Getting from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem
Revised and Updated – March 2025
Table of Contents
Traveling from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem
- Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), named after Israel’s first prime minister, David Ben Gurion, is the country’s primary gateway, and it operates year-round, except on Yom Kipur.
- Jerusalem is Located approximately 50 kilometers (30 miles) from Ben Gurion airport airport. Traveling directly to Jerusalem can be challenging, particularly if you arrive on Shabbat or Jewish holidays.
- Travelers can reach Jerusalem by taxi or train, though availability varies by time and day. As of March 2025, shared taxis (sherut) and buses to Jerusalem are no longer available.
- Unfortunately, much of the information available online is outdated and misleading. This guide is the most accurate and up-to-date source of information on transportation options to Jerusalem. I hope it helps you plan a smooth journey and avoid common pitfalls.
Taxi from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem
- Taxis can be found at the taxi stand outside the arrivals hall. Taxi drivers are not allowed to solicit passengers inside the terminal, yet this happens occasionally so keep away from those as they are likely to be unauthorized drivers.
- You may ask the driver to suggest a fixed price before hitting the road. As of March 2025, a taxi from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem should cost up to 350 ILS. The actual price may vary based on the exact destination within the city and is typically higher during nights, holidays and weekends.
- In case of a dispute you may ask the driver to use the meter which starts at 12.30 ILS although most drivers will probably try to avoid it. Generally, taxi fares in Israel fall into 3 different categories. During nights weekends and holidays the higher fares apply. There is an extra charge for exiting the airport and using toll roads or fast lanes if needed. Tipping your taxi driver is not a common practice and is therefore not expected, though you’re welcome to do so if you find it appropriate, such as for exceptional service or a particularly pleasant experience.
- Update: As of 2025, Gett is the designated operator of the taxi stand at Ben Gurion Airport for arriving passengers seeking taxi services. You can order a taxi via the Gett app on your smartphone or at kiosks located throughout the terminal, where you’ll get a code to show to an usher outside for your ride to Jerusalem.
- Pay attention: Passengers have reported significantly long wait times outside the arrivals terminal due to an ongoing shortage of drivers. To sidestep these delays and ensure a seamless arrival, it is highly recommended to pre-book your taxi in advance to secure your ride ahead of time with a private taxi operator. This way, you can avoid the uncertainty of on-the-spot availability and enjoy a smoother travel experience to Jerusalem, especially during peak hours, weekends, or holidays.
Train from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem
- Traveling by train from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem is a convenient and cost-effective choice. The train station at Ben Gurion Airport is located just outside terminal 3 on the lowest level. Passengers landing at terminal 1 can connect to terminal 3 by using an airport shuttle free of charge.
- Trains from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem depart twice per hour during the day and once an hour at night. The journey to Jerusalem takes about 30 minutes with no transfers required. A single trip costs 19 ILS and a daily pass is 29.5 ILS (as of March 2025). Note that trains in Israel do not operate during Jewish holidays and weekends (Friday afternoon through Saturday night). For the latest fare prices, time table changes and service updates please refer to the official Israel Railways website.
- In Jerusalem the train stops at the new Yitzhak Navon station located deep underground by the western entrance of the city. Upon arrival you can easily transfer to the light rail, catch a local taxi or walk to the nearby central bus station and take a local bus. If you’re going to rely on public transportation during your time in Jerusalem or in Israel, it is advisable to purchase a Rav-Kav card at the arrivals hall of Ben Gurion Airport. Check out my comprehensive guide with in-depth info and valuable tips for getting around Israel smoothly and efficiently.
Sherut from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem
- Update: As of March 2025, the shared taxi service (sherut) between Ben Gurion Airport and Jerusalem that used to be operated by Nesher is no longer operating.
Bus from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem
- Update: As of March 2025, Bus #485 that used to run from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem is no longer operating.
Renting a Car at Ben Gurion Airport
- 7 Car rental companies operate at Ben Gurion Airport 24 hours a day: Avis, Budget, Dollar Thrifty, Eldan, Europcar, Hertz and Shlomo Sixt. Their counters are located on level 1 of terminal 3 above the arrivals hall while the vehicles are collected from a nearby parking lot.
- Other local car rental companies have branches in Jerusalem as well as in other major cities but those are closed during weekends and holidays.
- If you wish to rent a car in Israel it is highly recommended to reserve a car in advance in order to avoid disappointment. You will probably get a better deal too.
About The Author
Moshe Barak is a highly knowledgeable and reputable private taxi service operator in Israel, renowned for his professional approach, friendly attitude, and attention to details.
With over 20 years of experience and a long list of satisfied customers he is the trusted choice by many international travelers seeking reliable transportation with a personal touch during their trip to Israel.
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