Travel Tips For Israel
Planning a trip to Israel? Whether it’s your first visit or a return adventure, it’s important to be well-prepared. From practical travel tips to must-have resources, this page will help you navigate everything you need to know for a smooth, safe, and unforgettable journey.
Travel Resources
Weather & What to Pack
Live Cams
Hebrew Dictionary
Culture
✈️ Visa Information
Who Needs a Visa?
Israel allows visa-free entry for up to 90 days to passport holders from over 100 countries, including the USA, Canada, most of Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
You can check if you need a visa using the official Israeli Population & immigration Authority website.
Entry Requirements:
To enter Israel, you’ll need:
A passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
A return or onward ticket (not always checked, but sometimes requested).
Proof of accommodation and travel plans (rarely required, but good to have on hand).
Important to Know:
No Passport Stamps: Israel does not stamp your passport. Instead, you’ll receive a small blue-and-white paper slip when you enter and another when you leave. Keep these slips with your passport at all times—they serve as proof of legal entry and exit.
Security Checks: Israel is known for strict airport security, both on arrival and departure. Be prepared to answer questions about your itinerary, accommodations, and any previous travel to Muslim-majority countries.
Palestinian Territories: If you plan to visit the West Bank (e.g., Bethlehem, Ramallah, Jericho), you don’t need a special visa, but you may go through military checkpoints. Entry into Gaza is not permitted for tourists. For safety updates and travel logistics, you can consult local NGOs like B’Tselem.
💰 Money & Budgeting
Currency & Exchange:
The official currency of Israel is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS), often denoted as ₪.
The exchange rate typically fluctuates around 1 USD = 3.5–3.7 ILS, but always check the current rate using XE Currency.
Where to Exchange Money:
ATMs: Widely available and usually offer the best exchange rates. Most support international cards.
Currency Exchange Shops: Found in tourist areas, city centers, and malls. Rates vary, so compare before exchanging.
Banks: Safe but may charge service fees and require ID.
Airport Exchange Counters: Convenient, but often offer the worst rates—only use them in a pinch.
Using Credit & Debit Cards:
Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere—including taxis, shops, and restaurants.
American Express is accepted at larger businesses, but not everywhere.
Contactless payments and digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly popular.
Cash or Card?
Most places prefer card payments, but carry some cash for:
Outdoor markets (shuks)
Public restrooms
Some small cafés or rural vendors
Typical Prices:
Here’s a rough idea of daily expenses:
Street food (falafel, shawarma): 20–35 ILS
Coffee or soft drink: 10–18 ILS
Dinner at a casual restaurant: 50–100 ILS
Hostel dorm bed: 80–150 ILS/night
Budget hotel room: 250–400 ILS/night
Tipping Culture:
Restaurants: 10–15% is standard. Some places may include a service charge—check your bill.
Taxis: Tipping is not required, but rounding up is appreciated.
Hotel Staff: 5–10 ILS for porters; 5–20 ILS per night for housekeeping.
Tour Guides: 20–50 ILS per person for a full-day tour.
Money Safety Tips:
Use RFID-protected wallets and avoid flashing large amounts of cash.
Don’t exchange money with individuals on the street.
Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks.
🚗 Transportation
Getting around Israel is convenient and affordable, with a comprehensive network of buses, trains, light rail, and taxis connecting major cities, towns, and even remote areas. Here’s your complete guide to navigating the country.
🚌 Public Transportation Overview
🚍 Buses
Buses are the backbone of Israel’s transit system, operating both within cities and across the country.
Major providers include:
Egged – nationwide, including long-distance intercity lines (egged.co.il)
Dan – Tel Aviv and Gush Dan region (dan.co.il)
Metropoline, Superbus, Afikim, and others operate in specific regions.
Buses are reliable and frequent, especially in populated areas.
🚆 Trains
Operated by Israel Railways, trains connect Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, Ben Gurion Airport, Be’er Sheva, and more.
The high-speed line between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv takes under 40 minutes.
Trains are modern, air-conditioned, and have free Wi-Fi.
For schedules and bookings: Israel Railways
🚈 Light Rail
Jerusalem Light Rail:
Runs east to west across Jerusalem, from Mount Herzl to Pisgat Ze’ev.
A great way to access popular sites like Mahane Yehuda Market, Jaffa Street, and the Old City.
Tel Aviv Light Rail (Red Line):
The brand-new Red Line connects Bat Yam, Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, Bnei Brak, and Petah Tikva.
Fast, clean, and perfect for avoiding city traffic.
Tickets must be purchased in advance (via app or Rav-Kav—no payment on board).
