How long does it take to walk through Sarona?

A typical self-guided adventure through Sarona takes between 90 to 120 minutes. This includes time to explore the Sarona Market and stroll through the historic gardens at a leisurely pace.

Is Sarona Market worth visiting?

Yes, it is Israel's largest indoor culinary market and a must-see for foodies. It features a wide variety of local Israeli flavors alongside international gourmet products in a modern, upscale environment.

Is Sarona Tel Aviv accessible for strollers?

Absolutely. Sarona is one of the most accessible areas in Tel Aviv, featuring flat, paved paths, ramps, and spacious elevators in the market area, making it ideal for families with strollers.

What were the Templar houses in Sarona used for?

Originally built as residences and farmhouses for German Templars in the 1870s, these buildings later served as British military barracks and then as the first offices for the Israeli government.

Can I visit Sarona on a Saturday?

Yes, the park itself is open, and it is a popular spot for locals on Shabbat. However, many of the boutique shops and some stalls in Sarona Market may be closed or have limited hours from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening.

Where is the best place to start a neighborhood stroll in Sarona?

Most visitors start at the Sarona Market entrance on Aluf Kalman Magen Street. It is easily accessible from the Hashalom Train Station and provides an immediate introduction to the area's vibe.

Are there any hidden gems in Sarona?

The underground tunnels used for wine cellars and later by the Israeli Air Force are a fascinating hidden gem. Additionally, the historic 'moving' of the houses on rails is a unique engineering fact many visitors overlook.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Nestled beneath the soaring glass skyscrapers of Tel Aviv’s modern business district lies a quiet oasis of red-tiled roofs and lush greenery. This self-guided walk through Sarona invites you to step back in time to 1871, when German Templars arrived in Ottoman-era Palestine to establish a model agricultural colony. This neighborhood stroll reveals a fascinating juxtaposition where 19th-century European architecture meets 21st-century urban design. As you explore independently, you will discover how these historic buildings have lived many lives: from a pietist Christian settlement to a British military base, and eventually to the birthplace of Israel's civil service. This walking route is perfect for history enthusiasts and foodies alike. You will begin at the vibrant Sarona Market, Israel’s largest indoor culinary market, before moving into the serene park grounds. The area is famous for its meticulous restoration project, which involved literally moving entire historic houses on rails to widen the surrounding streets. On this audio walk, you will learn about the Templars’ innovative farming techniques and the dramatic events that led to their departure. Beyond the history, Sarona offers a peaceful escape from the city's frantic pace. The secret gardens and lily ponds provide a tranquil backdrop for a morning or afternoon exploration. Whether you are interested in the architectural heritage of the Bauhaus's predecessors or looking to sample local delicacies, this self-guided adventure provides a comprehensive look at one of the city's most unique layers. Discover the hidden gems of the colony at your own pace, taking time to enjoy the boutique shops and shaded benches that make Sarona a local favorite. This walking tour Tel Aviv experience bridges the gap between the city's humble beginnings and its high-tech future, offering a narrative that is as complex as it is beautiful.

Highlights

Explore the historic red-tiled Templar houses from the 1870s

Visit the bustling Sarona Market for local and international delicacies

Learn about the massive engineering feat of moving historic buildings on rails

Stroll through the tranquil lily ponds and botanical gardens of Sarona Park

Discover the site where Israel's first government offices were housed

See the contrast between 19th-century architecture and modern skyscrapers

Tour Stops (4)

Sarona Market

Welcome to the start of your neighborhood stroll. Before you stands Sarona Market, a modern culinary landmark housed in a structure that echoes the industrial heritage of this area. It is the largest indoor market in Israel, featuring over 90 shops and restaurants. While it feels contemporary, this site was once part of the Templar fields. Today, it serves as a bridge between the old colony and the new city. Take a moment to breathe in the scents of fresh spices, local cheeses, and international pastries. This is a perfect spot to grab a snack or a coffee before we delve deeper into the 19th-century history that lies just outside these glass doors.

Sarona-HaKirya Visitors' Center

This building serves as the gateway to the Templar story. The German Templars were a religious group who believed that settling in the Holy Land would hasten the second coming. They were pioneers in modern agriculture and architecture in Palestine. One of the most incredible stories here is not just about the people, but the buildings themselves. In 2005, to make room for the expansion of Kaplan Street, five of these massive stone houses were moved 30 meters using a sophisticated system of rails and hydraulic jacks. It was one of the most complex preservation projects in Israel's history, ensuring that the legacy of the colony remained intact despite the city's growth.

Sarona Park

As you walk through these manicured paths, you are standing in what was once the heart of the agricultural colony. The Templars planted vineyards and orchards here, introducing European farming methods to the region. Notice the lily ponds and the carefully preserved trees. This park is designed to be an urban 'breathing space.' The restoration preserved 37 original buildings, which now house boutiques and cafes. Look for the distinct architectural features: thick stone walls, arched windows, and wooden shutters, all designed to keep the interiors cool during the Mediterranean summer without the luxury of modern air conditioning.

Sarona Historic Colony

Our final stop brings us to the broader colony area. Following the outbreak of World War II, the British authorities interned the Templars as enemy nationals, and the colony was converted into a British military camp known as 'Camp Sarona.' After the British left in 1947, the site became 'HaKirya,' the first headquarters for the emerging Israeli government and military. Many of the buildings you see hosted the very first government ministries. Today, the area is a vibrant mix of history and leisure, surrounded by the HaKirya military base and the Azrieli towers. It stands as a testament to Tel Aviv's ability to reinvent itself while honoring its multifaceted past.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through Sarona is highly recommended. It covers the 19th-century German Templar history, the British Mandate period, and the early days of the State of Israel, all within a beautifully restored park setting.