Tel Aviv’s boutique hotels are probably the most pleasant, enjoyable, and stylish way to spend a vacation in Israel. There are small boutiques, large boutiques, luxury boutiques, and boutiques at accessible prices - but all are special and pampering in the good old sense of the word, and the best among them are on this list. Here are Time Out’s recommendations
The word “vacation” sounded almost dirty during the war of October 7, but now this fragile quiet is opening the chakra of freedom and allowing us to fantasize – and even fulfill fantasies – about trips, getaways, and pampering in the old and pure sense of the word, on the way to unforgettable experiences. Boutique hotels were born to give us that dreamy feeling, the uniqueness we seek, the vibe of fantasy coming true. Some of the very best are in Tel Aviv, and you already know where we’re heading.
Important to note: the word “boutique” doesn’t necessarily refer to a hotel’s size. True, we usually think of boutique hotels as small to tiny, but size doesn’t matter; boutique standards are reflected mainly in service, design, art, spa, culinary offering, and an envelope that takes care of every guest need before they even know they have one. We split the list before you into small boutiques and large boutiques, including several that are especially affordable. All prices are per couple per night plus breakfast (unless stated otherwise).
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Small boutiques
1. Elkonin
Elkonin Hotel in Neve Tzedek connects old Tel Aviv with Parisian chic in a package that says excellence and a story with added value: a historic building (a hundred years ago it housed Tel Aviv’s first hotel) lovingly renovated with attention to detail, a small yet perfect rooftop with a pool and sun deck, and an equally perfect spa offering pampering treatments based on Clarins products.
The rooms are bright and pleasant, pampering with soft towels and great cosmetics, and on the ground floor operates the excellent Reva A restaurant led by chef Evyatar Malka, blessed with the same eclectic magic. Wonderful fish dishes (who said Hamoshta Yam and didn’t get any), original cocktails, and a sexy atmosphere seal the evening with a fine-dining note, right up to breakfast, which is a collection of small, tasty things. From 1,500 NIS.
Lilienblum 9 Tel Aviv (Neve Tzedek) //For reservations
2. Backstage
Shakespeare’s saying “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players” comes to life at Backstage, an urban, friendly, and theatrical boutique hotel from Atlas Hotels. Theatrical why? Because in the very same building once operated the legendary Ohel Theater, and the hotel was born inspired by the institution of theater in general and the backstage vibe in particular. The main hall became an atrium that brings plenty of natural light into the floors and lobby, the serving ware at brunch (also open to outside guests) references theater, and when the elevator reaches the chosen floor, it announces it with applause.
In the rooms, the theatricality gives way to quiet, pampering ease, a prelude to a wild night out in the city just beyond the threshold. The show must go on—but on vacation it’s no less important to sleep well and save some money for treats. From 976 NIS (after 25% off in the fall promo for bookings through the end of November).
Beilinson 6 Tel Aviv //For reservations
3. Fabric
The going-out vibe of lively Nahalat Binyamin Street seeps into the Fabric Hotel, whose name nods to the fabric shops that gave way to hot restaurants and bars. Decades ago, the building housed a garment factory and office building, and it has been converted into an intimate, warm, and fashionable boutique hotel with exposed pipes, denim-hued wallpapers, and works by Tel Aviv artists. The rooms are calm and equipped with everything needed for a pampering vacation – from a coffee machine and Netflix to a digital platform that offers activities and maximizes the fun.
On the ground floor rules Bushwick, the last remaining outpost in the city from the Imperial Group’s empire, with sweet-leaning cocktails done nonchalantly (oxymoron? So what) and a cute courtyard, worthwhile happy hour, and a Brooklyn vibe in the heart of Tel Aviv. When you tire of the bustle, the roof offers an island of quiet and greenery with a peek at the street and nearby rooftops where there’s always something interesting happening. From 838 NIS (after 25% off in the fall promo for bookings through the end of November).
Nahalat Binyamin 28 Tel Aviv //For reservations
4. Mendeli Street Hotel
Even from the street, the Mendeli Street Hotel from Prima Hotels declares itself proudly Tel Avivian. A white facade echoes the White City, and typographic styling on the entry wall, in the lobby ceiling, and in the rooms references the books of Shalom Yaakov Abramovich – “Mendele Mocher Sefarim” to you. Sixty-six rooms in varying sizes and levels of pampering are fitted with a comfy bed draped in Egyptian cotton linens, an espresso machine, and thick, wonderful towels (reminding you it’s not cool to steal from hotels), all just a hop from the beach and promenade—an ideal location in a city with plenty of sunshine year-round.
Mashya, the hotel restaurant taking up most of the lobby, is the crown jewel – one of the city’s best fine-dining spots, led by chef Gil Dahan. It’s fun to sit at the bar in the evening and let the bartenders compose a meal for you, and even more fun to come for brunch, included in the room rate – making Mendeli an especially sweet deal. From 638 NIS (after a 25% discount).
