There are few more authentically Middle Eastern scenes than a traditional open-air market, where you can navigate bustling crowds amongst booths piled high with spices, vegetables, pastries, and other merchandise. Hearing the hollering of merchants advertising their wares, seeing fierce haggling, and maybe even participating in some – a visit to an Israeli market is a thrilling affair. Whether you’re just there to observe or to fully immerse yourself in the Israeli market shopping experience, Tel Aviv’s exotic markets are an invigorating and unforgettable spectacle for travelers of all ages and backgrounds. 

However, not all markets are created equal.  Each marketplace in Tel Aviv has its own personality, vibe, and specialty. Check out our list below to pick out the one that’s most appealing to you – or simply use this list as a checklist as you visit each and every one!

Shuk HaPishpeshim

Jaffa, to the south of Tel Aviv, is a unique place- ancient, by the beach, and inhabited by a mix of Jews, Muslims, and Christians. Walking around Jaffa, it’s not uncommon to see a woman with a surfboard, a man on a horse, and three kids acrobatically piled top of each other on an electric bike all pass you by within a few minutes.  Jaffa is a great place for travelers, with excellent coffee shops and arguably the best hummus in Israel. 

Shuk HaPishpeshim in Jaffa, also known as the Jaffa Flea Market, is an amazing place to pick up housewares, Persian rugs, jewelry, and anything vintage. Additionally, the market has attracted many artists, whose studios are sprinkled throughout the area and are well worth a visit too.

Sarona Market

Bordering the east side of the city is a more recent addition to the market scene – Sarona Market. Developed as a culinary and tourist attraction, Sarona Market offers some of the hippest and most exciting dining experiences assembled in one place. The indoor gourmet food hall features global cuisine offerings, and the outdoor section offers large grassy areas to eat and relax. 

Sarona Market was built over the former German Templar Colony of Tel Aviv, and many of the buildings have been delicately restored from that late-nineteenth-century settlement.

Can’t wait to visit Israel?
Contact us or ask your travel agent about the Gordon Tours Israel experience!

Shuk Levinsky

Nestled in the southern section of Tel Aviv, Shuk Levinsky is the go-to market for spices, teas, or dry goods like nuts and dehydrated fruit. In addition to harboring these authentic shops, the Levinsky area hosts some of the best coffee shops and bakeries of south Tel Aviv. Grab a café hafouch (Israel’s take on a latte) and a bourekas or two (delicious savory pastries) as you load up on unique spices and other delightful goods from the Holy Land.

Shuk HaCarmel

The largest and most traditional Middle Eastern market in Tel Aviv, Shuk HaCarmel is a can’t-miss stop on any tour of Tel Aviv. In this bustling market you’ll find the tastiest and cheapest fruits and vegetables, butchers and fishmongers offering fresh cuts, mountains of spices precariously balanced, and any other food and cooking supplies you can imagine. And if you’re not in the mood for food shopping, Shuk HaCarmel has plenty more to offer; There are plenty of stalls offering souvenirs, electronics, clothing, swimsuits and so much more.

Nahalat Binyamin Artists’ Market

A truly unique Tel Aviv experience, the Nahalat Binyamin Artists’ Market is an arts and crafts bazaar like no other. Adjacent to Shuk HaCarmel, it’s truly hard to describe the unique beauty of this legendary artist market, so we’ll let these photos speak for themselves! Note that the Nahalat Binyamin Market is only open on specific days during the week so be sure to check their schedule before heading out. Enjoy!