Israel's Train Network: The Complete Guide for Travelers and Commuters
Introduction: Railway Revolution in the Holy Land
In a country smaller than New Jersey, Israel's rail network has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. What was once a limited transportation option has evolved into a modern, efficient rail system connecting major cities and opening up new commuting possibilities for Israelis and tourists alike. Whether you're a new immigrant discovering the country, a tourist planning your itinerary, or a resident looking to optimize your daily commute, understanding Israel's train network can significantly enhance your travel experience.
This comprehensive guide explores Israel Railways (Rakevet Israel), covering everything from its historical development to practical travel tips, station facilities, and future expansion plans. As Israel continues to invest billions of shekels in railway infrastructure, staying informed about this rapidly evolving transportation network becomes increasingly valuable.
Historical Development: From Ottoman Legacy to Modern Marvel
The Ottoman Beginnings
Israel's railway history dates back to the late Ottoman period when the first line opened in 1892, connecting Jaffa (now part of Tel Aviv) to Jerusalem. This narrow-gauge railway was revolutionary for its time, reducing a journey that took days by carriage to just a few hours. The original route, designed with numerous curves and gradients to navigate the challenging terrain, became known for its picturesque journey through the Judean Hills.
During World War I, the Ottoman and later British military expanded the rail network for strategic purposes, laying the groundwork for what would become Israel's national railway system. Many of these historical routes have been preserved in various forms, with the original Jaffa-Jerusalem line now serving as the recreational "Park HaMesila" (Railway Park) in Jerusalem and south Tel Aviv.
British Mandate Expansion
Under British Mandate (1920-1948), Palestine's railway network expanded significantly. The British constructed the coastal line connecting Egypt to Lebanon (through what is now Israel), as well as the eastern line extending to Jordan and Syria. These routes served both civilian purposes and military needs, particularly during World War II.
The railways suffered substantial damage during Israel's War of Independence (1948-1949), and many international connections were severed as relations between Israel and its neighbors deteriorated.
Post-Independence Challenges
Following independence in 1948, Israel Railways faced decades of limited investment and gradual decline. The rail system was primarily used for freight, with passenger services remaining basic and infrequent. By the 1980s, train travel was perceived as an outdated, uncomfortable transportation option, used primarily by soldiers and those with few alternatives.
The turning point came in the late 1990s and early 2000s when the government began recognizing rail transport as a solution to Israel's growing road congestion problems. This initiated a new era of investment that continues to this day.
The Modern Renaissance
Since 2000, Israel has invested over 50 billion shekels (approximately $15 billion) in railway infrastructure. This has resulted in:
Complete electrification of major lines
Double-tracking of most routes
Introduction of modern rolling stock
Construction of new stations and lines
High-speed connections between major cities
The transformation has been dramatic. Annual passenger numbers have grown from under 10 million in 2000 to over 70 million in 2024, demonstrating the success of these investments and the public's embrace of rail travel.
Current Network: Major Lines and Connections
Israel's railway network is organized as a hub-and-spoke system, with Tel Aviv serving as the central hub. Most intercity journeys involve traveling through one of Tel Aviv's four main stations. The network extends approximately 1,100 kilometers (680 miles) and includes over 70 stations nationwide.
Main Lines
Coastal Line (Nahariya to Beer Sheva)
The backbone of Israel's railway system runs along the Mediterranean coast from Nahariya in the north to Beer Sheva in the south. This fully electrified, double-tracked line connects Israel's major population centers and features the highest frequency of service, with trains running every 15-30 minutes during peak hours.
Key segments include:
Nahariya to Haifa (40 minutes)
Haifa to Tel Aviv (1 hour)
Tel Aviv to Beer Sheva (1 hour)
Jerusalem High-Speed Line
Opened in 2018, the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv high-speed line represented a game-changing development in Israeli public transportation. This fully electrified route includes a 40km section that runs through tunnels and over bridges, reducing the journey time between Israel's two largest cities to just 32 minutes. The line terminates at Jerusalem Yitzhak Navon station, a modern underground facility located in the city center.