Mendele Mocher Sfarim 5 Tel Aviv //For reservations
5. The Norman
Two iconic buildings from the architectural heyday of the White City were transformed in an impressive, lengthy engineering feat (some still remember the pit) into one of the most beautiful, romantic, and picturesque boutique hotels in town. A green patio seemingly transplanted from a Tuscan villa is surrounded by rooms and suites where every detail has been considered – from the art on the walls to original murals and flooring that tug at nostalgic heartstrings.
At the heart of all this beauty stand The Library Bar – one of the sexiest, chicest bars in the city – alongside the elegant Alena restaurant and Dinings, the Japanese fine-dining venue that has reopened after a long hiatus, signaling a kind of return to routine. A stunning rooftop with a swimming pool and sun deck makes it clear that here you relax in style, with impeccable service to match – the kind that makes every wish feel worthy of fulfillment, budget permitting, of course. From 3,840 NIS.
Nahmani 23–25 Tel Aviv //For reservations
6. The Drisco
The Drisco earned a first-of-its-kind Israeli honor by joining Relais & Châteaux, a prestigious association of unique hotels, special lodgings, and Michelin restaurants. Meaning the whole world now knows what Israel has long known: this boutique hotel in the American–German Colony is nothing less than a cultural asset you can sleep in – the sort of gem seasoned, deep-pocketed travelers prefer over yet another chain hotel. Forty-two rooms and suites reflect the hotel’s history – it first opened in 1866 – and a magical rooftop, spa, and gym tie the historic story to the 21st century.
The hotel’s restaurant, located in the stunning lobby, adds color and life to the historic building, and you don’t need to be a guest to dine there – but knowing there’s a soft bed waiting upstairs elevates the experience to a pampering abroad-style getaway. From 1,400 NIS.
Auerbach 6 Tel Aviv //For reservations
7. Rothschild 48
Everything Ruti Brodo touches turns to gold—the restaurants, the bakery, Hotel Montefiore (we’ll get to it) and also Rothschild 48, a gorgeous boutique hotel that opened in a window between the pandemic and the war. It has just 11 rooms—or rather spacious suites – designed with quiet luxury and meticulous attention to the smallest details: soft towels, quietly closing doors, high-end amenities, and bottled cocktails in the minibar.
Chic and style are backed by service that knows everything about you, right down to your preferred coffee and toilet seat warming level (okay, maybe we exaggerated – you’ll have to set that yourself, but it’s about the only thing). The chef’s restaurant returned from its war-imposed break sharper and more polished than ever, and the brasserie is alive and kicking as usual – which means the only thing between you and the legendary wine burger is the most beautiful elevator in the city. From 4,000 NIS.
Rothschild 48 Tel Aviv //For reservations
8. Hotel Montefiore
It’s hard to choose between the veteran Hotel Montefiore and Rothschild 48, but in nostalgia, style, and atmosphere – the Hotel will always be our pick. Despite the years, it’s still vibrant, up-to-date, and full of chic, and each of the dozen rooms is designed in elegant Parisian style with a restrained, precise touch. The hotel restaurant has also improved and matured over the years, and there’s nothing more delightful than sitting at the bar, snacking on moules, sipping wine, and watching this marvelous machine tick and breathe hospitality.
Evenings are busy and energetic, but its most beautiful hours are actually at lunchtime – when the atmosphere is relaxed and the outside light casts shadows on the lovely balcony. The dress code is easygoing, but a little black dress and heels might open the door to romance – especially when a pampering bed awaits upstairs. From 2,000 NIS.
Montefiore 36 Tel Aviv //For reservations
9. Poli House
Poli House – “the Poli,” for short – is the modern incarnation of Beit Polishuk, a legendary building erected in the 1930s and etched into the city’s history to this day. Nearly a century later, design superstar Karim Rashid’s fingerprint places Poli House atop the city’s most unique hotels. Blue corridors, a yellow front desk, and iconic armchairs create a timeless, standout interior that photographs beautifully on Instagram. The rooms share the same style, and if you can – aim for the suites facing Magen David Square, no less iconic.
The rooftop pool and adjacent bar supply hours of fun, and the spa offers pampering body-and-soul treatments. You can, of course, head down to stroll Nahalat Binyamin and the Carmel Market – but in a hotel this fun, who wants to leave? From 728 NIS.
Nahalat Binyamin 1 Tel Aviv //For reservation
10. Poli Urban
A two-minute walk from the sea off Allenby, Poli Urban is a colorful, lively bubble of fun – exactly what the doctor ordered for a perfect couples’ getaway. Fifty-two stylishly designed rooms come equipped with an espresso machine, smart TV, and other amenities that make life much more enjoyable all the way to breakfast, which is also in a contemporary urban style with à la carte dishes, sexy starters, and fresh pastries winking from the plate.
