Tel Aviv has old and new sites to satisfy the sightseer. The picturesque and history-rich Old City of Jaffa serves as a journey into a past spiced with Crusader fortifications and Napoleonic conquests. Tel Aviv's more modern sites include the colorful Neve Tzedek neighborhood, and only date back to the early 20th century, when the city was established on the sand dunes along the Mediterranean coast.
Although individual visitors can certainly enjoy the city on their own, a tour led by a professional guide will provide fascinating tidbits and trivia about the winding alleyways of Jaffa and the history of the new city of Tel Aviv. Tourist sites are spread out, and Tel Aviv is not a walking city. Also, as parking places are hard to find, a half-day, air-conditioned bus tour might be the best way to see the city for the first time.
Tel Aviv's Tourist Information Office offers free guided walking tours in English, a very affordable way to learn about Tel Aviv and Jaffa.
| Historic Sites | Top  |
The home of Israel's first prime minister, David Ben-Gurion, was bequeathed to the city of Tel Aviv upon his death in 1973. Items in the house are preserved and displayed as they were when the Ben-Gurions were in residence. Of particular interest is Ben-Gurion's 20,000-volume collection of books and periodicals in various languages. Sunday and Tuesday-Thursday 8 am-3 pm, Friday 8 am-1 pm, Monday 8 am-5 pm. Free. 17 Ben-Gurion Blvd., Tel Aviv. Phone 522-1010. http://www.ben-gurion-house.org.il.
On 14 May 1948, the leaders of the Jewish community in Palestine gathered in the hall of the former home of Tel Aviv's first mayor, Meir Dizengoff, to hear David Ben-Gurion proclaim the establishment of the State of Israel. In 1978, the hall was restored, inaugurated and opened to the public. Visitors can listen to a tape of the actual proclamation ceremony. The building also hosts the Bible Museum, with permanent and changing exhibitions showcasing Israeli and international artists' take on biblical subjects. Sunday-Thursday 9 am-1 pm. 16 NIS adults, 12 NIS children. 16 Rothschild Blvd., Tel Aviv. Phone 510-6426.
Shalom Aleichem, the pen name of Shalom Rabinovich, was a famous Yiddish writer whose works formed the basis for
Fiddler on the Roof. The Shalom Aleichem House is devoted to Aleichem's writings and to Yiddish culture in general. A permanent exhibition highlights the writer's life, with photographs, first editions, manuscripts and personal artifacts. Saturday-Thursday 10 am-2 pm, Friday 10 am-1 pm. Free. 4 Berkowitz St., Tel Aviv. Phone 695-6513.
On 4 November 1995, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin addressed a peace rally at Kikar Malchei Yisrael, just outside the Tel Aviv Municipality Building. As Rabin was returning to his car, shots rang out and Rabin was hit and fatally injured. The square where the demonstration took place was renamed Yitzhak Rabin Square. The pavement where the prime minister was shot has become a solemn pilgrimage site, where mourning citizens regularly light memorial candles. Free. Rabin Square on Ibn Gvirol Street, Tel Aviv.
The Eretz Israel Museum is dedicated to the "archaeology, ethnography, folklore, Judaica, cultural history and local identity of the Land of Israel." Separate pavilions look into the country's historical connections to glass, coins, ceramics and copper. Within the boundaries of the museum complex you can visit Tel Qasile, where a Philistine port city once prospered in the 12th century BC. Sunday-Thursday 9 am-3 pm, Friday and Saturday 10 am-2 pm. 38 NIS adults, 26 NIS children. A visit to the museum's planetarium is 23 NIS extra. 2 Haim Levanon St., Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv. Phone 641-5244. http://www.eretzmuseum.org.il.
This museum highlights the history of the underground Etzel organization, its retaliations against Arab attacks and its struggle to dissolve the British Mandate in the years before the establishment of the state of Israel. Exhibitions include documents, newspaper articles, weaponry, films and audiovisual presentations. A second Etzel Museum, located in the Charles Clore Park, is dedicated solely to Etzel activities from 29 November 1947, when the United Nations adopted the Partition Plan that paved the way for a Jewish State, until the Etzel's disbandment in September 1948. Sunday-Thursday 8 am-4 pm. 10 NIS adults, 5 NIS children. 38 King George St., Tel Aviv. Phone 528-4001.
