Feet first: how to navigate five Israeli cities by foot

Tel Aviv’s older sister is a maze of winding streets and alleyway eateries, beckoning you in for an all-day exploration. Start your journey wandering amongst clothes and furniture stores in the heart of the old city at Jaffa’s flea market. Once you’ve worked up an appetite from bargaining, stop for an on-the-go pita at Shawarma Bino or sit down meal at Cafe Puaa. Afterwards, descend to the Jaffa Port for some local art and culture at the (free!) Jaffa Art Salon or Jaffa Port Callery. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the water, complete with Instagram worthy views of the White City skyline. If you’re still not ready to leave, the hip nightlife scene is only a few minute walk from the port through Gan HaPisga!

Although Jerusalem often brings to mind ancient sites, there are enough modern offerings outside the walls of the Old City to keep you entertained all day long. Begin your day in the east and west divided neighborhood of Musrara, viewing socio-political art at Museum on the Seam, and progressive street art throughout the area. Continue on to lunch at local favorite cafe Tmol Shilshom, located down an alleyway of Yoel Moshe Solomon Street–known for its artisan shops and hanging rainbow umbrella installation! Next, walk from landmark streets of Ben Yehuda to Mahane Yehuda, stopping to purchase presents for friends and sample fresh produce. After a full day of art, culture, and walking, relax with dinner or drinks at one of the shuks many eateries or bars.

See what the city of coexistence has to offer on this day trip fit for the whole family. Begin at the Haifa Zoo, viewing the 350 animals and Mediterranean overlook. Next marvel at the breathtaking Bahai Gardens–a picture perfect place for a family photo. Descend from the gardens to the German Colony, and feast more than your eyes on the classic Lebanese and Mediterranean food options–don’t forget to save room for delicious strudel for dessert! If time (and energy) permits, walk the rest of the way down to the Haifa Port and visit a museum or get a drink–maybe you enjoyed your day so much you’ll even want to stay the night!

In Tel Aviv, a walk up Rothschild Boulevard could take 20 minutes or a full day. Start at the southern end of the street, with a visit to a contemporary art gallery or history museum. As you continue to wander the street, getting coffee is a must, whether it’s a nearby patio bar and cafe or a buzzing kiosk. In true Tel Avivian fashion, anytime during the day is a good time to eat at a trendy indoor market, stop by a rooftop happy hour, or just take a break and people watch. If you make it to Habima Square and there’s not a dance or theater performance that interests you, chill out in one of the lounge chairs before walking to nearby Sarona Market for guaranteed tasty bites and entertainment.

For history buffs, and friends and family of history buffs alike, a visit to the Old City of ancient Akko is a must. Begin by situating yourself in the history of Akko at the Underground Prisoners Museum, located in an Ottoman era citadel. Next, indulge your five senses in the Old City Market (open on Friday and Saturday’s), complete with hidden hummus eateries and stalls of spices and pastries. Continue wandering through the cobbled streets until you reach the Akko Marina, where you can marvel at the Old City skyline, and even take a boat ride for NIS 10 per person. In the evening eat a fresh seafood meal at El Marsa, and walk to hear live music at a local seaside venue.