The Tel Aviv Marathon offers a flat, fast course through one of the most vibrant and energetic cities on the Mediterranean. Starting and finishing near the Tel Aviv Convention Centre (Expo Tel Aviv) in the northern part of the city, the route takes runners along the stunning Mediterranean coastline, through the historic streets of Jaffa, past the iconic Bauhaus "White City" architecture, and along the bustling Rothschild Boulevard. Tel Aviv is a sun-drenched, cosmopolitan city with an incredible food scene, beautiful beaches, and a non-stop energy that's infectious.
This article contains affiliate links. If you book through our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The Event
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Event | Tel Aviv Marathon 2026 |
| Date | November 6, 2026 |
| Venue | Expo Tel Aviv (Convention Centre area) |
| Address | Rokach Boulevard, Tel Aviv, Israel |
| Airport | Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) |
Early November in Tel Aviv is pleasantly warm. Expect temperatures of 17–26°C (63–79°F) with mostly sunny skies and low humidity — ideal marathon weather, though it can feel warm by midday.
The Venue: Expo Tel Aviv / Convention Centre
The start and finish area is located near Expo Tel Aviv on Rokach Boulevard in the northern part of the city, close to the Yarkon Park green belt. The area is well served by buses and is accessible from central Tel Aviv. The course is entirely flat, running through the city streets and along the Mediterranean promenade.
What's nearby:
- Yarkon Park — Tel Aviv's largest park, stretching along the Yarkon River with paths, gardens, and a boating lake — perfect for shakeout runs
- Tel Aviv Port (Namal) — A revitalised waterfront area with restaurants, shops, and a farmers' market on Fridays
- Rabin Square — The central city square, about 2 km south, and a landmark along the course
- Old Jaffa — The ancient port city at the southern end of the course, with winding streets, galleries, and sea views
Important: The marathon takes place on a Friday, which is the start of Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath). Many businesses close Friday afternoon and all day Saturday. Plan your dining and shopping accordingly — Thursday and Friday morning are your best pre-race windows.
Where to Stay
The best areas to stay are along the beachfront (Hayarkon Street) and the city centre around Rothschild Boulevard and Dizengoff. Both put you close to the course, the beach, and the best restaurants. The northern beachfront near the Tel Aviv Port is closest to the start/finish area.
The Norman Tel Aviv — Top Pick
A luxury boutique hotel housed in two beautifully restored 1920s Bauhaus buildings on Nachmani Street. The Norman offers elegant rooms, a stunning rooftop pool, and an acclaimed restaurant. It's centrally located on a quiet street near Rothschild Boulevard, about 3 km from the start — easily reachable by taxi. One of the finest hotels in Israel.
Hotel Indigo Tel Aviv Diamond District — Closest to Start
Located on Jabotinsky Street near the Diamond Exchange district, this modern hotel is one of the closest options to the start/finish area at the Convention Centre, about 1.5 km away. Rooms are stylish and comfortable, with a rooftop pool and bar offering city views. Well connected by bus and taxi.
Abraham Hostel Tel Aviv — Best Value
One of the highest-rated hostels in the world, Abraham Hostel offers both dorms and excellent private rooms in a prime location on Levontin Street near Rothschild Boulevard. The social atmosphere, daily events, and on-site bar make it a fantastic base. About 4 km from the start by taxi.
Getting There
From Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV)
Ben Gurion Airport is located about 20 km southeast of Tel Aviv, near the city of Lod.
| Option | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | ~15 min | ₪13.50 | Direct to Tel Aviv HaHagana, HaShalom, or Savidor stations; does not run on Shabbat |
| Taxi/Gett | ~20–30 min | ₪150–200 | Use Gett app or official taxi stand; fixed airport rate |
| Shared shuttle (sherut) | ~30–40 min | ₪50–60 | Shared minivans; runs even on Shabbat |
The train is the fastest and cheapest option on regular days. On Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening), trains don't run — use a sherut (shared taxi) or the Gett app instead.
Public Transport
Tel Aviv has a growing public transport network including the new Red Line light rail (operational 2024), an extensive bus network (Dan and Egged), and commuter trains. The Rav-Kav card works on all systems. Note that public transport does not operate during Shabbat (Friday afternoon to Saturday evening).
