Israel Transportation Guide: Airport Express, Trains, and Getting Around the City
Transport Guide
2026-10-03
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Practical ways to get into the city from Ben Gurion Airport, take intercity trains and buses, and use light rail and taxis within Israel.
Arrival and Getting into the City
| Airport | Getting into the City | Time/Notes |
|---|
| Ben Gurion (TLV) | Airport train direct | About 15–20 minutes to Tel Aviv, 25–30 minutes to Jerusalem |
| Ben Gurion (TLV) | Shared taxi | Charged per person, convenient late at night and on the Sabbath |
| Ben Gurion (TLV) | Taxi | About 30 minutes to Tel Aviv, higher fare |
Intercity Transport
- Train: Coastal lines connect cities such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Acre, with frequent services. There is also a high-speed rail line directly linking Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
- Long-distance bus: Offers the widest coverage and is the main way to reach towns in the north and south.
- Car rental: Suitable for areas with limited public transport such as the Dead Sea, Galilee, and Negev, but an international driver’s license is required.
Local Transport
- Jerusalem Light Rail: Runs through the city center, connecting entrances to the Old City and main districts.
- Tel Aviv Light Rail: The Red Line is operational, linking the urban area with surrounding neighbourhoods.
- Bus: Frequent services, with fares based on distance or zones.
- Shared taxi: Fixed routes, charged per person, available even on the Sabbath and late at night.
Tickets and Apps
- Transport cards can be topped up and used for buses and light rail, with fares deducted per ride.
- Ride-hailing apps and map navigation apps are widely used locally and allow you to check real-time schedules and routes.
- Public transport largely shuts down on the Sabbath, so plan ahead or opt for a taxi.