Jerusalem Eastern Line
The historical, scenic route between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem (via Beit Shemesh) continues to operate, though with reduced frequency since the high-speed line opened. This diesel-operated line offers beautiful views of the Judean Hills but takes approximately 90 minutes for the journey.
Southern Line
Extending from Beer Sheva to Dimona, this line primarily serves communities in the northern Negev. Future plans include extending service to Eilat on the Red Sea, though this project has faced numerous delays.
Valley Line
Reopened in 2016 after being closed for decades, the Valley Line connects Haifa to Beit She'an near the Jordan border. This scenic route passes through the Jezreel Valley and serves several smaller communities in northern Israel.
Eastern Line
Running from Tel Aviv to Kfar Saba and Rosh HaAyin, this line serves communities in the eastern suburbs of the Tel Aviv metropolitan area.
Sharon Line
Operating between Tel Aviv and Netanya, this line serves the densely populated coastal region north of Tel Aviv, with stops in Herzliya, Ra'anana, and Hod HaSharon.
Major Stations
Tel Aviv Stations
Tel Aviv has four major railway stations, each serving different areas of the city:
Tel Aviv HaHagana: The southernmost station, connecting to the central bus station
Tel Aviv HaShalom: Located in the business district, adjacent to Azrieli Center
Tel Aviv Merkaz/Savidor: The city's main station, near Arlozorov bus terminal
Tel Aviv University: Serving the university campus and northern neighborhoods
Other Key Stations
Ben Gurion Airport Station: Located directly beneath Terminal 3, offering convenient connections to both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem
Jerusalem Yitzhak Navon: An impressive underground station in central Jerusalem, terminus of the high-speed line
Haifa Hof HaCarmel: Integrated transportation center with the Carmelit subway and central bus station
Beer Sheva Center: Main station for the southern metropolis
Modi'in Merkaz: Terminus of the Modi'in line, serving this planned city between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem
Practical Information: Using Israel's Trains
Ticketing and Payment
Israel Railways has modernized its ticketing system in recent years, moving primarily to electronic ticketing options:
Rav-Kav Smart Card
The primary payment method for all public transportation in Israel is the Rav-Kav, a contactless smart card that can be loaded with various ticket types:
Single rides: Purchased for specific journeys
Daily/weekly/monthly passes: Unlimited travel within specified zones
Stored value: Money loaded onto the card for pay-as-you-go travel
Rav-Kav cards can be obtained at all train stations, major bus stations, and post offices. Initial issuance requires photo identification, but the process takes just a few minutes. The card itself is free.
Mobile Ticketing
The Israel Railways app allows passengers to purchase tickets directly on their smartphones. The app generates a QR code that can be scanned at station gates. This is particularly convenient for tourists who may not wish to obtain a Rav-Kav card for short visits.
Paper Tickets
While being phased out, paper tickets are still available for purchase at station ticket offices and automated machines. However, these typically cost more than equivalent fares using the Rav-Kav or mobile options.
Fares and Discounts
Train fares in Israel are distance-based, with prices ranging from approximately 10 NIS (≈$3) for short journeys to 70 NIS (≈$20) for the longest routes. A typical Tel Aviv to Haifa journey costs around 30 NIS (≈$9) one-way.
Several discounts are available:
50% discount: Available for senior citizens, students, disabled passengers, and soldiers
33% discount: For youth under 18
20% discount: For return tickets purchased together
Monthly passes offer substantial savings for regular commuters, with unlimited travel between specified stations typically costing the equivalent of 20-25 single journeys.
Operating Hours
Israel Railways operates from Sunday to Thursday from approximately 5:30 AM until midnight. On Fridays and holiday eves, service ends earlier (around 3:00-4:00 PM) before the onset of Shabbat or holidays. Service resumes on Saturday or holiday evenings approximately one hour after Shabbat/holiday ends (this varies seasonally).
It's important to note that Israel's work week runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday being a partial work day. This affects peak travel patterns, with Sunday mornings being particularly busy as soldiers return to their bases after weekend leave.