The new CALMA SPA turns the experience into full-size luxury: five couples’ and private treatment rooms with a professional staff, a real Turkish hammam, and a dry sauna signal a journey of calm for body and soul – after which you can pounce on everything the nonstop city offers within walking distance: the beach, the Carmel Market, or any other destination. Or simply extend your stay by a day. From 765 NIS.
Ness Tsiyona 7 Tel Aviv //For reservations
Large boutiques
11. Dan Tel Aviv
If we had to choose Tel Aviv’s equivalent of The Ritz in London or Plaza Athénée in Paris – Dan Tel Aviv slips into that slot comfortably. The iconic institution, dating back to the 1950s, maintains style and class but doesn’t rest on its laurels. The rooms and suites are a model of elegance and comfort – essential as a refuge in the big city – as attested by Lady Gaga, Bono, Madonna, and Bill Clinton, who’ve all stayed here. Breakfast is served in a spacious room facing the sea and promenade, and due to the abundance, we recommend tackling it after your morning run, not before (speaking from experience).
Two pools – outdoor and indoor-heated – the new, luxurious Via LOMAH Spa, a well-equipped gym, and a business lounge create a soft, pampering envelope of near-royalty, happily available to mere mortals (lucky us). From 1,538 NIS for club members (membership is free).
Hayarkon 99 Tel Aviv //For reservations
12. Bazaar
A beautiful mélange of colors and aromas – just like Jaffa – shines through at the new Bazaar Hotel, the first urban swallow in Fattal Hotels’ FATTAL COLORS collection. The rooms and suites are fresh, modern, and properly pampering, with works by Jaffa artists strengthening the bond between the hotel and its location on the revamped Jerusalem Boulevard. A spacious patio, gym, and rooftop overlooking the sea and Old Jaffa save you from wandering – a city whose charms unfold like on the palm of your hand.
Palette, the hotel’s ground-floor restaurant, will whisk you to Paris without passing through Ben Gurion Airport: rich French onion soup, classic bistro dishes, and good wine will wrap up an evening of chansons and French romance with a Jaffa wink – leading straight to a proper brunch the next morning. From 900 NIS.
Jerusalem Blvd 22 Jaffa //For reservations
13. Gymnasia
On Montefiore Street, close to Neve Tzedek and the hot Nahalat Binyamin, the Gymnasia Hotel from Isrotel recently opened – a nod to Herzliya Gymnasium, which decades ago stood nearby where Shalom Tower is today. Design inspired by the city’s culture and architecture mixes modern and classic elements across 145 black-and-white rooms with art pieces and meticulous style.
The roof is devoted to an infinity pool and cocktail bar with a breathtaking panoramic view of the sea and city, and the ground floor is all about chef Sharon Cohen’s cuisine: the wonderful Shiloh, upgraded into a spacious home worthy of its stature (and where à la carte breakfast is served for hotel guests), and a sexy café for any hour of the day. From 1,050 NIS.
Montefiore 9 Tel Aviv //For reservations
14. Alberto
With all the restaurants and bars making Nahalat Binyamin the city’s standout street, how could we not sort a place to sleep? Alberto from Isrotel offers much more than a comfy night’s rest in a beautiful 1913 building elegantly restored and preserved. Behind a romantic facade representing the eclectic style, 91 rooms are spread with elegance: two suites, rooms with Jacuzzis, and rooms with cute English balconies – all equipped for a relaxed urban vacation and designed as a refuge from the bustle outside.
A gym, a small spa (with a cool restroom seemingly designed especially for Instagram), and a rooftop with a pool help sculpt the body in time for the pièce de résistance – the hot Radler restaurant. The hotel’s walls are adorned with a collection of contemporary urban art by veteran and young artists – a tribute to the colors and buzz of the nonstop city.
Nahalat Binyamin 46 Tel Aviv //For reservations
15. The Jaffa
From the outside it looks like a fortress, sealed and closed to mere mortals, but the lucky ones who stay at The Jaffa from the Fattal chain are treated to an experience of tailor-made, caressing softness. How do we know? Because Condé Nast Traveler chose to include the hotel in The Best Hotels and Resorts in the World: The Gold List 2023 thanks to those exacting standards of design and hospitality. Quietly elegant rooms and suites are located across two buildings, one old and one new, with the Giardino restaurant at the center, led by the talented chef Bar Zenger.
Wandering the corridors instills a sense of sanctity – after all, a monastery once operated here—that reaches its peak in the chapel, a beautiful hall that today hosts parties and glittering launches. And since you’ve come this far, don’t forget to stop in the lobby by Alon Shabo’s pâtisserie counter and a work by Damien Hirst – works of art worthy of each other, and of the lucky ones who make it here. From 1,650 NIS.
