A Weekend in Tel Aviv from Cyprus: Flights, Things to Do & Where to Stay

Tel Aviv is a laid-back Mediterranean beach city with an energetic food and nightlife scene, whitewashed Bauhaus buildings and the ancient port of Jaffa at its southern end. At around an hour's flight, it's one of the quickest city breaks you can take from Cyprus.

Before you book: flights to Tel Aviv are sometimes suspended at short notice because of the regional situation. Check your government's travel advice and the airline's latest updates before you travel.

How do you get to Tel Aviv from Cyprus?

Flights from Cyprus to Tel Aviv take about 1h and operate year-round, although services are often disrupted. From Larnaca (LCA), several Israeli airlines fly the route, along with Aegean, Cyprus Airways and Wizz Air. From Paphos (PFO), flights are operated by Israeli airlines. Book flexible fares where possible. Routes and schedules change by season, so check with the airline before booking.

Flights arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, southeast of the city. Trains run from the station on the lower level of Terminal 3 to several stations in Tel Aviv, and taxis wait outside the terminal. Bear in mind that trains and most buses don't run during Shabbat, from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening, so plan a taxi if you arrive then. Allow plenty of time for security checks on departure.

Is Tel Aviv good for a weekend?

Yes. The city is compact, walkable and easy to cycle, with a long seafront promenade linking the beaches, neighbourhoods and Jaffa. It suits couples, friends and food lovers, and anyone who enjoys a mix of beach time and city life.

Spring and autumn offer warm, sunny days that are ideal for walking. Summers are hot and humid but great for the beach, and winters are mild with occasional rain.

What to do in Tel Aviv in a weekend

Day 1

Start in Jaffa, wandering the old city's stone alleys, the restored port and the flea market area. Walk north along the seafront promenade to the city beaches, stopping for a swim or a coffee. In the afternoon, explore Neve Tzedek, one of Tel Aviv's oldest neighbourhoods, with boutiques and cafés, then have dinner nearby.

Day 2

Browse the Carmel Market for street food and fresh produce. Walk Rothschild Boulevard to see the Bauhaus buildings of the White City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. Late afternoon, head to the Sarona complex or the Tel Aviv Port area for food and an evening drink.

If you have a third day

Take a day trip to Jerusalem, around an hour away by train or road, to explore the Old City. Check transport times carefully if your trip falls over Shabbat.

Where to stay in Tel Aviv

• Beachfront: sea views and easy access to the promenade, ideal for a sun-and-city break.
• Neve Tzedek: charming and characterful, suits couples.
• Jaffa: historic atmosphere and good restaurants, great for culture lovers.
• Rothschild and the city centre: close to bars, cafés and the White City, good for nightlife.

What to eat

• Hummus: served warm and creamy, often as a meal in itself.
• Falafel: crisp chickpea fritters stuffed into pitta with salads and tahini.
• Sabich: pitta filled with fried aubergine, egg and salad.
• Shakshuka: eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce, a classic breakfast.
• Malabi: a delicate milk pudding topped with syrup and nuts.

Practical tips for travellers from Cyprus

• Currency: the Israeli new shekel. Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
• Language: Hebrew; English is widely spoken.
• Time difference: Tel Aviv is on the same time as Cyprus.
• Passport and entry: Israel isn't in the EU, so you'll need your passport. Check the entry rules for your nationality before you book, including any pre-travel authorisation.
• Mobile roaming: EU roaming doesn't apply in Israel. Check your provider's roaming rates or use an eSIM; see our expat toolkit.
• Local custom: the weekend is Friday and Saturday. Many shops close for Shabbat, so plan shopping and transport around it; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

For another short hop, see a weekend in Athens or browse all our weekend getaways from Cyprus.