On-Board Experience
Train Types
Israel Railways operates several types of rolling stock:
Bombardier double-decker trains: The workhorses of the fleet, used on most intercity routes
Siemens Desiro single-level trains: Newer electric trainsets primarily used on the Jerusalem high-speed line
Diesel multiple units: Older trains used on non-electrified lines
All trains feature air conditioning, restrooms, and dedicated spaces for bicycles, strollers, and passengers with disabilities. Most newer trains also offer USB charging ports and WiFi, though connectivity can be spotty in tunnels or remote areas.
Seating and Amenities
Seating is generally comfortable but is not assigned – passengers may sit in any available seat. During peak hours, standing room only may be available on popular routes. Most trains have both regular seating and areas with tables, which are particularly useful for those wishing to work during their journey.
Food and beverages are not sold on board, but passengers are welcome to bring their own refreshments. Waste bins are available in each car.
Luggage and Bicycles
There are no formal luggage limits on Israel Railways trains, but passengers are expected to keep their belongings with them and avoid blocking aisles or seats. Dedicated luggage racks are available at the ends of most carriages.
Bicycles are permitted outside of rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 3:00-7:00 PM) at no extra charge, but space is limited to designated areas. Folding bicycles may be brought on board at any time if they are fully folded and stored in the luggage areas.
Accessibility
All modern stations and trains in Israel are designed to be fully accessible to passengers with disabilities. Features include:
Elevators at all major stations
Gap fillers between platforms and trains
Accessible restrooms at stations
Priority seating on trains
Dedicated spaces for wheelchairs
Passengers with mobility impairments can request assistance at any staffed station. It's recommended to arrive 15-20 minutes before departure when assistance is needed.
Integration with Other Transportation
Connections to Buses
Most major train stations are integrated with or located near bus terminals, facilitating transfers between trains and local or intercity buses. The introduction of the integrated Rav-Kav card has made transfers significantly more convenient, with transfer discounts available when switching between trains and buses within a 90-minute window.
Key integrated hubs include:
Tel Aviv HaHagana (adjacent to Tel Aviv Central Bus Station)
Haifa Hof HaCarmel (integrated train and bus terminal)
Beer Sheva Center (train and bus stations are connected)
Jerusalem Yitzhak Navon (light rail and bus connections)
Airport Connections
Ben Gurion Airport's railway station, located directly beneath Terminal 3, offers one of the most convenient airport-to-city connections in the world. Trains run approximately every 30 minutes to both Tel Aviv (20 minutes) and Jerusalem (25 minutes), making it an excellent option for travelers.
For early morning flights before train service begins, or late arrivals after service ends, alternative transportation options include:
Shared sherut taxis (service 485 to Jerusalem)
Regular taxis (expensive but available 24/7)
Private airport shuttles (must be booked in advance)
Light Rail Integration
Israel's developing light rail systems interface with the national railway at several key points:
Jerusalem Light Rail: Connects to Israel Railways at Jerusalem Yitzhak Navon station
Tel Aviv Light Rail: The Red Line (opened in 2023) connects to Israel Railways at Tel Aviv HaHagana
Haifa Metronit: This BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system connects to Israel Railways at Haifa Hof HaCarmel
As these networks expand, integration between different rail systems will continue to improve.
Tips for Travelers
Best Times to Travel
To avoid crowds and enjoy a more comfortable journey:
Avoid peak hours: 6:30-8:30 AM and 4:00-6:30 PM on weekdays
Sunday mornings: Particularly crowded with soldiers returning to bases
Thursday afternoons: Busy with soldiers going home and weekend travelers
Holiday periods: Trains can be extremely crowded before and after major Jewish holidays
Money-Saving Strategies
Purchase a Rav-Kav card even for short visits – the savings are substantial
Consider day passes for extensive travel within a single day
Book return tickets together to receive the 20% discount
Check eligibility for special discounts (student, senior, etc.)
When traveling as a group of 3-4 people, compare train costs with shared taxi (sherut) options, which might be more economical for certain routes
Safety and Security
Israel Railways maintains high security standards. Expect the following security measures:
Bag screening at major stations
Security personnel at station entrances
Occasional random checks on platforms or trains
Security cameras throughout the system
These measures rarely cause significant delays but arriving 10-15 minutes before departure is recommended, particularly at larger stations.
