Beyond the guide book: The 10 best things to do in Tel Aviv

Guest blogger Adam Groffmann joins the Orbitz Travel Blog for this special feature on the best things to do in Tel Aviv. Hear more about his travels in Israel (and just about every other part of the world) on his blog, Travels of Adam.

Ever since my first trip to Tel Aviv in 2010, I’ve been hooked on the city. It’s a place unlike any other. Situated on a complicated unseen border between the West and the East, Tel Aviv straddles new and old, big and small. It’s got all the trappings of a big, metropolitan city (incredible nightlife, 24/7 shops, world-class restaurants) but it’s also very much like a village. The city is easily walkable (when it’s not swelteringly hot outside) and with bikes and buses, it’s actually quite easy to navigate.

But like any other city, going beyond the guide book to find the coolest and hippest places to visit, the places where locals go, can sometimes be a challenge. So I’ve collected some of my favorite places to eat, drink and think in Tel Aviv below. Make sure to check out my full “Hipster Guide to Tel Aviv,” only available on travelsofadam.com.

Florentin Neighborhood
Excluding Jaffa, the Florentin neighborhood is Tel Aviv’s most concentrated area of hipsters. It’s a lot like Brooklyn, except everything is in Hebrew and there are way less Orthodox Jews. You’ll find some of the best bars, graffiti and cafés on Florentin and Vidal Streets.

Anna LouLou Bar

Anna Loulou bar
It’s a leftist, liberal dance bar co-owned by Arabs and Israelis on a small side-street in Jaffa where you can find good deals on the drinks and a lot of loud music.

Container, Tel Aviv

The Container
It’s a bar, restaurant and art space all-in-one along the docks at Jaffa Port. It might feel a big gentrified, but the space is really cool and there are often free concerts.

Alla Rampa
This cool open-air tapas bar and restaurant is popular for its music as much as its vegan and vegetarian food.

Shpagat
Just on the outskirts of the Carmel Market (Shuk Ha’Carmel), this gay bar and club hosts a number of cool parties andis a popular hangout during Tel Aviv’s gay pride each June.

Gordon Beach and Gordon Pool

Gordon Beach
Every Tel Aviv local has their favorite beach, and while Gordon Beach is centrally located near many of the hotels, it’s still a favorite for many locals—especially the twenty-something crowd.

Suzanna Restaurant
Even if it’s popular with tourists, this beautiful restaurant in the NeveTzedeck area of Tel Aviv is a great place for an afternoon coffee or a meal under a gigantic fig tree. Also along the same street, Shabazi, you’ll find lots of boutique shops, restaurants and bookstores.

Alma Hotel Bar & Lounge
Though it’s one of Tel Aviv’s priciest boutique hotels, it’s also the site of a beautiful lounge and outdoor cafe and courtyard. The building’s interior is meticulously designed with bright colors and funky patterns.

Brown Hotel, Tel Aviv

Brown Hotel
Israel’s first official Design Hotel, the Brown has played host to a number of cool events (including a Playboy launch party in 2013). Their rooftop bar offers an incredible view out over the skyline, making it a great place for a sundowner. The hotel’s lobby also includes a pop-up shop with an ever-changing list of local artists and producers.

Gordon Gallery
This contemporary art gallery focuses on showcasing Israeli art, including many younger artists. Come see what could be the next big thing.

For more Tel Aviv travel tips, check out the complete Hipster Guide to Tel Aviv on travelsofadam.com with over 50 recommendations on the best things to do & see in Tel Aviv. The guide is also available in the German language, auf Deutsch!

Tagged: Destinations