Tel Aviv: History, Culture, and Experiences for LGBTQ+ Travelers
Welcome to Tel Aviv, the vibrant coastal city where ancient history and modernity collide in a dazzling fusion, especially for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Often heralded as the “gay capital of the Middle East,” Tel Aviv boasts an impressive record in LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance, embracing diversity and creating a truly inclusive environment. As we embark on this exciting exploration of Israel’s dynamic city, prepare to immerse yourself in the rich queer history, culture, and experiences that Tel Aviv offers in abundance.
Tel Aviv has been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ rights, and its commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its notable milestones in gay history. The city’s first Pride march took place in 1979, and since then, the annual Tel Aviv Pride Parade has grown into one of the largest and most exuberant celebrations in the region, attracting over a quarter-million revelers from around the world.
Whether you’re seeking an accepting and lively city experience or a spiritual journey that honors your queer identity, Tel Aviv is the perfect destination. Plan your pilgrimage to the Holy Land to delve into the fascinating queer history and culture, and experience the rich diversity that awaits you in Tel Aviv.
Where to Stay
Whether you visit for the Pride festivities or at some other time of year, you should consider staying at a beach-front property. It’s a must-do if you want to be centrally located in the city and take full advantage of the Mediterranean Sea.
Brown Brut, charming in spite of (or perhaps because of) its brutalist style, welcomes you into a beachfront respite with a modern, industrial feel with touches of old-world hospitality. It was the official hotel of Pride 2022, so you know you’re at a queer-friendly haven in the heart of the middle east. Take them up on their offer of free bicycle rentals—Tel Aviv is very bike friendly, though Israelis don’t seem to take traffic laws very seriously.
If you want to stretch your budget as far as possible, the 180 Boutique Hostel gives you a great beach-front location in a modern hostel that will plug you into the young, party-goer scene.
Where to Eat
Mena
Steps from the beach, Mena calls itself a bistro, but it tends to be a bit more than that. Mena is operated by a very friendly, diverse staff that makes incredibly delicious food. The food is quite affordable and could easily fall under the fine dining category. Grab a bottle (or glass) of Israeli wine and make sure you indulge in their bread with roast garlic and hummus soaked in flavourful olive oil.
Kilometrage
I almost always avoid restaurants that are inside hotels, but Kilometrage is very much worth a visit. The Menu by Chef Idan Busheri (winner of Israel’s Next Restaurant reality show) is meant to reflect his personal journey, drawing from the cuisines he grew up with and the colorful and unique mosaic that makes up Israeli society. I don’t know how he grew up, but I can say the food is vibrant and well-executed.
Mexicana
While exploring the bustling streets of Tel Aviv, we stumbled upon Mexicana, a delightful Mexican restaurant. After my husband and I moved from the States to The Netherlands, we’ve been craving authentic Mexican cuisine, and this hidden gem certainly satisfied our longing. Indulge in a tantalizing plata de tacos, featuring barbacoa, pollo, and pescado taco pairs, and top off this delectable meal with a refreshing margarita. While my husband loves the frozen mango ones, I’m more of a classic on the rocks with a salt-rim kind of guy—either way, Mexicana’s margaritas don’t disappoint.
Carmel Market
This must-experience spot in Tel Aviv offers some incredibly good takes on street food. You can eat your way through the market, or grab a few things to go and stroll just a few minutes to the beach. Either way, Carmel Market is going to have something for you. You should definitely try the burika—one popular stall does its version as a sort of fried, filled corn tortilla stuffed into a pita with spicy sauces, lettuce, and tomatoes.
What to Do
Explore Tel Aviv’s bustling beaches and its charming, gay-friendly neighborhoods such as The White City, Jaffa, Florentin, and Neve Tzedek, each offering a unique flavor and experience.
Beach, please!
Tel Aviv’s beaches dazzle with golden sands, sparkling Mediterranean waters, and vibrant vibes. From bustling Gordon and Frishman to the notoriously LGBTQ+ hotspot, Hilton Beach, there’s a stretch of sand for everyone. Start by taking a stroll along the promenade to see the various beaches, stretching from Old Jaffa to Tel Aviv’s port.
Take a break and enjoy a drink with your companions to take in the sights. Just be sure of what you order. For example, though it might look like a bunch of the locals are enjoying some fruity smoothie at Manta Ray at only about 9ish in the morning. If you order “one of those,” you might just end up with a frozen margarita with an extremely heavy pour much earlier in the day than you’d expect – not speaking from experience or anything.
After you’ve explored, feel free to romp around indulging in water sports, soak up the sun, or savor the local cuisine at beachside cafes while basking in stunning views. Tel Aviv’s beaches are an unforgettable coastal paradise.
