of Frishman and HaYarkon is a popular Greek restaurant.Manara - A sophisticated restaurant in the Sheraton Hotel serving an innovative Levantine menu (kosher).Pro Tip: At 66 HaYarkon is the Imperial Hotel, once “just” a hotel, today it occasionally turns into a pop-up exhibition - Imperial Hotel Wonderland. The hotel’s 38 rooms are decorated by artists and become outrageous fantasy works of art that visitors can walk through and explore.

Plan Your VisitLocation: 5 Shvil HaMeretz, Tel Aviv Pro Tip: This gallery has changed locations a few times over the years, so ignore any other addresses online - this is the right one!Open Times:Wednesday 12:30-19:00, Thursday 13:00-19:00, Friday and Saturday 11:00-15:00.Prices: FreeAverage Visit Duration: 1 hour.Popular Times: Friday and Saturday.Special Events: The museum’s regularly changing exhibitions are advertised on its website.Tours:Take a private tour and tailor-make it to cover the Hanina Gallery and other hot Tel Aviv cultural and art venues.If you love independent art galleries, and finding hidden gems then Hanina is for you. Originally founded in Jaffa in 2008 by Jonathan Hirschfeld and Yakir Segev, today Hanina is a non-profit gallery owned by a collective of young Israeli artists. The gallery’s location in the Shapira neighborhood, in South Tel Aviv is off the beaten path for most visitors to the city.Pro Tip: Wondering where the name comes from? The Hanina Contemporary Art Gallery was originally at 25 Hanina Street in Jaffa. The literal translation of the word “Hanina” is pardon, amnesty, mercy, or compassion.The gallery owners strive to promote diversity throughout the Israeli art world and give a platform to artists who often go unheard. In addition to the visual artwork, the gallery also hosts lectures, film screenings, and events to promote intercultural dialogue. The fact that this is a non-profit enterprise gives the artists freedom that is often missing in other more formal institutions. Every artist involved in the Hanina Gallery has a passion for what they do and for the social change art can often initiate. Thanks to the guiding principles of this gallery, the work exhibited here truly provides a space for different voices, not usually heard in Israel’s commercial art world including artists of all generations, and all artistic styles no matter what message their art is trying to express.Pro Tip: Hanina Gallery is located in an area that tourists don’t usually get to, and there isn’t a lot to see there. However, within a few minutes’ walk from Hanina Gallery you can find several other small galleries and art studios. For example, Artspace Tel Aviv, Five Easy Pieces Art Salon, Ofer Zick Art and Design Studio, Studio Liat Segal, Raw Art Gallery Showroom, and Dvir Gallery.What’s On at the Hanina GalleryThe group of artists presenting their creations at Hanina Gallery are a diverse bunch, they include artists with classical training and others who are self-taught. In addition to the gallery’s regular themed exhibitions or exhibitions of a particular artist’s work, they also host live performances and art workshops. The artists that run the gallery work together democratically, each with their autonomy over their own projects, but collaborating on gallery decisions.

Plan Your VisitLocation: Ben Gurion Boulevard, Tel Aviv.Open Times: 24/7. Ben Gurion Househours are - Sun, Tues, Wed 09:00-16:00, Mon 09:00-19:00, Fri 09:00-13:00, Sat 11:00-15:00. Gordon Pool: Sun 13:30-21:00, Mon -Thurs 06:00-21:00, Fri 06:00-19:00, Sat 07:00-18:00.Prices: Free.Average Visit Duration: 1 hour.Tours: Ben Gurion Blvd. (and the rest of Tel Aviv) is packed with hidden gems that can only be discovered on a Tel Aviv personalized private tour.Fresh juice stall, Ben Gurion BoulevardBen Gurion Boulevard or Sderot Ben Gurion in Hebrew, is a beautiful tree-lined boulevard in Tel Aviv that is far enough from the tourist center to make it a hidden gem, yet close enough to reach on a short walk through the city. It connects two sites worth visiting - Rabin Square and the beachfront. The boulevard was named after Israel’s first prime minister and is also the site of his former home.Where is Ben Gurion Boulevard?Ben Gurion Blvd. runs west from between City Garden shopping mall and Rabin Square on Ebn Girol Street to HaYarkon Street on the beachfront. It brings you to Kikar Atarim, a plaza overlooking the marina and the Gordon Pool. Ben Gurion Blvd. runs parallel to Gordon Street and Arlozorov Street and intersects several streets including Ben Yehuda Street and Dizengoff Street.What to See on a Walk Down Ben Gurion Blvd.Most of the houses along Ben Gurion Blvd. were built in the 1930s to house Jews fleeing war-torn Europe. They were designed in the Bauhaus or International style. This functional architectural style with clean lines, and rounded balconies, earned Tel Aviv UNESCO status as the White City for its high concentration of Bauhaus buildings.Bauhaus style building,Ben Gurion BoulevardA walk down Ben Gurion Blvd. will give you a great overview of Bauhaus as well as other classic architectural styles. The shady boulevard is surprisingly green with an eclectic mix of ficus, olive, sycamore, and tamarisk trees as well as a few palm trees. Pro Tip: Israel’s most prominent street artist, Rami Meir has painted graffiti art at two places on Ben Gurion - on the corner of Ben Yehuda Street and Ben Gurion Street on the wall of Kiyosk Eli, a kiosk in the middle of the street, and at the junction with Dizengoff Street.Square of the Righteous Among the NationsAs you leave Rabin Square and start walking west on Ben Gurion Street, you’ll see a park on your right. This memorial park is dedicated to gentiles who risked their own lives to save Jews during the Holocaust.Pro Tip: The park was home to Tel Aviv’s first zoo but was eventually moved because the residents complained about the noise and the smell. Today the best zoo in Israel is the Safari Park in Ramat Gan. Beit Hannah Just before the intersection with Reiness