Hatachana
Hatachana (the "railway station") is a fascinating place where history, commercialism and renovation all come together to form a charming and historically meaningful area. The old train station on the Jaffa-Jerusalem line, located between the sea shore and the Neveh Zedek neighborhood, has been artfully renovated into a stylish complex of boutique shops, restaurants and cute, little markets. Any trip to Tel Aviv really should include a stop-by here.
The station was part of the first railway line between Little Asia and Egypt and operated from 1892 to 1948. In 2005, the Tel Aviv municipality took over the railway complex and began the process of renovation. The previously jumbled mass of railway cars, tracks and an ugly old concrete factory at Hatachana is now where modern meets bohemian chic, where arty meets practical and where some of the best shops and restaurants in Tel Aviv are to be found.
The commercialism did not come at the expense of historical authenticity. Hatachana complex includes, among others, the historic train station, the freight terminal, Templar Hugo Wieland’s building materials and tile factory and the Wieland family’s home – “Villa Wieland”. These historical structures have been lovingly restored and are surely worth a visit.
You’ll find in Hatachana lots of trendy shops, famous brands, as well as chic fashion designers. When you're tired with shopping you can sit in one of the delightful cafés and restaurants. The complex also hosts many art exhibitions and unique performances on a regular basis. Every week, Hatachana hosts "UNIQUE", a designer/artist/craft fair on Thursday evenings from 7:00pm- midnight. Fridays from 8:00am-2:00pm is "Orbanic", an organic fruit & vegetable market that also showcases eco-friendly household & beauty products.
This lovely complex really does have enough sights and sounds to thrill the senses and it may well be the new kid on the block, but already its reputation is such that you really have to check it out.