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I took a Birthright trip to Israel this past winter break and wanted to share with you all one of my favorite cities from the vacation - Tel Aviv.  It’s a young, hip, and vibrant city that has enough culture, beaches, and activities to keep you busy all day and night long. Although I didn’t have very much time in Tel Aviv, I’ve included some of the things I did in this post and added a few activities I wish I’d had time for. Also, since Saturday is the "day of rest" in Israel I started the trip on Sunday because most of what I suggested isn't open on Saturdays. Hope you enjoy! 

Sunday 9 am – Independence Hall Museum

Begin your trip with a visit to the site where Israel declared its independence. Although small and humble on the outside, this was an amazing experience that I recommend to anyone interested in the history of Israel. It was powerful and moving to get to see where the nation was born, and to be in the room where the Declaration of Independence was signed.  Finally, we had a wonderful tour guide who kept it really entertaining, but still educational at the same time. 

Sunday 11 am – Lunch on the Beach

The beaches at Tel Aviv were gorgeous and were one place where I wished I could have stayed longer than 20 minutes. There are private and public beaches so you have the option to pay for more privacy, etc if you'd like. However, I visited one of the public beaches and it was extremely pleasant with few crowds and beautiful views. This time is also a wonderful chance to stop at one of the many falafel/shwarma stands throughout Tel Aviv, which is a must-eat meal. Throughout my entire 10-day trip I didn’t have one falafel or shwarma wrap that I didn’t enjoy!

In addition to relaxing on the beach with your lunch, take a walk or beach ride along the Promenade, the street that runs from the top to the bottom of the city along the beach. There are lots of stores and people to see if you do wander around the Promenade! 

The beach in Tel Aviv

Sunday 2 pm – Shenkin Area

The Shenkin Street area is the best place to go for some shopping while your in Tel Aviv. I loved the wide variety of stores and felt that I was able to find  great items for myself and also some souvenirs as well! If you feel like you need a break you can always stop at one of the many cafes in the area and people watch.

Carmel Market is a must-go while you’re in the area. It’s an outdoor market that has every item you could want, and at cheap prices. Don’t be afraid to bargain and you’ll walk out of there with some of the best deals you’ll find in Tel Aviv. There’s a lot of produce and food in the back area and tons of clothes, bags, make-up, electronics and pretty much everything else you could imagine in the front. The only downside is the large crowd definitely makes shopping a little more difficult and less serene.  

Nachalat Binyamin is right by and is a pedestrian mall with some great stores. The best part though is every Tuesday and Friday artists sell their art along the sidewalk. If you’re visiting either of those days then I would definitely recommend checking out their work! I saw some amazing pieces that I have never seen anything like before.  

Sunday 6 pm – Orna and Ella

After shopping to your heart’s content head over to Orna and Ella to for a hearty and delicious meal. With Italian-influenced cuisine, this little café is a favorite amongst locals and will be yours as well after you experience the intimate setting and excellent selection of food. It gets busy quick so make reservations before you head over!

What to order: Some home-made pasta or the sweet potato fritters

Sunday 9 pm - Lilenblum Street

If you’re looking for a night out on the town then Lilenblum Street is where you should head, more specifically between the southern end of Rothschild Boulevard, Neve Tzedek and Nahalt Binyamin Street. There are a good amount of bars and clubs in the area and all within walking distance of one another so you’ll have little to travel for a good time.

One dance bar to check out is Lima Lima. Hang out on their big comfy chairs for a more laidback night or head to their dance floor if you’re looking for more of a club vibe. They have a variety of themed nights and music so check out their calendar beforehand! 

Another place on Lilenblum Street to check out is Shesek, a lounge bar. They’re known to have great quality djs and a bar where you can order pretty much any drink you’d like! It is a little pricier but not by enough to make the trip there not worth it. 

Monday Morning – Palmach Museum

Although referenced as more of an experience than a museum, the Palmach will walk your through the war for independence and give you a more complete understanding of Israel’s fight for freedom. It’s supposed to be quite a moving experience because of how interactive the rooms are. You’ll walk out of there with a true understanding of what it was like for immigrants who came to Israel and fought for the right to stay.

Monday Lunch – Elimelech

Enjoy some authentic Jewish Eastern European cuisine while you’re in Israel at Elimelech. Known to have great service and atmosphere in addition to wonderful food, you’ll definitely walk out feeling satisfied. Make sure to try their special draft beer, which takes twenty minutes to pour!

What to order: Krepalach (meat dumplings) and herring  

Monday Afternoon – Jaffa Outlook

Step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and head to Old Jaffa where you’ll get wonderful views of the Mediterranean and the city itself. Jaffa is one of the world’s oldest ports and a beautiful area to relax or wander around. Explore the alleys and check out some of the local shops, which are filled with tons of art. Also make sure to make it over to the outlook to watch the sunset, a great closing moment to your trip.

While you're in Jaffa consider stopping at Abu-Hassan for some of the best hummus you'll find! With hummus as the main star of their limited menu, make sure you get here early because they only stay open till they run out! 

Monday Dinner - Cordelia

As a lover of food, Cordelia in Jaffa is the restaurant I would want to end my stay in Israel with. Known for their great ambience and delicious and unique dishes, dinner here will be an unforgettable experience from your trip. Chef Nir Zook gets creative with his dishes, in regards to both flavor and presentation, and will present to you combinations that you never imagined to pair. Plan on staying a while and really enjoying the food and atmosphere to its fullest.