How to Travel from Ben Gurion Airport on Shabbat

Last updated: August 2026 by Moshe Barak — Israel travel and transportation expert with more than 20 years of experience helping international travelers navigate Israel.

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) remains operational during Shabbat, but leaving the airport requires more planning than on a regular weekday. Israel Railways and most regular bus services stop before Shabbat begins on Friday and resume according to route-specific schedules on Saturday evening.

The main options during this period include the limited, free weekend Line 711 service to central Tel Aviv, an official airport taxi, a pre-booked private transfer and a rental car, depending on the rental company’s opening hours.

Quick answer: Travelers going to central Tel Aviv may be able to use free weekend Line 711 if its limited timetable matches their arrival and one of its stops is convenient. An official airport taxi provides immediate door-to-door transportation, while a pre-booked private transfer offers a fixed quote, guaranteed pickup and a vehicle selected for your group and luggage. For Jerusalem, Haifa, the Dead Sea and other long-distance destinations, arranging transportation in advance is generally the most practical choice.

Jump to: Comparison Table | Weekend Line 711 | Airport Taxi | Private Transfer | Car Rental | Popular Destinations | Practical Tips | FAQ

💡 Just so you know: Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase or booking, at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep this site running – thank you!

Travel times are estimates. Road journeys can take considerably longer because of traffic, accidents, road closures or holiday congestion. Line 711 schedules, taxi fares and rental-company opening hours can change, so check current information for your arrival date.

• Consider weekend Line 711 if you are traveling to central Tel Aviv, its limited timetable matches your arrival and one of its stops is reasonably close to your accommodation.
• Choose an official airport taxi if you want an immediate door-to-door journey and are comfortable with a metered fare that can vary according to traffic and the applicable tariff.
• Book a private transfer if guaranteed pickup, a fixed quote, flight monitoring, luggage assistance or a larger vehicle is important to you.
• Rent a car if the airport is the beginning of a wider independent trip. A rental car is usually unnecessary if you intend to remain in central Tel Aviv or Jerusalem for several days.
• Consider waiting for regular public transportation to resume if you land shortly before the end of Shabbat and an actual scheduled departure is available later that evening.

💡 My recommendation: Line 711 is a useful budget option for some travelers going to central Tel Aviv, but its limited schedule and Terminal 1 pickup point make it unsuitable for many international arrivals. For families, groups, passengers with several suitcases and travelers continuing beyond Tel Aviv, arranging door-to-door transportation in advance is generally the more practical choice.

Shabbat begins before sunset on Friday and ends after nightfall on Saturday. The exact times change throughout the year, and similar transportation restrictions apply during most Jewish holidays.

Ben Gurion Airport itself continues operating, but the transportation available outside the terminals changes considerably.

• 🚆 No regular trains from the airport.
• 🚌 No regular national bus services during the main Shabbat shutdown.
• 🚌 Limited free Line 711 service stopping at Terminal 1 to central Tel Aviv.
• 🚕 Official airport taxis operating through the authorized taxi system.
• 🚐 Private transfers available when arranged in advance.
• 🚗 Rental-car collection only when offered by the selected company.

Do not rely on a general statement that public transportation resumes a certain number of minutes after sunset. The first train or bus departure varies according to the season, route and specific date.

💡 Can you use Uber at Ben Gurion Airport? Uber does not currently operate its standard ride-hailing service in Israel, so you cannot order an Uber after landing. Find out which local services are available instead in Is Uber Available in Israel?

Line 711 is part of the Na’im Besofash weekend transportation network. It operates between Shoham and central Tel Aviv, stopping at Ben Gurion Airport’s Terminal 1 along the way during selected Friday and Saturday hours.

This is an important exception to the general rule that public buses do not operate from Ben Gurion Airport during Shabbat.

Line 711 can be useful for flexible, budget-conscious travelers, but it should not be treated like a frequent airport shuttle. Its schedule may not match every flight, and it does not provide direct transportation to individual hotels or apartments.