Located at Eliyahu Golomb's house, the Haganah Museum traces the history of the pre-state Jewish defense force from 1878, when the first
shomrim, or watchmen, protected the early settlers. Exhibitions lead through the founding of Haganah in 1920 and its actions during the years of the British Mandate and offers a multimedia presentation on the War of Independence. The fictional character Itsik leads visitors from a European ghetto to Israelo, where Itsik turns into a war hero. Sunday-Thursday 8 am-4 pm. 10 NIS adults, 5 NIS children. 23 Rothschild Blvd., Tel Aviv. Phone 560-8624.
The Helena Rubinstein Pavilion extends the Tel Aviv Museum of Art's collections into the realm of contemporary art, providing a prestigious venue for modern-art exhibitions. The pavilion, opened in 1959, forms part of the central Tel Aviv complex, which includes the Habima Theater and the Mann Auditorium. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday 10 am-4 pm, Tuesday and Thursday 10 am-10 pm, Friday 10 am-2 pm. Closed on Sunday. Sometimes free. 6 Tarsat Blvd., Tel Aviv. Phone 528-7196. http://www.tamuseum.com.
The Ilana Goor Museum is located in the heart of the Old City of Jaffa. The museum displays sculpture and design pieces by the renowned artist Ilana Goor, in addition to her unique art collection. The setting might seem more entrancing than the art it holds. The Knights Hall, one of many chambers in the museum, is named after the dark gathering places of the knights during the Crusades. The museum's rooftop cafe offers a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean. Sunday-Friday 10 am-4 pm, Saturday 10 am-6 pm. 24 NIS adults, 14 NIS children. 4 Mazal Dagim St., Old Jaffa, Tel Aviv. Phone 683-7676. http://www.ilanagoor.com.
A permanent exhibition marks the life and ideology of Ze'ev Jabotinsky, leader of the national resistance movement, and has documents about the paramilitary Jewish Legion, which supported illegal immigration during the time of the British Mandate. The museum includes many audiovisual presentations. Sunday-Thursday 8 am-4 pm. Free. 38 King George St., Tel Aviv. Phone 621-0642. http://www.jabotinsky.org.
This is a museum mostly overlooked because it is open only to group tours that book visits in advance. It's a shame because the museum displays fascinating artifacts unearthed from excavations in the area, including inscribed stone doorposts from the time of Egyptian ruler Ramses II. The museum is located in the "Saraya"—a Turkish government building from the Ottoman period that was built in 1812 on the remains of a Crusades-era structure. Interested visitors should call the museum and inquire about the possibility of joining a tour of the facilities. Admission fees vary with tour arrangement. 10 Mifratz Shlomo St., Old Jaffa, Tel Aviv. Phone 682-5375.
This small museum is devoted to the story of the Lehi (Fighters for Israeli Freedom) and its leader Avraham Stern during the years of the British Mandate until the establishment of the State of Israel. Sunday-Thursday 9 am-3 pm. 10 NIS adults, 5 NIS children. 8 Avraham Stern St., Tel Aviv. Phone 682-0288.
Nahum Goldmann Museum of the Jewish Diaspora—Beit Hatefusoth
The Jewish Diaspora Museum tells the story of the Jewish people from the time of their expulsion from Israel 1,500 years ago to the present. Exhibitions include fascinating models of synagogues from around the world and a vast collection of costumes and customs from various Jewish communities. A computer database allows visitors to explore their genealogical heritage. Unfortunately, a lack of funding has dried up the museum's expansion and almost led to its closure. The result is that many of the exhibitions look outdated, and the museum has lost its innovative edge. The museum is located on the campus of Tel Aviv University. Sunday-Thursday 10 am-4 pm, Wednesdays until 6 pm. Closed Friday and Saturday. 34 NIS adults, free for children 5 and younger. Klausner Street, Matiyahu Gate, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv. Phone 640-5858. http://www.bh.org.il.
The museum collection includes works in oil, gouache and watercolor by renowned artist Nahum Gutman, as well as several thousand drawings and illustrations. Unfortunately, no parking is nearby. Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 10 am-4 pm, Tuesday 10 am-7 pm, Friday 10 am-2 pm, Saturday 10 am-5 pm. 20 NIS adults, 10 NIS children. 21 Rokach St., Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv. Phone 516-1970. http://www.gutmanmuseum.co.il.
Visits to the Palmach Museum, located next door to the Eretz Israel Museum, are only possible through prior arrangement. Individual visitors will be asked to join groups touring the site. The museum tells the story of the Palmach, the Haganah's "Strike Force," in its years of operation between 1941 and 1948. The museum's innovative exhibits are presented from a personal perspective accompanied by three-dimensional decor, films and various effects that incorporate documentary materials. Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 8:30 am-3 pm, Friday 8 am-12:30 pm. 25 NIS adults, 15 NIS children. 10 Haim Levanon St., Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv. Phone 643-6393. http://www.palmach.org.il.
