Articles on: Post Aliyah

Intercity Travel & Car Sharing Services in Israel

Israel - Complete Guide

Overview: Getting Around Israel

The Israeli Transportation Landscape

Israel is a small country but well-connected:

ï Tel Aviv to Jerusalem: 1 hour

ï Tel Aviv to Haifa: 1-1.5 hours

ï Tel Aviv to Be'er Sheva: 1-1.5 hours

ï Tel Aviv to Eilat: 4-5 hours

ï Most major cities accessible by multiple transport modes

Main intercity options:

ï Trains (fastest for major routes)

ï Intercity buses (most comprehensive network)

ï Sherut/shared taxis (flexible, run on Shabbat)

ï Rental cars (most flexible but expensive)

ï Car sharing services (growing option)

ï Ride-sharing apps (convenient but pricey for long distances)

**Important note: **Most public transport shuts down for Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening), except in Haifa and some sherut services.

Israel Railways (ישראל רכבת) - Train Travel

Why Trains Are Great

Advantages: Fast - No traffic delays Comfortable - Spacious seats, AC Reliable schedules Scenic routes (coastal line especially) Work/relax while traveling Frequent service on major routes Clean and modern Less stressful than driving

Disadvantages: Limited routes (mainly coastal, some inland) No service to Eilat (yet)

Some cities not connected Reduced weekend service Need to get to/from stations (first/last mile problem)

Main Train Routes

Coastal Line (Most frequent):

ï Nahariya → Akko → Haifa → Hadera → Netanya → Herzliya → Tel Aviv → Rehovot →

Ashdod → Ashkelon

ï Frequency: Every 10-30 minutes during peak hours

ï Runs north-south along coast

Tel Aviv - Jerusalem:

ï Fast train (opened 2018)

ï 28 minutes non-stop express

ï 32-40 minutes regular service

ï Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes

ï One of the fastest train routes in Middle East

ï Goes through tunnels under mountains

Tel Aviv - Ben Gurion Airport:

ï Direct service from most coastal stations

ï 10-20 minute frequency

ï Essential for airport access

ï Luggage space available

Modi'in Line:

ï Tel Aviv → Modi'in

ï Connects to Jerusalem line

ï Growing commuter route

Be'er Sheva Lines:

ï From Tel Aviv

ï From Jerusalem

ï Frequency: Hourly

ï Main connection to Negev

Bet Shemesh Line:

ï From Tel Aviv

ï Scenic route through hills

ï Growing commuter route

Train Stations - Major Hubs

Tel Aviv area:

ï **Tel Aviv HaHagana **(ההגנה אביב תל) - Main station

ï **Tel Aviv Savidor Center **(מרכז סבידור אביב תל) - Central, busy

ï **Tel Aviv University **(אביב תל אוניברסיטת)

ï **Bnei Brak **(ברק בני)

ï **Petach Tikva **(תקווה פתח)

Jerusalem:

ï **Jerusalem Yitzhak Navon **(נבון יצחק ירושלים) - Main station

ï Near entrance to city

ï Light rail connection to center

Haifa:

ï **Haifa Center HaShmona **(השמונה מרכז חיפה) - Main station

ï **Haifa Hof HaCarmel **(הכרמל חוף חיפה) - Coastal

ï **Haifa Bat Galim **(גלים בת חיפה)

ï **Kiryat Motzkin **(מוצקין קרית)

Ben Gurion Airport:

ï **Ben Gurion Airport **(נתב״ג) - Terminal 3

ï Underground station

ï Direct to/from most major cities

Fares & Tickets

Pricing structure:

ï Distance-based

ï No flat rate

ï Cheaper than buses for long distances usually

Sample fares (as of 2025):

ï Tel Aviv - Jerusalem: ₪23-27

ï Tel Aviv - Haifa: ₪32-39

ï Tel Aviv - Be'er Sheva: ₪28-35

ï Tel Aviv - Ben Gurion Airport: ₪13.50

ï Haifa - Jerusalem: ₪38-44

ï Short trips (few stations): ₪5.50-13.50

Discounts:

ï Students: ~30% off

ï Seniors: 50% off

ï IDF soldiers: Free (in uniform)

ï Children under 5: Free

ï Monthly passes: Available for regular routes

How to pay:

ï **Rav Kav card **(REQUIRED for entry/exit gates)

ï Tap entering station

ï Tap exiting station

ï Fare calculated and deducted

ï Cannot pay cash

ï Cannot buy tickets from conductor Forgot to tap out?