The airport stop is outside Terminal 1. Most international flights arrive at Terminal 3. Passengers arriving there must first take the airport’s free internal shuttle to Terminal 1. At Terminal 3, the shuttle stop is located on Level G near Exit 01. The inter-terminal shuttle operates approximately every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day.

Allow enough time to leave the terminal, wait for the shuttle, travel to Terminal 1 and locate the Line 711 stop. A short connection between your flight and the scheduled stop at Terminal 1 may not be realistic.

The precise route should always be checked before traveling, but useful Tel Aviv stops normally include areas around:

• HaRakevet Street
• Menachem Begin Road
• Rothschild Boulevard
• Habima Square
• Dizengoff Center
• Ibn Gabirol Street
• The Tel Aviv Museum

The route does not provide direct service to every tourist area. Travelers staying beside the beachfront, in Jaffa, near Tel Aviv Port or far from the route may still need to walk, take a taxi or arrange another connection from the nearest stop.

Line 711 is free.

However, departures are infrequent and may be separated by long intervals. Check the current timetable shortly before traveling rather than relying on an old screenshot, blog post or saved schedule.

You should also compare your flight’s scheduled landing time with the time you are realistically likely to leave the arrivals hall after passport control, baggage claim and customs.

An official airport taxi provides direct transportation from the terminal to your hotel, apartment or other destination. It is normally the most readily available door-to-door option for travelers who have not arranged transportation in advance.

Airport taxis operate during Shabbat and Jewish holidays. However, demand can be considerably higher because trains and regular buses are unavailable, while fewer taxi drivers may choose to work. Queues are therefore possible during busy arrival periods.

At Terminal 3, the official on-demand taxi queue is located on the ground-floor arrivals level outside Exit 03.

At Terminal 1, licensed taxis are available outside the main exit.

Ignore anyone approaching you inside the terminal and offering an unofficial ride. Follow the airport signs and use only the authorized taxi system.

Gett is the official operator of authorized taxis from Ben Gurion Airport. You can request a taxi through the Gett app or use one of the airport’s self-service kiosks. After entering your destination, you receive a ride code. Take the code to the official taxi queue. When it is your turn, an usher will direct you to an available licensed taxi.

You do not have to download the Gett app to use the self-service kiosks. However, the app can make it easier to access your journey information, contact customer service and use digital payment. Ordering an on-demand taxi through the app does not allow you to bypass the physical queue. The line is managed according to passengers’ order of arrival.

Gett also allows scheduled airport taxi orders. These are different from joining the on-demand queue after landing. At Terminal 3, scheduled pickups normally use the second floor near Exit 23. Follow the meeting instructions shown in your reservation.

Official on-demand airport taxi fares are calculated by the meter. The final price depends on:

• Your exact destination
• Traffic and total journey time
• The applicable daytime, nighttime, weekend or holiday tariff
• Airport, reservation, waiting or road charges
• The route taken and any requested stops

The following figures are general planning estimates rather than guaranteed prices:

The final metered fare can be lower or higher. Heavy traffic, a distant address within the destination and the applicable Shabbat tariff can significantly affect the total.

Keep your ride code and receipt until the journey is complete. They may help identify the vehicle if you leave something behind or need customer assistance.

Gett states that passengers can pay the driver by cash or card or pay through the Gett app.

It is still sensible to carry a backup payment card or some Israeli shekels in case of a technical, mobile-data or payment-terminal problem.

💡 A typical sedan is generally suitable for up to three passengers carrying regular suitcases or four passengers with limited luggage. Larger taxis may be available, but they are difficult to guarantee without booking ahead. For fare information, payment methods, taxi apps and practical advice, see my complete guide to taxis in Israel.

A pre-booked private transfer is the most predictable option for travelers who want a driver assigned in advance, a suitable vehicle arranged for their group and a price confirmed before the journey.

