7 Best Sights in Tel Aviv, Israel

The northern half of the Carmel Market (commonly referred to as the shuk) consists of cheap clothing and housewares, but continue farther down to the fruit and vegetable section, where the real show begins. Vendors loudly hawk their fresh produce, and the crowded aisles reveal Israel's incredible ethnic mix. Don't pass by the small side streets filled with unusual treats. The market is busiest on Tuesday and Friday, when it can be combined with a visit to the Nahalat Binyamin Pedestrian Mall's crafts fair. If you don't like crowds, though, avoid Friday, when shoppers preparing for Shabbat pack the market.

Everything from plastic trinkets to handmade silver jewelry can be found at this bustling artisans street market, open on Tuesday and Friday along this pedestrian mall. A profusion of buskers compete to entertain you. For a finishing touch of local color, cafés serving cakes and light meals line the street. At the end of the market is a large Bedouin tent, where you can treat yourself to a laffa with labaneh and za'atar (large pita bread with tangy sour cream, sprinkled with hyssop, an oregano-like herb).

On the edge of Neve Tzedek, this Ottoman-era train station is where travelers once embarked to Jerusalem on the first piece of railroad in the Middle East. Even Theodor Herzl, founder of modern Zionism, passed through here. Dubbed HaTachana, Hebrew for "the station," the 49-acre complex includes 22 different buildings, among them the former station. A pair of restored train cars tells the story of the station's days as a major travel hub in the region. You'll also find restaurants, cafés, and boutiques peddling handcrafted jewelry and homegrown designer clothes. At the entrance is a tourist information stand. The space hosts events throughout the year, details of which can be found on the website. 

One of many small bazaars surrounding the clock tower in the mid-19th century, the Jaffa Flea Market is the only survivor of that era. Along the cobblestone streets you can find everything from European antiques to Israeli memorabilia. As some antiques sellers close their doors with no family to continue the business, chic design boutiques are arriving and shifting the Flea Market neighborhood to an upscale vibe. The market's main street is Olei Zion, but there are a number of smaller streets and arcades to explore. Watch the locals bargain, and do what they do: never agree to the first price a seller demands. Combine the Flea Market's shopping and cafés with the Old City of Jaffa for a relaxed half-day stroll.

The heart of this edgy, bohemian neighborhood is Levinsky Market, known as a spice-and-herb market and also a great place to sample wonderful Mediterranean delicacies. Nearby you'll find good Persian eateries. Once considered off the beaten path, the Levinsky Market is now a popular destination.

Shaded by leafy trees, this area was formerly an agricultural colony established by German Templers in 1871. The picturesque houses have been transformed into a bustling complex with a visitor center, restaurants, bars, boutiques, and cultural institutions. The Sarona Market's 90 food stalls and shops showcase some of Israel's top chefs and bakeries, as well as locally produced wine and craft beer. Pick up some essentials at the Friday morning Farmers' Market for a picnic in one of Sarona's grassy open areas.

After wandering through the stalls selling organic produce, sample the fresh offerings at eateries like the in-house pasta bar or the specialty-sandwich stand. Don't miss the stand selling just-squeezed seasonal juice. Friday afternoons are particularly active with farmers and food vendors selling artisanal goodies.