Flights to Tel Aviv with a touch of Iceland

If you’ve come for more than sand and sea, there are great neighborhoods offering character and creativity, and museums, galleries and cultural events giving insight into this history-loaded part of the world. 

Jaffa is older than the city of Tel Aviv – it’s the ancient port city that Tel Aviv grew from. It’s perfect for wandering, and the narrow alleys and buildings of the Old City are worlds away from modern Tel Aviv. Check out the flea market and the Old Port, then hunt out stellar street food.

Tel Aviv has one of the world’s best collections of Bauhaus architecture, and the White City area was named a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its multitude of preserved buildings. Wander down tree-lined Rothschild Boulevard, Tel Aviv’s most beautiful avenue, to admire the architectural gems on display.

Nothing beats walking or cycling along the seaside Tel Aviv Promenade (locally called the Tayelet). It’s bookended by Old Jaffa Port in the south and Tel Aviv marina to the north, and along the way are countless beaches, bars and cafes. This is prime sunset-viewing territory. 

If you prefer a sand-free option, check out Gordon Pool, right by the marina on the promenade. This is a 50-meter open-air pool filled with sea water, and it’s a great place to lounge. Another urban oasis is Hayarkon Park, a large green space that’s ideal for picnics, biking, activities and outdoor events. 

Tel Aviv can be bustling and hot, so escaping to recharge is a fine idea. One of the best day trips is to Masada, an ancient mountaintop fortress in the desert. Hike the winding trail up (do it at sunrise, before the heat sets in), or take the cable car. Finish a memorable day with a float in the salty waters of the nearby Dead Sea.

Jerusalem is only 50 minutes by train from Tel Aviv, and you could easily fill a few days exploring the  sacred sites of one of the world’s spiritual capitals.