Currency. The Israeli New Shekel (ILS, symbol ₪) is the currency. Credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere in cities and tourist areas — Visa and Mastercard work reliably; American Express less so at smaller establishments. ATMs are widely available. Markets and small cafes often prefer cash; keep some small bills handy. The Palestinian Authority uses both the shekel and the Jordanian dinar in the West Bank.
Language. Hebrew is the official language of the state; Arabic has official status for the Arab minority. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and among younger Israelis. Street signs are in Hebrew, Arabic, and English. In Arab neighborhoods and towns, Arabic is the working language.
Shabbat. The Jewish Sabbath runs from sundown Friday to nightfall Saturday. During this period most Jewish-owned shops, restaurants, and public services (including buses and trains) close or run on reduced hours. In Tel Aviv the impact is lighter — many bars and restaurants stay open. In Jerusalem the effect is more pronounced. Sherut shared taxis and some tourist sites remain accessible.
Opening hours. Sunday is the first day of the working week in Israel. Most businesses are open Sunday–Thursday, with shorter Friday hours and Shabbat closure. Muslim-owned businesses in Arab towns follow a Friday Sabbath instead.
Electricity. Israel uses 230V, 50Hz. The standard plug is Type H (a unique Israeli three-prong design), though Type C (European) adapters fit in most sockets. Bring a Type H adapter or a universal travel adapter.
Health. Israel has an excellent medical system. Tap water is safe to drink throughout Israel. Sunscreen and a hat are essential in summer — the sun is intense, especially at the Dead Sea (which sits below sea level and has thinner UV protection). Pharmacies (Beit Merkachat) are widespread and stock most medications.
Security checks. Security is a visible and ubiquitous part of life. Bag checks are routine at shopping malls, museums, and bus and train stations. Armed soldiers are a common sight. This is ordinary in Israel and not a signal of elevated threat.
Emergency numbers. Police: 100. Ambulance (Magen David Adom): 101. Fire: 102.
Travel to the West Bank. The West Bank is under Israeli military administration (Area C) and Palestinian Authority control (Areas A and B). Most tourist sites — Bethlehem, Jericho, Hebron's old city — are accessible to foreign passport holders without major difficulty, though checkpoints can be unpredictable. Some countries' travel advisories warn against or restrict travel to certain parts of the West Bank. Consult your government's current advice.
Gaza. The Gaza Strip has been effectively closed to tourists since 2007, and since the October 2023 war it is entirely inaccessible and the site of active armed conflict. Do not attempt to travel there.