Street at #75 Ben Gurion is a one-story house named in honor of Hannah Chisik who lived here in the 1920s. In 1926, she established training farms for young women to help them become self-sufficient. The farm produce was then sold from a store in this house. The building itself was designed in 1935 by Jacob Pinkerfeld in the Bauhaus style. Today Beit Hanna (which has another branch in Florentin) offers a space for women to come together and enjoy sport, spirit, and personal growth in classes and activities. Ben Gurion HouseIsrael’s first prime minister, David Ben Gurion lived in a modest house at the western end of the boulevard for about 40 years. #17 Ben Gurion Blvd. was perfectly located for Ben Gurion to walk down to the beach where he would stand on his head for a few minutes as part of his exercise routine. The house has been restored and furnished as it would have been when Ben Gurion and his wife Paula lived here and is now a house museum open to the public.KiosksAs in the past, several kiosks line the boulevard selling food and drinks. The boulevard also has several cafes, many with outdoor seating.A kiosk at the intersection of Boulevard Ben Gurion and Ben Yehuda StreetPro Tip: Along Ben Gurion Street there are Tel-O-Fun bike stations where you can rent a bike, explore the city’s many bike paths, and return the bike to any other bike station throughout Tel Aviv.Gordon PoolCreated in 1956, this iconic Tel Aviv pool is filled with salt water from underground springs. It is a large complex with a gym and exercise studio.Gordon PoolPro Tip: Enjoy a meal at Stolero in the Gordon Pool lobby overlooking the Tel Aviv Marina.

Plan Your Visit Location: Yemin Moshe neighborhood, JerusalemOpen Times: 24/7. Montefiore Windmill Visitor Center is open Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 to 17:00 (19:00 in summer) and Friday and Saturday from 10:00 to 14:00.Prices: Free. Entrance to the Montefiore Windmill is also free.Average Visit Duration: 1-2 hours.Notes for Visitors: If arriving by car you will need to park nearby and enter the neighborhood on foot as it is mostly a pedestrian-only area.Special Events: Although Yemin Moshe might be a sleepy quaint neighborhood, it is surrounded by beautiful parks where there are several outdoor performance venues. The parks, plazas, and open-air performance venues are often used for festivals and special events including the Chutsot Hayotser International Arts and Crafts Fair, and the Jerusalem Film Festival.Tours: Combine a private tour of Jerusalem with a visit to Yemin Moshe. Pro Tip: There is a free tour of the Montefiore Windmill on Fridays and Saturdays that must be pre-booked on the Windmill website.Yemin Moshe street sign in three languages, Hebrew, English and ArabicYemin Moshe is a charming Jerusalem neighborhood reminiscent of a quaint European village. It offers cobbled lanes and stone houses draped in vines and bougainvillea, with colorful window boxes and quaint eateries. Today it is one of the gentrified, luxury residential neighborhoods overlooking the Old City. This is a haven in the busy city yet close enough to walk to from the Old City. And if you’re wondering about the name it means “the right hand of Moses” not the biblical Moses, but Moses Montefiore who was responsible for the establishment of the neighborhood.Pro Tip: Yemin Moshe is not far from The First Station, and you could easily walk between both sites.Yemin Moshe and Mishkenot Sha'ananimIn 1859, Mishkenot Sha'ananim (Dwellings of Tranquility) was built across from Mount Zion, just a few steps from the Old City. It consisted of two elongated buildings, one was a shared space that answered the needs of the community and included a hospital, two synagogues, and a bakery with a communal oven. The other building was divided into 28 tiny apartments. The neighborhood was inhabited by the destitute.Pro Tip: The two original long buildings still exist. One is home to the Jerusalem Music Center and the other building is used by the Jerusalem Municipality to host honored guests. Among those who have stayed here have been Jean-Paul Sartre, Marc Chagall, and John Le Carre.Although MIshkenot Sha'ananim was built to accommodate the poor it was not enough, and soon the neighborhood needed to be extended to make room for new residents.The Neighborhood of Mishkenot Sha'ananim and the Montefiore WindmillHistory of Yemin Moshe, JerusalemAt a time when the residents of Jerusalem lived within the Old City walls, a crowded, yet expensive place to live, Yemein Moshe was built beyond the walls as a neighborhood and was intended for the poor who could not afford to live inside the city. The year was 1894, and the first two buildings constructed were called Mishkenot Sha’ananim. The project was funded by Moses Montefiore (1835-1874), perhaps the most famous British Jew at the time.Yemin Moshe was a simple neighborhood with larger homes than the original two Mishkenot Shaananim structures. The homes were one-story stone houses with red brick rooftops. The community shared an oven, and they supported themselves by running a printing press, textile factory, and windmill for grinding wheat.In 1948, the State of Israel was established and the War of Independence broke out with neighboring countries attacking on all sides. Jordanian forces took East Jerusalem, and Yemin Moshe found itself on the edge of the barbed wire fence that divided the city for 19 years. The neighborhood was abandoned as it was too dangerous to live in.In the 1960s the Yom Kippur War saw the entire city of Jerusalem return to the hands of the Israelis. After the war, the neighborhood underwent a complete makeover, the poor were moved out and luxury properties were built. Thankfully, many of the original structures as well as the character of the historic neighborhood survived.Points of Interest in Yemin MosheThe neighborhood isn’t overflowing with attractions, but it is worth visiting to enjoy the ambiance which is something unique and different from other areas of