Explore Charming, Historic Neighborhoods
Walking around on your own is a good start, but I’d recommend a tour with a licensed guide to be able to get a more immersive experience. Tourist Israel has a number of tours, depending on your particular interest and the amount of time you want to spend. If you find yourself in Tel Aviv on a Saturday, I can recommend the entertaining and informative all-day tour as a fantastic option while much of Israel is shut down for Shabbat. If you’re lucky enough to have Merona as your guide, tell her that James and Malachi sent you.
Regardless of whether take a walking tour or not (though you should), you should make sure you get around to some of the most historically important and visually interesting neighborhoods. These are the must-experience places that will get you to the heart of Tel Aviv.
(Photo Credit: Malachi Demmin-De Lise)
Jaffa, an ancient port city, blends the old with the new, showcasing a lively art scene, hip bars, and trendy boutiques in its narrow cobblestone streets. The old city has played host to Jonah (of the Jonah and the Whale fame—and not the rock band that surely exists under that name), Napoleon, the Apostles, and so many historical figures it’d be impossible to count. If you’re feeling too warm, swing by Asil for a deliciously refreshing lemonade with arak and fresh mint. Sit outside and enjoy the ice-cold concoction while engaging in some atmospheric people-watching.
The White City, a UNESCO Heritage Site, boasts a new take on the so-called modern movement in architecture. Straddling Rothschild Boulevard, this is a great place for a post-dinner stroll or people-watching while enjoying food or drink at one of the many cafes that line the streets. My current mouth-watering favorite is the Landwer Cafe, where Chef Yahaloma Levi puts a modern (and often vegan) take on classic Israeli dishes.
Florentin, a bustling bohemian district, entices visitors with its street art, cozy cafes, and vivacious nightlife. Home to some really stellar street art, this neighborhood was a victim of urban decay and has still managed to escape gentrification. Home to students, hipsters, and artists of all stripes, Florentin is the perfect stop if you like art—either as a remarkably reasonably priced souvenir from a gallery or to immerse yourself in on the street. Check out the Michaelson Art Gallery for some cheeky designs. I managed to find a lovely, framed watercolor of a Rothschild Boulevard street-scene that even has an augmented reality component.
Neve Tzedek began as a Jewish outpost of Jaffa and was created by a group of families looking to escape the ancient city’s overcrowding. It brims with history and charm. It also fell victim to the urban decay of the mid-20th century; it has now been, for better or worse, gentrified. Its picturesque streets, beautifully restored buildings, and fashionable boutiques create a delightful atmosphere. Grab a bite for lunch at the vegetarian Meshek Barzilay. You can have them pile up a plate with a variety of their dishes for a relatively light but fully flavored lunch midway through your day of exploration.
Nightlife
Tel Aviv, often referred to as the city that never sleeps or the city that never stops, boasts a lively and diverse nightlife scene catering to people from all walks of life. The active bar culture ensures there’s always something happening, no matter what kind of atmosphere you’re looking for.
For those who prefer mingling in a mixed group, consider joining a bar crawl like the one offered by Tourist Israel. With English-speaking guides, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s nightlife alongside both tourists and locals alike.
In addition to the vibrant general nightlife, Tel Aviv is known for its thriving LGBTQ+ scene, featuring a variety of popular gay bars and clubs. Here are a few must-visit spots!
Shpagat
This trendy, laid-back bar is a favorite among the LGBTQ+ community and its friends. Known for its cozy atmosphere, Shpagat offers a welcoming environment where you can relax, enjoy a drink, and meet new people. With regular events like live music and themed parties, there’s always something happening at Shpagat.
Evita
As Tel Aviv’s longest-running gay bar, Evita has established itself as an institution in the city’s LGBTQ+ scene. With a fun, energetic atmosphere, and a calendar full of events, such as drag shows, karaoke nights, and themed parties, Evita is a go-to destination for anyone looking to experience Tel Aviv’s gay nightlife.
Kuli Alma
This eclectic, artsy space is a favorite among both locals and tourists. Kuli Alma is part bar, part club, and part art gallery, with a unique atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere. The venue regularly hosts live music, DJ sets, and art exhibitions, providing a perfect backdrop for mingling and dancing the night away. While not specifically a gay bar, Kuli Alma is known for its inclusive vibe, welcoming patrons from all backgrounds.
Whether you’re searching for a lively club, a laid-back bar, or a unique cultural experience, Tel Aviv’s nightlife scene has something for everyone, including an array of exceptional LGBTQ+ venues.
Final Thoughts
Unlike elsewhere in the region, Tel Aviv is a great destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, offering a perfect blend of ancient history, modernity, and a safe, welcoming atmosphere. However, be mindful of cultural sensitives when traveling further afield outside of the city.
For the latest travel advisories and warnings go here.
