Flying to tel Aviv? Here are 7 of the best ways to get from Ben Gurion airport to Tel Aviv quickly, easily and affordably. Find out everything you need to know here.
Just touched down at Ben Gurion Airport, Israel and want to get to Tel Aviv ASAP?
We get it - there’s no time to waste! Luckily, traveling from Ben Gurion airport to Tel Aviv is quick and easy, no matter which of the 7 ways you choose.
Whether you’re looking for the fastest way, the cheapest way, the funnest way or just the best way to get your entire family to Tel Aviv hassle-free, we’ve got a range of options here for you.
Get to Tel Aviv stress-free: going from Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv is a breeze, with a range of convenient transportation options to suit your needs and budget:
If your bags are packed and you are ready to visit Tel Aviv, then read this guide and see what lies in store for you!
The fastest and most efficient option, the train gets you straight from Terminal 3 at Ben Gurion Airport to three different Tel Aviv stations in about 18 minutes. Trains run about every 30 minutes throughout the day and night (except Saturdays), making them a reliable choice at any time. Tickets are very affordable, perfect for budget-conscious travelers. One thing to watch out for however: try to avoid the trains during the morning and evening rush hours. The trains get packed and if you're traveling with luggage or children, it can be a less than fun way to start your trip.
The most budget-friendly option, with bus line 445 departing from Terminal 3 and making several stops in central Tel Aviv. The journey takes about 33 minutes, giving you a sort of sightseeing tour of the city as you travel.
Buses operate every hour (excluding Saturdays), so plan your arrival accordingly. We recommend you buy a prepaid travel card from the machines by the train station before you board, helping you to save time and money when buying tickets onboard.
By far one of the most comfortable options, offering door-to-door service directly from the arrivals terminal to your Tel Aviv destination. Taxis are readily available, but be prepared for fares to be the most expensive compared to trains and buses. We highly recommend you travel on the meter (‘bmoneh’ in Hebrew), or download the Gett Taxi app to prebook your travel.
To get a taxi using Gett Taxi, exit the Arrivals hall and go left towards the taxi stand. Pre-order a taxi using the app, and present your number to the guard at the head of the line. From there, you wait for your taxi, and you'll be in Tel Aviv in no time. Of course, at busier times, be aware that you might have to wait a while.
If you're traveling with a lot of people (particularly children), prebooking a private shuttle service directly to your hotel might be the best option. For this, we recommend asking your hotel to recommend and prebook you a private shuttle, to make sure there is one waiting for you when you arrive! Going on a ‘moniot sherut’ (private shuttle) is an Israeli experience in itself, and a great way to start your trip!
For the ultimate in flexibility, renting a car at the airport is your best option. This allows you to explore Tel Aviv and beyond at your own pace. However…it should be mentioned that finding parking in Tel Aviv can be challenging at the best of times, and that navigating the new one-way systems that seemingly jump around the city is challenging even for native Tel Avivians. We’d say only consider this option if you're comfortable driving in a new city, and have somewhere to park at your hotel.
Have a friend or family who lives in Tel Aviv? Ask them to come and pick you up from the airport! This is the smoothest way to get from Ben Gurion airport to Tel Aviv. However, you should be aware that the person picking you up would more than likely need to deal with traffic getting to and from the airport, as well as they would have only ten minutes to wait at the designated pick-up area by the arrivals hall. This can be tricky to get right, especially when you can't be certain aht time you'll be finished with security and luggage pickup.
If you want a truly Israeli experience then getting the train to Tel Aviv and switching at Savidor train station to the light rail is super fun, and still a novelty even for Israelis! The light rail is around one year old, and currently runs from Bat Yam in the south to Petach Tikva in the north, going through several Tel Aviv neighborhoods. It's a great way to get closer to your hotel, but can be a little tricky navigating between the train and light rail stations when you have luggage.
After getting from Ben Gurion airport to Tel Aviv, it’s time to rest and get ready for your Tel Aviv adventure. Isrotel’s range of hotels all across the city has something for very type of traveler:
Wake up to breathtaking sea views and step directly onto Tel Aviv's famous beachfront promenade. The Royal Beach Tel Aviv gives you that luxurious beachfront experience that Tel Aviv is famous for, perfect for sunbathers and beach lovers. The hotel's prime location places you in the heart of the action, with fun restaurants, cafes, and vibrant nightlife just literal steps away.
The Sea Tower is right by the sea, and as its name suggests, a swirling tower, complete with 360-degree rooftop pool. Its central location puts you in walking distance of all of the fun and attractions Tel Aviv has to offer, trendy neighborhoods, and vibrant markets.
A more boutique hotel for culture lovers, the Gymnasia allows you to experience Tel Aviv's rich past, with its architecture reflecting the city's early 20th-century heritage. Explore nearby historical landmarks and markets, soaking up the city's vibrant energy. Back at the hotel, relax in the stunning lobby or unwind in the peaceful outdoor courtyard.
For a truly personalized experience, choose the Alberto. This boutique hotel in the trendy Neve Tzedek neighborhood gives you a more intimate approach to luxury, right in one of the coolest locations in Tel Aviv, right by Rothschild Boulevard. Explore the area's streets filled with art galleries, unique cafes, and a hipster vibe. Back at the hotel, unwind in the rooftop jacuzzi or enjoy a delicious meal while people watching from above on the outdoor terrace.
When it; time to return from Tel Aviv to Ben Gurion Airport is just as easy as your arrival to Tel Aviv. The same transportation options mentioned above are available for your return journey, but do keep in mind your departure times and traffic conditions when planning your trip back to the airport.
For added convenience, Isrotel will offer you airport shuttle services or can assist you in arranging ease transportation.
Now that you've seen how easy it is traveling from Ben Gurion airport to Tel Aviv, you can be basking on Tel Aviv's beaches, exploring vibrant markets, and trying out all of the amazing food on offer in no time!
Book your Tel Aviv vacation today, with Isrotel.
