If you are looking for the best day trips from Tel Aviv by train, look no further! Tel Aviv, the heart and center of Israel is a great place to be based to explore the rest of this small country. Close to Ben Gurion international airport; and with loads of access to public transportation. If you aren’t sure which major city to base yourself in, Tel Aviv is a great option as it is in the center of Israel. So should you like to go north or south, you will find that to be in Tel Aviv provides you access to all parts of Israel with not a large traveling distance to cover. Day trips in Tel Aviv by train has never been easier thanks to Israel’s immense rail road.
Day Trips From Tel Aviv by Train
There are four main train stations in Tel Aviv where you can catch trains to just about anywhere. Easily accessible by walking, taxi or buses, you are guaranteed to have a train station near your hotel or Airbnb making day trips from Tel Aviv by train that much easier. Modern, clean and efficient, trains are the most popular mode of transportation as they drastically cut out traffic time which is notorious in Israel. At peak travel times, you will find the train to be a lot fuller than normal and you may have difficulty finding a seat.
Unlike other train companies, you cannot reserve a seat here on the Israel Rail. But if you were to travel an hour before or after peak times, you will find the train to be a lot quieter and roomier for you and your family. From 8-9 am, the trains will be busy with people coming in and out of the city for work, as well as 6-7 pm. (Also as a side note, should you be traveling by car, these hours are best to be avoided as there are major traffic jams leaving and entering Tel Aviv.) With cross country trains running pretty regularly, check out Israel Rail’s website to ensure trains are running as normal.
Public Transportation in Israel on Saturday
If you are planning day trips from Tel Aviv by train or planning to tour Israel from Tel Aviv, ensure it won’t be on Friday or Saturday for the Shabbat, as all modes of public transportation stop in Israel by Friday afternoon and does not commence till Saturday evening. This includes buses, light rails and trains. Should you find yourself in Israel over the weekend, your best bet for inter-city travel would be by taxi, but on a positive note, you are guaranteed to not be incurred with the usual traffic. There are many things to do in Tel Aviv on Saturday without having to travel and leave the city.
Train Stations in Tel Aviv: Day Trips from Tel Aviv by Train
There are four major train stations in Tel Aviv. All these train stations have self-automated machines (with an option for English) to buy train tickets. You can find trains that will take you to Ben Gurion Airport, Jerusalem, Haifa, and everywhere in between. If you are planning on traveling from Tel Aviv, check to see if you can take a train as it is the easiest mode of transport. If you have a day to spend in Tel Aviv, check out how to make the most of it here.
Where to Go by Train
Since the trains are such a pleasure to ride, it’s a great way to see Israel’s countryside whilst speeding by. So even if there is no destination in mind, grab a train and see where it takes you. Day trips from Tel Aviv by train are a great way to explore and here are the best places to visit!
Jerusalem
The famed city of Jerusalem is a must see on everyone’s itinerary. The train ride from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem only takes 45 minutes. There is a light rail that can take you throughout Jerusalem. Take the train to the Old City of Jerusalem, to see the Western Wall, Temple Mount and Mt. of Olives. Read more about spending the day in Jerusalem by clicking here.
Haifa
Haifa is a port city that can be found north of Tel Aviv. It usually is a two hour drive without traffic, but with the train it has become highly accessible. There are a few train stations in Haifa making the entire city more easily accessible. You can catch the city light rail to see the famed and beautiful Baha’i Gardens overlooking the beautiful coastline. Don’t forget to check out the German Colony there to see culture and life in Haifa. You can purchase day tickets before your travels and that would cover the cost all public transportation for that day. Read more about exploring Haifa by clicking here.
Day Trips From Tel Aviv by Train; Ako / Acre
The oldest city in Israel is Acre. Its a great place to visit to get a deep dive into the history of Israel. This multicultural melting pot is a port city, and hangs over the Mediterranean Ocean. St John’s Church is a must see, known for its beautiful architecture with a deep history. Another great place to visit is Templars Tunnel which is full of history. Take a walk along the Fortifications – the wall surrounding the ancient city to see the beautiful views and get a unique glimpse at this beautiful city. As a day trip from Tel Aviv by train, Acre is extremely accessible by train.
There are endless cities to discover from Tel Aviv by train. If you find yourself free for the day, jump on a train! See where it takes you for a unique view on Israel’s countryside and lesser known cities. Happy traveling!