Tel Aviv is Israel's cultural, entertainment and commercial center, offering a view of modern Israel in contrast to some of the better-known historical sites in the Holy Land. It's a much more liberal, secular and sexy city than conservative, religious and sacred Jerusalem. Tel Aviv is dubbed the place to play, Jerusalem the place to pray. Jerusalem is the political capital; Tel Aviv is the pleasure capital.
It's Israel's hippest hub, an avant-garde, energetic, bustling place where anything goes. It has a wealth of interesting sights, great shopping and nonstop nightlife and dining. Fun-loving Tel Avivians have style and panache. Their motto: "Eat your dessert first."
In addition, Tel Aviv has a stunning seashore with 9 mi/14 km of clean, sandy beaches excellent for swimming, people-watching and relaxing in the sun. The glorious beach culture makes this cosmopolitan city feel like a cross between Rio and Miami.
The Old City of Jaffa, prominent on the Tel Aviv shoreline, gives visitors a chance to explore the city's biblical roots. It's where Jonah set sail and is one of the world's oldest ports. Jaffa is also home to a vibrant artist colony and many fine restaurants.
On 7 October 2023, the terrorist group Hamas attacked Israel in multiple locations near the border with Gaza, killing nearly 2,000 people. The resulting armed conflict continues on several fronts, and visitors are urged to reconsider travel to the region.
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