Train Travel

Until new tracks are completed in 2016, train travel between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv is more a pleasant and scenic excursion than an efficient way to travel between the two cities. The journey currently takes 1 hour and 45 minutes, compared to 45 minutes by bus. It's a comfortable ride, and many just do it for the attractive scenery. The train, which departs every two hours, runs between Jerusalem's Malcha Station and Tel Aviv's Savidor Station (popularly known as Arlozorov Street terminal). There are connections to Haifa and other destinations to the north. Service ends midafternoon on Friday and resumes about two hours after dark on Saturday. (A similar schedule applies to Jewish religious holidays.) The adult fare to or from Tel Aviv is NIS 21.50 one-way, NIS 39 round-trip.

Other cities—including Ashkelon, Beersheva, Beit Shemesh, Haifa, Herzliya, Akko, and Nahariya—are easily reachable by train from Tel Aviv. There are no different classes of service. All carriages are clean, spacious, and comfortable with well-upholstered seats. They are often crowded, however.

All train stations post up-to-date schedules in English. Complete schedules are also available on the Web site of the Israel Railway Authority. Tickets may be purchased at the ticket office in the station. There's no train service on Saturdays or Jewish holidays.

Purchase your train tickets with cash or credit card at the station ticket booth before you board. Reservations are not accepted for train travel.

Information

Israel Railways (03/577-4000. www.rail.co.il.)