Getting Around in Jerusalem

Buses

Jerusalem’s Egged buses are at the heart of its transportation system, used extensively by tourists and locals alike.  These buses serve all the main thoroughfares, and you can find route details in the free Jerusalem City maps available at bus stations.  Pay the fare when you get on board, but remember to keep the receipt until you get off the bus.  Avoid rush whenever possible, and if you have an appointment to catch, hire a cab instead.  The buses are efficient, but they don’t always provide the fastest service. 

Taxis

Regular bus services don’t cover all routes.  If your medical tourism facility is off the beaten path, simply hire a cab.  These are metered and are easily available. Drivers are required by law to turn on the meter as soon as a passenger hops on, and thus, refuse any cab that tries to stall.  Unlike buses, taxis are widely available on the Sabbath too.  Tips are not mandatory.  However, if your driver goes above and beyond the call of duty by helping you haul in your shopping bags, for instance, it’s courtesy to tip him a few extra shekels.  

Sheruts

These are larger taxis that can seat anywhere from 12 to 15 passengers. Look for one that has free space and flag it down. They cost less than a taxi and more than a bus. 

Walking

Driving yourself around Jerusalem can quickly turn into a nightmare – “right of way” is a fairly flexible concept, and the city’s road system includes plenty of one-way streets. Walking is a great alternative if you want to do your own exploring in the Holy City.  If your medical tourism facility is in the center of town, you can walk anywhere within an hour. Be prepared for occasional details however.  Because Jerusalem is built on hills, the roads here tend to wind, thus, increasing the time it takes to get from Point A to Point B.