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JPY (Â¥)Tel Aviv’s White City might be a  UNESCO World Heritage Site, but the words boring, historic, or ageing do not describe it at all! The White City of Tel Aviv is the world’s largest collection of International or Bauhaus style buildings. Since being designated one of the world’s first ‘modern’ UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2003, the restoration of these buildings-constructed by German immigrants in the 1920s and 1930s-has accelerated, with this district now returning to its original glory.
What is the White City?
The White City is located between Allenby Street in the south, Begin Road and Ibn Gvirol Street in the east, the Yarkon River in the north, and the Mediterranean in the west. It’s known as the White City for the simple reason that most buildings in the area are white!
In the 1920s and 30’s, a large number of Jewish architects, who had studied in Europe, moved to Tel Aviv. Wanting to recreate the cafe culture of Europe in the hot climate of Israel, whilst integrating the modernist architectural style they had practiced, the group created a new architectural language, characterized by its asymmetry, functionality, and simplicity. The balconies, building pillars, flat roofs, and “thermometer” windows have since become trademarks of Tel Aviv.
Over the past 20 years, the White City has been carefully restored, evolving into one of Tel Aviv’s trendiest, most vibrant districts, showcasing streets lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
Rothschild Boulevard
Additionally, within the White City lies Rothschild Boulevard. It’s one of the city’s first streets designed as a public space. It boasts a central garden with benches, a pathway, and kiosks. From the beginning, it has been a place for the locals to see and to be seen. The street is perfect for a stroll, taking in some of the Bauhaus architecture and more recent glass skyscrapers. The unique kiosks in the center of the boulevard a perfect place to stop for a drink. For coffee, try the Espresso Bar kiosk. The Juice Bar also has great fruit juices, or the ultra-trendy Take Away on Rothschild has coffee and sandwiches. Alternatively, you have Japanika, a sushi bar, and MiTachet Laetz, a sandwich bar. Rothschild is also home to many of the city’s most cutting-edge art galleries.
Sheinkin Street
Another notable street in the White City is Sheinkin Street. This is an iconic street and to many Israelis a symbol of Tel Aviv as a whole, for good or bad. Tel Aviv is a city that has changed in the past twenty years to an outward-looking, global city. Sheinkin Street features quaint boutiques, cozy cafes, as well as fascinating characters. Even the ‘chain’ stores here have adopted a free-thinking design for their stores. Fashion boutiques include Story, Elise, Ellse, and BIG TOM, whilst Bahunot and Daniella Lehavi are good for shoes. Jewellery can be found at X-Ray, whilst gallery Urbanix is interesting. Orna & Ella is Sheinkin’s most prominent and popular cafe.
Tel Aviv’s White City is unmissable and well worth exploring for its architecture, culture, and vibrant atmosphere. Take in the beautiful architecture, unique atmosphere, and excellent food and drink that the city offers. If you’re visiting over the weekend, join our popular Tel Aviv Saturday Walking Tour: Florentin & Park HaMesila for a vibrant, local experience.
Exploring the White City and Beyond
Whether you’re strolling along Rothschild Boulevard, discovering the boutiques of Sheinkin Street, or exploring the charming neighborhoods of the White City, Tel Aviv offers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and modern energy. To experience the city effortlessly, join one of our Tel Aviv day tours, where local guides lead the way and show you hidden gems. Dreaming of a longer adventure? Our Tel Aviv Package Tours offer multi-day city explorations, day trips to nearby highlights, comfortable hotels, and exciting activities, ensuring a stress-free and enriching vacation.