ï Charged maximum fare

ï Visit station service desk to contest

ï Sometimes refundable, sometimes not

Booking & Information

Apps & websites:

ï **Israel Railways app **- Official app

◦ Real-time schedules

◦ Platform information

◦ Delays/cancellations

◦ Purchase tickets

◦ Hebrew/English/Arabic

ï **Website: **rail.co.il (English available)

ï **Moovit app **- Shows trains + buses + walking

Hotline: *5770 (Hebrew, some English)

No reservations needed:

ï First come, first served seating

ï During peak hours can be crowded

ï No assigned seats

Luggage:

ï No restrictions

ï Dedicated luggage areas

ï Overhead racks

ï No extra charge

Train Travel Tips

Best practices: Download Rav Kav app - check balance before traveling Check platform number on arrival - changes frequently Weekend schedules reduced - plan ahead Peak hours very crowded (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM) Quiet car available on some trains (שקטה מרכבה) Food/

drink allowed Free WiFi on most trains Accessible for wheelchairs/strollers Bike racks on some trains

Peak hour strategy:

ï Travel earlier/later if possible

ï Express trains less crowded than local

ï Stand near doors if crowded

ï Watch belongings

Shabbat considerations:

ï Last trains leave ~2 hours before sunset Friday

ï Resume ~1 hour after sunset Saturday

ï Check exact times weekly (sunset changes)

ï NO trains during Shabbat

ï Plan accordingly!

Holiday service:

ï Similar to Shabbat (no service)

ï Check ahead for holidays

ï Eve of holiday: Early last trains

)אוטובוס בין עירוני( Buses Intercity

Main Bus Companies

Egged (אגד):

ï Largest bus company

ï Nationwide network

ï Most intercity routes

ï Green buses

ï www.egged.co.il

ï Hotline: *2800

Dan (דן):

ï Primarily Tel Aviv and center

ï Some intercity routes

ï Red buses

ï www.dan.co.il

Kavim (קווים):

ï Central and south

ï Some intercity routes

ï www.kavim.co.il

Metropoline (מטרופולין):

ï Tel Aviv region

ï Limited intercity

ï www.metropoline.com

Superbus:

ï South and some north routes

ï www.superbus.co.il

Major Intercity Routes

Tel Aviv - Jerusalem:

ï Route 405 (Egged) - Main route

ï Route 480 (Egged) - Express

ï Frequency: Every 10-20 minutes

ï Duration: 50-75 minutes (traffic dependent)

ï Cost: ₪16-21

ï Runs 24/7 (including Shabbat via Jerusalem-Tel Aviv line)

Tel Aviv - Haifa:

ï Routes 910, 921, 947 (Egged)

ï Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes

ï Duration: 1.5-2 hours

ï Cost: ₪22-28

ï Coastal route (slower than train)

Tel Aviv - Be'er Sheva:

ï Route 370 (Egged) - Main

ï Route 446 (Egged) - Via different route

ï Frequency: Every 20-40 minutes

ï Duration: 1.5-2 hours

ï Cost: ₪23-30

Tel Aviv - Eilat:

ï Route 394 (Egged) - Main

ï Route 790 (Metropoline) - Alternative

ï Frequency: 5-8 buses daily

ï Duration: 4.5-5.5 hours

ï Cost: ₪75-95

ï Advance booking recommended

Jerusalem - Eilat:

ï Route 444 (Egged)

ï Frequency: 3-5 buses daily

ï Duration: 4-5 hours

ï Cost: ₪70-85

Haifa - Jerusalem:

ï Route 940 (Egged)

ï Frequency: Every 1-2 hours

ï Duration: 2-2.5 hours

ï Cost: ₪30-37

Northern routes:

ï Tel Aviv - Tiberias: Route 836, 841

ï Tel Aviv - Safed (Tzfat): Route 846

ï Tel Aviv - Nahariya: Route 910

ï Haifa - Tiberias: Various routes

Bus Stations (מרכזית תחנה)

Major terminals:

Tel Aviv Central Bus Station (Tachana Merkazit):

ï 6th largest bus station in world

ï Huge complex (can be confusing)

ï All intercity buses

ï Platforms on multiple levels

ï Shops, restaurants inside

ï Near HaHagana train station

ï Allow extra time to find platform

Jerusalem Central Bus Station:

