Travel Guide To Jerusalem, Israel International Airport Arriving In Jerusalem, Israel

A Guide to Arriving in Jerusalem, Israel

Arriving at Ben Gurion International Airport

Ben Gurion International Airport is the main international airport in Israel. It’s located about 15 kilometers (9 miles) southeast of Tel Aviv.

Here’s a general guide to your arrival:

Passport Control: Upon arrival, you’ll need to go through passport control. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.
Baggage Claim: Collect your luggage from the designated baggage claim area.
Customs: Proceed through customs control.
Transportation to Jerusalem:
- Shared Taxi (Sherut): A convenient option for door-to-door service.
- Bus: Public buses operate regularly between the airport and Jerusalem’s Central Bus Station.
- Taxi: Taxis are available outside the airport, but they can be more expensive.
- Rental Car: Consider renting a car for flexibility, but be aware of traffic and parking regulations in Jerusalem.

Exploring Jerusalem

Jerusalem is a city rich in history and religious significance. Here are some must-see attractions:

Old City: A walled city divided into four quarters: Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian.
Western Wall: A holy site for Jews, where visitors can pray and place prayer notes.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre: One of Christianity’s holiest sites, believed to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.
Dome of the Rock: A magnificent Islamic shrine located on the Temple Mount.
Al-Aqsa Mosque: Another important Islamic site, located on the Temple Mount.
Via Dolorosa: The traditional path Jesus walked to his crucifixion.

Tips for Visiting Jerusalem:

Dress modestly: Especially when visiting religious sites.
Respect local customs and traditions.
Stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
Be aware of security measures.
Consider hiring a local guide to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s history and culture.

Here are some things to know about arriving at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), Israel’s main international airport, and getting to Jerusalem:

Airport securityBen Gurion Airport is known for having some of the world’s highest security standards. You can expect to be asked a series of security questions. It’s recommended to have a printout of your itinerary and where you’ll be staying.
Getting to JerusalemYou can take the shuttle bus #485 from the airport to Jerusalem, which runs every hour, 6 days a week. The trip takes about an hour, and you can transfer to a local bus or the Light Rail from the central drop-off. You can also take a taxi to anywhere in the city. If you’re part of a tour group or have a private car, you can attach Isram Israel tags to your luggage.
Car rentalsCar rental companies are located on the first floor of the Arrival Hall’s East Gallery. You can pick up and return your car at the parking lot on the ground floor of the East Building.
Check-inCheck-in for most passengers takes place on level 3 of the check-in hall. Check-in closes about an hour before departure, and boarding gates close about 15 minutes before take-off.
VIP Private TerminalThe Fattal VIP Private Terminal offers an upscale experience at the airport.

By following these tips and planning your itinerary in advance, you can make the most of your time in Jerusalem.