Jerusalem. The best way to explore Yemin Moshe is to simply wander along the picturesque alleyways.Pro Tip: The neighborhood has a lot of stairs that connect the different levels of the neighborhood which is built on a slope. It is not wheelchair-friendly. Many of the alleyways are pedestrian-only with no access for cars.Montefiore WindmillYemin Moshe’s most famous attraction is a beautiful stone windmill, built in 1857 three years before Mishkenot Sha’ananim was established. The windmill was built by Moses Montefiore using funds from the estate of Judah Touro. The intention was that the windmill would encourage the residents to make a living by running the mill and help them to become self-sufficient, grinding their own flour. The mill wasn’t a success because of the lack of wind in the area, and pretty soon it was abandoned. The stone windmill is perched on a hill offering breathtaking views of the city and serves as an iconic symbol of Jerusalem's past. Today the windmill houses a small museum dedicated to Montefiore, a visitor center, and a wine-tasting center.Pro Tip: The plaza by the windmill is sometimes used for outdoor performances by the Khan Theater’s repertoire company.Sunburst at the historic windmill in Yemin MosheJim Angleton CornerThis quiet spot is an observation point overlooking the walls of the Old City. It is situated near the Confederation House (also in Yemin Moshe). The observation point is in memory of Jim Angleton, a former Chief of Counterintelligence of the CIA, and it stands where the barbed wire fence divided the city for 19 years.Pro Tip: You’ll find at least three other memorial gardens around Confederation House, including the Amschel Rothschild Sitting Corner where there are benches for you to rest after climbing all the stairs in this neighborhood!Great Sephardi SynagogueBuilt in 1897 to be used by Yemin Moshe residents, it is built out of the same characteristic Jerusalem stone and has been restored. This is an active synagogue where services are held.Mishkenot Sha'ananimAs the first Jewish neighborhood built outside the Old City walls, Mishkenot Sha'ananim exudes historical charm. Its cobblestone streets, galleries, and quaint cafes create a picturesque setting, inviting visitors to explore and relish the unique atmosphere that defines Yemin Moshe. The buildings have now been turned into a cultural center and a music center as well as a guest house.Pro Tip: The closest Old City gate to Yemin Moshe is Jaffa Gate so you can very easily walk from the Old City to Yemin Moshe.Restaurants and CafesYemin Moshe's culinary scene adds a flavorful touch to the neighborhood. From charming cafes serving aromatic coffee to exquisite restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisines, the dining options reflect the rich tapestry of tastes within this historic enclave.Pro Tip: On two sides of the neighborhood there are some of Jerusalem’s best parks.

Plan Your VisitLocation:Beit Eliyahu Golomb House, 23 Rothschild Street, Tel AvivOpen Times: Sunday-Thursday 08:30-16:00, Fridays and Saturdays closed.Prices: Adults 20 ILS, seniors, soldiers, and children under 18 yrs 15 ILS, disabled visitors free.Average Visit Duration: 1 hour.Special Events: There are regular special evening and afternoon programs geared towards school children and groups. On Family Day, and Israeli school holidays there are special activities for parents and children.Relevant Tours: Tours of the museum can be arranged in advance and are available in English, Hebrew, Russian, and French. The museum may be able to offer a tour outside the museum of Rothschild Blvd. If you take a private Tel Aviv tour, remember to ask your guide to stop at this interesting attraction.Golomb House - The Hagana Museum, Tel Aviv(Image source:Avishai TeicherCC BY 2.5)The literal translation of ”Hagana” is defense, but in this case, the name of the museum refers to the armed Jewish force that operated in Palestine from the 1920s to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. The Hagana (or Haganah) fighting force protected Jewish settlements from Arab attacks in British Mandate Palestine. Following the British “white paper” that restricted immigration to Palestine, the Hagana organization assisted more than 100,000 Jews to immigrate illegally, escaping war-torn Europe. Later, the fighters of the Hagana participated in the War of Independence fighting side by side with other Jewish military groups and the newly founded Israeli Defense Force.The museum covers the formation and activities of the Haganah organization as well as its heroes, and major achievements. It is located in a house built by the Sharet family in the 1920s which was one of the first houses built in Tel Aviv. The house is the former home of Eliyahu Golomb, one of the founders of the Haganah organization. It was here that Haganah members met in secret to discuss and plan the defense of settlements and the illegal immigration of Jews to British Palestine.Pro Tip: The museum is located on one of Tel Aviv’s most beautiful boulevards, where you can see examples of Bauhaus architecture, and visit Independence Hall where Israeli independence was declared in 1948.What to See at the Hagana MuseumThree floors have been added to the original house and a different topic is covered on each floor. In addition, the museum has a large auditorium and a smaller audio-presentation room and it holds the Hagana archives. The museum displays use the latest museum technology to bring the subject matter to life. There are huge video screens, historic photographs, recreated scenes, models, and authentic artifacts.Original RoomsAt the entrance level of the house, two of the rooms have been preserved as they were in the early 1940s. These rooms are used for changing exhibitions.Eliyahu Golomb's apartment, the Hagana Museum (Image source:Hagit.B CC BY 4.0)Birth of the Defense ForceOn the first level, you can delve into the establishment of the organization in 1919, learn about its roots in Bar Giora and