About Tel Aviv
In dramatic contrast to the nation's capital, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv isn't a city steeped in its historic past as much as it is a living, breathing urban center, one that boasts burgeoning cultural, culinary, and nightlife scenes. Made up of several starkly different neighbourhoods, Tel Aviv has something to offer for the history-lover and the hip young traveler curious about modern Israeli culture in equal measure.
One of the city's oldest areas – the Ottoman-era Jaffa – is now as old as three millennia, and entices visitors with ancient buildings, biblical artefacts, and a still operational, charming fishing port.
Another neighbourhood to be written into any visitor's route is that of Neve Tzedek – stroll around the charming streets of one of Tel Aviv's oldest parts (the first Jeweish neighbourhood to appear outside the city walls), and sit down for a slow meal at one of the beautiful neighbourhood's many restaurants and cafes.
The famous Bauhaus buildings, Tel Aviv's so-called 'White City', do not occupy an area of their own, but are scattered throughout the entire town. Tel Aviv also enjoys a breezy coastal setting on the Mediterranean, with kilometers of beaches beloved by both locals and tourists.
Activities
Old Jaffa
Old Jaffa is the oldest part of Tel Aviv with romantic streets, old churches, and old stone buildings. The rich history behind this part of town is what gives it an irresistible charm and makes visitors fall in love with its atmosphere. Walk around or spend a few hours at some of the best restaurants in the city.
Tayelet
The promenade of Tel Aviv is a picturesque waterside stretch. The 5km long shore is an unmissable location for anyone visiting the city. Take a romantic walk with your significant other or just sit down and relax while watching the waves crush the shore.
Cofix Bar
This bar's premise attracts locals and tourists alike - all food and drink (including alcohol) comes at a fixed price of 6 New Israeli Shekels - that's about 1.5 US Dollars (as of March 2017), which is a bargain hard to beat. The concept is borrowed from a chain of Cofix stores operating on the same basis.
Tips
Good to know
Public Transport
Bus transport:
The main public bus company that operates in Tel Aviv is called Dan and the national bus operator is Egged.
Tickets and Fares:
There are discounts for children, senior citizens and the disabled. You can either buy single rides, monthly subsections or an all-in-one public transportation pass. Tickets and passes can be obtained on the bus or at central bus stations.
Rail transport:
Tel Aviv-Yafo has four train stations, all of which are situated along the Ayalon highway. All trains to Tel Aviv-Yafo stop at all four stations. For best access to the city center, use either "Tel Aviv Merkaz" (also known as Arlozorov), or "Hashalom" which is located in a large shopping mall.
Electricity
There are a few things you should know about the electricity in Israel.
The supply is single phase 220 volts and it is at 50 Hertz. The European double plugs will work here as well, even though most of the sockets have 3 holes.
