Tel Aviv and Old Jaffa
Tel Aviv is Israel's vibrant coastal city of beaches, cafes and modern energy, fused with Jaffa, one of the oldest port towns in the world. Together they offer a lively counterpoint to the Holy Land's sacred sites.
Why it matters
Jaffa is an ancient Mediterranean port with thousands of years of history, mentioned in the Bible more than once. It is remembered as the harbour from which the prophet Jonah set sail, and in the Acts of the Apostles it is where Peter raised Tabitha and received the vision that opened the early Church to non-Jewish believers, at the house of Simon the Tanner.
Beside it, Tel Aviv is thoroughly modern, founded in the early twentieth century and now known for its beaches, its cafe culture and the White City, a large collection of Bauhaus architecture recognised by UNESCO. For pilgrims, Tel Aviv is usually the gateway city on arrival and departure, and a day here adds warmth, colour and Mediterranean flavour to the journey.
Explore pilgrimage toursHighlights of Tel Aviv and Jaffa
- Old Jaffa, its stone alleys, artists' quarter and harbour
- St. Peter's Church and the traditional House of Simon the Tanner
- Tel Aviv's Mediterranean beaches and promenade
- Carmel Market, a bustling street market
- Neve Tzedek, the charming historic neighbourhood
- The Bauhaus White City architecture
Good to know. Tel Aviv is relaxed and beach-friendly, so lighter clothing is fine here, unlike the holy sites. It is best enjoyed on arrival or departure day, and the seafront is lovely at sunset.
Fits. A great arrival or departure add-on, and a highlight of beyond-pilgrimage itineraries.
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