Hashomer, and discover the many daring missions and battles of the Hagana.Hagana on the BattlefieldAlthough their fighting methods were more guerilla warfare, this section of the museum looks at the Hagana’s battle against the British from 1945 to 1947. It also covers their weapons and brings to life the personal story of a young Palmach member and a young holocaust survivor who participated in several major battles. There is a moving audio presentation about the immigration ship, Exodus.Pro Tip: If you enjoy this museum then you might want to check out the Palmach Museum, Lehi Museum, and the Etzel Museum, all dedicated to the pre-state Jewish underground movements.War of IndependenceTake a journey through the events of the War of Independence and learn about the Hagana’s integration into the Israel Defense Force after the establishment of the State of Israel.Pro Tip: On Independence Day entrance to the museum is free, and there are special events and exhibits.Know Before You Go - Hagana MuseumThe museum is fully accessibleThe Hagana Museum is suitable for childrenDisplays are in Hebrew and EnglishA visit starts with a short film about the period

Plan Your VisitLocation: 6 Tarsat Street, Tel AvivOpen Times: Sunday-Monday closed. Tuesday 10:00-21:00, Wednesday 10:00-18:00; Thursday 10:00-21:00, Friday 10:00-14:00, and Saturday 10:00-18:00.Prices: Adults 50 ILS; students, Tel Aviv residents, and disabled visitors 40 ILS; senior citizens 25 ILS. Entrance is free for visitors under 18 years old; escorts of disabled visitors, and recruited army reservists (order 8).Average Visit Duration - 1-2 hours.Special Events: The museum hosts concerts, lectures, and special events that are advertised on its website.Notes for Visitors: Enjoy the museum’s Helena Wine Bar. The museum has audio guides in English and Hebrew, lockers, a museum store, and is fully accessible.Tours: Take a private Tel Aviv tour and include a stop at the Eyal Ofer Pavilion. If you are with a group it is possible to arrange a tour of the museum.Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art(Image source:Yair TalmorCC BY 3.0)This awe-inspiring museum is one of the Tel Aviv Museums of Art locations. Formerly the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion, this branch of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art is devoted to temporary exhibitions of contemporary art from Israel and abroad. The art covers a wide range of mediums from photography and paintings to installations and sculptures. The unique structure feels like a warehouse, or the framework of a building, with natural light flooding into the exhibition space. Art is displayed on the blank canvas provided by the barren walls and high ceilings of the museum building. If you’re interested in current artwork that will amaze, fascinate, and sometimes shock you, then don’t miss the Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art.History of the Eyal Ofer Pavilion Art MuseumThe history of the Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art goes hand in hand with the history of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, although the museum has changed locations several times and today there are three branches of the museum in three different locations. So it can get a bit confusing!It all started in 1932, when Tel Aviv’s first mayor, Meir Dizengoff donated his home on Rothschild Blvd. to the city for use as a museum. In 1959, the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion for Contemporary Art, designed by the Israel Prize laureate architect, Yaakov Rechter, was opened. It was intended to be the new home of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, but it was soon clear that a larger space was needed. And so in 1971, the museum was relocated from Dizengoff’s house to 27 Shaul Hamelech Street and it became the museum’s main building.At that time the pavilion was used to display miniature period rooms and a glassware collection. In 2019, the museum building needed a facelift, and a new donor, Eyal Ofer, was found to fund the renovations. The remodeling was designed by the original architect’s son. Further renovations were completed in 2023. The Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art continues to be an integral part of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art.Tel Aviv Museum of Art LocationsThe Tel Aviv Museum of Art includes the main building (Paulson Family Foundation Building) which holds the museum’s permanent collection of modern art plus changing exhibitions. Plus the Herta and Paul Amir Building which focuses on Israeli art and temporary exhibitions. Both these sections of the museum are on Shaul Hamelech Boulevard. Then there is the Eyal Ofer Pavilion which is in a different location in Tel Aviv on Tarsat Street.Pro Tip: The museum is located in Tel Aviv’s Cultural Square, close to other cultural venues including Israel’s national theater, Habima, and the Charles Bronfman Auditorium.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times: Wadi Farasa is part of the Petra Archaeological Park. Petra Archaeological Park's open times are 06:00-18:00 and until 16:00 in winter.Prices: Admission is 90 JD, and the Jordan Pass includes a discount to the Archaeological Park.Average Visit Duration:The average time spent in Wadi Farasa is 2 hours.Popular Times:The best time to visit Farasa Valley is in the early morning or late afternoon.Special Events: Petra by Night, an evening candlelight spectacle, takes place in front of the Treasury on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 20:30. The show features Bedouinemusic, a light show, and tea.Relevant Tours: On a tour of Petra you will see the most important and most impressive sites but to visit Farasa Valley you should take a two-day tour, to make sure you'll have time to enjoy it. With a Petra tour from Israel,you’ll see two countries on one trip.Farasa Valley is located in the Petra Archaeological Parkand borders the town of Wadi Musa on the western