💳 How to Pay for Public Transportation
All public transport in Israel uses contactless payment—cash is not accepted on buses or trains. You can pay using either of the following:
📲 Moovit App (Digital Option)
Lets you pay directly through your phone—just scan the QR code when boarding.
Helps you plan routes with real-time updates, schedules, and platform info.
Works for buses, trains, light rail, and even includes alerts about service disruptions. 🔗 Moovit App
💳 Rav-Kav Card (Physical Option)
A smart travel card you can load with credit or daily/weekly passes.
Accepted on all buses, trains, and light rail systems.
Can be topped up via:
Ticket machines at stations
Kiosks and shops
✅ Tip: You don’t need both. Choose whichever method suits you best.
🚕 Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps
Taxis are available everywhere but don’t always use meters by default—always ask for “Moneh” (meter).
Safer and more convenient: use ride-hailing apps like:
Gett – book standard taxis with set pricing (We recommend downloading the Gett app on your phone and inputting your credit card info before arriving in Israel).
Yango – operates like Uber
Tips are not required but rounding up is appreciated.
🚐 Sheruts (Shared Taxis)
Shared minibuses (10-seat vans) that run along fixed routes between cities (e.g., Tel Aviv ↔ Jerusalem).
They operate even during Shabbat, making them a valuable option when other transit is unavailable.
Payment is usually in cash or via certain apps (some now accept Rav-Kav).
🚗 Renting a Car
Renting is ideal if you’re exploring the Negev desert, Galilee, Golan Heights, or national parks.
Major international and Israeli companies available:
Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Budget, Shlomo Sixt, etc.
Requirements:
Valid driver’s license (with English or international translation)
Credit card for deposit
Minimum age: usually 21–24 depending on company
Compare prices at: Rentalcars.com
🚦 Driving Notes:
Drive on the right side of the road
Road signs are in Hebrew, Arabic, and English
Traffic in cities like Tel Aviv can be intense; plan accordingly
⚠️ Shabbat (Sabbath) Reminder
From Friday sunset to Saturday night, most public transportation does not operate, especially in Jerusalem, Be’er Sheva, and northern towns.
Alternatives during Shabbat:
Sheruts (shared taxis)
Regular taxis (usually available in Tel Aviv)
Rent a car ahead of time if you’ll be traveling during this period
📆 Israeli Calendar & Holidays
Israel follows the Hebrew calendar for religious and national holidays, meaning many dates change each year when converted to the Gregorian calendar. Understanding the holiday schedule is important for planning your travel, as many services pause and availability can be limited.
✨ Shabbat (The Sabbath)
When: Every week, from Friday sunset to Saturday nightfall
What to Expect:
Most public transportation, banks, and shops shut down
Religious areas like Jerusalem, Safed, and parts of Be’er Sheva may come to a near halt
Secular cities like Tel Aviv stay more active—some cafés, restaurants, and convenience stores remain open
Tips:
Stock up on essentials by Friday afternoon
Avoid using phones, taking photos, or driving in ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods during Shabbat
Use sheruts or taxis if you need to move around
🕍 Major Jewish Holidays (Dates vary every year)
To convert exact dates, use the Hebcal Jewish Calendar Tool.
📜 Passover (Pesach) – March/April
Commemorates the exodus from Egypt
Week-long, with major closures on the first and last days
Leavened bread (chametz) is not sold in many stores and restaurants
Family gatherings and traditional meals (Seder)
🌅 Rosh Hashanah – Jewish New Year (Sep/Oct)
Two-day celebration of new beginnings
Many businesses and transport services close
Synagogue services and festive meals
❌ Yom Kippur – Day of Atonement (Sep/Oct)
24 hours of complete shutdown
No TV, no radio, no cars—roads are completely empty
Israelis observe fasts and spend the day in prayer
One of the most unique days to witness as a visitor
🍋 Sukkot – Festival of Booths (Sep/Oct)
Week-long holiday with temporary shelters (“sukkahs”) built outdoors
Many Israelis go camping or take vacations
Public offices may close or operate on limited hours
🕎 Hanukkah – Festival of Lights (Dec)
Celebrated over 8 nights
Candle lighting, fried foods (like sufganiyot and latkes), and festive events
Most businesses remain open
🥳 Purim – The Jewish Carnival (Feb/Mar)
Celebrates the story of Esther with costumes, parades, and street parties
Similar to Halloween or Carnival
Family-friendly during the day, wild parties at night (especially in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem)
🇮🇱 Yom Ha’atzmaut – Israeli Independence Day (Apr/May)
Celebrated with fireworks, outdoor barbecues, air shows, and street parties
Preceded by Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day), a solemn day with sirens and national remembrance
🔌 Electricity in Israel
Whether you’re charging a phone, laptop, or camera—it’s crucial to know what kind of plugs and voltage Israel uses.