When booking, you provide your flight details, destination, number of passengers and expected luggage. The driver monitors your flight, follows the agreed pickup procedure, assists with your bags and takes you directly to your accommodation.

Unlike an on-demand airport taxi, a private transfer normally includes a fixed quote rather than a fare calculated by the meter.

A pre-booked private transfer is generally recommended for travelers seeking a reliable, door-to-door journey and is especially useful for:

• Families traveling with children.
• Groups that require a larger vehicle.
• Travelers carrying several large or oversized suitcases.
• First-time visitors who prefer assistance after landing.
• Arrivals during Shabbat, Jewish holidays or late at night.
• Long-distance journeys to Jerusalem, Haifa, the Dead Sea, Tiberias or the Galilee.
• Travelers who prefer a fixed quote rather than a metered fare.
• Passengers requiring child seats, an accessible vehicle or another special arrangement.
• Anyone who wants to avoid uncertainty about taxi queues and vehicle availability.

The private option may cost more than some alternatives, but it removes uncertainty about pickup, luggage capacity, vehicle size and the final price.

When booking, specify the exact number of passengers and the approximate number and size of your bags. A vehicle that can carry eight passengers may not necessarily have enough luggage space for eight full-size suitcases.

Renting a car provides flexibility if Ben Gurion Airport is the beginning of a wider independent trip through Israel.

A rental car can be useful if you plan to continue to the Galilee, Golan Heights, Dead Sea, Negev, Mitzpe Ramon or other destinations with limited public transportation. It is less attractive if you intend to spend several days in central Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, where traffic, limited parking and hotel parking charges can make a car more inconvenient than helpful.

Not every rental company offers vehicle collection throughout Shabbat. Opening hours, terminal arrangements and after-hours procedures vary between providers. Do not assume that a company accepting an online reservation also keeps its airport collection desk open throughout Shabbat.

If a rental car suits your itinerary, compare current offers through DiscoverCars before choosing a provider and insurance package.

No. There is currently no regular airport sherut service from Ben Gurion Airport.

The former Nesher shared-taxi service to Jerusalem and the former Amal service to Haifa have been discontinued. Older websites and travel forums may still recommend them, but travelers should not expect to find these services after landing.

There is also no dedicated scheduled airport sherut to Tel Aviv.

👉 For up-to-date information about sherut services in Israel, see my guide: Are Shared Taxis Still Available in Israel?

The most practical option depends largely on your destination:

There is no single resumption time for every train and bus route.

Public transportation normally begins returning on Saturday evening, but the first available departure varies according to the route, season, station and specific date. Some services restart relatively soon after Shabbat, while others offer only a small number of late-evening departures or do not resume until Sunday morning.

Before deciding to wait at the airport:

• Check the Israel Railways journey planner for your exact travel date.
• Check the National Public Transportation Authority or a current journey-planning app for bus services.
• Allow enough time for passport control, baggage collection and customs.
• Confirm that any onward local connection will also be operating.

If your flight lands shortly before regular public transportation resumes and you are not in a hurry, waiting for a scheduled train or bus may be considerably less expensive than taking a taxi.

💡 Planning to use trains, buses or light rail elsewhere during your trip? These practical tips for getting around Israel explain how to pay, which transportation apps to use and what visitors should know about the Israeli transportation system.