side of Mt. Altar. The valley (or wadi) is divided into east and west sections. Farasa Valley East holds the majority of ancientNabateanstructures but it is not the main part of Petra. Most tourists never reach Farasa Valley and instead stick to the area entered via theSiq. But for those who are willing to follow the path less traveled, Farasa Valley holds unique Nabataean tombs, temples, and other rock-hewn structures. Petra has an average of 2000 visitors a day, but few reach Wadi Farasa which offers a place of tranquility, and a chance to immerse yourself in the past.Cave-like tomb in Wadi Farasa(Image source:Michael GuntherCC BY 3.0)How to Get to Wadi FarasaThe hike through Wadi Farasa goes from the High Place of Sacrifice to Qasr al-Bint and you can start at either end. From the Street of Facades take the hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice on Jebel al-Madhbah and from there continue on the path to Wadi Farasa. Alternatively, take the stairs from behind Qasr al-Bint. Pro Tip: Starting your exploration of Wadi Farasa from Qasr al-Bint is an easier hike than if you start at the High Place of Sacrifice. The loop route from Qasr al-Bint to the High Place of Sacrifice takes a minimum of 2.5 hours.The path through Wadi Valley is not marked but there is signage at some of the structures. For this reason it is best to hire a private tour guide to explore the wadi.What to See in Farasa ValleyFrom Qasr al-Bint you will see the following structures, in this order until reaching the High Place of Sacrifice:Amud FaraounAfter about half an hour of hiking, you’ll reach a free-standing column that was probably once part of a portico to a structure that no longer exists. It is also called Pharaoh’s Column and Zibb Faraoun.Por Tip: This half-hour stretch of the hike has no shade.Broken Pediment TombThis square facade carved into the cliff and reached via rock-cut stairs features two pilasters on either side of the entrance which is topped by a broken pediment. You can enter the chamber which is 10 meters long and 8.5 meters wide. Pro Tip: Take a look inside the small door to the right of the tomb to see a burial chamber with two burial niches on the wall.Renaissance TombThe Renaissance Tomb dates back to the 2nd century AD. It is one of the most impressive structures in Wadi Farasa thanks to the tall twin columns flanking the entrance. Inside the chamber, there are rock-carved loculi (burial niches) that were never used.Renaissance Tomb, Wadi Farasa, Petra(Image source: DossemanCC BY 4.0)Roman Soldier’s TombThe Soldier’s Tomb complex was built by the Nabataeans in the 1st century AD, renovated by the Romans in 106 AD, and destroyed by an earthquake in 363 AD. The complex includes a courtyard, several cisterns, rock-cut tombs, and the remains of several two-story buildings. The tomb’s facade features three carved male figures in niches between four columns topped by a frieze and pediment. One of the figures is wearing a Romanmilitary breastplate. The central entrance leads to two chambers. The first chamber has burial niches in the walls, and the second, an antechamber is empty. The courtyard in front of the tomb had porticoes on three sides with 4-meter-high columns connected by arches.Soldier Tomb, Wadi Farasa, Petra(Image source:Jorge LáscarCC BY 2.0) Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Colorful Triclinium opposite the Soldier’s Tomb which has bright red and white striped interior walls that would have been covered with painted stucco. The Color Triclinium with its interior walls divided into columns and niches is one of the most impressive interiors in Petra.Garden TombIn the upper area of Wadi Farasa East, you’ll find the Garden Temple or Garden Triclinium. For many years experts thought the structure carved into the rock was a tomb or temple, but they now know that it was used as part of the Nabataean water system. Pro Tip: Spot the adjacent cistern that was part of the water system. Wide rock-carved stairs lead up to a flat area or platform that would have once been a courtyard. The structure’s facade measures 7.5 meters and has three openings divided by two columns and visitors can enter the two connecting chambers that were carved into the rock. Inside you can see rare Nabataean frescoes depicting local flora and fauna.Banquet HallOn the top of the rock outcrop where the Garden Tomb was carved and behind the cistern are the remaining walls of a Nabaraean banquet hall. Today the carved walls are all that remain but it would have had a vaulted ceiling. The chamber was probably used for feasts honoring those buried nearby.Lion MonumentAs you near the High Place of Sacrifice you will see the Lion Monument which may have been a drinking fountain for devotees on their way to make offerings. The “lion” represents the god al-Uzza.

Where is the Israel-Gaza Border?The Israel-Gaza border runs the length of the Gaza Strip and has two main crossings - Erez and Kerem Shalom. The Erez crossing provides access both for Palestinians crossing into Israel for work or medical treatment, and the transportation of goods. The Kerem Shalom crossing is exclusively for goods arriving from Egypt.In the far south of the Strip, which borders Israel and Egypt, is the Rafah crossing, Whilst this is also controlled by Israel, people but not cargo can pass through.Plan Your VisitLocation: Western Negev, IsraelOpening Times: By appointment and as part of a guided tourPrices: Enquire with our office for the exact cost.Average Visit Duration: Both half-day and full-day tours are available.Tours: Gaza Envelope Tours are available; however, such visits must be arranged in advance with a licensed company such as ourselvesIsrael Gaza WallThe Israel-Gaza Wall, also known as the Israel-Gaza barrier or ‘Iron Fence’ is a border built by Israel that runs the length of the Gaza Strip.Fences and walls were originally constructed as far back as 1971 and then 1994 as a means of controlling both the movement of goods and people in and out of the