ï Entrance to city

ï All intercity routes

ï Modern facility

ï Near light rail

Haifa Hof HaCarmel (Merkazit HaMifratz):

ï Main intercity terminal

ï Near train station

ï Northern hub

Be'er Sheva Central Bus Station:

ï Negev hub

ï All southern routes

ï Near train station

Eilat Central Bus Station:

ï Southernmost terminal

ï All routes to/from Eilat

Fares & Payment

How to pay:

ï **Rav Kav card **(tap when boarding)

ï **HopOn app **(scan QR code or NFC)

ï **Cash **(exact change preferred, on some routes)

ï **Monthly pass **(Chofshi Chodshi)

Fare structure:

ï Distance-based

ï Intercity more expensive than city buses

ï ₪15-95 depending on distance

Transfers:

ï 90-minute free transfers within same bus company

ï Does NOT work between different companies

ï Does NOT work between bus and train

Advance booking:

ï Required for: Eilat routes (recommended)

ï Optional for: Most other routes

ï Book via: Company website/app, station ticket counter

ï Reserved seat: Only on certain routes (Eilat mainly)

Bus Travel Tips

Strategy for success: Use Moovit app for real-time arrivals Arrive 10-15 minutes early for intercity Sit on left side for coastal views (northbound) Bring water/snacks (longer routes) Bathroom stops on very long routes only Ask driver if unsure about your stop Traffic can cause major delays - allow buffer time Some routes require transfer - check Moovit

Advantages over trains:

ï More destinations (trains limited routes)

ï Some routes cheaper

ï Direct service to locations without train stations

ï More flexible for last-minute travel

Disadvantages vs trains:

ï Slower (traffic dependent)

ï Less comfortable

ï Less predictable timing

ï Can be very crowded

ï Limited/no WiFi

Shabbat note:

ï Most buses DO NOT run Shabbat

ï Exception: Some Jerusalem-Tel Aviv routes

ï Haifa has Shabbat bus service

ï Plan ahead!

Sherut (שירות) - Shared Taxis

What Are Sherut?

Unique Israeli transport:

ï Minivans (usually 10-seater Mercedes Sprinters)

ï Fixed routes like buses

ï Depart when full

ï Can request stop anywhere along route

ï Slightly more expensive than buses

ï Much faster than buses (fewer stops)

ï **Run on Shabbat! **(Major advantage)

Also called:

ï Monit Sherut (שירות מונית)

ï Service Taxi

ï Shared Taxi

Major Sherut Routes

Tel Aviv - Jerusalem:

ï Main route: From Central Bus Station area

ï Cost: ₪10-12 (vs. ₪16-21 bus)

ï Wait time: 5-20 minutes (fills up quickly)

ï Duration: 45-60 minutes (faster than bus, similar to train)

ï Runs 24/7 including Shabbat

ï Most popular sherut route

Tel Aviv - Haifa:

ï From Reading Terminal area

ï Cost: ₪15-20

ï Duration: 1-1.5 hours

ï Runs on Shabbat

Tel Aviv - Netanya:

ï Frequent service

ï Cost: ₪12-15

ï Runs on Shabbat

Tel Aviv - Rishon LeZion:

ï Short route

ï Cost: ₪8-10

Tel Aviv - Petach Tikva:

ï Frequent service

ï Cost: ₪10-12

Within Jerusalem:

ï Many routes throughout city

ï Alternative to buses

ï Some run Shabbat

Within Haifa:

ï City routes

ï Run on Shabbat (major advantage)

How to Use Sherut

Finding sherut:

ï Specific sherut stations (often near bus stations)

ï Look for minivans with route numbers

ï Ask "sherut le-...?" (sherut to...?)

ï Not marked as clearly as buses

Boarding process:

Find the sherut for your destination
Tell driver your destination
Get in
Wait for van to fill (usually 5-20 minutes)
Driver departs when full (or nearly full)
Pay during ride (usually)
Request stop by saying "po" (here) or "kan" (here)

Payment:

ï **Cash only **(usually)

ï Pay to driver or collector

ï Exact change appreciated

ï No Rav Kav (generally)

ï Prices slightly flexible (haggle very slightly possible on some routes)

Advantages: Run on Shabbat (huge benefit!) Faster than buses Door-to-door along route (request stops) More frequent than you'd think Local experience Good for luggage

Disadvantages: Cash only Wait for van to fill Less comfortable than train Can be crowded Finding sherut station tricky first time Less predictable timing

Shabbat lifesaver:

ï Only major intercity option on Shabbat

ï Tel Aviv-Jerusalem sherut runs all Shabbat

ï More expensive on Shabbat (₪12-15 instead of ₪10)

ï Still cheaper than taxi

ï Essential to know about!