• Check your complete arrival timeline: Your flight’s scheduled landing time is not the time you will leave the terminal. Passport control, baggage claim and customs can add considerable time.
• Confirm whether your arrival falls during Shabbat: Check the date carefully, particularly when landing on Friday afternoon, Saturday evening or before a Jewish holiday. Shabbat start and end times change by season – check the exact times in advance.
• Use current transportation information: Schedules and operating arrangements can change. Check official sources shortly before traveling rather than relying on an old screenshot.
• Book long-distance transportation in advance: Advance arrangements are especially useful for Jerusalem, Haifa, the Dead Sea, Tiberias and rural destinations.
• Confirm your arrival terminal and meeting point: Most international flights arrive at Terminal 3, but this can change. Follow the pickup instructions supplied by your driver or transportation provider.
• Provide your full destination: Save your hotel or accommodation name, street address and telephone number. Having the address available in both English and Hebrew can be helpful.
• Choose the correct vehicle: Specify all passengers, suitcases, strollers, child seats, wheelchairs and oversized equipment when booking.
• Keep a backup payment method: Carry another card or some Israeli shekels in case an app or payment terminal does not work.
• Avoid unofficial transportation offers: Use the authorized airport taxi queue or a transfer arranged with a reputable provider.
• Stay connected: Mobile data makes it easier to contact your driver, check schedules, use maps and receive travel updates. Free WiFi is available in all terminals at Ben Gurion Airport. For continued connectivity after leaving the airport, consider purchasing an eSIM in advance.

📱 Activating mobile data before you land can make your arrival considerably easier. Compare providers, coverage and data allowances in my guide to choosing the best eSIM for Israel.

💡 For advice about passport control, baggage claim, terminals and essential services after landing, see these Ben Gurion Airport Arrival Tips for first-time travelers.

Line 711 gives travelers going to central Tel Aviv a useful free alternative during selected Shabbat hours. However, its limited timetable, Terminal 1 stop and lack of hotel drop-off mean that it will not suit every flight or accommodation location.

An official airport taxi offers flexible door-to-door transportation without an advance reservation. A private transfer provides greater certainty about pickup, vehicle size, luggage capacity and price. Renting a car is most appropriate when the airport is the beginning of a wider road trip rather than a stay in central Tel Aviv or Jerusalem.

Whichever option you choose, consider the complete journey to your accommodation rather than only the first stage. Check current schedules, allow time for airport formalities and terminal transfers, and make advance arrangements when traveling with children, substantial luggage or a group.

Plan your transportation in Israel carefully and especially from Friday evening through Saturday.

🚖 Prefer to have everything arranged before you land? Reserve a private airport transfer from Ben Gurion Airport and receive a suitable vehicle, flight monitoring and a confirmed quote in advance.

How to Get from Ben Gurion Airport to Haifa

How to Get from Ben Gurion Airport to Ein Bokek

How to Get from Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv

How to Get from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem

• Ben Gurion Airport Arrival Tips
• Taxis in Israel
• Is Uber Available in Israel?
• Getting Around Israel
• The Best eSIM for Israel

Thank you for visiting my website!

I’m Moshe Barak, providing private transportation across Israel for international travelers for over 20 years.

Together with my team of dedicated drivers, I offer reliable, flexible, and personalized service – with close attention to detail and a personal touch. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, I’m committed to making your journey as easy and enjoyable as possible.

Feel free to reach out for a quote, I’ll be happy to assist.
I look forward to being part of your journey in Israel.

Warm regards,
Moshe Barak

Request Your Airport Transfer Quote

Feel free to contact me with inquiries and requests for quotes. I’ll personally review your request and reply with availability and a confirmed price.

Don’t forget to mention:

• Your flight details including date and time of arrival
• The requested destination
• The number of passengers
• The expected amount of luggage

You can also contact me directly or call me.

Your personal information will never be shared with third parties for marketing purposes.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Name *

Email *

Message of Country

Country of Origin

Your Message

Consent *

• I consent to having my submitted information stored in order to respond to my inquiry

Contact Me

Discover More of Israel

Travel guides, destination ideas, and practical tips to help you plan your trip

Baptism in The Jordan River

Rosh Hanikra

Mitzpe Ramon Crater

Getting Around Tel Aviv

Churches in Jerusalem

Where to Stay in Tel Aviv

Visiting Jaffa

Car Service in Israel

Best eSIM for Israel

Mount of Olives, Jerusalem

Is It Safe to Travel to Israel?

Masada