The Rubin Museum presents some of the work of renowned painter Reuven Rubin, who lived and worked in the house from 1946 until his death in 1974. An extensive collection of photos, documents, sketches and paintings highlight Rubin's colorful career. Monday, Wednesday-Friday 10 am-3 pm, Tuesday 10 am-8 pm, Saturday 11 am-2 pm. 20 NIS adults, free for children 18 and younger. 14 Bialik St., Tel Aviv. Phone 525-5961. http://www.rubinmuseum.org.il.
Israel's main and largest art museum is also the leading cultural center of Tel Aviv, showcasing local and international artists, musicians and performers. Permanent collections focus on the major artist trends of the early 20th century. The Moshe and Sara Mayer Collection has fascinating masterpieces of French impressionism (works by Degas, Renoir, Monet and Pissarro), post-impressionism (van Gogh, Gauguin and Cezanne), cubism, German expressionism and works by Picasso. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday 10 am-4 pm, Tuesday and Thursday 10 am-10 pm, Friday 10 am-2 pm. Closed on Sunday. 40 NIS adults, 20 NIS children. 27 Shaul Hamelech Blvd., Tel Aviv. Phone 607-7020. http://www.tamuseum.com.
| Neighborhoods & Districts | Top |
Strolling along the sidewalks of Dizengoff Street, one of Tel Aviv's major north-south thoroughfares, used to be so popular that a special Hebrew verb was coined for the activity. The street has since seen better days, but it still houses a variety of stores and specialty shops. There are also several sidewalk cafes, where you can sit back and people-watch while enjoying a cappuccino or an espresso. Be sure to visit Dizengoff Circle, with its colorful, rotating Yaakov Agam
Fire and Water sculpture. Dizengoff Circle is also the site of a frequent collectors bazaar.
The beautiful neighborhood of Neve Tzedek, originally settled in 1887, was the first Jewish residential area outside Jaffa. Twenty-two years later, it became part of the new city of Tel Aviv. Today, it is a lovely area of restored, stylish homes, quiet narrow lanes and some of the city's most fascinating architecture. You can enter Neve Tzedek by following Ehad Ha'am Street south from the Shalom Tower. Wander down the curving streets and stop in the upscale boutique shops along the way. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants in the neighborhood as well as several galleries and museums. An important stop in Neve Tzedek is the Suzanne Dellal Center for Dance and Theater. This revered performance center, surrounded by lovely gardens and a paved plaza, is home to the internationally acclaimed Batsheva Dance Company.
A must-stop on any visit to Tel Aviv is the Old City of Jaffa, just south of the Beachfront Promenade. The starting point for most tours of this picturesque quarter is the Clock Tower, built by Turkish Sultan Abed-el-Hamid II in 1906. From there, it is a short walk to a beautiful park surrounding a high hill. A wide, paved plaza atop the hill offers splendid views of the sea and the Tel Aviv coast. Below the hill is the Jaffa Visitors Center, displaying archaeological finds and a film on the history of Jaffa.
The cobblestoned alleyways of Old Jaffa are named for the signs of the Zodiac. With maps of the quarter posted in many locations, it's almost impossible to get lost as one walks past the many artist studios, galleries and showrooms. A pleasant stroll down these twisting lanes and alongside the Old City's fortifications frequently includes a stop for a snack or a meal at one of the quarter's colorful cafes or restaurants.
Below the artists' colony is the old Jaffa Port, which is still used by ships and worth exploring. The churches of Old Jaffa still serve the neighborhood's Christian communities. The Franciscan Church of St. Peter, at the top of the hill, reportedly hosted Napoleon after he captured the city in 1799. http://www.oldjaffa.co.il.