Rental Cars (רכב השכרת)

When to Rent

Best for: Exploring multiple cities in one trip Visiting areas without public transport (Golan, some Galilee, desert) Families with kids Heavy luggage Flexible schedule Multiple destinations in one day Weekend trips (when public transport reduced)

Not necessary for: Tel Aviv - Jerusalem - Haifa triangle (great public transport) City exploration (parking nightmare) Short trips Solo travelers on budget

Major Rental Companies

International brands:

ï **Hertz: www.hertz.co.il

ï **Avis: www.avis.co.il

ï **Budget: www.budget.co.il

ï **Sixt: www.sixt.co.il

ï **Europcar: www.europcar.co.il

ï **Enterprise: www.enterprise.co.il

Israeli companies:

ï **Eldan: www.eldan.co.il

ï **Shlomo Sixt: www.shlomo.co.il

ï **Cal Auto: www.cal-auto.co.il

ï **Green Peace: www.greenpeace.co.il

Comparison sites:

ï **Kayak: www.kayak.com

ï **Rentalcars.com: www.rentalcars.com

ï Compare prices across companies

Costs

Daily rates (economy car):

ï Weekend (Fri-Sun): ₪200-300/day

ï Weekday: ₪150-250/day

ï Weekly: ₪900-1,400 (better rate)

ï Monthly: ₪2,500-4,000

Additional costs:

ï Full insurance: +₪50-150/day (highly recommended)

ï GPS: +₪30-50/day (use phone instead)

ï Additional driver: +₪30-50/day

ï Young driver fee (<24): +₪50-100/day

ï One-way fee: ₪200-500 (if different drop-off location)

ï Fuel: ₪6.50-7.50/liter (expensive!)

ï Tolls: Road 6 (₪15-60/trip), Carmel Tunnel (₪10-20)

ï Parking: ₪10-40/hour in cities

Total daily cost estimate:

ï Rental: ₪200

ï Insurance: ₪100

ï Fuel: ₪150-300

ï Parking: ₪50-100

ï Total: ₪500-700/day

Cost comparison:

ï Renting for weekend trip: ₪1,400-2,000

ï Trains/buses for same trip: ₪200-400

ï **Rental makes sense for: **3+ people, multiple destinations, remote areas

Requirements & Process

What you need:

ï Valid driver's license (Israeli or foreign + International DP)

ï Credit card (for deposit)

ï Minimum age: Usually 21 (some companies 24)

ï Held license for: Usually 1+ years

Insurance options:

ï **Basic: **Included, but high deductible (₪3,000-7,000)

ï **Full coverage (Super CDW): **Eliminates deductible, highly recommended

ï **Third-party: **Required by law, always included

ï **Theft protection: **Recommended

Booking process:

Compare prices online
Book in advance (cheaper)
Read terms carefully (deductible, mileage limits, fuel policy)
Pick up at location
Inspect car thoroughly (document damage)
Take photos/video
Understand fuel policy (usually full-to-full)
Return on time (late fees expensive)

Pick-up locations:

ï Ben Gurion Airport (most expensive)

ï City center offices

ï Train stations (some companies)

Driving in Israel Tips

ï **Waze **(essential!) - Israeli drivers live by Waze

ï Shows traffic, police, hazards

ï Better than Google Maps in Israel

ï Hebrew/English interface

Road culture:

ï Aggressive driving common

ï Expect tailgating

ï Left lane for passing only

ï Right lane slow

ï Use turn signals

ï Expect honking (don't take personally)

Tolls:

ï **Road 6 (Kvish 6): **Automatic charging via license plate

ï **Carmel Tunnels (Haifa): **Automatic charging

ï Bill sent to rental company, charged to your credit card

ï No toll booths (all automatic)

Speed limits:

ï Urban: 50 km/h (30 mph)

ï Non-urban: 80-90 km/h (50-55 mph)

ï Highway: 100-110 km/h (60-70 mph)

