Israel travel money tips
Heading to Israel? Here's a quick rundown of how to handle money on the ground — tipping etiquette, when to use cards versus cash, the best ATMs to use, and the most common pitfalls travelers run into. The local currency is the Israeli Shekel (ILS, ₪).
Tipping
12–15% in restaurants and cafés (rarely added automatically). Round up taxis. Tip cash, not card.
Cards vs cash
Cards work almost everywhere except small market stalls and some sherut (shared) taxis.
Payment methods accepted
ATMs & cash tip
Bank Hapoalim, Leumi, and Discount ATMs are reliable. Avoid 'Cashpoint' standalone ATMs in tourist areas.
Heads-up
- Most public transport, shops, and restaurants close from Friday afternoon to Saturday evening (Shabbat). Plan ahead.
- Taxis must use the meter ('mone') for in-city rides; insist on it or use Gett.
About the Israeli Shekel (ILS)
The Israeli Shekel (ILS, symbol ₪) is the official currency of Israel. Knowing the live ILS rate against your home currency helps you sanity-check menu prices, taxi fares, and souvenir markups while traveling.
More travel tips
See all country tips →Tips are general guidance for travelers, not legal or financial advice. Customs vary — confirm with local sources for important plans.