Yefet 36 Jaffa //For reservations
16. The George
It takes a lot of courage to open a hotel during a war. Elco Hospitality, a subsidiary of Elco (Electra and more), has the courage, stamina, and deep enough pockets to launch such an ambitious project in such a crazy time. And The George is exactly that – a “hospitality space” with no fewer than seven “urban experiences”: a 170-room hotel with pampering touches (Bulgari amenities and branded slippers) by Spanish star designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán, who designed the entire hotel and several impressive art pieces within it; a work space and meeting rooms for gatherings and launches; a performance hall; a wellness spa floor with a gym and Pilates by BOOST – Roni Duani’s studio; a pool, spa, saunas, and a terrace for yoga classes.
Food-wise, The George also goes big with The Loft, an all-day bar led by hotel chef Nitzan Raz, offering menus from different regions of Thailand over the next two months. The location in the renewing Yitzhak Sadeh complex, near the light rail station, guarantees easy access to all parts of the city – but between us, only a sucker agrees to go out. There’s so much to do and see at The George that every minute outside is a waste. From 1,464 NIS.
Israel Tal 5 Tel Aviv //For reservations
17. InterContinental David
A huge pool almost right on the waterfront, a pampering spa that makes the world look suddenly more beautiful, a cocktail bar, and more wrap the heart of the InterContinental David – the rooms and suites that reflect today’s most spot-on trend: quiet luxury that seeps into every cell of your body. In this Tel Aviv lifestyle refuge, all elegance and comfort, a big, soft king-size bed delivers sweet dreams, the bathroom is outfitted with everything you might need (just bring your own perfume), and the view is priceless.
An Israeli breakfast in every sense of the word sprawls across several buffets laden with pastries, steaming egg dishes, fresh salads, cheeses, and more, living up to its reputation. And since you can’t just eat and rest all the time, on weekends the hotel offers guests wine tastings, yoga, a tour of Neve Tzedek, and other experiences that linger long after you’re back home. From 2,160 NIS.
Kaufmann 12 Tel Aviv //For reservations
18. Carlton Tel Aviv
The title “Best Hotel in Israel” from the World Travel Awards suits Carlton Tel Aviv’s many virtues – from the valet to the rooftop pool, with the shoreline unfurling before your eyes like an AI image. Between the foundation and the finery of this urban gem are no fewer than two restaurants – FLAME, the excellent spot by chef Oren Asido, and the new Marina Dallal, perched right above the water – as well as a pampering spa and a sexy summer bar.
The rooms are a model of quiet luxury, naturally including a soft bed draped in crisp white linens, a sparkling bathroom, and generous amenities, and check-in is far more pleasant with a cocktail and petit fours. Breakfast will take your breath away not only thanks to the abundance of options and flavors (including a dedicated gluten-free corner) but also thanks to the views of the marina, Gordon Pool, and the city that never rests. From 1,800 NIS.
Eliezer Peri 10 Tel Aviv //For reservations
19. David Kempinski
It’s not every day that a Tel Aviv hotel makes an international list, but David Kempinski did it in style: number 15 of the top 20 hotels in the Middle East in Condé Nast Traveler’s coveted Readers’ Choice Awards. Each of the hotel’s 250 rooms is outfitted well beyond five-star level. In the bathroom you’ll find Molton Brown toiletries, and the two-meter-wide bed is dressed in fine cotton linens with goose-down pillows for sweet dreams. The presidential suite is A-list fantasy territory, with a private indoor pool and elevator, personal butler, and a Macallan bar.
A luxurious spa, two kosher restaurants, a whisky-and-cigar bar, and an infinity pool facing the sea fulfill the international brand’s promises, and the Ladies and Gentlemen in Red—you’ll spot them by their red jackets—make sure every wish and request is fully granted. From 2,800 NIS.
Hayarkon 51 Tel Aviv //For reservations
20. The Setai Tel Aviv
Don’t let the name fool you: despite the strong ties to Miami and the nod to Tel Aviv, the Setai is a full-on Jaffa icon. And yes, it’s hard to imagine that just a few decades ago this beautiful structure was infamous as the Kishle, an Ottoman-era jail that also operated during the Mandate period. Portions of the city walls and the historic building were meticulously restored and now serve as a unique decorative element blending seamlessly into the luxurious design.
So what makes The Setai Tel Aviv a boutique hotel worthy of this distinguished list? Pretty much everything – rooms and suites facing the sea (unless you opt for a restored room, which has tons of atmosphere and less view), a stunning new pool, a patio dotted with fruit trees, a spa, the upscale Japon restaurant, a gym, and service that wraps every moment of your stay in pampering. From 1,840 NIS.
David Raziel 22 Jaffa //For reservations