ï Speed cameras everywhere (Waze shows them)

Parking:

ï **Pango app: **Essential for street parking

ï Pay by phone, no meters needed

ï Download before renting

ï Link credit card

ï Enter parking zone number

ï Very expensive in city centers (₪10-20/hour)

Gas stations:

ï Self-service common

ï Attendants available

ï Pay after pumping

ï Expensive (₪6.50-7.50/liter = $7-8/gallon equivalent)

Two types:

1. Fleet-based (like Zipcar):

ï Company owns cars

ï Park in designated spots

ï Hourly/daily rates

ï Book via app

ï Unlock with phone

ï Return to same/different spot

2. Peer-to-peer:

ï Rent from private owners

ï Like Airbnb for cars

ï More variety

ï Often cheaper

How it works:

ï Fleet of small cars around city

ï Book via app for minutes/hours

ï Find car on map

ï Unlock with app

ï Drive and park anywhere in service area

ï Charged by time

Service areas:

ï Tel Aviv (main)

ï Limited coverage

Costs:

ï Per minute: ₪1-1.50

ï Per hour: ₪35-50

ï Per day: ₪200-300

ï Insurance included

Status (2025):

ï Service availability varies

ï Check current operators

ï Market has been unstable

Advantages: No need to return to same spot Short trips convenient No parking fees in service area Fuel included

Disadvantages: Limited service areas Expensive for long trips Availability not guaranteed Small cars only

GetAround (formerly known as Turo in other markets):

ï Rent from private owners

ï Book via app

ï Pickup from owner

ï Various car types

ï Insurance included

HeyGo:

ï Israeli peer-to-peer platform

ï Book cars from locals

ï www.heygo.co.il

ï Hebrew interface primarily

How it works:

Create account
Verify driver's license
Browse available cars
Book for hours/days
Meet owner or keyless entry
Drive and return
Rate and review

Costs:

ï Usually cheaper than rental companies

ï ₪100-300/day depending on car

ï Insurance included

ï Fuel: Fill what you use

Advantages: Cheaper than traditional rental More car variety Local hosts can give tips Flexible pickup locations

Disadvantages: Less professional than rental companies Condition varies Pickup/return coordination needed Less support if issues arise

Gett (גט)

Israel's Uber:

ï Most popular ride-hailing app

ï Available in all major cities

ï Licensed taxi service

ï Set prices (no surge pricing)

How to use:

Download Gett app
Enter credit card
Set pickup and destination
See price before confirming
Track driver arrival
Rate driver

Costs:

ï Tel Aviv - Jerusalem: ₪250-350

ï Airport - Tel Aviv: ₪150-200

ï City rides: ₪30-80

ï More expensive than public transport

ï Cheaper than traditional taxi hails

Advantages: Convenient No cash needed Track driver Fixed prices Receipt automatic English interface Rate drivers (quality control)

Disadvantages: Expensive for intercity Surge pricing during peak times (minimal compared to Uber) Can't share with strangers (full car cost)

Yango (יאנגו)

Russian ride-hailing app:

ï Competitor to Gett

ï Often cheaper

ï Growing in Israel

ï Similar interface

Costs:

ï Usually 10-20% cheaper than Gett

ï Similar city routes: ₪25-70

ï Intercity also available

Advantages: Cheaper than Gett often Same convenience Good alternative

Disadvantages: Fewer drivers (less available) Less established

Uber (Limited)

Status in Israel:

ï Limited operation

ï Only in some cities

ï Not as popular as Gett

ï Fewer drivers

ï Check availability

Why limited:

ï Taxi lobby opposition

ï Regulatory issues

ï Gett dominates market

Makes sense for: Airport transfers with luggage Late night (no public transport)

Groups of 3-4 (split cost) Door-to-door convenience needed Short notice trips Shabbat (when sherut not available/convenient)

Not economical for: Solo travelers on longer routes (take train/bus) Regular commuting (very expensive) Budget travel

Cost comparison (Tel Aviv - Jerusalem):

ï Train: ₪23-27 per person

ï Bus: ₪16-21 per person

ï Sherut: ₪10-12 per person

ï Gett: ₪250-350 total (= ₪62-88 per person for 4 people)

Regional Public Transport Cards

Rav Kav National System

Works for:

ï All intercity buses

ï All trains

ï City buses nationwide

ï Light rail (Jerusalem)

How it works:

