Israelis love their food! And they get a lot of their fresh produce from food markets across the country. Visiting food markets is a great way to mingle with locals and soak up the local atmosphere.
Carmel Market, Tel Aviv
Carmel Market is often the only Israeli market visited by tourists and it can be included on an Israeli tour. Ask your Israeli tour guide to show you the adjacent Kerem HaTemanim and Nachali Benyamin markets. On these side streets, you’ll find the best falafel in Tel Aviv. If you have a private tour guide in Israel you can visit some of the country’s other excellent markets.
Levinsky Market, Tel Aviv
Not far from Carmel Market is Levinsky, a haven in the bustling city. Here locals enjoy the sidewalk cafes, and sacks of spices, nuts, and dried fruit spill from the stores. Stop at Café Atlas for coffee and people-watching.
Port Market, Tel Aviv
Unlike other Israeli food markets on this list, Shuk HaNamal is an indoor modern farmers’ market. Find specialty items and organic fresh produce here.
Machane Yehuda, Jerusalem
This is one of the largest and most popular food markets in Israel. There is a huge variety of foods, a few quirky stalls, and excellent market restaurants. Among the restaurants are those serving Ethiopian cuisine, British fish and chips, and Iraqi specialties.
Old City Market, Acre
If you’re looking for a market with no frills attached this is the one! The market stalls line the narrow streets of the old Crusader city. This authentic Middle Eastern food market is excellent for taking candid photos of locals.
Wadi Nisnas Market, Haifa
Unlike other Israeli food markets, this one is smaller and a hidden gem! Visit Wadi Nisnas Market for authentic Middle Eastern atmosphere, and fresh produce straight from the fields.
Ramla Market, Ramla
Ramla is often overlooked by tourists. The market dates back to the Ottoman Empire, but today in addition to ethnic foods and traditional flavors you’ll find modern foods as well. It is famed for its authentic Indian restaurants and Indian spices.