Strip. Until 2005, there was a one kilometer ‘buffer zone’ on either side but after Israel unilaterally disengaged from Gaza in 2005, a security upgrade was clearly necessary.Barrier against tunnels along the Israel-Gaza Strip border(Image source: IDF Spokesperson's Unit photographer CC BY 3.0)Use of State-of-the-Art TechnologyIn the years that followed, a host of state-of-the-art technologies were installed along the border, combined with the building of a seven meter high fence. These included motion sensors, watchtowers with cameras and remote-controlled machine guns, which could be used to ‘warn off’ potential infiltrators with bursts of fire, should they come too close. The wall was patrolled by battalions of soldiers and also from the air.The eventual cost of this wall/fence amounted to several billion dollars and was described by Israeli security personnel as an ‘effective hermetic solution’ and privately described it as ‘unreachable’.Hamas Attack on October 7th 2023On October 7th, which was both the Jewish sabbath and the festival of Sukkot, early in the morning Hamas militants breached the fence in a number of places. In what is now arguably a catastrophic security failure on the part of Israel, using explosives, bulldozers, pick-up tricks, drones and paragliders.With the ‘element of surprise’ on their side, Israel was caught off guard and, as a result, thousands of terrorists were able to make their way across the fence towards a number of communities in the area.In the hours that followed, a massacre took place in which approx. 1,200 people, most of them civilians, were murdered within a few hours.Today, the general consensus is that the wall was never designed with the idea of a mass invasion in mind, rather to give ‘real time indications’ when individuals were trying to come close to it.Other failures, military personnel have admitted, include an overreliance on remote-controlled aspects of security (such as communication towers, remotely-operated machine guns and surveillance cameras and hubs). These were disabled by Hamas on 7th October, quickly leaving the wall defenseless and allowing between 2,500-3,000 terrorists to stream through quickly.Places To Visit In and Around the Israel-Gaza WallKibbutz Nahal Oz and Kibbutz Nir Oz - these two kibbutzim both suffered badly in the October 7th attack, where Hamas gunmen went house to house, hunting down residents. Many individuals were tortured, mutilated andraped, before they were murdered. Others were kidnapped and some remain hostages in the Strip even now. Today, it is possible to tour these places and see the horror and destruction first-hand.Re’im Forest, site of the Nova Music Festival Massacre - It was here that, on October 7th, Hamas terrorists took the lives of approximately 364 people at a Peace Festival, most of them very young. It is possible to visit memorials to some of the victims at this site.Netivot - This is the town where a collection of burned-out and crushed vehicles sit, the result of the October 7th attack.Kobi Hill -From this vantage point, it is possible to see over the Gaza Strip.Sderot - This ‘frontier town’ was heavily impacted on October 7th and if you visit, you will be able to see bomb shelters where grenades were thrown, rockets that have since been repurposed (and in some cases even turned into art works) and the police station, which came under heavy attack and in which more than 30 Israelis were trapped inside and killed.Nahal Oz Military Base -Close to, but not part of Kibbutz Nahal Oz, this Israeli military base was also attacked on October 7th, and 66 people lost their lives here. Whilst it is not possible to enter, you can see the base from the outside.Roadside rest stations -These spots offer soldiers in the Israeli Defence Forces a break from the daily difficulties of combat, and also help out by providing them with free meals, showers, and laundry services. They are an excellent place to meet members of the IDF and talk with them openly about what their lives in uniform are really like.Nearby Places and AttractionsAshkelon national parkPrime Minister David Ben Gurion’s grave at Sde Boker, Negev desertEin Avdat nature reserveMamshit national parkShivta national parkThe Ramon Crater, Mitzpe Ramon

Saturday in Israel is unlike anywhere else. Why? Because it’s the sabbath - the Jewish Shabbat. This is the country’s official ‘day of rest’ and it’s taken very seriously, both by Orthodox Jews and those who are entirely secular.Much of the country ‘shuts down’ to give people time to rest, meet friends and family, attend services at synagogues, or simply spend some quality time with themselves.However, Tel Aviv - Israel’s liveliest city - isn’t quite like everywhere else so if you do find yourself there on Saturday, you won’t have to twiddle your thumbs, because even though no street tours are running in Tel Aviv on Shabbat, there’s still plenty going on in this ‘24/7’ metropolis.The most special day of the week, when the family gets togetherWhen Does Shabbat Begin and End in Tel Aviv?In Tel Aviv, Shabbat begins at sundown every Friday night and ends around 25 hours later so, of course, this holy day will differ according to the time of the year. In the winter, Shabbat can begin as early as 4.30 pm in December and in the summer as late as 7.30 pm in June.However, things will start to shut down a couple of hours earlier - the big supermarkets will be closed usually by 2 pm, as well as many of the stands at the famous Carmel Market (don’t despair, foodies, you can tour this incredible place from Sunday to Thursday and experience its endless culinary delights).Shabbat will end the following day (Saturday evening - called ‘motzi Shabbat’ in Hebrew) when dusk turns to night (according to the Jewish sages say you know Shabbat is over when you can see three stars in the sky).Celebrating Shabbat in Tel AvivFor observant and traditional Jews, Friday night dinner is a ‘sacred’ time of the week - a chance to catch up with family, break bread with friends