This is Tel Aviv's version of Greenwich Village or Melrose Avenue, complete with noisy outdoor cafes and specialty shops. Make sure you have your tattoos on display as you walk among the unique personalities who make this trendy neighborhood their home. Shopping for designer clothing or fashionable footwear can be expensive, but the fresh juices at the corner fruit stands are highly recommended.
| Parks & Gardens | Top |
Yarkon Park, along the shores of the Yarkon River, is the largest park in Tel Aviv and serves the city's residents as well as those living in the surrounding Dan metropolitan area. Also known as Ganei Yehoshua, the park is a favorite spot for picnics and sports activities. Attempts are being made to ease the Yarkon's pollution, and boating on the river is frequently forbidden. Horticulturalists will love the park's cacti and tropical gardens, and bird lovers will enjoy the Tzapari Bird Park. The nearby Meimadyon Water Park offers a cool, refreshing escape from the summer heat. The Yarkon Park's amphitheater has hosted many large outdoor concerts featuring Israeli and international entertainers.
| Amusement Parks | Top |
There are plenty of attractions to keep children busy and entertained for quite a few hours at this popular amusement park, located right next to the Tel Aviv Exhibition Grounds. However, children familiar with similar parks in the U.S. will be a bit disappointed by the quality of roller coasters and other rides. Open Saturday 10 am-9 pm; also open midweek in July and August. 79 NIS. Ganei Yehoshua, Sderot Rokach, Tel Aviv. Phone 642-3070. http://www.lunapark.co.il.
Located directly across the street from Luna Park, Meimadyon offers a cool, wet way to escape the summer heat. Waterslides, swimming pools and other water-based entertainment are suitable for all ages. June-August 9 am-5 pm, open Saturdays in September. 79 NIS. Ganei Yehoshua, Sderot Rokach, Tel Aviv. Phone 642-2777.
| Zoos & Wildlife | Top |
Present within this 250-acre/101-hectare wildlife sanctuary are 1,600 animals from around the world. Most of the park, including the open lion range, is viewed from the safety of one's car. Spring and fall open daily 9 am-4 pm, summer open 9 am-5 pm, winter open 9 am-2:30 pm. Entrance fee 49 NIS. Children older than 2 need a full ticket. Hatzvi Street, Ramat Gan. Phone 631-3531. http://www.safari.co.il.
The Tzapari Bird Park, in Yarkon Park, houses thousands of birds from around the world in exotic settings. Make sure you see the trained parrots in action. Sunday-Thursday 10 am-4 pm, Friday 10 am-3 pm, Saturday 10 am-6 pm. Entrance fee 47 NIS. Children older than 2 need a full ticket. Yarkon Park, Tel Aviv. Phone 642-2888.
| Other Options | Top |
Once the tallest building in the Middle East and the site of Israel's first department store, the Shalom Tower has since been eclipsed in height and popularity by the Azrieli Center. The observatory on the top floor and the wax museum have both closed, but there is a multimedia presentation that tells the story of Tel Aviv, and changing exhibits portray the city in photography and art. Sunday-Thursday 10 am-6 pm, Friday until 1 pm. Free. 9 Ehad Ha'am St., Tel Aviv. Phone 517-7304.
Seeing a 3-D multimedia production about Tel Aviv is a bit kitsch and unnecessary when you can see the real thing in three dimensions just by walking the city's streets, but the view from the Azrieli Center's 49th floor can't be beat. Modern telescopes are available, as well as an audio guide explaining the sights way below. Daily 10 am-6 pm, in summer until 8 pm. Closed Monday. 38 NIS adults, 28 NIS children. Azrieli Center, 132 Menachem Begin Road, Tel Aviv. Phone 608-1179.
There are plenty of outdoor activities in Tel Aviv, and most of them can be found at the city's shoreline. The city's 9 mi/14 km of clean, sandy beaches are perfect for swimming, sunning and kite flying. Swimmers brave the Mediterranean Sea year-round, but the official season, with lifeguards on duty, is April-September. The water is a boater's delight, with windsurfers and sailing vessels dotting the horizon. Joggers and walkers enjoy long stretches of pavement on the beachfront promenade The Taylet.
Although certain major boulevards in Tel Aviv have officially designated bicycle lanes, cycling is not very popular. The roads are used almost exclusively by motor vehicles. Cyclists will find the paths in parks and on the beachfront more satisfactory.
Some of Tel Aviv's various beaches, which are really just part of one extended shoreline, owe their names to the luxury hotels planted along it, including Sheraton and Hilton. There is even a Jerusalem beach, dedicated to the residents of Israel's capital who have no sea of their own. Tel Aviv's beachfront promenade runs parallel to the shore, offering a pleasant path for joggers and power-walkers. Several cafes, bars and pubs sit a short distance from the shoreline. Locals tend to frequent the city's more isolated northern beaches. On the whole, all the beaches are clean and well-kept, with lounge chairs and sun umbrellas available for day rentals.
Bikes in the Park offers rentals of three-wheeled, three-person bicycles for use in Yarkon Park. 50 NIS for a half-hour. Yarkon Park, Tel Aviv. Phone 642-0541.
