Your visit to Tel Aviv wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Florentin, a neighborhood east of Neve Tzedek. It’s a fascinating mix of old and new, with workshops nestled beside homes, young people sharing space with longtime residents, and a unique blend of gentrification and local character.

Florentin’s history is evident in its architecture. You’ll see Bauhaus buildings, some perfectly preserved and others undergoing renovations to recapture their former glory. Originally planned as a working-class area in the city, Florentin bustled with commerce and industry. Residents benefitted from the Jaffa-Jerusalem train that ran nearby, but its closure in 1948 took a toll on the neighborhood’s economy. Florentin went into decline, with residents moving to more prosperous areas.

Today, Florentin is experiencing a huge revival. It’s become a haven for students, young adults, and migrant workers who appreciate its special vibe, energetic nightlife, and affordable rents. A walk through Florentin during the day is a feast for the senses. Bustling workshops line the narrow streets, each with its own specialty – furniture on Herzl, chandeliers on Wolfson, and costume jewelry on Kfar Giladi. The air vibrates with activity.

But Florentin truly comes alive at night. Vital Street is the heart of the neighborhood’s nightlife. Trendy bars, cafes, and clubs overflow with young people, music spills out onto the street. Florentin is a place definitely worth visiting while in Tel Aviv, where you can experience the past, present, and future of the city all at once.