Taxis in Israel are very common and popular forms of transportation. Cheap by European standards, taxis in Israel are widely available and are generally safe and modern cars, with helpful drivers. Within cities, drivers must use the meter (moneh) unless they agree a fixed fare with the passenger, whilst inter-city, taxis have fixed fares.
Taxis in Israel
There are surcharges for calling a taxi, for luggage, and for hailing a taxi at Ben Gurion airport. Each fee is approximately NIS 5. Night rates have a 25% surcharge, and there is a starting fare of NIS 11 in cities. There is often an additional surcharge for taxis taken on Friday and Saturday during Shabbat.
It is best to agree on a price with the driver at the start of the journey. If in doubt, insist that the meter is used. They have to do this legally, however, will often try to persuade you not to. When riding with taxis in Israel, it is not customary to tip the driver. Prices are set accordingly and a tip is not expected or necessary towards the driver.
It is also convenient to get a taxi to and from Ben Gurion Airport. Here there are fixed fares and a dispatcher who organizes the process. Travelers may also be interested in using a private car or transfer service from Ben Gurion.
Taxi Apps in Israel
Generally, taxi apps are really the best way for tourists to take a taxi in Israel. Firstly prices are linked to the app and automatically at the meter rate within cities, and a fixed price list out of town. The apps all work in English, and the drivers are generally better, being rated by customers and more service orientated. Because of the competition in the market, none of the main taxi-apps in Israel charge to order a cab.
In order to stay connected with mobile internet all the time, we recommend renting an Israeli SIM card. One of the best and most widely used taxi apps in Israel is called Gett Taxi. This app can be downloaded in the app store both inside and outside of Israel, and works in English, offering quick and efficient taxi service while in Israel. Another Taxi app used locally is called Yango, offering a similar taxi and rideshare service.
Read more about other ways to get around in Israel including public transportation and bike rental.
Using Taxis When Joining a Tour
For those travelers who are joining a day tour that offers a centralized pickup, it is very useful to use a taxi in the early morning hours to get to the pickup location. Since there is very little traffic in the early morning hours, taking a taxi is often very inexpensive and efficient to arrive at the tour on time. Check out our day tours here.