⚡ Power Specs
Voltage: 230V
Frequency: 50Hz
Plug Types:
Type H (unique to Israel): Three round pins forming a triangle
Type C (Europlug): Two round pins—compatible with most European devices
📌 Most modern Israeli sockets accept both Type H and Type C plugs.
So, if you’re coming from Europe, you’re usually good to go. Travelers from North America, the UK, Australia, or Asia will most likely need plug adapters.
🔌 Do You Need an Adapter or Converter?
Adapters: Yes, if your plug isn’t Type C or H.
Converters: Only if your device isn’t dual-voltage.
🔎 Check your charger or device label: If it says Input: 100-240V, it’s dual-voltage and works in Israel without a converter.
Common dual-voltage devices:
Phone and laptop chargers
Electric razors
Power banks
Devices that might need a voltage converter:
Hair dryers
Curling irons
Electric toothbrushes
🧭 Travel Resources
Planning and navigating your way through Israel is easier than ever with the right tools. Here’s a curated list of the best apps, websites, and maps for tourists.
📱 Essential Travel Apps
🟢 Moovit
Real-time public transport routes, schedules, and alerts
Works for buses, light rails, and trains
Available in multiple languages
🌐 Moovit Website
💳 Rav-Kav Online
Recharge your Rav-Kav card directly from your phone
View travel history and balance
🌐 Rav-Kav Online
🚕 Gett & Yango
🧭 Waze
Israeli-made GPS navigation app (great for driving!)
Shows traffic jams, speed cameras, and road hazards
🌐 Waze
🗺 Google Maps
Works well for walking, driving, and transit in Israel
🌐 Google Maps
💸 XE Currency
Track real-time exchange rates and convert currencies
🌐 XE Currency
🗺 Offline & Hiking Maps
🥾 Israel Hiking Map
Topographic trails, routes, and campsites
Excellent for exploring national parks and nature reserves
🌐 Israel Hiking Map
🌳 Israel Nature & Parks Authority
Trail maps, park hours, entrance fees, and events
Info for places like Masada, Ein Gedi, Caesarea, and more
🌐 Israel Parks Website
🛡 Travel Safety & Emergency
🚨 Home Front Command Alerts
Real-time security alerts in case of emergencies or missile sirens
Hebrew only—consider downloading if you’re staying long-term
🌐 Home Front Command Website
✈️ U.S. State Department Advisory
Travel alerts, embassy locations, safety updates
🌐 Israel Travel Advisory
🧾 Other Handy Resources
Google Translate: Helpful for menus, signs, and Hebrew-to-English conversations
🌐 Google TranslateMorfix Dictionary: A highly trusted Hebrew-English translator
🌐 Morfix
☀️ Weather & What to Pack
Israel’s weather is incredibly diverse for a country its size. From beaches to deserts to mountain towns, you’ll encounter a variety of climates depending on the region and the time of year.
🌍 Climate Zones in Israel
Coastal Region (Tel Aviv, Haifa):
Mediterranean climate – hot, dry summers and mild, rainy wintersDesert Region (Negev, Eilat):
Arid – extremely hot in summer, cool and dry in winterMountain Region (Jerusalem, Safed):
Cooler than the coast, with occasional snowfall in winterNorthern Region (Galilee, Golan Heights):
More rainfall, green and lush, with seasonal snow on Mount Hermon
📆 Seasonal Overview
| Season | Months | Typical Weather |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | Dec – Feb | 8–17°C (46–63°F), rain in north and center |
| Spring | Mar – May | 15–25°C (59–77°F), pleasant and blooming |
| Summer | Jun – Aug | 25–35°C (77–95°F), hot and dry |
| Autumn | Sep – Nov | Cooling off, warm days, chilly nights |
🔗 Check the current forecast with Israel Meteorological Service or AccuWeather – Israel.
🎒 What to Pack
Essentials All Year Round:
Comfortable walking shoes
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
A refillable water bottle
A lightweight daypack or small backpack
For Summer:
Light, breathable clothes (linen and cotton are best)
Swimwear (for beaches and Dead Sea)
Sandals or flip-flops
For Winter:
A warm jacket or layered clothing
Raincoat or umbrella, especially in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the Galilee
Closed shoes for colder nights or walking in rain
For Visiting Religious Sites:
Modest clothing: covered shoulders and knees
A scarf or shawl (for women, sometimes required to cover shoulders or head)
Other Travel Tips:
Bring bug spray if you’re heading to the Sea of Galilee or during spring.
Power bank and universal adapter (see electricity section).