Language Considerations
While Hebrew is Israel's primary language, the railway system is quite accessible to English speakers:
All signage includes English translations
Station announcements are made in Hebrew, Arabic, and English
Ticket machines offer an English interface
Most station staff speak at least basic English
The Israel Railways app and website are fully available in English
Basic phrases like "How much is a ticket to Jerusalem?" ("Kama oleh cartis l'Yerushalayim?") can be useful but are not essential for navigating the system.
Future Developments: The Network of Tomorrow
Israel Railways continues to expand and improve its network, with several major projects currently underway or planned:
Eastern Line Extension
The extension of the Eastern Line to connect central Israel with Ariel and other communities in Samaria is currently under construction. This politically significant project will improve access to settlements in the West Bank/Judea and Samaria regions.
Eilat Railway
The long-discussed extension of the railway to Eilat on the Red Sea remains on the planning boards. This ambitious project would create a freight and passenger corridor connecting the Mediterranean and Red Seas, potentially offering an alternative to the Suez Canal for some shipping routes.
Tel Aviv Metro
While technically separate from Israel Railways, the planned Tel Aviv Metro system will significantly enhance connectivity within the Tel Aviv metropolitan area and provide additional interchange points with the national railway network. Construction on this massive project began in 2023, with the first lines expected to open in the early 2030s.
Additional Electrification
Israel Railways aims to complete the electrification of its entire network by 2030. This will improve service reliability, reduce journey times, and decrease environmental impact.
High-Speed Network Expansion
Building on the success of the Jerusalem high-speed line, additional high-speed routes are planned, including upgrades to the coastal line that would reduce Tel Aviv to Haifa journey times to approximately 30 minutes.
Common Questions About Israel's Railways
Is Israel's train system reliable?
Yes, especially on the main lines. Israel Railways reports an on-time performance of approximately 93% for all services. Delays are most common during extreme weather events (rare but impactful when they occur) and security incidents. The newly electrified lines have shown improved reliability compared to the older diesel services.
Are trains in Israel safe?
Absolutely. Israel's trains have an excellent safety record, with incidents being extremely rare. Security measures are comprehensive but unobtrusive, creating a safe environment for all passengers.
How do train costs compare to other transportation options?
Trains are typically more expensive than buses for equivalent routes but offer greater comfort and often faster journey times. For example:
Tel Aviv to Haifa: ≈30 NIS by train vs. ≈25 NIS by bus
Tel Aviv to Jerusalem: ≈35 NIS by train vs. ≈20 NIS by bus
Taxis and private car services are substantially more expensive, often 5-10 times the cost of train travel.
Can tourists easily use the train system?
Yes, Israel's train system is very tourist-friendly. The combination of English signage, straightforward ticketing options, and the convenience of stations at key locations like Ben Gurion Airport make the system highly accessible to visitors.
Do trains run on Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath)?
No, Israel Railways does not operate from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening. This reflects the country's status as a Jewish state, where many public services are reduced or suspended during Shabbat. Alternative transportation options during these times include:
Private taxis (expensive but available)
Sherut shared taxis (limited routes)
Bus services in some non-Jewish areas
Conclusion: The Rail Future of Israel
Israel's investment in its railway infrastructure represents a commitment to sustainable transportation and improved mobility throughout the country. For travelers, the expanding network offers an increasingly convenient, comfortable, and efficient way to explore Israel, from the beaches of Tel Aviv to the ancient streets of Jerusalem, the northern Galilee region, and the desert landscapes of the south.
As Israel continues to grow and develop, its railway system is evolving from a supporting player into a centerpiece of the national transportation strategy. For residents and visitors alike, understanding how to navigate and utilize this network opens up new possibilities for experiencing all that this small but diverse country has to offer.
Whether you're planning your first visit to Israel or looking to optimize your daily commute, the country's modern and expanding rail network deserves a place in your transportation toolkit.
About the Author: Sarah Cohen is a transportation consultant specializing in Middle Eastern transit systems. A former employee of Israel Railways, she has written extensively about public transportation development in Israel and neighboring countries. She divides her time between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, using Israel's trains daily for her commute.