The Jews formed Tel-Aviv port (Hebrew: Namal Tel-Aviv) in response to the Arab revolt in 1936-1939, which included shutting down Old Jaffa Port. Following an extensive restoration project, today, the port is a trendy commercial area. It offers a great selection of eateries and coffee bars, mostly along its seafront.

History of the Tel-Aviv Port

Tel-Aviv port was one of the outcomes of the Big Arab Revolt in 1936-1939. As the Arabs shut down Jaffa’s main port, the British authorized the Jews of Tel-Aviv to build a new port. Set next to the Yarkon stream, it started operating by May 1936. It functioned for nearly 30 years, yet eventually, its limited size did not match the increasing maritime commerce. The port went out of use. At the turn of the 21st century, the municipality restored the port and buildings left from the 1929 Levant Fair (Yarid Hamizrach) turning it into commercial use. The old hangers around the port were turned into event halls, nightclubs, art galleries, boutique shops, restaurants, and a small indoor food market.

Touring Tel-Aviv Port

Today, the old port of Tel Aviv is popular with locals and tourists alike. Its seafront is covered by an extended wooden deck that combines shades, seats, and a big sign of loving Tel Aviv. The promenade is also appreciated by bikers and joggers and is connected to Tel-Aviv’s promenade. Fine-dining restaurants and nightclubs take over at night, offering a great getaway after a hard day in the office or touring the country.

A tour of Tel-Aviv port can be combined with a guided day tour of Jaffa and Tel-Aviv.