What are the best day trips from Tel Aviv?
My friends and family know that I am a city girl through and through. However, I think we can all agree that the big city life can get to all of us, and sometimes all we crave is quieter surroundings… and something different.
When I move somewhere new, I take it upon myself to get to know the area I live in and explore, explore and explore some more. Whether it’s through historical sites, new restaurants, small towns, big towns, or almost anything!
I will say, though, that getting to certain places in Israel will be more challenging if you do not have a car. So, this Tel Aviv day trip guide is mainly for those who can rent or own a car.
Israel is a super diverse country with a lot to do, especially if you love nature. For this blog post, I have arranged two days. They both have elements of being outside and inside. One is perfect for a Friday when everything is still open, and one for Shabbat when most things are closed. Both days take place in the North in the area of Zichron Yakov.
Yalla – let’s go!
Top Day Trips from Tel Aviv
Day Trip Number 1 from Tel Aviv, Friday
This trip will begin with a delicious breakfast stop in the Emek Hefer Valley Region’s Ella Patisserie, around 40-55 minutes from Tel Aviv. This bakery/cafe, other than selling really delicious, freshly baked goods, also is a store and sells antique kitchenware and accessories. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a European, quaint cafe.
Once your stomach is happy and full, we will drive another 20-30 minutes to Caesarea’s Ralli Museum. This museum primarily houses paintings and sculptures from Latin America and Spain, including sculptures from the world-renowned Salvador Dali. It’s not allowed to take photos inside, so I am only attaching photos of the outside.
The entrance to the museum is free, and the grounds are absolutely stunning. Here are some photos below from my trip, and you’ll see how unique the architecture and vibe is. I suggest heading to the Caesarea National Park if you have time before it closes. Even if you have already been, archeologists always uncover new sites to visit. There is something very grand about this park but something also very soothing. It’s a perfect way to end a Friday fun day before Shabbat begins.
Day Trip Number 2 from Tel Aviv – Saturday
Most of us are used to having shops, restaurants, and stores open every day of the week and operating public transport. However, as I am sure you have noticed, that is not the case here. But don’t worry, there are still things to do, places to visit and restaurants to eat at.
For this day trip from Tel Aviv, we will head to Zichron Yakov’s Ramat HaNadiv Park, which is dedicated to the memory of Baron Edmond de Rothschild, who is also buried there along with his wife.
The park is great for a comfortable stroll with beautiful views. If you don’t visit on Shabbat, you can head over to Tishby Winery before or after your visit, where they have great food! The restaurant is kosher, so it’s not open on Shabbat.
However, if you decide to visit on a Saturday and you get hungry, I suggest heading over to Palogi in Binyamina, a 10-minute drive from the park. They have vegan and non-vegan options, and the food is delicious. Then, I hope you packed your bathing suit because we are heading to Nachsholim beach, where you will feel like you’re on vacation somewhere else. It’s also a part of the nature reserve, and you will find ruins scattered all over the coast, as it once was the old port city of Tel Dor.
Once you’ve sunbathed enough, I suggest you head to Cafe ve Yam, where you should treat yourself to an ice-cold drink and watch the sunset. This Cafe is very popular, so long lines might form.
Stay tuned for more day trip plans from Tel Aviv to come. And if you go to these places, don’t forget to tag us @masaisrael and share your experiences with us!
