Step back into 19th-century small town America at this charming neighbourhood where boutiques, cafés and wooden houses line cobblestone streets.

Squeezed between some of Tel Aviv’s liveliest shopping and entertainment districts is the easy-going American Colony (aka American-German Colony). Here, decaying houses stand beside landmark buildings erected by North American and German settlers. Wander the streets of the American Colony to experience a vibe world’s away from the typical fast pace of the city. Visit a small history museum and browse fashion shops.

The story of the area began in the latter half of the 1800s, when religious leader George J. Adams and over 100 colonists left Maine with a plan to settle in Palestine. They travelled for 42 days, bringing with them the materials to construct New England-style homes. Pressure from Ottoman rulers, difficulties in cultivating the land and illness forced many to return to the U.S. Germany settlers arrived in 1869 and had greater success in creating a prosperous colony.

Walk on Auerbach and Bar Hoffman streets to see the best examples of the American prefabricated wooden houses. One, the Maine Friendship House, is a museum with exhibits about the neighbourhood’s history. It opens on Friday and Saturday afternoons only or by prior reservation. Visit the nearby century-old Immanuel Church, notable for its red-tiled roof and stained-glass windows. Attend weekend mass services in English and free organ concerts, which take place throughout the year.

Sample authentic Israeli cuisine, such as falafel, hummus and shakshouka, at the neighbourhood’s casual restaurants. Don’t miss The Village, a modern residential complex set around a plaza with buildings that resemble the New England colonial style. A short walk from here you’ll find independent artist studios, clothing and jewellery stores. Catch comedies, dramas and musicals at the Gesher Theatre.

The American Colony sits to the east of Tel Aviv’s historic Jaffa neighbourhood and is around a 15-minute drive from the City Centre. Several public bus lines travel here from the main station. Combine your time here with a visit to the chic shops and museums of Neve Tzedek. Experience the city’s nightlife in Florentin and along Rothschild Boulevard.