Bicycle rentals are available at this cycle shop, located on upper Dizengoff Street at the corner of Nordau. Open Sunday-Thursday 9:30 am-7 pm, Friday 9 am-3 pm. 50 NIS for 24-hour rental. 280 Dizengoff St., Tel Aviv. Phone 544-2292.
| Boating & Sailing | Top |
Ofek Yachts is a full-service yachting company, with an emphasis on sales and charters. Whether you captain your own boat or hire a full crew, this company can get you on the seas with little hassle. 169 Yarkon St. (at Kikar Atarim), Tel Aviv. Phone 529-9988. http://www.ofek-yachts.co.il.
Motor boat, pedal boat and rowboat rentals are available from the docks under the Ibn Gvirol Bridge. Call for prices and seasonal information. Phone 642-0541.
Sailing and boating vessels, as well as Windsurfers, are available for hire at Tel Aviv Marina. Yachts also can be chartered. The Marina's office hours are 7:30 am-5 pm. Phone 527-2596. http://telaviv-marina.co.il.
| Spas and Health Clubs | Top |
Walk-ins are welcome at this centrally located fitness center. Open 24 hours Sunday-Thursday, until 7 pm on Friday, and until 9 pm on Saturday. 50 NIS for 24-hour admission. 94 Dizengoff St., Tel Aviv. Phone 529-1666.
This well-equipped health club is only open to guests of the Hilton, but if you arrange to get a massage in the hotel, access to the steam room, sauna and gym will be included in the cost. Massages are 250 NIS for 45 minutes, 300 NIS for one hour. Independence Park, Tel Aviv. Phone 520-2222.
| Hiking & Walking | Top |
Tel Aviv's beachfront is a perfect place for swimming and sunning. The sidewalk promenade that runs parallel to the shore is ideal for early-morning jogs and walks at any time. The promenade runs below a line of Tel Aviv's luxury hotels on Yarkon and Herbert Samuel streets. You can stop for refreshments at Yotvata in the City, or hear live music at Mike's Place.
One of Tel Aviv's most beautiful, tree-lined boulevards is also a favorite for walkers, joggers and cyclists at all hours of the day. The street stretches from its intersection with Herzl Street in the south to the Habima National Theater building at its northern end. All along the street are shady sidewalks and a bicycle path. Plenty of benches are available for resting. As you walk along this stunning street, make sure you look at the buildings on either side, which are excellent examples of the Bauhaus architectural style that took root in Tel Aviv and earned it recognition as a World Heritage Site in 2003.
| Tennis & Racquet Sports | Top |
Twenty-four illuminated tennis courts, including two clay courts, are available for rent at the National Tennis Center, located just northeast of Tel Aviv on Highway 5. A central stadium that seats 4,500 stages national and international tennis competitions, including Israel's participating matches in the Davis Cup. Sunday-Thursday 7 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 7 am-7 pm. 55 NIS per hour. Kfar Hayarok Junction, Tel Aviv. Phone 645-6666.
Just off LaGuardia Street, the Tel Aviv Tennis Center offers 14 illuminated tennis courts, which should be reserved in advance. The facilities include a fitness room, showers and restrooms as well as a covered coffee corner. Sunday-Thursday 7 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday until 7 pm. 35 NIS per hour. 6 Zvi Neshri St., Yad Eliyahu, Tel Aviv. Phone 631-1023.
| Other Options | Top |
Climbing enthusiasts will enjoy the wall at Olympus, and beginners can take lessons. Sunday-Thursday 5-10 pm, Friday 2-8 pm, Saturday 11 am-9 pm. 25 NIS per climb. 42 Rokach Blvd., Tel Aviv. Phone 699-0910.
Tel Aviv is a city that doesn't sleep. At an hour when the rest of the country is going to bed, Tel Aviv is just getting ready to party. The city is especially suited to young people. Most of the city's clubs open at midnight, and partygoers frequently revel until dawn. Much of the nightlife can be found at the Old Port area, where different megaclubs vie for the glory of being the city's trendiest. Other popular clubs and bars can be found near Allenby Street, Sheinkin Street and in the Florentine neighborhood in the southern part of the city. A number of venues feature live music.
| Bars, Taverns & Pubs | Top |
If you're into drag, this is the nightspot for you. Diva's lively atmosphere is a bit sleazy, but open and liberated enough for anyone to have a good time. Drag shows are held almost nightly. Stop by on Wednesdays for a Chippendale's review. Tuesday-Saturday from 9 pm. No cover charge. 72 Harakevet St., Tel Aviv. Phone 786-5554.
