Explore the City

NEVE TZEDEK 

Just a 20-minute walk or a quick cab ride from the hotel will get you to the trendy neighbourhood of Neve Tzedek. 

Neve Tzedek was the first Jewish neighbourhood to be built outside the walls of the ancient port of Jaffa, back in 1887. At the beginning of the 20th century, Neve Tzedek was home to many artists and writers, among them Nobel Prize laureate writer Shmuel Yosef Agnon. 

Today, the historical neighbourhood has become one of the city’s most fashionable and vibrant districts. With a village-like atmosphere, Neve Tzedek’s main street, Shabazi, boasts select designer boutiques, galleries, wine-tasting shops, cafés, restaurants and celebrated cultural institutions. 

Architecture buffs will love wandering through the delightful streets and narrow alleys to admire the beautifully restored examples of Bauhaus and Art Nouveau architecture, as well as the modern adaptations and additions to these historic homes. Some of the homes offer tours, which should not be missed. The diverse mix of styles in this neighbourhood is unlike any other in the world. Venture off to the side streets and you’ll be rewarded with pretty, bougainvillea-fronted houses, often juxtaposed with graffiti and murals. 

Looking to experience the arts? The Suzanne Dellal Center for Dance and Theatre is a special venue, especially renowned for its modern dance performances. In addition, the building has an intimate courtyard and small gardens surrounding it, well worth a visit. Also try the Nachum Gutman Museum, housed in the home of the artist, which showcases his significant works of Israeli art. 

OLD JAFFA 

Jaffa, or Yafo, is an ancient port city, located about 15 minutes away from the hotel by car. Jaffa is mentioned both in the Bible and in ancient mythology, and according to archaeological evidence, it’s believed that the city was inhabited in 7500 BCE (suffice it to say, a long time ago). Jaffa has played an important role throughout history, largely because of its natural harbour, which secured the city’s prominence and growth. The early 19th century saw the establishment of a small Jewish community, which thrived on the market of Jewish pilgrimages to Jerusalem. Additionally, because all Jewish immigrants to Palestine came through Jaffa, many Jews chose to make their homes in the city. The increase in population meant that the beginning of the 20th century saw high levels of overcrowding within the city, and the subsequent founding of Tel Aviv, the first modern Jewish city. After the founding of the State, Jaffa was gradually incorporated into Tel Aviv, and in 1950, the city was officially renamed Tel Aviv-Jaffa out of respect for the historical city. The 1990s brought a wave of redevelopment and rejuvenation to the city, with the restoration of major landmarks and shopping districts. Yet beyond these areas, much of Jaffa is still preserved as it has been for centuries. 

A distinctive part of Jaffa is the zodiac streets. The alleys of Old Jaffa are named after signs of the zodiac and boast numerous artist galleries and Judaica workshops and a collection of cafés and restaurants. The astrological theme continues with the Wishing Bridge of Jaffa, a dark wood bridge crowned with 12 bronze plaques of zodiac signs. Rumour has it that if you look out at the Mediterranean Sea while touching your plaque, your wish will be granted. If your wishes are in the culinary line, though, don’t wait: Head over to quirky Dr. Shakshuka, a favourite of locals and tourists alike. This bustling, budget-friendly restaurant churns out the best shakshuka (an Israeli speciality of fried eggs in spicy tomato sauce), while sitting at the communal tables means that you’ll leave with a bunch of new friends. And for dessert, don’t miss Abulafia, a legendary (since 1879!) bakery across from Jaffa’s clock tower. They offer a wide selection of calzones, breads, pastries, pizzas, sweets and drinks. 

For more information and personalized tour arrangements please get in touch with our concierge team at [email protected] or +972 74 766 2733.