If visiting in spring or fall, pack a light jacket—nights can be cool even in the desert.
📷 Live Webcams in Israel
Get a feel for the country before you even land! These real-time webcams let you peek into some of Israel’s most iconic spots—beaches, cities, holy sites, and scenic views.
🧱 Western Wall (Jerusalem)
Watch people praying, visiting, and reflecting at one of Judaism’s holiest sites.
🕍 Especially powerful to view during Shabbat or Jewish holidays.
🎥 Watch Live
📍 Location: Old City, Jerusalem
🏖 Tel Aviv Beach
Catch the waves, surfers, and boardwalk life of Israel’s most vibrant seaside city.
🌅 Great at sunset or during summer beach parties.
🎥 Watch Live
📍 Location: Tel Aviv coastline
🌴 Eilat Marina (Red Sea)
View the palm trees, yachts, and clear water of Israel’s southern resort town.
🌞 Best viewed during the day when boats are active.
🎥 Watch Live
📍 Location: Eilat
🏙 Other Webcams
Costal Cameras – gorgeous coastal views north of Tel Aviv
Mount Hermon Live Cam – for snow updates and ski conditions in Israel’s far north
🔤 Useful Hebrew Dictionary
Hebrew is Israel’s official language, and while many Israelis speak English—especially in cities and tourist areas—learning a few local words can go a long way.
Here are some useful basic Hebrew phrases with pronunciation and spelling:
| English | Hebrew (Phonetic) | Hebrew (Letters) |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Shalom | שלום |
| Goodbye | Shalom / Lehitraot | שלום / להתראות |
| Thank you | Toda | תודה |
| Please | Bevakasha | בבקשה |
| Yes | Ken | כן |
| No | Lo | לא |
| Excuse me / Sorry | Slicha | סליחה |
| How much is it? | Kama ze ole? | כמה זה עולה? |
| Where is…? | Eifo…? | איפה…? |
| Bathroom | Sherutim | שירותים |
| I don’t understand | Ani lo mevin(a) | אני לא מבין/מבינה |
| Do you speak English? | At(a) medaber anglit? | אתה מדבר אנגלית? |
🗣 Pronunciation Tip:
“Ata” = you (masculine), “At” = you (feminine)
“Mevin” = I understand (masc.), “Mevina” = I understand (fem.)
Pro Tip: Even saying “Shalom” or “Toda” with a smile gets you major points with locals. Israelis appreciate when you make the effort.
🕎 Israeli Culture & Etiquette
Israel is a lively mix of ancient traditions and modern life. The culture is a unique blend of Jewish, Arab, Mediterranean, and global influences. Israelis are famously direct, warm, and informal — here’s how to navigate it all with confidence.
🇮🇱 Social Customs
Direct Communication: Israelis often speak their mind — it’s not rude, just honest. Expect people to be straightforward and to the point.
Informal Atmosphere: Titles like Mr./Mrs. are rarely used, even in professional settings. First names are standard.
Close Interactions: Israelis stand close when speaking, may speak loudly, and often interrupt — it’s normal and friendly, not aggressive.
Queuing: Lines can be a bit chaotic. Be assertive but polite.
👗 Dress Code
Casual is King: You’ll find jeans, T-shirts, and sandals almost everywhere, even in workplaces.
At Religious Sites: Dress modestly:
Cover shoulders and knees
Bring a scarf or shawl (for women)
Men may need to wear a kippah (available at many entrances)
Beaches: Standard swimwear is fine. Topless sunbathing is not common.
✡️ Respecting Religion & Shabbat
Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday night):
Many shops, restaurants, and public transport options close — especially in Jerusalem.
📵 In ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods, avoid using your phone or taking photos.Religious Observance:
Respect customs when visiting synagogues, mosques, or churches — even if you’re just sightseeing.Holidays:
As covered earlier, some holidays result in full shutdowns (like Yom Kippur). Always check local calendars.
🫱 Hospitality & Invitations
If invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift (wine, flowers, chocolates).
You’ll likely be offered tea, coffee, or snacks — it’s polite to accept, even if just a sip or bite.
Meals are often informal and filled with lively conversation.
🛡 Safety & Security
Israel is generally very safe for tourists. Crime is low, and police/military presence is visible but non-intrusive.
Use common sense — avoid restricted areas and follow news updates.
For alerts, follow Israel’s Home Front Command or check with your local embassy.
💡 Quick Tips
Sundays are the start of the workweek in Israel (weekends are Friday–Saturday).
Tap water is safe to drink and often better than bottled water.
Toilets may have a two-button flush system (small = light flush, big = full flush).
Taxis should always use the meter — or confirm the fare in advance.