Named after Jewish underworld boss Meyer Lansky and located in the Shalom Tower, this is considered Tel Aviv's premier pickup joint and reputed to be the largest bar in the Middle East. Its spacious interior allows the clientele to see the inquisitive glances of the opposite sex. Decent food. Sunday-Thursday from 9 pm, Friday from 10 pm. No cover charge. 6 Montefiore St. (Shalom Tower), Tel Aviv. Phone 517-0043.
Located next door to the U.S. Embassy on Tel Aviv's beachfront promenade, Mike's Place offers its loyal clientele a friendly, casual atmosphere. Customers relax to a mix of blues and rock 'n' roll. Jazz sessions are held Monday and Wednesday. Daily from 10:30 am. No cover charge. 86 Herbert Samuel, Tel Aviv. Phone 052-367-0965. http://www.mikesplacebars.com.
Israel's first Irish bar serves pitchers of Guinness and puts many other bars to shame in the process. The clientele is mixed, the prices reasonable, the atmosphere lively, and the music and annual Irish folk festivals very enjoyable. Daily from 4 pm. No cover charge. 32 Mendele Moher Sfarim St. (across the street from the Dan Tel Aviv Hotel), Tel Aviv. Phone 522-1558. http://www.molly-blooms.com.
Norma Jean specializes in rare varieties of whiskey, gourmet alcoholic drinks and specialty beers. Chef Assaf Ron surprises customers at the bar with something new every night. Monday-Saturday from 8 pm, Sunday from 9:30 pm. No cover charge. 32 Elifelet St., Tel Aviv. Phone 683-7383.
| Comedy Clubs | Top |
Many of Israel's leading comedians got their start in show business doing stand-up routines at the Camel Comedy Club, Tel Aviv's leading late-night laugh institution. The club, established in 1993, was one of the country's first to give the stage to new talents. After the club's previous location burned down, it moved to its present premises near the new Central Bus Station. Visit only if you know Hebrew and can fully appreciate the ethnic, off-color and political jokes that really make Israelis laugh. Ticket prices vary with the performance. 52 Hacongress St., Tel Aviv. Phone 639-3434. http://www.camelcomedyclub.co.il.
| Dance & Nightclubs | Top |
The Dome is a spacious, sparkling, sophisticated hall in central Tel Aviv, with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems. Entrance is for those 19 and older, with a mix of dance, house, hip-hop and other music. Friday is gay night. Open Thursday-Saturday from as late as midnight. Cover charge starts at 60 NIS. 19 Hatzfira St., Tel Aviv. Phone 687-0591. http://www.dome.co.il.
This is where Tel Aviv's hippest crowd gets their fix. Expect palm trees, waterfalls and an enormous dance floor with elevated platforms and a secondary dance floor separated by a peekaboo glass wall. The club features some of the best international DJs. Cover can be up to 140 NIS if the bouncers let you in at all. The drinks are expensive, as well. Be sure to look your absolute best. 15 Abarbanel St., Tel Aviv. Phone 681-3636.
A different style of late-night entertainment is offered at the Stage, a popular club on the beachfront promenade near the Opera Tower. To a slightly older crowd, Stage offers song-singing evenings, karaoke nights, stand-up comedy, performances and dance parties. Israel's "in" celebrities can frequently be seen partying at Stage. Cover charge 40 NIS-50 NIS. 2 Yona Hanavi, Tel Aviv. Phone 517-0264. http://www.stage4u.co.il.
Vox has become one of Tel Aviv's hottest nightspots, with a top-notch sound system and fantastic parties attracting the gay and non-gay community. The club has four "lines" of music with alternating DJs and styles on Monday, Thursday, Friday (gay night) and Saturday. The club is open to those 18 and older, with the average age of partygoers in the mid-20s. Cover charge 70 NIS-100 NIS. 2 Yagia Kapaim St., Tel Aviv. Phone 687-0591.
Fusion is a southern Tel Aviv hot spot for live entertainment, with a huge stage, and some of the best sound and lighting equipment in the country. First-class performances are staged nightly, and the facilities include a gourmet restaurant and a well-stocked bar. Fusion is a sister club to the Heineken Camelot Club in Herzliya, which runs its own nightly lineup of top-rated live-music entertainment. Ticket prices vary with the performance. Corner of Hamasger and Yad Harutzim streets, Tel Aviv. Phone 791-0303.
