Reaching your Destination
Transportation
Israel Transportation
Most travelers arriving in Israel begin at Ben Gurion Airport and from there head onward to destinations across the country. As your licensed Israel Tour Guide, I’m here to guide you through the transportation options — from trains and taxis to private transfers — and show you how to move smoothly between cities and sites. On this page, you will find clear explanations of how to get around Israel, what to expect from each option, and tips I’ve learned over years of helping visitors like you. Whether it’s catching the train to Tel Aviv or arranging a private transfer for a personalized experience, I’ve helped countless guests find reliable travel solutions. Let’s make your journey beyond the airport straightforward and relaxed, so you can focus on enjoying your Private Israel Tour.
PRIVATE TAXI FROM BEN GURION AIRPORT
From the big Arrivals Hall, head straight toward Exit 2 and leave the Terminal building. Turn left and walk the short distance to the official cabstand of the airport. Fares to all destinations are posted on a big sign, which means drivers cannot overcharge you. You can use the official online Taxi Fare Calculator in advance. A ride to Tel Aviv is about NIS 120–200 (USD 35–60), depending on time of day and number of passengers. A ride to Jerusalem will cost between NIS 280–350 (USD 80–100). Taxis run 24/7 — including Shabbat and Holidays (except Yom Kippur). This private taxi option is one of the easiest ways to begin your private Israel tours with confidence.
UBER
While the Uber app does exist in Israel, the ride-hailing model works differently here: using the app will simply get you a regular taxi, since private vehicles offering rides for profit are illegal. Instead, the Gett app is more reliable and widely accepted for airport and city transfers in Israel.
SHUTTLE BUS & SHERUT (SHARED TAXI)
If you’re heading for Jerusalem and want a cost-effective option, the Sherut shared taxi is a solid choice. From the Arrivals Hall, go to Exit 2, walk right for about two minutes until you see the yellow/white Sherut vans. It costs about NIS 60 (USD 18) and you pay the driver in cash or with a card. You’ll share the ride with up to 10 passengers and wait until the vehicle is full before it departs. Sherut taxis also run 24/7, except Yom Kippur.
PUBLIC BUSES & INTERCITY OPTIONS
For those interested in public transport and getting around Israel more independently, there is a bus service from the airport to Jerusalem: exit the Arrivals Hall via Exit 23 on the 2nd floor, cross the street and board Bus Line #485. It runs once an hour, costs NIS 16 (USD 5), and operates 24/7 except during Shabbat. Note: there is no direct public bus service from the airport to Tel Aviv.
TRAIN & LIGHT-RAIL CONNECTIONS
The national train line offers a comfortable and relatively affordable way to travel between major points in Israel. After baggage claim, follow Exit 2 and signs to “Train,” and purchase your ticket at booths or machines — you’ll need to keep it for inspection. Trains connect to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem efficiently. In addition to trains, urban light-rail systems are in operation in cities like Jerusalem and Haifa, offering another modern transport mode to help you explore the country’s cities with ease.
CAR RENTAL, RID-SHARING & SELF-DRIVE
If you prefer full flexibility and plan to explore beyond the cities—such as the Negev, Golan Heights, or the coast—a car rental or self-drive option gives you control. Major rental companies serve the airport and cities, but keep in mind Israeli driving regulations, toll roads, parking in urban centers, and whether your itinerary suits self-drive or guided transport. For shorter stays or focused city tours, arranging a driver or private transfer before arrival may be more efficient.
ADDITIONAL TRANSPORT CATEGORIES TO CONSIDER
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Airport Transfers & Private Transfers: Pre-booked vehicles offering door-to-door service for families, groups or luxury travel.
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Intercity Buses & Express Lines: Efficient for travel between major cities and towns, especially for budget-minded travelers.
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Scooter & Bike Rentals: In urban areas, scooters and bikes are increasingly popular for short distances and local sightseeing.
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Specialty Transport for Remote Areas: For destinations such as the Dead Sea, remote kibbutzim, or desert tracks, consider arranging dedicated transport in advance as public options may be limited.
TRIPADVISOR
TRAVELERS' CHOICE
I am very proud to have been awarded the Travelers‘ Choice Award 2023 by Tripadvisor. This desired award honors providers in the tourism industry, who have continuously received excellent reviews throughout the last year and who thus belong to the top 10% of best providers worldwide.
