Having now lived in Tel Aviv for a few months, we knew it was time to explore more of Israel. We’ve tried some of the best foods here and explored several fantastic neighborhoods. But, now it is time to visit the capital of Israel and one of the most historically significant places in three different religions. So, let’s explore how to get from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and why the trip is absolutely worth making.
Getting to Jerusalem
Although Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are on opposite sides of the country. Getting between them is actually very easy, with four different options. Tel Aviv has a lot to explore, a day or overnight trip to Jerusalem is a must-do if you’re going to come to Israel. Even if you don’t subscribe to any religion that gives significant importance to the city. If you’re Christian as we are, touching the tomb that Jesus was buried in (and then rose from), seeing the room that hosted the Last Supper, or walking the Via Delarosa are life-changing experiences.
By Train: Tel Aviv to Jerusalem
We’ll start with this one as it’s our recommendation and the one we’ve done ourselves a few times. There are four train stations in Tel Aviv, covering the South, 2 in Central, and one in Northern Tel Aviv. The stations are large, well-maintained and efficient. Trains leave from Tel Aviv (all four stations) just about every 30 minutes from 5:30AM until 11:00PM. The total trip takes a little under 50 minutes from end to end.
There is currently only one operating train station in Jerusalem. The other two are listed as temporarily closed as of this writing. However, the one station is located just steps away from a light rail station. Across the street from the central bus station. Just make note that to get into the train station (on either end), you’ll need to go through a security checkpoint, including a metal detector and x-rays of any of your bags.
Traveling By Train
The train itself was very comfortable, with both ground-level and upper-level seats. There were also surprisingly large bathrooms for a train. The trip was comfortable and quick, and watching the traffic outside the window leaving Tel Aviv made it clear that it was faster than most alternatives. Weirdly, as we both left Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, our ears popped from the pressure difference. We’ve made the round-trip many times now, and it happened to both of us all times. During the trip, you cross through several tunnels cut out into the mountain, which is a cool experience. There is only one stop (at Ben Gurion Airport) between the last Tel Aviv stop and Jerusalem.
Travel by train to Jerusalem or to Ramla for a fun day trip!
Arriving in Jerusalem
Because Jerusalem is the end of the line, there is no rush to get off the train quickly. Once you do, head into the station and watch for signs for the escalators. You’ll find them by exiting the platforms on the side closest to the front of the train. Why does this matter? The other option is a set of three elevators, which everybody on the train tries to crowd into, causing a significant bottleneck. Also, taking the escalator will truly give you a sense of how far underground you are. There are three sets of long escalators to get to the lobby level. Then you’ll need to take one more to get out to the courtyard. Then a fifth one to get to the street level.
Paying For The Train
The easiest way to pay for the train is with the MoovIt App. Conveniently, it is also the best way to pay for buses and light rail (in both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.) So, you can use a RavKav Card as well, but it requires purchasing a separate ticket to put on the card before you can swipe it. The MoovIt App requires a few clicks, giving you a QR Code. Scan the code at the entry gates to get in. When you arrive at your destination, click “I’m off the train,” and it will give you another QR Code. You can scan this code to leave the station. Each way from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem was about $6.50. But, an all-day unlimited pass (for trips up to 90km) was only about $10. MoovIt does the calculations for you and will give you the best rate in either case.
By Bus: Tel Aviv to Jerusalem
Suppose you’d prefer to take the bus, a bus leaves from the Tel Aviv Central Bus Station to Jerusalem Central Bus Station. It takes about 50 minutes from end to end, with a couple of stops along the way. The trip is similar to the train but costs a little less at only about $4. Again, the bus drops you off at the Central Bus Station, which is located in front of the Light Rail Red Line Station. Between the buses and the light rail, you can easily get into any part of the city you’re looking for.
By Car: Tel Aviv to Jerusalem
If you want to make the drive, it’s a little over an hour for a little over a 65-kilometer (40.3 Miles) drive. Traffic on both the Tel Aviv and the Jerusalem side can get heavy so the total time may vary considerably. Also, note that both are cities, and finding parking may be more challenging. There is also a good chance you’ll end up paying for it. We can only recommend taking a car if you plan on continuing your journey somewhere outside of the Israeli Railways network after Jerusalem. But, if you’re looking to explore more of Israel on your own, you could consider renting a car and going on a road trip. It’s a small country so you can see a lot in just a couple of days.
