Five must see spots when visiting Tel Aviv

If you're planning to visit Israel, it's almost a guarantee that you'll be spending some time in Tel Aviv. While Jerusalem is obviously the city everyone comes to visit, Tel Aviv is home to two airports and is the commercial hub of the region, so you'll likely be spending some time in the city no matter what your plans are!

While there are tons of important historic locations and religious sites to see in Israel, don't forget to make some time to soak up the culture and character of the country. Israel is a unique place with a heart that beats to a rhythm of its own, and it would be tragic to miss out on everything it has to offer.

So in that spirit, here are five places you should definitely check out in Tel Aviv if you really want to sample the Israeli experience!

Visiting during the warmer months? It might be a good idea to work some time into your Tel Aviv trip to go cool off at one of its many gorgeous beaches! Tel Aviv is a coastal city and enjoys many fine stretches of golden sand, cool, lapping water, and breathtaking views. You're never too far away from a relaxing time!

The city is home to several beaches, most of which are free (with the notable exception of Tzuk beach, but it is also the most remotely located and least accessible). If you're just looking for a normal relaxing day soaking up the sun and splashing around in the water, try the Metzitzim or Tel Baruch beaches. Both are family friendly beaches with good amenities and life guard support (with Metzitzim tending towards a slightly younger crowd). 

If you're looking for something a little more exciting, the Hilton beach is THE spot for surfers, kayakers, and other thrill seekers. Even if you don't want to hit the curl yourself, it can be fun to watch the surfers do their thing as the tides come in. The Dolphinarium is not the most picturesque beach, but is renowned for it peculiar popularity with the art and music set. Every Friday, drummers, singers, and other performers descend on the beach to show off what they have. A great place to visit if you're looking for something a bit out of the ordinary.

We've written about the Carmel Market before, but it bears repeating. You simply cannot go to Tel Aviv without stopping by this world famous street market for a taste of the real Israeli experience! Whether you go just to browse, sample the treats, or are prepared to haggle for the best deals, you're sure to have a great time!

That said, the market is bustling place. On a Friday morning, the typical shopping day for many Israeli families, the market can turn into a human traffic jam – nobody getting in or out easily. If you don't want to have to shoulder and elbow your way up to every booth, try to aim your visit for a slower weekday in the afternoon (a great way to refuel after spending your morning seeing the sights!)

You just have to make the time to visit the Tel Aviv Museum of Art during your trip, it's an experience you will never forget. The museum hosts one of the largest collections of Israeli art in the world, with collections including ancient works, pieces created during and in response to the Holocaust, and modern works by contemporary artists. It is a collection that will vividly demonstrate the breadth and depth of the Israeli experience. 

But that's not all, the Tel Aviv Museum of Art also hosts collections from all over the world, including a tour de force of the masters. Art history giants such as Van Gogh, Money, Jackson Pollock and Pablo Picasso are all represented in the collection. There are precious few places where one can personally view such an amazing variety of classic works, so don't miss out.

Neve Tzedek, which translates to "Oasis of Justice” is a truly remarkable neighborhood in Tel Aviv. As the first Jewish neighborhood outside of Jaffa's walls, Neve Tzedek contains more than a century's worth of history, culture, and tradition in its narrow streets and perfectly preserved buildings. 

Today, the neighborhood is a bastion of culture and community. Hip little cafes dot the streets in between tiny boutiques and galleries. You can shop, browse, or take in a show at one of the many performance halls and theaters. If you feel a bit peckish, the neighborhood is home to some of the best little restaurants in the city. 

The Neve Tzedek quarter is the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon just drifting from one surprise to the next. A great way to recharge your batteries if your feeling exhausted from the hustle and bustle of visiting popular tourist destinations and an excellent way to get a feel for Israeli life and culture!

Looking for a breath of fresh air? Get yourself seaside at Namal, the old port, and enjoy the vibrant street life and commerce of a cultural hub on the grow. Namal might not be the oldest or most historic location in the city (being established in the '30s doesn't count for much when you're a cab ride's distance from buildings that have been standing for centuries), but it is one of the city's most exciting spots.

Redeveloped in recent years, the port is home to a variety of markets, restaurants, and performers. Small shops and open-air stalls sell all manner of interesting goods, from knick-knacks to designer clothes, so there is always something fun to browse. Meanwhile, buskers and street performers do their best to win your attention and maybe a few shekels. 

It's a bustling place that is beloved by families with children looking for a fun weekend, and thrill seeking Israeli youth seeking the night life. You never know quite what you'll find at Namal, which is what makes it so exciting. The story you take home from your visit to the port will always be unique!