or simply wind down after a hard week. Friday night services at synagogues throughout the city last for about an hour, after which people return home, make blessings over wine and bread (candles will already have been lit by the women of the house, about 30 minutes before Shabbat arrives) and sit down at the table for a leisurely dinner.In contrast, young secular Jews in Tel Aviv will often eat with their families then head out to bars and nightclubs which are open into the wee hours - Tel Aviv’s not known as the Non-Stop City for nothing!On Saturday morning, religious Jews will often attend services (that begin as early as 9 am), then head home for a Shabbat lunch. Secular Israelis will often be sleeping late and then heading out to places like Dizengoff Street (where cafes and restaurants are usually packed) for brunch. And, of course, in good weather, Tel Aviv’s beaches will be packed out with locals sunning themselves, swimming in the Mediterranean and strolling along the city’s famous Tayellet (promenade).The beach promenade in Tel Aviv is a favorite spot for the secular publicFor those who observe, Shabbat ends with the ritual of ’Havdalah’ using wine/grape juice, spices and the lighting of a braided candle. Everyone wishes each other ‘shavua tov’ (a good week to come) and ‘regular life’ in Israel resumes.If you want to celebrate Shabbat with locals, there are organizations you can reach out to, who’ll put you in touch with families - and it’s not just a chance to learn more about Jewish traditions but you’ll probably eat a fine meal too! As for a gift for your host, flowers are always welcome but if you bring chocolates/wine/cake, make sure it has a kosher label.Do Buses Run on Shabbat in Tel Aviv?The regular buses that you’ll see in Tel Aviv all week won’t be running and nor will trains. But the good news is you don’t have to rely on taxis (or your feet) to get around because a few years ago the municipality set up a ‘Shabbat bus service’.There are six lines (yellow, blue, pink, green, red, purple) that run every 20-30 minutes throughout Shabbat and - best of all - they are free.Check out times on Moovit or Google Maps - the bus stops with Shabbat buses running are marked accordingly with the specific line color!Use the Saturday bus servicesThings to Do in Tel Aviv on SaturdayThere’s a great deal to do in Tel Aviv on Saturday, depending on what kind of activities you like. Endless cafes and restaurants are open where you can wile away the hours- in fact breakfast in Tel Aviv is taken very seriously. (Just bear in mind that you might have to queue for a while, because some places are so popular they don’t even accept bookings for Shabbat).For culture vultures, Tel Aviv’s best museums and galleries are also open on Shabbat - check out exhibitions at the Tel Aviv Museum of Fine Art, head to ANU and learn about the history of the Jewish people, or even book a guided tour with the famous psychic Uri Geller at his very own museum in Jaffa!For those who love sun, sea and sand, the beaches in Tel Aviv are fabulous - they all have their own flavor - from the serene Hilton Beach (Tel Aviv’s non-official hangout for the LGBTQ community), to Frishman and Gordon beaches (where you can watch performances of Israeli dancing on Saturday mornings). Further south there’s Banana Beach, which is a huge hangout for those who like music (especially drumming) and Brazilian martial arts and Jaffa Beach which (like the Hilton) is excellent for surfing in the winter months.Finally, for those who like to walk, head for beautiful Rothschild Boulevard where there are Bauhaus buildings aplenty, or Park Hayarkon, the green lung of Tel Aviv, where you can bike, rent a paddle boat or even take a ride up in a hot air balloon and see the city from above.Park Hayarkon -The largest and most famous park in Tel AvivShopping in Tel Aviv on SaturdayAs we’ve mentioned before, all the big shopping malls and boutiques/independent stores on Dizengoff Street are closed on Saturdays but if you do want to go shopping in Tel Aviv on Shabbat, don’t fear - you do have a few options!First of all, there’s the Namal port, near Hyarakon Park, where big stores are selling popular Israeli brands (clothes by Castro and Comme Il Faut for adults and upmarket Shilav for children), as well as sports shops if you need gear for hitting the beach.Sarona Market is open seven days a week -once home to a community of German Templars, its lovely renovated buildings now house small stores, and there’s a gourmet market as well, where you can pick up specialty cheeses, wines, chocolates and eat an excellent lunch,South of the city, head to Neve Tzedek, where lots of small shops selling jewelry, high-end clothing and artwork are open on the main Shabazi Street - afterward, grab a bite at Dallal Bakery, Meshek Barzilay (fantastic vegan food) or gelato at Anita, and take a stroll around the Suzanne Dellal Performing Arts Centre.Finally, don’t forget Jaffa - the famousFlea Market (Shuk haPishpeshim) might be shut on Shabbat, but some of the art galleries and small stores selling clothing, home accessories, and designer furniture are open. Old Jaffa is also full of bars, cafes and restaurants, not just around the market but over in the harbor and when the weather is good (which is for much of the year) the area is packed full of locals, walking, fishing, drinking coffee and enjoying the fantastic views.The Jaffa Flea Market offers a unique blend of authentic shopping and diverse cuisineTel Aviv on a Saturday offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, with activities to suit all tastes. Whether you're soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches, indulging in brunch at a bustling café, exploring world-class museums, or simply wandering through its vibrant streets, there’s always something to do. While Shabbat slows down many parts of Israel, Tel Aviv pulses with energy, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the city’s dynamic culture on the Jewish day of rest.

