The Setai Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv, Israel
Old City
Vibe
Glass-enclosed courtyards filled with citrus trees meet centuries of limestone architecture beside the Old Jaffa port.
“Restored fortress keep”
Preserved limestone archways and spiked iron prison bars meet hand-woven Turkish rugs and Arabesque brass lighting.
A restored twelfth-century Crusader fortress and Ottoman prison, complete with original stone corridors and royal sultan seals.
Set by Jaffa Clock Tower, pairing panoramic port views with lavish Israeli breakfasts and regional Mediterranean dishes.
At Clock Tower Square by the entrance to Old Jaffa, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
“The Setai Tel Aviv combines the beauty of its ancient surroundings with a Middle Eastern elegance.”
Rooms
Walnut millwork, laser-cut brass lighting, and Turkish rugs complement exposed stone walls and marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs.
“the hotel pays homage to its fascinating – and sometimes brutal – history through distinctive design features and Ottoman-inspired decor.”
Wellness
A rooftop infinity pool looks out across the Mediterranean Sea, while the subterranean spa centers on a traditional Turkish hammam.
“Spread over three newly created floors, the 120 rooms and suites feature an Ottoman-inspired design, complete with richly colored Turkish rugs…”
Backstory
The former Ottoman prison and Crusader fortress retains the carved stone royal seal of Sultan Abdul Hamid II above its entrance.
Eat & drink
Jaya serves generous Israeli breakfasts in the central courtyard, while Kishle Bar pours craft cocktails beneath vaulted stone arches.
The neighborhood
Set at Clock Tower Square, the entrance to Old Jaffa places the ancient port, flea market, and coastline steps away.
More like this
The Norman Tel Aviv
“Restored White City townhouse”
Central
The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.