The Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel) is the largest and busiest market in Tel Aviv. This is a vibrant marketplace where traders sell everything from clothing to spices, and fruit to electronics. When in Tel-Aviv, visiting the market is a must. The hustle and bustle, vibrant noises, amazing smells, and unique street food make it an amazing experience.
The Carmel Market first opened in 1920, only a few years after the establishment of the city. It is bordered by Allenby Street and Magen David Square and is principally located along Carmel Street (which becomes King George Street after Magen David Square), but has expanded over time to streets such as Nahalat Binyamin Street.
Although much of the consumption is now done in other, more advanced, marketing channels, the market is still immensely popular. Its narrow street is busy whenever you visit, particularly before Shabbat on Thursdays and Fridays, as the residents buy supplies before the weekend. Walking in the market, you will rub shoulders with a cross-section of Israel, as the local stall vendors pitch their supply. You may not understand the language, but there’s no escaping the excitement. Knowing you are a tourist, the friendly vendors will also try to do it in English (probably bad, but with a smile).
The market is open every day of the week, except Shabbat (Saturday), and sells mostly food but also a variety of items such as home accessories, and flowers. Tuesdays and Fridays are the signature days at the market as several independent artists and vendors sell unique crafts, art, and jewelry along Nahalat Binyamin Street. Recent years have seen a growing number of boutique stalls and food places opening alongside the traditional traders. They range from boutique beers to arrays of halva, and small eateries that take advantage of the market’s produce.
The atmosphere in Shuk HaCarmel is the essence of Tel Aviv’s Middle Eastern character and also the place to find excellent bargains. Having said that, it can be a bit overwhelming for a first-time visitor and might feel a bit too crowded during rush hours. If you are new to the middle eastern vibe and want to make sure you see get to see the best places the market has to offer, you might prefer to take a guided tour. several local businesses offer “food tours” in the market, in which you get to explore and taste samples from different local vendors and restaurants.
Whether you spend just an hour or two rubbing shoulders with Carmel Market regulars and the tourists that flock there, or put on your walking shoes for an extended tour of the adjoining Yemenite Quarter (“Kerem HaTemanim”), which offers an excellent choice of casual ethnic restaurants for dining throughout the day, this is one Tel Aviv institution that is sure to be high on any Tel Aviv bucket list of places to see.
The Carmel Market Opening Houres
During summer months, the market is open –
- Sunday through Thursday, 7 am till evening (closing starts around 6 pm).
- Fridays, 7 am till afternoon (two hours before Shabbat enters).
During the winter, opening hours are –
- Sunday through Thursday, 7 am till evening (closing starts around 4 pm).
- Fridays, 7 am till afternoon (two hours before Shabbat enters).