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| Single bus ride | ₪5.50 |
| Daily pass (Rav-Kav) | ₪13.50 |
| Weekly pass | ₪52 |
Buy a Rav-Kav card at the airport or any train station. On Shabbat, use taxis, Gett, or electric scooters (Lime, Bird) to get around.
Where to Eat
Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel) — Tel Aviv's biggest and liveliest market, bursting with fresh produce, spices, baked goods, and street food stalls. Come hungry and graze your way through.
Rothschild Boulevard / Neve Tzedek — Trendy streets lined with cafés, brunch spots, and upscale restaurants. This is where Tel Aviv's food-obsessed culture is most visible.
Tel Aviv Food to Try
- Hummus — Creamy, warm, and served with pita, olive oil, and foul (fava beans); Abu Hassan (Ali Karavan) in Jaffa is legendary
- Shakshuka — Eggs poached in a spiced tomato and pepper sauce, served in a sizzling pan; the ultimate Israeli breakfast
- Sabich — A pita stuffed with fried eggplant, hard-boiled egg, hummus, tahini, and amba sauce — a uniquely Israeli street food
- Fresh falafel — Crispy, herby chickpea fritters in warm pita with salads and tahini; available on virtually every street corner
- Malabi — A rose water-scented milk pudding topped with sweet syrup, coconut, and pistachios; a refreshing post-race dessert
Budget eating: Tel Aviv's street food scene is outstanding and affordable. A falafel or sabich pita costs ₪20–30 (about $5–8 USD), and a plate of hummus at a local spot is ₪30–45. The Carmel Market and Levinsky Market are great for cheap, authentic bites.
Essential Tel Aviv Tips
Currency. Israeli New Shekel (ILS / ₪).
Cash vs card. Card payments are widely accepted. Carry some cash for market stalls, smaller restaurants, and tips. ATMs are easy to find.
Tipping. 10–15% at restaurants is standard and expected. Round up for taxis.
Language. Hebrew is the primary language, with Arabic also widely spoken. English proficiency is very high — most Israelis speak English fluently, especially in Tel Aviv.
Weather in November. Warm and mostly sunny. Temperatures of 17–26°C (63–79°F) with occasional rain showers. The sea is still warm enough for swimming. Evenings cool down — bring a light layer.
Safety. Tel Aviv is a safe city with a vibrant street life. Normal urban precautions apply. Check travel advisories before your trip for the latest security situation. The marathon is a well-secured and heavily attended event.
What to See
- Old Jaffa — One of the world's oldest port cities, with winding stone streets, art galleries, the Jaffa Flea Market, and sea views; beautifully atmospheric at sunset
- White City Bauhaus architecture — Tel Aviv has over 4,000 Bauhaus/International Style buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; take a walking tour along Rothschild and Dizengoff
- Carmel Market — Dive into the sensory overload of spices, produce, fresh juice, and street food; best visited mid-morning
- Tel Aviv Beach and Promenade — The 14 km Mediterranean promenade is perfect for a recovery walk or jog; Gordon Beach and Frishman Beach are the most popular
- Neve Tzedek — Tel Aviv's oldest neighbourhood, now a charming enclave of boutique shops, galleries, and cafés
- Sarona Market — A gourmet indoor food market in a restored Templar colony; excellent for high-quality local food and wine
Quick Reference
| Need | Answer |
|---|---|
| Airport | Ben Gurion International (TLV), ~25 min from venue |
| Venue | Expo Tel Aviv, Rokach Boulevard |
| Nearest station | Tel Aviv Savidor / University train station |
| Transport to venue | Train from airport + bus/taxi to Expo |
| Currency | Israeli New Shekel (ILS / ₪) |
| Cash needed? | Sometimes — for markets and small vendors |
| Language | Hebrew (excellent English widely spoken) |
| Weather | 17–26°C (63–79°F), warm and sunny |
| Tipping | 10–15% at restaurants |
| Emergency | 100 (police) / 101 (ambulance) |
This guide will be updated as more event details are confirmed. Last updated: May 2026.