ï Load money (Calcala) or monthly pass

ï Tap when boarding

ï Automatic transfers within 90 minutes

ï Distance-based pricing

See Public Transport Cards & Apps guide for full details

Regional Monthly Passes

Chofshi Chodshi Artzi (National Pass):

ï All buses nationwide

ï Cost: ₪750-900/month

ï Unlimited travel

ï Good for: Frequent intercity travelers

Regional passes:

ï Gush Dan (Greater Tel Aviv): ₪270-300

ï Jerusalem: ₪230-270

ï Haifa: ₪230-250

ï Others available

Student discounts:

ï ~30% off regular prices

ï Must prove student status

Senior discounts:

ï 50% off

ï Ages 60+ (women), 65+ (men)

Planning Intercity Trips

Best Apps for Trip Planning

1. Moovit (Essential):

ï Shows all options: bus, train, walking

ï Real-time arrivals

ï Step-by-step directions

ï Works offline (saved routes)

ï Multi-modal (combines transport types)

ï Best overall trip planner

2. Google Maps:

ï Good overview

ï Less accurate real-time data than Moovit

ï Better for driving directions

3. Israel Railways App:

ï Train-specific

ï Platform information

ï Real-time delays

ï Purchase tickets

4. Waze:

ï For driving only

ï Traffic conditions

ï Police alerts

ï Essential for drivers

Sample Itineraries

Day trip: Tel Aviv → Jerusalem → Tel Aviv Option A: Train (Fastest)

ï Morning: Tel Aviv → Jerusalem train (32 min, ₪25)

ï Day: Explore Jerusalem (light rail/walk)

ï Evening: Jerusalem → Tel Aviv train (32 min, ₪25)

ï Total cost: ₪50 + Jerusalem transport

ï Total time: ~1 hour travel Option B: Bus (Cheapest)

ï Morning: 405 bus (60-75 min, ₪18)

ï Day: Explore Jerusalem

ï Evening: 405 bus back (60-75 min, ₪18)

ï Total cost: ₪36 + Jerusalem transport

ï Total time: ~2-2.5 hours travel Option C: Sherut (Shabbat option)

ï Sherut both ways (45-60 min each, ₪10-12 each way)

ï Total cost: ₪20-24 + Jerusalem transport

ï Works on Shabbat!

Weekend trip: Tel Aviv → Haifa → Akko → Tel Aviv Day 1: Tel Aviv → Haifa

ï Train (1 hour, ₪35) - scenic coastal route

ï Explore Haifa (Carmelit, buses)

ï Overnight in Haifa

Day 2: Haifa → Akko → Tel Aviv

ï Train Haifa → Akko (12 min, ₪8)

ï Explore Akko

ï Train Akko → Tel Aviv (1.5 hours, ₪35)

ï Total train cost: ₪78

ï Alternative: Rental car ₪400-500 for weekend

North trip: Tel Aviv → Tiberias → Safed → Tel Aviv Challenge: Limited public transport

Option A: Tour bus service

ï Organized tours available

ï ₪200-400 per person

ï Includes transport + guide

Option B: Rental car (Recommended)

ï Day 1: Drive to Tiberias (2 hours)

ï Explore Sea of Galilee area

ï Day 2: Drive to Safed (1 hour)

ï Explore Safed

ï Return to Tel Aviv (2.5 hours)

ï Car cost: ₪600-900 for 2 days

ï Fuel: ~₪300

ï Total: ₪900-1,200

ï Worth it for flexibility in North

Option C: Bus (Possible but challenging)

ï Bus 836 Tel Aviv → Tiberias (3 hours, ₪40)

ï Bus 459 Tiberias → Safed (1.5 hours, ₪25)

ï Bus back to Tel Aviv (4+ hours, ₪40+)

ï Total: ₪105+

ï But: **Infrequent service, poor connections **South adventure: Tel Aviv → Eilat (weekend) Option A: Bus

ï Friday: Bus 394 (5 hours, ₪90)

ï Weekend: Explore Eilat

ï Sunday: Bus back (5 hours, ₪90)

ï Total: ₪180

ï **Pros: **Cheapest, can work/relax

ï **Cons: **Long journey

Option B: Flight

ï Arkia or Israir airlines

ï 1 hour flight

ï Cost: ₪200-500 each way

ï Total: ₪400-1,000

ï **Pros: **Fast, comfortable

ï **Cons: **Expensive, check baggage costs

Option C: Rental car

ï Drive down (4.5 hours)

ï Explore Eilat + surroundings (need car there anyway)

ï Drive back

ï Total: ₪1,200-1,800 (car + fuel)

ï **Pros: **Freedom to stop at Dead Sea, etc.

