Israel is a small country, public transportation is convenient and you can get from almost any destination in the country to another for a reasonable price and without undue delay. Israel Railways operates convenient, inexpensive train service. Several companies provide internal flights between Eilat and Ben Gurion Airport, Sde Dov Airport in north Tel Aviv and Haifa.
Buses are the most popular form of public transport in Israel for both local transport and intercity trips. Most intercity bus lines, as well as the local service in most of the large cities and towns, are operated by Egged, while in the Tel Aviv area, where private bus service also exists, local and intercity transport is provided by the Dan bus company. Private bus service also operates in Beersheva and Nazareth. Buses run from about 5:30 am until midnight.
Fares on buses in Israel are not expensive, and for longer stays monthly bus passes are available on most urban routes. Buses are comfortable and usually air-conditioned, service is regular and on the most well-traveled lines.
Tickets can be purchased at the ticket booths in the central bus station in each city or town, or from the driver.
Public transportation does not operate on Jewish religious holidays and the Jewish Sabbath (from sundown on Friday night until Saturday night) except for areas such as Haifa and Nazareth, cities with concentrations of non-Jewish residents. Except for Yom Kippur, considered by Jews to be the holiest day of the year, taxis and jitney taxis (shared-ride transportation, known as “sherut” or “monit sherut” in Hebrew) operate in some of the larger population centers.
Students are entitled to discounts on intercity bus lines. To receive a discount they must present an international student card when purchasing tickets