The Shablul club offers live jazz performances every night of the week. Performances of local artists and visiting international entertainers usually start at 9 pm, and reservations are recommended. Stop by for the free concerts on Fridays at 5 pm. A tasty menu accompanies the enjoyable listening. Hanger 13, Old Tel Aviv Port, Tel Aviv. Phone 546-1891. http://www.shabluljazz.com.
Zappa is one of Tel Aviv's hottest venues for live music. Most, if not all, of the entertainers are Israelis. Even so, the performers are all first-class local stars, and performances take place almost every night of the week. Chef Uri Zisso is in charge of the restaurant located on the premises. Ticket prices vary with the performance. 24 Raoul Wallenberg, Ziv Towers, Ramat Hahayal, Tel Aviv. Phone 649-9550. http://www.zappa-club.co.il.
| Performing Arts | Top  |
Tel Aviv is Israel's cultural center, and this is clearly evident by the large number of internationally acclaimed dance, music and theater companies that make their home in the city. The Bat-Dor and Batsheva dance companies and the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra all have permanent residences in Tel Aviv but frequently entertain audiences all over the world. The Tel Aviv theater companies—Cameri, Beit Lessin and Habima—have their bases in Tel Aviv, but their productions can be enjoyed at venues throughout Israel. Most theatrical productions are in Hebrew, but a vibrant immigrant community has increased the number of plays and performances in Russian. English-language productions are few in number.
Batsheva de Rothschild, who also established the Batsheva Dance Company, founded the Bat-Dor Dance Company in 1968. The company has a modern repertoire with a strong emphasis on ballet training. 30 Ibn Gvirol St., Tel Aviv. Phone 696-3175.
Batsheva de Rothschild, who was a close friend of Martha Graham, founded the Batsheva Dance Company in 1964. The new company was initially based on Graham's methods. Today, the company is a vigorous, internationally acclaimed troupe led by Israeli dancer-choreographer Ohad Naharin, recipient of the 2005 Israel Prize for his contribution to Israeli dance. Batsheva's permanent home is the Suzanne Dellal Center in the Neve Tzedek neighborhood. The Suzanne Dellal Center Box Office is open Sunday-Thursday 10 am-7 pm, Friday until 1 pm, and two hours prior to each performance. 6 Yehieli St., Suzanne Dellal Center, Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv. Phone 510-5656. http://www.batsheva.co.il.
Sarah Levy-Tanai, who was born in Jerusalem to Yemenite parents, founded the Inbal Dance Company in 1949. Primarily Yemenite in choreography and in style, the troupe is a highly successful performing group. Its repertoire includes movement suggested by Yemenite dance, music and traditions, as well as those of other eastern Jewish communities. Inbal's permanent home is the Suzanne Dellal Center in the Neve Tzedek neighborhood. The Suzanne Dellal Center Box Office is open Sunday-Thursday 10 am-7 pm, Friday until 1 pm, and two hours prior to each performance. 6 Yehieli St., Suzanne Dellal Center, Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv. Phone 517-3711.
The Israel Ballet is the only professional ballet company in Israel. The company performs classical, neoclassical and contemporary works in Israel and at venues throughout the world. Artistic directors Berta Yampolsky and Hillel Markman founded the company in 1967. The troupe's permanent home is the Rose Cooper Israel Ballet Center. 4 Har Nevo St., Tel Aviv. Phone 604-6610. http://www.iballet.co.il.
The Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company, based in Tel Aviv, has been widely identified with the works of its artistic director, Rami Be'er. Be'er's creations arouse much interest in Israel and around the world. The company started as a small, regional dance troupe in 1970, and over the years has developed into one of Israel's prominent dance companies. 25 Nevi'im St., Tel Aviv. Phone 525-9963. http://www.kcdc.co.il.
The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, founded in 1936 by the outstanding Jewish-Polish violinist Bronsilaw Huberman, is considered one of the best symphony orchestras in the world. Zubin Mehta, one of the greatest living conductors, has been music director of the orchestra since 1981. When it's not performing abroad, the orchestra divides its time between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Tel Aviv concerts take place at the 2,760-seat Mann Auditorium (Hechal HaTarbut). The box office is open daily 9 am-1 pm; also open 4:30-7 pm on Tuesday. Tickets can be ordered by phone daily until 7 pm. 1 Huberman St., Tel Aviv. Phone 621-1777. Toll-free 700-703-030. http://www.ipo.co.il.
The New Israeli Opera company was founded in the 1980s with the aim of creating and promoting operatic activity. Productions are staged at the Tel Aviv Performing Arts Center's Opera House. The New Israeli Opera employs many Israeli opera singers as well as a large number of new immigrants to the country from the former Soviet Union. The box office is open Saturday-Thursday 9:30 am-8:30 pm, Friday 9:30 am-1 pm. 19 Shaul Hamelech Blvd., Tel Aviv. Phone 692-7777. http://www.israel-opera.co.il.
