Israel's Taxi Scene: Apps vs. Traditional

Navigating Israel offers a diverse range of transportation options, from intercity buses and trains to car rentals. Within cities, local bus services are efficient, and bike and scooter rentals are readily available. However, there are undoubtedly moments when only a taxi will suffice. Whether you're battling jet lag after a long flight, in a hurry across town, weighed down by shopping bags, or emerging from a late-night Tel Aviv bar, a taxi often presents the quickest and most reliable solution. This article delves into the world of Israeli taxis, exploring how to hail them, order them via apps, book through hotels, and even share them with locals. Armed with this knowledge, you can make the most informed decisions for your budget and your overall travel experience in Israel.

1. Traditional Private Taxis

Private taxis are abundant and easy to secure in Israel. You can book one in advance, especially for journeys from Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv, or simply flag one down on the street. These taxis are easily identifiable by their distinctive black and yellow rooftop signs.

Ben Gurion Airport Taxis

Taxis operating from Ben Gurion Airport are regulated by the Israel Airports Authority. Upon exiting customs, proceed through the main arrivals door and head straight to the designated taxi stand. Fares to any city in Israel are legally fixed and depend on the time of day. A surcharge of +25% applies after 9:15 PM. Additional charges may apply for more than two passengers, substantial luggage (an extra 5-10 NIS), and for departures from the airport itself (an extra 5 NIS). A typical taxi journey into Tel Aviv costs between 120-180 NIS and should take around 30 minutes without traffic. A tip of around 10% is customary, increasing to 15% for exceptional service.

While licensed taxis with reduced rates are available on Level 2 of Terminal 3, the airport does not recommend their use. It's also advisable to avoid unauthorized drivers who may pose safety risks or inflate prices.

Hailing a Cab on the Street

Catching a taxi on the street is still a common practice. To ensure a fair price, you have two options:

• Insist on the meter: This is the most reliable way to avoid being overcharged. The meter should start at 13 NIS, the standard minimum fare between 5:30 AM and 9 PM. Drivers are legally obligated to provide a receipt upon request.
• Negotiate the fare: Agree on a price with the driver before starting your journey. Ensure it's a mutually fair price to avoid any unpleasant surprises upon arrival.

While drivers may try to dissuade you, you have the right to insist on the meter being used.

Booking Through Hotels or Concierges

Your hotel concierge or tour guide can arrange taxis with reputable local companies known for honest and reliable drivers, helping you avoid potential overcharging.

2. Sherut Taxis ("Service Taxis")

Sherut taxis, known in Hebrew as 'Moniot Sherut', are brightly coloured minivans that operate within major cities and between them. These shared taxis typically accommodate up to 10 passengers. Their routes are indicated by numbers displayed on the front windscreen. Being privately operated, Sheruts run on Shabbat, a significant advantage for travellers on Friday afternoons/evenings or Saturdays.

Sheruts generally follow the same routes as major bus lines. In Tel Aviv, routes 4 and 5 are common, mirroring key city bus routes and serving areas like the Central Bus Station, Rothschild Boulevard, Ben Yehuda, and Dizengoff Street.

Using Sherut Taxis

To use a Sherut, simply hail one like a private taxi. Once you've boarded and taken a seat, payment is usually made in cash. A unique Israeli custom involves passing your fare to the person in front of you, who then forwards it to the driver, with change returning through the same chain.

Unlike buses, Sheruts do not have fixed stops; you can alight at any point along the route by informing the driver. They are often faster than buses due to fewer passengers and stops, though they can feel cramped, and boarding with significant luggage can be challenging. Despite this, they offer a convenient and more affordable alternative to private taxis.

Sheruts at Ben Gurion Airport

Outside the airport's main arrivals door at Terminal 3, head towards the road. You'll find the private taxi stand. To your right, there's a bus stop with various yellow vans. Those heading to Jerusalem and Haifa (not Tel Aviv) will have their destinations displayed on the windscreen. These Sheruts operate 24 hours a day, and payment includes luggage. There are no additional tips required. Sheruts also operate between Jerusalem and Ben Gurion Airport.

For travel to Tel Aviv from Ben Gurion Airport, alternatives include private taxis (starting at 120 NIS), Israel Railways (a one-way ticket to the centre costs 14 NIS), or bus 445 (9 NIS), which runs hourly and passes through the city centre and along HaYarkon Street.

Service taxis are also available for trips from Ben Gurion Airport or central Tel Aviv to Eilat, accommodating up to 10 people, and can usually be booked through hotels or tour operators.

Sheruts Between Cities

Shared taxis are a popular option for travel between major cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, as well as to Netanya, Haifa, Rishon le Zion, Ashdod, and Rehovot. They depart from Tel Aviv's Levinsky Central Bus Station and from the corner of Ha Rav Agan and Ha Rav Kook streets in Jerusalem. On Fridays and Saturdays, pick-up points in Jerusalem may shift slightly.

Sherut Fares

Sherut fares are fixed, regardless of the number of stops, and are comparable to public bus fares. Be aware that prices might be slightly higher on Shabbat.

3. Ride-Sharing Apps: Gett, Yango, and Uber

Booking taxis via smartphone apps is increasingly popular. Yango Taxi Israel allows users to set destinations and view estimated fares, track rides, and see arrival times. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices. Yango facilitates booking rides with multiple destinations and can suggest alternative routes for faster and cheaper journeys, with upfront pricing that remains fixed even in traffic.

Gett in Israel

Gett, an Israeli company formerly known as Gett Taxi, is used by approximately 8,000 of Israel's 25,000 taxi drivers. Gett does not own or employ drivers but acts as a platform, taking a fee for connecting passengers and drivers and facilitating payments. Similar to Yango, Gett offers transparency in pricing, preventing overcharging, and supports credit card payments.

Uber in Israel

Uber operates in Israel but is less prevalent than Yango or Gett, potentially leading to longer response times. The cost structure for an Uber ride includes an 8 NIS entry fee, plus 1 NIS per minute and 2 NIS per kilometre.

4. Private Transfers

Private transfers offer a comfortable and convenient way to travel between cities in Israel. Booking through a reputable tour operator is recommended to ensure fair pricing and reliable service. Once a quote is agreed upon and payment is made via credit card, all aspects of the journey are handled, providing a hassle-free experience. Companies like Bein Harim offer assistance with private transfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cab drivers in Israel use Gett taxi app?

Approximately 8,000 of Israel's 25,000 taxi drivers use the Gett taxi app.

Are taxis metered in Israel?

Yes, taxis in Israel are required to use a meter if requested by the passenger. The standard starting fare is 13 NIS.

Do Sherut taxis run on Shabbat?

Yes, Sherut taxis are privately operated and therefore run on Shabbat, unlike most public transportation.

What is the difference between a private taxi and a Sherut taxi?

Private taxis are for individual hire and offer direct service. Sherut taxis are shared minivans that follow specific routes and pick up multiple passengers, making them a more economical option.

How do I pay for a Sherut taxi?

Payment for Sherut taxis is typically made in cash. It's common to pass the fare forward to the driver, with change returning the same way.

Is it possible to book a taxi through a hotel in Israel?

Yes, hotel concierges can arrange taxis with reputable local companies.