ï **Cons: **Long drive, expensive

Shabbat Travel Solutions

The Shabbat Challenge

What shuts down:

ï All trains (no exceptions)

ï Almost all buses (except Haifa)

ï Many sherut services reduced

ï Car rentals difficult (many offices closed)

What stays open:

ï Tel Aviv - Jerusalem sherut (ESSENTIAL)

ï Some other sherut routes

ï Haifa public buses

ï Ride-sharing apps (Gett, Yango)

ï Taxis (expensive)

Shabbat Travel Strategies

Strategy 1: Use Sherut

ï Tel Aviv - Jerusalem: Best option

ï Runs all Shabbat

ï Slightly more expensive (₪12-15 vs. ₪10)

ï More crowded on Shabbat

ï Main intercity lifeline

Strategy 2: Stay Local

ï Plan to stay in one city

ï Explore on foot

ï Use Shabbat as rest day

ï Israeli mentality (many do this)

Strategy 3: Rent Car Friday, Return Sunday

ï Pick up Friday before Shabbat

ï Use Friday night/Saturday

ï Return Sunday morning

ï **Warning: **Some rental offices closed Shabbat

Strategy 4: Pre-Position

ï Travel Friday before Shabbat

ï Stay where you want to be

ï Travel back Saturday night or Sunday

ï Trains/buses resume Saturday night

ï Gett/Yango work on Shabbat

ï Very expensive for intercity

ï Good for emergencies

ï Tel Aviv - Jerusalem: ₪250-350

Strategy 6: Haifa Exception

ï Only city with Shabbat buses

ï Metronit and city buses run

ï Limited service but functional

ï Good Shabbat destination

Holiday Travel

Similar to Shabbat:

ï No public transport on holidays

ï Eve of holiday: Last buses/trains early (like Friday)

ï After holiday: Resume like Saturday night

Major holidays affecting travel:

ï Rosh Hashanah (2 days)

ï Yom Kippur (1 day - EVERYTHING closed, even Sherut)

ï Sukkot

ï Passover

ï Shavuot

Yom Kippur special:

ï Only day sherut doesn't run

ï Entire country shuts down

ï No cars on roads (people bike on highways!)

ï Plan to stay put

Budget Travel Tips

Saving Money on Intercity Travel

1. Use Rav Kav monthly passes

ï If traveling frequently (4+ intercity trips/month)

ï National pass: ₪750-900

ï Pays for itself quickly

2. Choose bus over train

ï Usually ₪5-10 cheaper

ï Slower but budget-friendly

ï Example: Tel Aviv-Jerusalem ₪18 vs. ₪25

3. Use sherut when available

ï Cheapest option often

ï Tel Aviv-Jerusalem: ₪10 (vs. ₪18 bus, ₪25 train)

4. Travel off-peak

ï Mid-day less crowded

ï Same price but better experience

ï More seat availability

5. Group travel

ï Rental car makes sense for 3-4 people

ï Split costs

ï Often cheaper than trains for groups

6. Book buses to Eilat in advance

ï Sometimes discounts

ï Guaranteed seat

ï Avoid sold-out situations

7. Student discounts

ï 30% off with student Rav Kav

ï Significant savings

ï Worth getting if eligible

8. Plan around Shabbat

ï Avoid premium sherut prices

ï Travel Friday or Saturday night

ï Better availability

Most Economical Routes

Tel Aviv - Jerusalem:

ï **Cheapest: **Sherut (₪10)

ï **Best value: **Bus 405 (₪18)

ï **Fastest: **Train (₪25) - worth extra ₪7

Tel Aviv - Haifa:

ï **Cheapest: **Bus (₪22)

ï **Best value: **Train (₪35) - much faster, worth it

ï **Avoid: **Driving (tolls + fuel expensive)

Tel Aviv - Eilat:

ï **Cheapest: **Bus (₪90)

ï **Fastest: **Flight (₪400-1,000)

ï **Most flexible: **Rental car groups (₪300-450 per person with 3-4 people)

Safety & Practical Tips

General Safety

Israel is very safe for travelers: Low crime rate Safe to travel alone Safe at night in major cities Public transport safe

Common sense:

ï Watch belongings (pickpockets in crowded areas)

ï Keep luggage with you

ï Beware of phone theft (especially on buses)

ï Use crosswalks

ï Follow local security guidelines

Language Tips

English widely spoken but helpful phrases:

ï "Efo ha'tachana?" (Where's the station?) - התחנה איפה?

