Tel Aviv's Hilton Beach reflects
the hedonism that earns the city
its title of The Bubble.
Photo: Rick Lew for Condé Nast Traveler

This city definitely wasn't built it a day. A hundred years after its conception, Tel Aviv is now a phenomenon of Mediterranean style. In Condé Nast Traveler's June issue, Adam Lebor wandered the city's mosaic of cuisines, clubs, and cultures. Here are some his favorite spots to hit along Tel Aviv's shores:

* The downtown Cinema Hotel is a marvelously restored former 1930s movie house, with free Wi-Fi and guest bicycles (520-7100; doubles; $188-$250).

* If you want to be closer to the water, the recently restored low-rise Dan Tel Aviv, with its multicolored facade and original 1960s furniture, is the best seafront option (520-2525; doubles; $314-$434).

* When you get hungry after hours of sunbathing--and believe us, you will--check out Orna and Ella, a legendary café on hip Sheinkin Street. Try the sweet potato pancakes and three-flavored falafel (33 Sheinkin St.; 620-4573; entrées, $13-$24).

* Nightlife in Tel Aviv typically gets started late, around 10 p.m. HaOman 17 is Israel's best-known superclub, luring international DJs for serious late-night partying (88 Arbabanel St.; 681-3636).

For more from Tel Aviv, pick up a copy of the June issue or read "Viva Tel Aviv" on cntraveler.com.