The Histadrut Federation of labor unions and the Israeli Ministry of Education founded the Beit Lessin Theater Company in 1980. Its repertoire includes many original dramas, as well as classical and modern plays. The Beit Lessin Theater is also known for giving a voice to many of the controversial issues facing Israeli society. 101 Dizengoff St., Tel Aviv. Phone 725-5333. http://www.lessin.co.il.
Established in 1944, the Cameri Theater was the first company to produce plays in Hebrew. In its 60 years of existence, the theater has produced more than 470 plays seen by millions in Israel and abroad. The Cameri Theater won the 2005 Israel Prize for Lifetime Achievement because of its special contribution to Israeli society. The box office is open Saturday-Thursday 9:30 am-8:30 pm, Friday 9:30 am-1 pm. 30 Leonardo da Vinci St., Tel Aviv. Phone 606-0960. http://www.cameri.co.il.
Established in 1991 by Russian immigrants, Gesher is Tel Aviv's youngest theater company. Gesher's repertoire is bilingual, with Hebrew- and Russian-language productions winning acclaim in Israel and around the world. Gesher's permanent home is the Noga Theater in Jaffa, a gift from the city of Tel Aviv-Jaffa. 9 Yerushalayim Blvd., Jaffa, Tel Aviv. Phone 681-3131. http://www.gesher-theatre.co.il.
Israel's national theater company was founded in Moscow in 1917 as one of the first Hebrew-language theaters. The company settled in Palestine in 1931 and was designated the national theater in 1958. The company's name translates from Hebrew as "The Stage." Habima's theater complex, located next door to the Mann Auditorium, stages as many as four plays daily. 2 Tarsat Blvd., Tel Aviv. Phone 620-7777. http://www.habima.org.il.
The Tmuna Theater has served as a stage for hundreds of fringe theatrical productions, as well as dance performances and literary evenings. 8 Shontzion St., Tel Aviv. Phone 562-9462. http://www.tmu-na.org.il.
Z.O.A. House, a diversified cultural center established in central Tel Aviv in the 1950s by the Zionist Organization of America, houses three auditoriums, a movie theater, an art gallery and a popular restaurant, in addition to the facility's regularly scheduled workshops and classes. The country's leading theater companies produce many of the scheduled performances. 1 Daniel Frisch St., Tel Aviv. Phone 695-9341. http://www.zoa.co.il.
Something's always taking place on the three stages at Tzavta, Tel Aviv's centrally located entertainment venue. Israel's top entertainers have given regular performances at Tzavta, and for many of them, it was the first step on their path to stardom. The monthly program includes stand-up comedy routines and top-notch theater. There are classical-music concerts at Tzavta on Saturday mornings, and the venue also hosts the annual Short Theater Festival. Ticket prices vary with the performance. 30 Ibn Gvirol St., Tel Aviv. Phone 685-0156. http://www.tzavta.co.il.
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Tel Aviv is pretty much a two-sport city, with basketball and soccer teams. Even so, Israelis occasionally turn their attention to athletics, as well. Every four years, Israel hosts the Maccabiah Games, an Olympic-style competition for Jewish athletes from around the world. Colorful opening ceremonies and athletic events take place at the National Stadium in Ramat Gan.
Israel's perennial basketball champions also happen to be one of the best teams in Europe. Maccabi Elite Tel Aviv won two consecutive Euroleague championships, in 2004 and 2005. When Maccabi plays its games abroad, it represents the entire country, and when a match is broadcast on television, streets all over Israel, and especially in Tel Aviv, are empty. Season runs October-May. Home games are played at the Nokia Yad Eliyahu Arena, Tel Aviv. http://www.maccabi.co.il.
Tel Aviv is a shopper's paradise, with many shopping venues in the city. At the low end, there are the open marketplaces, such as the Jaffa Flea Market and the Carmel Market, where anything can be bought for a bargain, often after extensive negotiations. At the high end, there are the trendy designer shops at the Gan Ha'ir shopping mall and around the circular Kikar Hamedina. Fashion stores can be found throughout the city, including along Dizengoff Street. A bohemian atmosphere is apparent in the shops along hip Sheinkin Street. The Nahalat Binyamin pedestrian mall is a great place to buy arts and crafts. With Israel's diamond industry based in nearby Ramat G