Ben Gurion Airport serves as Israel’s main gateway to the world. Located just south of Tel Aviv, it handles millions of passengers each year and connects travelers from across continents. The airport operates modern terminals with shops, restaurants and lounges for different classes of service. It provides flights to major cities in Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. With efficient security lines and clear signage, the facility supports both business trips and vacation plans. Its role as a transport hub makes it essential for regional travel and global connections.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type H
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Israeli New Shekel (ILS) £1 ≈ ₪4.03 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted, particularly in urban areas and tourist locations.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary in Israel. 10-15% is standard in restaurants, while taxi drivers usually do not expect tips. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is uncommon but not strictly regulated. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in public indoor spaces, with designated areas available. |
| Passover (March/April) |
Public transport is limited. Book accommodations early. |
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| Yom Kippur (September/October) |
The country comes to a standstill. |
| Hanukkah (December) |
Festivities and events occur in major cities. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 100 (Police), 101 (Ambulance), 102 (Fire) |
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| Taxi apps: | Gett, Yango |
| Other: | Israel offers a mix of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Public transport is limited during Shabbat. |
Ben Gurion Airport, named after Israel's first Prime Minister, is a large and bustling transport hub located near Tel Aviv. It showcases a unique blend of security, innovation and cultural displays, giving travelers a preview of Israeli vibrancy. The airport is clean, modern and impressively organized, but travelers should be prepared for meticulous security checks that are thorough and sometimes time-consuming.
The terminals offer a range of shops and restaurants where visitors can try local flavors and buy souvenirs before departing or upon arrival. Although the airport doesn’t have traditional tourist attractions, the art installations and exhibitions throughout give a cultural touch, enhancing the travel experience. The climate around the airport is Mediterranean, so weather is generally mild and pleasant but can get hot in the summer months.
One thing to be cautious of is the airport’s stringent and sometimes unpredictable security protocols. Arriving well in advance is highly advised. Additionally, the airport can be quite busy and hectic during peak travel times, which may be overwhelming to some. Nonetheless, the airport’s efficiency in handling millions of travelers each year demonstrates its importance as a gateway to Israel.
Overall, Ben Gurion Airport prepares visitors wonderfully for their Israeli adventure, combining practicality with cultural hints, making it interesting beyond just a stopover point.
Exclusive lounge for business and first-class passengers offering comfortable seating, refreshments, and business facilities. Access may require a fee or specific ticket class, with prices starting around US$50 (£37.38). Open daily with varying hours aligned with flight schedules.
A quieter lounge option favoured for its attentive service and comfort. Features complimentary drinks and snacks, charging stations, and a peaceful atmosphere to unwind. Access often restricted to premium passengers or for a fee.
Spacious lounge providing snacks, beverages, Wi‑Fi, and newspapers. Available to select airline passengers and via lounge membership programmes. Comfortable and quietly bustling, ideal for relaxation before flights.
Nearby Tel Aviv offers a wide spectrum of accommodations from luxury hotels to boutique guesthouses, all within easy reach of the airport. Most travelers prefer staying in Tel Aviv city for its vibrant nightlife, beaches and cultural scene, rather than near the airport itself.
To Tel Aviv:
To reach Tel Aviv from Ben Gurion Airport, travellers can take the fast and frequent train service that goes directly to Tel Aviv's main stations within 20 minutes. Taxi rides are also readily available, typically taking 20-30 minutes depending on traffic, with fares ₪100 – 150 (£24.17 – 36.26). Shared shuttle services and buses provide economical options, though travel times may be longer.
To Jerusalem:
Travellers can opt for a taxi or book private transfers; the ride takes about 40-50 minutes. Public bus options are available but less direct and slower, often taking over an hour and requiring a transfer. For a hassle-free trip, arranging a taxi or shuttle is recommended.
To Haifa:
Long-distance buses and train services from the airport connect to Haifa, though travel time is around 90 minutes to two hours. Hiring a car is also popular for flexibility. Planning ahead for transport schedules is advised as services may be less frequent at weekends and holidays.
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