The 10 best markets in Israel

There’s no better place to immerse yourself in a foreign country’s culture than its markets. Israeli markets, whether dedicated to foodstuff, crafts, antiques or a heady mix of all of the above, are vibrant destinations.

Here are the best ones to include in your itinerary:

Machane Yehuda Market, Jerusalem

Jerusalem’s large market of over 250 stalls is the city’s beating heart throughout the week, even more so on on Friday as locals get ready for the Jewish Shabbat.

To help you create an itinerary and discover the local flavours, opt for the Machane Yehuda Shuk Bite Card taking you to selected merchants around the market. Expect a visual and flavoursome feast!

Open: Everyday except Saturday.
Times: 8:00 – 18:00 Sunday to Thursday; 8:00 – 15:00 Friday

HaCarmel Market, Tel Aviv

Vibrant doesn’t say the beginning of it when it comes to Carmel Market in the heart of Tel Aviv. Visitors and locals are drawn to this walkway that displays the freshest produce Israel has to offer alongside appetising food stalls and souvenirs stands.

Make the most out of it with a Shuk HaCarmel Market Bite Card enabling you to sample some of the most typical food and drink on offer.

Open: Everyday except Saturday.
Times: 8:00 – 17:30 Sunday to Thursday; 8:00 – 15:00 Friday (varies depending on the season)

Tel Aviv Port Market

The renovated port in the north of Tel Aviv, the “Namal”, hosts a covered market which is every foodie’s dream. There you can find chefs’ cooking stations side by side to gourmet stores, stands displaying fresh produces, breads, cheese and local fares.

A special Farmers’ Market takes place every Friday.

Open: Everyday except Sunday.
Times: 8:30 – 19:00 Monday to Thursday and Saturday; 7:00 – 16:00 Friday.

Levinsky Market, Tel Aviv

For an authentic journey through Israeli and Middle Eastern food, head to Levinsky Market in South Tel Aviv. With a Levinsky Market Bite Card you’ll sample some of the locals’ favourite foodstuff such as bourekas and hummus and enjoy the banter of the friendly merchants.

Open: Everyday except Saturday.
Times: 9:00 – 17:30 Sunday to Thursday; 9:00 – 14:00 Friday.

Jaffa Flea Market

One of the most charismatic markets in Israel, the “Shuk HaPishpushim” in Jaffa is a treasure trove for beautiful antiques, retro and vintage items, and unusual souvenirs. Part of the experience is to haggle there, so don’t hesitate to discuss the price with the sellers.

Thanks to the Jaffa Flea Market Bite Card you’ll be able to discover local flavours around the market too.

Open: Everyday except Saturday.
Times: 9:00 – 17:00 Sunday to Thursday; 9:00 – 14:00 Friday.

Old City Souk, Jerusalem

Narrow alleyways burst at the seams with small shops selling everything from souvenirs to fresh pomegranate juices. A good place if you’re looking for religious artifacts from the three monotheistic faiths — haggling is obligatory — it might feel overwhelming at times.

A more relaxed option is to take part in a guided walking tour around the Old City that includes the souk.

Open: Everyday.
Times: 8:00 till late evening for most stores.

Bezalel Arts Fair, Jerusalem

Every Friday in Jerusalem, you can wander through displays of beautiful local crafts, arts, and souvenirs to the sound of live music at the Bezalel pedestrian mall. For young and confirmed artists and designers it’s the opportunity to showcase their creations and for visitors the occasion to purchase something unique.

Open: Tuesday and Friday.
Times: 10:00 – 18:00.

Acre Market

For a real taste of Middle Eastern marketplace, few destinations beat Akko. Located in the Old City the northern town’s market offers a wide range of tasty fares, local staples, antiques and household goods. Locals shop there so it’s also an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the hustle and bustle of the city.

Open: Everyday.
Times: 8:00 – 17:00.

Nazareth Old City Market

Israel’s largest Arab city is home to a vibrant ‘souq’ where merchants sell spices, local delicatessen, and a host of flavoursome and colourful items. A lively destination, especially on Fridays, this market in the Galilee is worth a stop if you’re on a private guided tour to the North of Israel.