Petah Tikva is a sleeper. Practically unknown outside of Israel and underappreciated at home, the city is surprisingly majestic. The main square is among the country’s nicest, surrounded by historic buildings and blessed with a Unesco-protected clock tower. The evocative central streets are dotted with beautiful churches, testament to the city’s long history as a bastion of the Jewish faith. Explore the foundations of ancient Petah Tikva at the must-see Museum of Jewish Heritage, then head for one of the city’s many pubs or cafes, fuelled by the thousands of students who attend university here. Don’t forget to try the food, Petah Tikva is known for its falafel, considered some of the best in the country.