By Tour: Tel Aviv to Jerusalem
Of course, Jerusalem is very popular for tours and tourists. Because Tel Aviv is one of the biggest cities and so close to the airport and the beaches, many tourists stay in hotels there. As a result, many tour companies operate tours of Jerusalem, including pickup and drop-off at various locations within Tel Aviv. This, of course, is the most expensive option. But it will be the most informative and ensure that you don’t miss any of the most important stops in the old city. This is also a great option for those uncomfortable with navigating a city alone or navigating public transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions: Tel Aviv To Jerusalem
How far is Jerusalem from Tel Aviv?
Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are about 65 Kilometers apart, or a little over 40 miles. Regardless of your method of travel, you can get between the two cities within about an hour, maybe a little bit more. But, regarding geography, they are just about on opposite borders of the country.
What are the transportation options for traveling from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem?
There are numerous ways to cross between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The four most common are to travel by train, by bus, by driving, or by taking a tour. However, there are some pros and cons to all of these choices. We personally would recommend taking a train to get between these two fascinating cities.
How long does it take to travel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem by car/bus/train?
On average, you can get between the two cities in about an hour. The fastest option is by train, at about 42 minutes between Central Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The slowest option would be driving, at closer to 1.5 hours, mostly due to traffic.
Is it safe to travel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem?
Unfortunately, this is a common question we’re getting a lot of currently. If you’re traveling by train or bus and rockets/missiles are heading for the area that you’re in, the train or bus will slow down, and passengers are supposed to duck below the level of the windows for 10 minutes until the threat has passed. Outside of the rockets/missiles threat, at least on the train, they play safety videos on what to do for various situations, including a fire onboard or the train breaking down in a tunnel. It’s evident that they have thoroughly thought through safety measures for passengers.
Is visiting Jerusalem safe?
Jerusalem, like most of the populated areas of Israel, is protected by the Iron Dome system. It also has a network of emergency shelters throughout in case the sirens sound. But, as you’re wandering the streets of the old city and thinking that these structures have been here for literally thousands of years, it definitely feels safe. As far as terrorists in the city with other weapons, there is a heavy police presence. Significantly more than we see in Tel Aviv. Every significant destination had a police or military presence, and police cars and motorcycles constantly drove around the streets. But, all the same, stay alert and stay in populated areas.
What are the must-see attractions in Jerusalem?
Jerusalem is an incredible city with so many attractions. As both a capital city and a significant city of importance for three major religions. Of course, explore the Old City, with its four quarters and most religious sites. Just be prepared to be hassled by shop owners in shops throughout trying to sell you everything from bibles to scarves and tours. Outside of the Old City, the Jerusalem Market is a must-visit; just come hungry. There are so many options for food and gifts in this market, and it’s bigger than any of the markets in Tel Aviv. I’m sure there are so many more things we haven’t even seen yet, so keep an eye on our Israel page as we post more about our adventures in Jerusalem.
Are there any cultural or religious customs to be aware of when visiting Jerusalem?
Depending on the parts of the city you visit, there are some significant customs to be aware of. For parts of the city, women need to wear a dress or skirt that covers their knees, covers their shoulders and chest, and cover their hair. In some places, men must cover their heads, cannot wear shorts, and must also dress modestly. In case you forget to bring something in advance, you can buy scarves, head coverings, and similar items at shops all over the Old City. Many religious sites have signs specifically stating that they are religious sites and what the rules are, including at some sites where photography or videography isn’t allowed or sites in which you should maintain silence.
Can I travel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem on the Shabbat or Jewish holidays?
Like all things in Israel, things significantly reduce or stop on Shabbat or Jewish Holidays. For example, most buses, light rail trains, and Israeli Railway trains don’t operate from a little before sundown on Friday to a little after sundown on Saturday. Even El Al Airways, Israel’s flagship airline, doesn’t fly during Shabbat or during major holidays. This can make getting around more difficult. Many of the shops are also closed during this period. Some of the religious sites become much busier during this time, but the rules around visiting them can also change. So, although you can travel between them, it might just be much easier to wait for a weekday to visit. Also, remember that Sunday is a weekday in Israel, which means everything is operating as usual.
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