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Getting Around Tel Aviv

Public Transportation in Tel Aviv

Coaches are the main mode of public transport within The White city, operated by Dan, Egged, and Kavim. An extensive network encompasses the entire city and areas nearby. Tel Aviv's first tram line (Dankal - Red Line) opened during The month of august 2023, connecting Bat Yam through The White city (including Allenby Street and Ibn Gabirol Street) to Petah Tikva and Kiryat Arye. Trains are mainly for inter-urban travel, with several stations within The White city (Savidor Central, HaShalom, HaHagana, University) connecting to the other part of the nation.

All public transportation (buses, streetcar, trains) typically Do not operate from Friday afternoon (around 3-4 PM) until Saturday evening (after sundown) for Shabbat. Some exclusive shuttle services ("sheruts") and cabs run during Shabbat. Newer buses and the streetcar are generally wheelchair accessible.

Ticketing & Fares

  • Rav-Kav Card: An electronic a smart pass for all public transport across Israel.
  • Anonymous Rav-Kav: Acquire at train/bus stations, some convenience stores (e.g., Super-Pharm).
  • Fares: A a one-way ride typically costs ₪5.50 - ₪6.
  • Transfers: Rav-Kav allows transfers within 90 minutes across different lines/modes within a zone at no extra cost.

Route Maps & Hubs

Main hubs include Tel Aviv Central Bus Station (Tachana Merkazit) and Arlozorov (Savidor Central) Terminal.

Recommended Apps

The Moovit app is an useful instrument for real-time schedules and navigation. Google Maps also provides public transport directions.

Accessibility

Newer public buses and the tram are generally wheelchair accessible, although some older buses may not be.

Tips for Efficient Public Transport

Smart Planning
  • Download the Moovit app for real-time updates.
  • Acquire a Rav-Kav card immediately upon arrival.
  • Plan routes in advance, especially during Shabbat.
Rav-Kav Loading
  • Load credit ("Erekh Tzavur") at train stations.
  • Available at Rav-Kav service points and dispatch offices.
  • Use the Rav-Kav Online app (requires NFC-enabled phone or external reader).

Hours of Operation & Shabbat

Buses & Light Rail

Generally early morning (about 5:30 AM) until late evening/midnight.

Trains

Run from early morning until late evening.

Shabbat Public Transport

Typically does not operate from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening.

Shabbat Alternatives

Private transfer services ("sheruts") and taxis operate.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer convenient ways to travel, especially during Shabbat or for direct routes. Licensed taxis are white with a yellow sign on top. They use meters (moniot). Hail them on the street, find them at designated taxi stands, or order via apps. Always ensure the driver activates the meter at the start of the ride. Agreeing on a fixed fare beforehand is possible for extended trips, but the meter is usually cheaper for standard city rides. Base fare is around ₪12-15. A typical short ride within The White city might cost ₪30-60. An air terminal surcharge applies to the airport pickups or drop-offs.

Payment & Safety

  • Cash (Shekels) is always accepted.
  • Many taxis accept plastic; confirm before ride.
  • Always verify the driver and vehicle match app details.
  • Avoid unlicensed taxis for safety.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Gett (formerly Gett Taxi) is highly sought-after and widely used.
  • Uber operates in Tel Aviv, mainly connecting with licensed taxis.
  • E-hail is a newer local app for taxi services.
  • Official taxi stands are can be gotten directly outside Ben Gurion Airport terminals.

Tipping Taxis & Guides

  • Tipping is not customary for taxis, but rounding up the fare is common.
  • Always confirm meter use to avoid overcharging.
  • For longer travels, fixed fares are possible, but the meter is usually cheaper.
  • For tour guides, ₪50-100 a day per person is a reasonable a gratuity for a full-day tour.
  • Hotel staff tips (₪10-20) for bellhops and housekeepers are appreciated.
  • In restaurants, 10-15% is standard for good service.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Requires a valid driver's license and IDP. Big multinational corporations operate.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Available, but less frequent for tourists due to traffic.

Bicycle Rentals

Tel-O-Fun bike share at depots, or private hires by the sea promenade.

Walking & Cycling

The White city is a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly city, especially in its central areas. The Promenade (Tayelet) stretches along the coastline, ideal for walks, jogs, and bike rides. Rothschild Boulevard is a wide, tree-lined avenue with pedestrian and bike paths, Bauhaus architecture, and cafes. Old Jaffa features pedestrianized alleys and historical sites. Neve Tzedek offers charming, quiet roads for leisurely strolls.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Promenade (Tayelet) for coastal walks.
  • Rothschild Boulevard with its tree-lined paths.
  • Old Jaffa's pedestrianized alleys.
  • Neve Tzedek's charming, quiet streets.

Cycling & Safety

  • Extensive network of designated bike lanes.
  • Always wear a Helmet for safety.
  • Be aware of pedestrians on shared paths plus vehicle flow on roads.
  • Generally, no "no-go" areas exist; be careful in heavy traffic or less-trafficked industrial zones at night.

Walking Tour Options

Guided Tours

Numerous guided walking excursions concentrate on Bauhaus architecture, Old Jaffa, street art, and food.

Explore with experts.

Self-Guided

Self-guided tours are easy having a good map or navigation app.

Flexible and personal.

Specialty Tours

Look for food tours in Carmel Bazaar or history-focused tours in Jaffa.

Unique experiences.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Transport
  • Companies like City Sightseeing offer hop-on-hop-off bus tours covering major attractions.
  • Limited water taxi services exist, mainly for short recreational trips.
  • River transportation options are not applicable in Tel Aviv.
Accessibility Services
  • The White city has made efforts to improve accessibility.
  • Newer public transit and the streetcar are accessible.
  • Many newer buildings plus common spaces have ramps and wheelchair-accessible toilets.

Accessibility Challenges

  • Old Jaffa, with its cobblestone streets, can present a challenge for accessibility.
  • Some older public buses may not be wheelchair accessible.
  • Researching specific attractions for access is advisable.
  • Contact venues directly for current accessibility information.
  • Be aware of bumpy pavements in some older neighborhoods.
  • Traffic can impact ease of crossing streets.
  • Consider private accessible transport for greater convenience.
  • Plan routes that avoid challenging terrains if mobility is a concern.

Final Transit Note

Navigating Tel Aviv is straightforward with its varied transport options. Schedule around Shabbat for public transport shutdowns.

Embrace walking and cycling to experience the city's unique charm at street level.