Getting from Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv
Revised and Updated – March 2025
Table of Contents
Traveling from Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv
- 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.
- Tel Aviv is Located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Ben Gurion airport airport. Travelers can reach Tel Aviv by taxi, bus, train, or shared shuttle, though availability varies by time and day. Traveling to Tel Aviv can be challenging, particularly if you arrive on Shabbat or Jewish holidays.
- Unfortunately, much of the information available online is outdated and misleading.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 Tel Aviv. I hope it helps you plan a smooth journey and avoid common pitfalls.
Taxi from Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv
- 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 Tel Aviv should cost up to 200 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 Tel Aviv.
- 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 Tel Aviv, especially during peak hours, weekends, or holidays.
Train from Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv
- Traveling by train from Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv 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.
- As of March 2025, trains from Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv run 3–4 times per hour during the day and 1–2 times per hour at night, with no transfers required. The journey typically takes about 12 minutes to reach Ha-Hagana station in south Tel Aviv and up to 30 minutes to reach the University station in north Tel Aviv. Note that Tel Aviv’s train stations are not centrally located so you may need to take a bus or taxi to reach your final destination.
- A single trip costs 9.5 ILS and a daily pass is 19 ILS (as of March 2025). Keep in mind that trains in Israel do not operate during Jewish holidays and weekends (Friday afternoon through Saturday night). For the most current fare prices, schedule changes and service updates please refer to the official Israel Railways website.
- If you’re going to rely on public transportation during your time in Tel Aviv 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.
- Several private operators run a shared minivan shuttle service that can be taken to any destination in Tel Aviv from Ben Gurion Airport 24 hours a day.
- This service must be booked in advance in order for the driver to track your flight and wait for you even in case your flight is delayed.
- Depending on the operator, the type of vehicle and the time of the day it can take a long while before you leave the airport as drivers often wait for additional passengers before departing. Also, if you are the last one to be dropped off your journey can take longer than expected.
Bus from Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv
- Bus #445 departs from Terminal 3 at Ben Gurion Airport every 60–90 minutes, traveling to Tel Aviv with stops along the city’s main streets, including Dizengoff, Bograshov, HaYarkon, and Ben Yehuda, before reaching its final stop at Tel Aviv Port.
- While a ticket costs just 6 ILS (as of March 2025), travel time can vary greatly based on traffic conditions. Also, keep in mind that buses in Israel do not operate from Friday afternoon to Saturday night, as well as on Jewish holidays.
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 Tel Aviv 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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