Travelers to Israel who base themselves in Jerusalem will want to see the country. Although Israel is small it is still over 150km-200km from Jerusalem, depending on where in the Galilee you want to visit. This journey can take about 2.5-3 hours. If you have booked an Israel package tour covering the country then you will have a way of getting to the various destinations across Israel. If traveling independently you will have to figure out the best way to see the Galilee from Jerusalem. Here are a few suggestions to help you plan your Galilee excursion from Jerusalem.Sailing on "Jesus Boats", Sea of Galilee. Photo credit: © ShutterstockUse Public Transport to Go from Jerusalem to the GalileeThe distance from Jerusalem to Galilee is approximately 150 km depending on the route you take. You can get a bus from Jerusalem's central bus station to Tiberias, on the edge of the Sea of Galilee. The journey takes about 2-3 hours. Tiberias is a good place to base yourself and from there you can either hike around the Sea of Galilee or take further buses to the various locations. If you plan to make it a day trip then this could be problematic. You will spend much of your time waiting for buses and traveling on buses. You will have to leave very early in the morning if you plan 3 hours there and 3 hours back by bus. It doesn’t leave you much time on a day trip from Jerusalem to Galilee. Alternatively, you could make it a longer trip and stay overnight. It is advisable to research the places you want to visit and figure out how you will get public transport from place to place in Galilee before you actually leave Jerusalem.Traveling by bus. Photo by Christian Wiediger on UnsplashGalilee Tours from JerusalemIn addition to package tours that cover several days, several destinations, and accommodation there are also day tours from Jerusalem to Galilee. If you prefer not to travel on a package tour then day tours to difficult-to-reach or distant locations are the perfect solution. You could join a group day tour from Jerusalem to Galilee or even take a private tour and tailor-make your itinerary. Tours from Jerusalem to Galileeinclude pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or a convenient location in Jerusalem. The tour then takes you north in air-conditioned transportation and stops at several of Galilee’s famous locations. The tours usually have a theme, for example, Christian landmarks around the Sea of Galilee; Galilee and Golan tours, or Jewish sites in Northern Israel. There are also Galilee tours from Jerusalem that include places likeCaesarea,Safed,Haifa,Nazareth, Acre, or Rosh Hanikra.Art gallery in Safed, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockRent a Car to Travel from Jerusalem to GalileeHaving your own car can be a very convenient way of traveling but it suits only a certain type of traveler. You’ll have to negotiate unknown roads; cope with Israeli drivers and find parking once you reach the larger cities like Tiberias, Nazareth, Acre, and Safed. The advantage is that you can pick and choose where to stop and what to see. The disadvantage can be the price and the fact that you will have your attention on the road instead of being able to sit back and enjoy the journey. Without a guide, you will have to know which places to visit and how to get there. Car rental is readily available in Israel but be sure you have included all the extras and taken into account all the restrictions. Check what time you can return the car as you will be traveling quite a distance and may not be back in Jerusalem until late. Some car rental companies in Israel close at 5 pm and there are different hours on Shabbat and national holidays.Traveling with a rented car. Photo by Scott Osborn on UnsplashVisit Galilee LandmarksThere are a plethora of Christian sites in Galilee where Jesus grew up and where he spent his ministry traveling from village to village preaching the word of God. The Christian sites of Galilee should not be missed! They have great biblical significance and are surrounded by Galilee's stunning scenery. A good way to plan a trip to the Galilee that covers all Christian sites is to spend at least two days in the region. If your time is limited then spend a day touring just the Christian highlights along the shores of the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret in Hebrew). Your trip to Galilee will probably start with a drive up Israel's Mediterranean coast past attractions like Caesarea and Haifa. Turning inland you'll travel through the Valley of Armageddon (Megiddo), where the prophesized Final Battle is predicted to take place during the End of Times. From here you have a view of Mount Tabor, the site of the Transfiguration.Traveling over rolling green hills and past lush farmlands you'll look down on the Sea of Galilee nestled in an idyllic valley. Starting at the southern end of the sea move up the western shore past the city of Tiberias. The Sea of Galilee is where Jesus walked on water (John 6:19-21) and where he calmed the storm (Matthew 8:23-26).The Church at Mount of Beatitudes, Galilee, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Most Famous Christian Sites in GalileeStop in Magdala, once a small fishing village and home to Mary Magdalene. Travel a little further along the shore to Ginosar, a modern-day kibbutz in the shadow of Mount Arbel. The kibbutz is home to the Yigal Allon Museum which holds the Jesus Boat. During the 1986 drought, the Sea of Galilee's water level dropped dramatically revealing the remains of this 1st-century fishing boat buried in the bed of the lake. The fishing boat would have been the same kind of fishing vessel used by the disciples. The Bible tells us how Jesus crosses the water, landing in Ginosar where the people touched the fringe of His cloak and were cured of their ills.One of the most delightful Christian sites along the shore of the Galilee is Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the multiplication of loaves and fish. Originally a 4th-century chapel was built here to mark the site of the miracle. A Byzantine Nile-themed floor mosaic has been preserved in the Church of Multiplication along with a large rock where Jesus may have stood as he performed the miracle.Nearby is the Church of the Primacy of St. Peter; the traditional site of Christ's 4th appearance after his resurrection (John 21:1-24) and where he conferred primacy on Simon Peter giving him leadership over the church. Another incredible Christian site on the shore of the Sea of Galilee is the Mt. of Beatitudes crowned by a unique church, designed by Antonio Barluzzi in the 1930s to mark the place where Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount.Korazim National Park, Upper Galilee. Photo credit: © Yuval Gassar. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityAlso visit Capernaum, once the hometown of Peter, Andrew, John, and James. Here Jesus based himself during his ministry; exorcised demons and healed the slave of a Roman centurion. The main Christian sites in Capernaum today are the excavated Byzantine village; the remains of a 1st-century synagogue and an octagonal church built around the remains of what is believed to have been Saint Peter's home.If you'd like to venture to the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee, at the foot of the Golan Heights you can stop at Kursi, the site of the miracle of the swine (Luke 8:26-39). Here you can see the ruins of a large Byzantine monastery and church and see the remains of a 5th-century church mosaic floor. If you are with a tour you will probably also venture up into the Golan Heights to visit places like the Shalom Observatory; former Syrian fortifications and Katzrin where there is an excavated and reconstructed Talmudic-era (4th-8th century) village.At the southernmost point of the sea where the River Jordan flows out of the Kinneret is the baptismal site Yardenit. Tours stop at Yardenit where it is possible to be baptized in the Jordan as Jesus was. Also visit Kfar Cana, famed as the site where Jesus attended a wedding and changed water into wine. The 19th century Wedding Church commemorates this miracle and encompasses the remains of Byzantine mosaics from an earlier 5th-6th-century church. The church holds two ancient stone jars similar to those used to hold wine during the biblical era.The easiest way to see these Christian sites is to take a one or two-day tour like the Sea of Galilee, Cana, Magdala & Mt. of Beatitudes Tour.Yardenit baptismal site, near the Sea of Galilee.Photo credit: © Shutterstock