Escape to Tel Aviv: A Marylander’s Guide to the Perfect Getaway

Tel Aviv, the vibrant and cosmopolitan city on the Mediterranean coast of Israel, is an increasingly popular destination for travelers from all over the world. Known for its beaches, nightlife, and delicious food, Tel Aviv offers a variety of experiences for visitors of all interests. 

Tel Aviv has also made it to second place in Forbes Top 20 Destinations for 2020. This city is also known as the “City that Never Sleeps” due to its bustling streets and nonstop energy, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. 

Whether you wish to relax on the beach, indulge in world-class cuisine, or experience the city’s rich history and culture, Tel Aviv has something to offer everyone. This guide will provide Marylanders with all the information they need to plan the perfect escape to Tel Aviv.

Getting Around Tel Aviv 

Tel Aviv is a relatively small city, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. However, there are also several transportation options available for those who prefer not to walk.

• Public Transportation: Tel Aviv has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. The bus system is operated by Dan, and the train system is by Israel Railways. According to a study, the average wait time for a bus in Israel is about 14 minutes only. The train system is also a convenient way to get around, with trains running every 30 minutes on average.
• Taxis and Ridesharing Services: Taxis and ridesharing services such as Uber and Gett are readily available in Tel Aviv. They are a good option for getting around the city quickly and at a reasonable cost. 
• Bikes and Scooters: Tel Aviv has a bike-sharing program called Tel-O-Fun, which allows visitors to rent a bike for a short period of time. Electric scooters are also available for rent through various companies. This is a great way to explore the city and see the sights.
• Driving: Tel Aviv’s streets can be busy and chaotic, making it challenging to drive. It’s not recommended to rent a car to get around Tel Aviv. However, if you do plan to rent a car, be aware that parking can be difficult to find, especially in the city center.

Recommended Places to Stay

When it comes to accommodation, there are many options available in Tel Aviv, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. The best areas to stay in Tel Aviv are the neighborhoods of Neve Tzedek, Jaffa, and Florentin, which all offer a variety of accommodation options and are within easy reach of the city’s main attractions. According to data, the average cost of a hotel room in Tel Aviv is around $150-200 per night.

Moreover, Tel Aviv is a great destination for those looking to relax and rejuvenate. You will find a wide variety of spas along with luxurious hotels in Tel Aviv, including traditional Turkish baths, luxurious spa resorts, and yoga studios. With its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and healthy lifestyle, it is the perfect destination for travelers looking to relax and rejuvenate.

Exploring Tel Aviv

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Tel Aviv. The city is home to a variety of world-renowned tourist attractions, as well as off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Top Tourist Attractions:

• The Bauhaus Center: Tel Aviv has the largest collection of Bauhaus buildings in the world, and that is one of the reasons why it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The Carmel Market: This is a popular destination for visitors to Tel Aviv, known for its delicious street food and variety of vendors selling everything from clothing and jewelry to spices and fresh produce.
• The Tel Aviv Museum of Art: This world-renowned museum is home to an impressive collection of Israeli and international art.
• The White City: This is a district in Tel Aviv with a high concentration of Bauhaus-style buildings, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Off the Beaten Path Experiences:

• The Levinsky Spice Market: This market is a great place to find unique spices and herbs, as well as sample delicious street food.
• The Jaffa Flea Market: This is a great place to find unique and vintage items, as well as enjoy the atmosphere of an authentic Middle Eastern market.
• The Tel Aviv Port: This is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, known for its restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
• The Neve Tzedek neighborhood: This is a historic neighborhood that has been revitalized in recent years and is known for its charming streets and boutiques.

Outdoor Activities:

• Visit Yarkon Park: This is the largest park in Tel Aviv and a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
• Take a hike in the Ayalon Valley: This is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beautiful landscapes.
• Rent a bike and explore the city: Tel Aviv’s bike-sharing program, Tel-O-Fun, is a great way to see the city and get some exercise.

All these activities will give you a great taste of Tel Aviv, and you’ll be able to see why Tel Aviv receives an average of 4.5 million tourists annually.

Food and Drink in Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of cuisines and dining experiences available. The city is known for its delicious street food, as well as its upscale restaurants.

Street Food:

• Falafel: This is a must-try when visiting Tel Aviv. Falafel is a popular street food made from ground chickpeas and spices, and it is usually served in a pita with vegetables and tahini sauce.
• Shawarma: This is another popular street food, made from grilled meat, usually chicken or beef, that is shaved off a spit and served in a pita with vegetables and tahini sauce.
• Sabich: This is a popular sandwich made with fried eggplant, boiled egg, and various toppings such as tahini and Israeli salad.

Restaurants:

• Taizu: This is a popular Asian fusion restaurant known for its delicious and unique dishes.
• Port Said: This is a popular spot for Israeli-Australian cuisine and is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious food.
• Shila: This is a popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh fish and Mediterranean flavors.

Cafés and Bars:

• Café XOHO: This is a popular café known for its delicious coffee and cozy atmosphere.
• The Norman: This is a popular hotel and bar known for its rooftop terrace and delicious cocktails.
• The Jaffa: This is a popular hotel and bar known for its stunning views of the city and delicious drinks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tel Aviv is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. The city’s warm weather, beautiful beaches, and healthy lifestyle make it the perfect destination for Marylanders looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With so much to see and do, Tel Aviv is a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression. So plan your next getaway to Tel Aviv and discover all that this amazing city has to offer.