Israel is a country with a rich history and cultural significance, attracting millions of tourists every year. However, many people are deterred from visiting because of the perceived high cost of touring Israel.
In this article, we will explore the various expenses involved in touring Israel and provide some tips on how to save money while still enjoying all that this fascinating country has to offer.
Let’s break down the costs associated with touring Israel in each of the aforementioned categories:
Transportation Costs
As mentioned earlier, the most popular way to travel in Israel is by bus or train. The cost of a single bus or train ticket can range from 6-35 NIS ($1.85-$10.77 USD), depending on the distance and time of day. If you plan on renting a car, expect to pay around 250-500 NIS ($77-$154 USD) per day, not including gas, tolls, and parking fees. A tour with a company like Bein Harim Israel Tours can range from $100-$200 USD, depending on the length and type of tour.
The light rail in Jerusalem
Accommodation Costs
Accommodation costs vary widely in Israel, with hotels in popular cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem ranging from $100-$500 USD per night. Hostels and guesthouses can be much more affordable, ranging from $20-$80 USD per night. Airbnb can also be a cost-effective option, with prices starting at around $50 USD per night.
A typical Airbnb apartment in Tel Aviv
Food and Drink Costs
Food and drink costs can add up quickly, especially if you eat out at restaurants and cafes. A meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around 80-120 NIS ($24-$37 USD) per person, while a cup of coffee can cost around 10-15 NIS ($3-$5 USD). However, buying food at local markets and grocery stores can be much more affordable, with prices ranging from 20-40 NIS ($6-$12 USD) per meal.
Shakshuka, a typical Israeli breakfast
Sightseeing Costs
Entrance fees to museums and other attractions in Israel can be quite expensive, with prices ranging from 25-70 NIS ($8-$22 USD) per person. Multi-attraction passes can provide significant savings, with prices ranging from 100-200 NIS ($31-$62 USD) per person. Free attractions like beaches and parks offer beautiful scenery and are completely free.
Guided Tours
Guided tours with companies like Bein Harim Israel Tours can range from $100-$200 USD, depending on the length and type of tour. Private tours can be more expensive, with prices ranging from $300-$500 USD. However, guided tours can provide a wealth of knowledge and access to locations that are not easily accessible on your own, making them a worthwhile investment for many visitors.
Saving Money on Touring Israel
While touring Israel can be expensive, there are several ways to save money without sacrificing the quality of your experience. Here are some tips on how to save money while touring Israel:
Plan Ahead
The earlier you book your flights, accommodations, and tours, the more money you can save. Booking in advance can also help you take advantage of early-bird discounts and other promotions.
Use Public Transportation
While renting a car can be convenient, public transportation like buses and trains can be much more affordable. If you plan on using public transportation, purchase tickets in advance to take advantage of lower prices.
Stay in Affordable Accommodations
Consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals. These options can save much money compared to hotels, especially in popular tourist areas.
Buy Food at Local Markets and Grocery Stores
Eating out at restaurants and cafes can be expensive, but buying food at local markets and grocery stores can be much more affordable. Take advantage of the fresh produce and local specialties to save money on meals.
Take Advantage of Multi-Attraction Passes
If you plan on visiting several attractions, consider purchasing a multi-attraction pass. These passes can save you significant money compared to buying individual tickets.
Consider Guided Tours
Guided tours can provide access to locations that are not easily accessible on your own and can offer a wealth of knowledge about the history and culture of the country. Companies like Bein Harim Israel Tours offer affordable options for guided tours that can provide a cost-effective way to explore the sights and sounds of Israel.
In addition to these tips, it’s important to remember that traveling during off-peak seasons can also help you save money. Accommodation prices and tourist attraction fees are often lower during the off-season, making it a great time to travel if you’re looking to save money.
Another way to save money on your trip to Israel is to take advantage of discounts and promotions offered by companies like Bein Harim Israel Tours. This company offers a variety of tour options at affordable prices, and they frequently offer discounts and promotions for their tours.
For example, Bein Harim Israel Tours offers a discount of up to 15% on tours booked online. They also offer discounts for group tours, so if you’re traveling with a group of friends or family, you can save even more money.
In addition, Bein Harim Israel Tours offers a loyalty program that allows you to earn points for every tour you book with them. These points can be redeemed for discounts on future tours, making it a great way to save money on your next trip to Israel.
In conclusion, touring Israel can be expensive, but with some planning and smart choices, you can save money without sacrificing the quality of your experience. Use public transportation, stay in affordable accommodations, buy food at local markets and grocery stores, take advantage of multi-attraction passes, and consider guided tours to make the most of your trip to Israel. And don’t forget to check out companies like Bein Harim Israel Tours for discounts and promotions that can help you save even more money on your trip.
