Getting Around Israel
Israel is compact and well-connected. Here's everything you need to know about transportation options for exploring the country.
Transportation Options
Choose the best way to get around based on your needs
Israel Railways
Fast, comfortable trains connecting major cities
Coverage
- Tel Aviv ↔ Jerusalem (30 min)
- Tel Aviv ↔ Haifa (1 hr)
- Tel Aviv ↔ Ben Gurion Airport (20 min)
- Haifa ↔ Acre (30 min)
Tips
- Book online for discounts
- Rav-Kav card works on trains
- No service on Shabbat
- Free WiFi on most trains
Egged & Dan Buses
Extensive network covering the entire country
Coverage
- All cities and towns
- Urban routes within cities
- Intercity express services
- Desert and remote areas
Tips
- Download Moovit app for routes
- Rav-Kav card recommended
- Limited Shabbat service
- Express buses are faster
Car Rental
Freedom to explore at your own pace
Coverage
- All major rental companies
- Pickup at Ben Gurion Airport
- GPS navigation recommended
- Excellent road conditions
Tips
- Book in advance for best rates
- International license accepted
- Watch for speed cameras
- Parking can be challenging in cities
Taxi & Rideshare
Convenient door-to-door service
Coverage
- Gett app (Israeli Uber)
- Traditional taxis (white)
- Sherut (shared taxis)
- 24/7 availability
Tips
- Always use the meter or agree price first
- Gett provides fare estimates
- Sherut runs fixed routes at lower prices
- Tipping not expected but appreciated
From the Airport
Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) - Between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem
| Destination | Method | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tel Aviv | Train | 15-20 min | ₪14 |
| Jerusalem | Train | 25 min | ₪18 |
| Haifa | Train | 1.5 hrs | ₪40 |
| Any destination | Taxi/Gett | Varies | ₪100-250 |
Driving in Israel
Planning to rent a car? Here are some helpful tips
Navigation
Waze (Israeli-made!) and Google Maps work perfectly. Download offline maps for desert areas.
Peak Hours
Avoid driving in Tel Aviv 7-9 AM and 4-7 PM on weekdays. Friday afternoon traffic is heavy.
Toll Roads
Highway 6 is a toll road. Rental cars have transponders - charges are added to your bill.
Speed Limits
Urban: 50 km/h, Rural: 80-90 km/h, Highway: 100-120 km/h. Many speed cameras!
Shabbat Transportation
Most public transportation in Israel stops during Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday night). Plan accordingly:
- Friday sunset to Saturday night: Most public transport stops
- Sherut (shared taxis) operate on some routes
- Gett and regular taxis available but may cost more
- Plan your Friday travel in advance
- Tel Aviv has more services than other cities
Get a Rav-Kav Card
The Rav-Kav is Israel's rechargeable public transport card. It works on buses, trains, and light rail. Purchase one at any train station or central bus station.
- Discounted fares vs. cash
- Free transfers within 90 minutes
- Works on all public transport
- Rechargeable at stations & kiosks
Cost: ₪5 for the card + loaded value
Rav-Kav Card
Your key to public transport
Ready to Hit the Road?
Explore our destinations and plan your perfect Israeli road trip