Transportation

Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv

Train

  • Most convenient and budget-friendly option for most travelers.

  • The train station is located on the lower level of Terminal 3. Trains depart frequently (every 20-30 minutes) and take approximately 11 minutes to reach Tel Aviv HaHagana station in central Tel Aviv.

  • Tip: Purchase a Rav Kav card (rechargeable travel card) at the airport or train station for easier fare payment (around ₪5 fee for the card itself). Single ticket prices start from around ₪10.

  • Schedule: Trains operate daily from early morning until late at night. Check the Israel Railways website (https://www.rail.co.il/en) for the most up-to-date schedule. However, there is no train service on Saturdays due to Shabbat.

Shared Taxi (Sherut)

  • More affordable than a taxi, but less convenient.

  • Sheruts are shared vans that depart once full (usually 10 passengers) to designated locations in Tel Aviv. Look for designated Sherut stands outside the arrivals terminal. Fares are fixed and typically cheaper than taxis (around ₪60-80 as of May 2024).

  • Tip: Sheruts might have limited luggage space and may take longer depending on the route and number of stops.

Taxi

Pre-arranged Private Transfer

  • Most comfortable and hassle-free option, especially for families or large groups.

  • Book a private car or minivan service in advance. The driver will wait for you at the airport with a name sign and take you directly to your hotel. Prices vary depending on the company and vehicle type.

  • This option provides the most flexibility and is a good choice if you have specific needs or a lot of luggage.

  • Fastest and most comfortable option, especially with luggage.

  • Taxis are readily available outside the airport arrivals terminal. Fares are metered and start around ₪200 to central Tel Aviv, with additional charges for luggage and nighttime service.

  • Tip: Agree on the fare with the driver beforehand to avoid any surprises.

Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem

Train

  • Journey Time: 25-30 minutes.

  • Schedule: Trains depart approximately every hour from Ben Gurion Airport Station. However, there is no train service on Saturdays due to Shabbat. Be sure to check the schedule for any updates or changes.

  • Rates: Tickets cost around ₪17-23 (Israeli New Shekel), which is roughly $5-$7 USD. You can purchase tickets at the station before boarding.

Shared Taxi (Sherut)

  • Travelers seeking a more affordable option than a taxi but don't mind waiting to share the ride with others. Journey time: 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic and the number of stops.

  • They operate 24/7, including Saturdays.

    Tickets cost around ₪60-80 (Israeli New Shekel), which is roughly $17-$23 USD per person. Fares are usually fixed and negotiated beforehand.

    Shared taxis can be found outside the airport terminals. Look for a white van with a sign that says "Jerusalem" or "Sherut." Let the driver know your destination, and they will confirm the fare. Once the taxi is full, it will depart for Jerusalem, dropping passengers off at their requested locations.

Taxi

Pre-arranged Private Transfer

  • Most comfortable and hassle-free option, especially for families or large groups.

  • Book a private car or minivan service in advance. The driver will wait for you at the airport with a name sign and take you directly to your hotel. Prices vary depending on the company and vehicle type.

  • This option provides the most flexibility and is a good choice if you have specific needs or a lot of luggage.

  • Travelers seeking the most convenient and comfortable option, especially for groups or with a lot of luggage.

  • Journey Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.

  • Taxis are readily available 24/7 outside the airport terminals.

  • Fares are not fixed and can vary depending on the time of day, traffic conditions, and your destination. It is recommended to agree on a fare with the driver before getting in the taxi. Taxis typically start around ₪200-250 (Israeli New Shekel), which is roughly $57-$71 USD for the ride to Jerusalem.

  • Only use taxis with a meter. If the taxi doesn't have a meter, agree on a price before getting in. You can also ask your hotel to pre-arrange a taxi for you, which may give you a better rate.

Transportation