ï "Kama ze ole?" (How much does it cost?) - עולה זה כמה?

ï "Matai ha'otobus?" (When is the bus?) - האוטובוס מתי?

ï "Po, bevakasha" (Here, please - to request stop) - בבקשה ,פה

ï "Toda" (Thank you) - תודה

Apps handle language:

ï Moovit in English

ï Google Maps in English

ï Most ticket machines have English

ï Drivers often speak some English

Cultural Tips

Israeli transport culture:

ï Pushy boarding normal (not rude, just culture)

ï Lines not always respected

ï Ask questions - Israelis helpful

ï Don't be shy about asking for help

ï "Slicha" (excuse me) - סליחה - useful word

Tipping:

ï Not expected on buses/trains/sherut

ï Taxi: Round up or 10%

ï Gett/Yango: Tip built into app

Accessibility

Wheelchair & Mobility Access

Trains: All stations wheelchair accessible Elevators/ramps Designated spaces on trains Assistance available

Buses: Most intercity buses have ramps/lifts Designated spaces Not all buses equally accessible Improving constantly

Stations: Major stations accessible Smaller stations vary Check ahead for specific stations

Information:

ï Contact transport company ahead

ï Assistance can be arranged

ï Israel generally good for accessibility

Emergency Contacts

Transport hotlines:

ï Israel Railways: *5770

ï Egged: *2800

ï Gett: Via app

ï Police: 100

ï Ambulance: 101

Lost items:

ï Each transport company has lost & found

ï File report immediately

ï Check daily

ï Items often returned

Summary & Quick Reference

Best Option By Route

Tel Aviv ↔ Jerusalem:

ï **Fastest: **Train (32 min)

ï **Cheapest: **Sherut (₪10)

ï **Shabbat: **Sherut only option

Tel Aviv ↔ Haifa:

ï **Best overall: **Train (scenic, fast)

ï **Budget: **Bus

Tel Aviv ↔ Be'er Sheva:

ï **Best: **Train (faster)

ï **Alternative: **Bus (more frequent)

Tel Aviv ↔ Eilat:

ï **Most practical: **Bus overnight or early morning

ï **Fastest: **Flight

ï **Flexible: **Rental car (stop at Dead Sea)

Exploring North (Galilee, Golan):

ï **Essential: **Rental car

ï **Alternative: **Organized tour

ï Public transport insufficient

Exploring South (Negev, Eilat area):

ï **In Eilat: **Bus to get there, rental car for area

ï **Negev: **Rental car essential

Best Apps to Download

Essential (download before traveling):

**1. Moovit **- Trip planning (most important!)

**2. Rav Kav Online **- Manage card balance

**3. Israel Railways **- Train schedules

**4. Waze **- If driving

**5. Gett **- Ride-sharing backup

**6. Pango **- Parking (if driving)

Monthly Cost Estimates

Regular commuter (Tel Aviv-Jerusalem 5 days/week):

ï Per ride: ₪25 × 10 = ₪250/week = ₪1,000/month

ï **Better: **Monthly train pass ~₪600 = Save ₪400/month

Occasional traveler (2 intercity trips/month):

ï Avg ₪50/trip = ₪100/month

ï No pass needed

Weekend explorer (1 trip/week):

ï Avg ₪100/trip = ₪400/month

ï Mix of train/bus/sherut

Final Recommendations

For new Olim:

Get Rav Kav card immediately (personalized)
Download Moovit app
Take trains when possible (easiest, most comfortable)
Learn sherut system (Shabbat lifesaver)
Don't rush to rent car (try public transport first)
Budget ₪200-500/month for intercity travel
Consider monthly pass if commuting
Plan ahead for Shabbat/holidays

The Israeli transport system is good and getting better. Trains are excellent, buses comprehensive, and sherut fills gaps. You don't need a car for most travel - save money and stress!

This guide is current as of 2025. Schedules, prices, and services change. Always verify current information via official apps and websites.

Updated on: 02/02/2026

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