By air. Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), 20 km southeast of Tel Aviv, is the main gateway. Flights connect from most major European hubs in about 4-5 hours, and from New York in roughly 11-12 hours. El Al, the Israeli national carrier, operates direct routes from dozens of cities; European carriers including Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France, and KLM serve Tel Aviv regularly. Ramon Airport near Eilat (ETH) receives some low-cost charter flights. As of early 2026, flight availability is improving after disruptions caused by regional conflict — check current status before booking.
From Ben Gurion, a fast train connects directly to Tel Aviv (20 min) and Jerusalem (30 min), running frequently through most of the day. Shared sherut taxis run 24 hours to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem at a fixed rate per person and are reliable when the trains aren't running.
Visas and entry. Citizens of most Western countries — including the US, EU, UK, Australia, and Canada — do not need a visa but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) before arrival. This is a quick online process at the official portal (israel-entry.piba.gov.il). Passport validity requirements: 6 months beyond your stay if you need a visa; 3 months if you are on ETA. Israeli border control can be thorough: be prepared for questions about your travel history and purpose.
If you plan to travel to countries that do not recognize Israel (some Arab and Muslim-majority states) after your visit, ask border control to stamp your entry form instead of your passport. This is a standard, routine request.
By land from Jordan. The King Hussein / Allenby Bridge crossing near Jericho connects Jordan to the West Bank, with onward travel to Israel. The Yitzhak Rabin / Wadi Araba crossing near Eilat is more convenient for southern Israel. Both crossings are staffed; hours vary and the Allenby Bridge is controlled by Israel even on the Jordanian side. Check current opening hours before traveling.
By land from Egypt. The Taba crossing near Eilat is the main tourist crossing. The Rafah crossing into Gaza has been closed to regular travelers since 2007 and remains closed during the ongoing conflict.
Note on the security situation. Since the outbreak of the war in Gaza in October 2023, the security environment has been volatile. Check your government's current travel advisory before booking. The UK Foreign Office, US State Department, and equivalent bodies in other countries publish regularly updated guidance. Tourist areas in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and the Galilee have continued to function, but the situation can change quickly.