Uncovering Tel Aviv’s Hidden Gems: Where to Stay in The White City

An intriguing blend of history, culture and modern-day life, there's nowhere quite like Tel Aviv. This exciting destination spoils visitors with everything from a thriving arts scene and world-class museums to sun-soaked Mediterranean beaches and mouthwatering food. No matter what you're searching for in a city break, Tel Aviv has something to keep you entertained. Here at Plum Guide, our travel experts are giving you our inside knowledge of this Israeli hotspot. Read on for your essential guide to where to stay in Tel Aviv.

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Sometimes known as Yafo, Old Jaffa is an ancient seaport dating back over 4,000 years. It's been conquered by various empires, from the ancient Egyptians and Israelites to the Greeks, Romans and Ottomans. This rich history is evident from its marvellous architecture and quaint cobblestone streets. But what we love most about Old Jaffa is that there aren't too many tourist attractions – the main thing to do here is to simply soak up the atmosphere with a relaxing stroll through the streets down to the harbour. This is the best place to take a breather and enjoy views of colourful fishing boats bobbing in the water.

Old Jaffa has a vibrant art and cultural scene, with many galleries, cultural events and festivals, from the Jaffa Festival, which combines music, dance and art to celebrate the city's diverse cultural heritage, to the Abu Nabut Festival, which celebrates the culinary traditions of Jaffa's Arab community with an array of traditional Arabic dishes like hummus, falafel and shawarma.

One of the most popular things visitors can do is browse through the Jaffa Flea Market. All kinds of treasures are to be found here, with vendors selling everything from vintage clothing and jewellery to home decor, artwork and handmade crafts. Foodies can also find various traditional Middle Eastern foods, spices and sweets.

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Located in the north of the city (no prizes for guessing that one), this neighbourhood has an old-world charm, with many ancient streets and historical buildings and an interesting mix of Bauhaus, Eclectic and International styles of architecture. As you wander through town, pop into the Tel Aviv Museum of Art or browse the selection of boutiques and cafes along the Shenkin Street shopping district.

Those looking for somewhere to stay in Tel Aviv with plenty of greenery will love Old North with its tree-lined streets and green spaces such as Independence Park and Yarkon Park. The coast is just a stone's throw away, attracting locals and tourists to its stunning beaches. Just south of the Tel Aviv Marina, Gordon Beach is one of the most popular in the city, where you'll find a wide range of amenities like restaurants and sports facilities. Meanwhile, Hilton Beach is Tel Aviv's main gay beach and a favourite for windsurfers and paddle boarders. For something a little quieter, Metzitzim Beach is an excellent option for families with children.

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Located south of the city centre, the up-and-coming neighbourhood of Florentin is known for its laid-back, hipster vibe. Established in the 1920s as a working-class neighbourhood, it has since attracted a diverse mix of artists, musicians and young professionals. Walking around the narrow and winding alleys, you'll come across an eclectic mix of galleries, studios and independent shops, fascinating street art and colourful graffiti.

In recent years, Florentin has become a gourmand's paradise with a slew of hip eateries serving everything from traditional Israeli cuisine to fusion dishes and international fare. Head to the Levinsky Market to eat your way through cheeses, deli meats, roasted nuts, dried fruit and traditional pastries like bourekas.

Florentin also attracts those looking to party. Once the sun goes down, the neighbourhood transforms into the beating heart of the city, where tiny bars serve up innovative cocktails and crowds overflow onto the sidewalks for late-night pizza and falafel. So whether you're into pubs, live music venues or street parties, there's something for everyone here.

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At the heart of Tel Aviv is Nachalat Binyamin, a historic pedestrian street and the neighbourhood known for its flourishing arts scene and lively atmosphere. Not long after the street was established in the early 1900s, it quickly became a favourite destination for artists and craftspeople. Today, many people flock here for the Nachalat Binyamin Market, which takes place every Tuesday and Friday. This is Israel's largest arts and crafts market, featuring over 200 stalls selling everything from handmade jewellery and pottery to paintings and sculptures. The street is also a favourite haunt for street performers like musicians, jugglers and acrobats.

When you've shopped to your heart's content, meander through the neighbourhood past its colourful buildings and down small alleyways leading onto shaded courtyards, where there are many eateries to choose from, cooking up everything from traditional Israeli and Middle Eastern cuisine to international options. Just a few blocks away is Carmel Market, one of the largest markets in Tel Aviv, where you can eat your way through the food stalls and browse the range of fresh produce, spices, and exotic foods.

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Adjacent to the Carmel Market is the historic neighbourhood of Kerem Hateimanim. Translating to the 'Vineyard of the Yemenites', this is where Yemeni immigrants came to settle in the early 20th century. It provides a glimpse into the past, where peaceful streets are lined with the original buildings built here. Those keen to delve into the history of the place can spend all day in the numerous historic sites, including the Great Synagogue and the Yemenite Museum, which is housed in a 1920s-era home.

Prefer to explore history through food? You'll find plenty of delicious Yemeni cuisine here – follow your nose (and your stomach) down the side streets to hummus and falafel eateries, as well as old-school restaurants which cook up malawah flatbreads and hearty meat dumpling soups. Food comas are best spent horizontally on Tel Aviv's most popular beaches like Banana Beach, Jerusalem Beach and Charles Clore Beach. You'll find all the essential amenities, such as showers, changing rooms and beachside cafes.

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When it comes to where to stay in Tel Aviv for seaside views, the peaceful neighbourhood of Ajami is the best place to be. Situated along the Mediterranean Sea, its beautiful golden beach is its main attraction, boasting incredible views of the Tel Aviv skyline. Unlike other beaches in the city, Ajami Beach isn't overcrowded at all, and you can happily spend an entire day here swimming, sunbathing and trying out water sports.

Home to a mix of Jewish, Christian and Muslim residents, this culturally rich area has a long history of coexistence between its Jewish and Arab communities. Explore its past with a visit to historical sites such as the Ajami Mosque and Saint Peter's Church. Being a predominantly Arab neighbourhood, expect to find outstanding Arabic cuisine here, with numerous restaurants and cafes serving classics like falafel and shakshuka. Why not buy some to go and head to Midron Yaffo Park for sundown? This green coastal eden offers fantastic sunset views and ample space for picnics and ball games.

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One of Tel Aviv's oldest neighbourhoods, Neve Tzedek was the first Jewish neighbourhood to be built outside the ancient port city of Jaffa. Today, it's become one of the city's most attractive areas, combining cobblestone streets and historic buildings with avant-garde design stores and art galleries. Fans of the art won't want to miss a visit to the Suzanne Dellal Center for Dance and Theater. It's home to the Batsheva Dance Company, one of the leading contemporary dance companies in the world, and hosts a range of performances, workshops and events throughout the year.

One of Neve Tzedek's most popular attractions is HaTachana, an old train station converted into a trendy shopping and dining destination. When you're not shopping or eating, stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy views of the Mediterranean Sea. The complex is also home to several art galleries, a cinema, a concert hall, and an exciting calendar of seasonal events and festivals. Be sure to visit on a Friday when you can pick up baked goods, fresh produce and artisanal products at the farmers' market.

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