Car Rental at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) – Pickup, Prices & Local Driving Tips

Arriving at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv-Yafo is a great start to your journey in Israel. Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. This page will help you navigate the rental process, from choosing a car to understanding local driving conditions, to make your trip as comfortable as possible.

Where to Find Car Rental Offices

Most car rental companies have counters directly at Ben Gurion Airport. They are usually located in the arrivals area, often in the main terminal or nearby. There may be both full-service counters and automated kiosks for self-pickup. After collecting your luggage, look for signs to the car rental area. Some companies may offer a transfer to their offices outside the airport, but this usually requires prior arrangement.

Popular Companies and Cars

The following car rental companies are usually represented at Ben Gurion Airport: Avis, Budget, Calauto, Eldan, Hertz, Shlomo Sixt. The choice of cars is quite wide, from economy models to SUVs and premium cars. Here are some popular options:

1. Economy (Fiat 500, Toyota Yaris) – ideal for the city and fuel efficiency.

2. Compact (Volkswagen Golf, Hyundai i30) – convenient for travel with little luggage.

3. Mid-Size (Toyota Corolla, Skoda Octavia) – a good choice for family trips.

4. SUV (Jeep Renegade, Hyundai Tucson) – suitable for traveling on rough terrain.

5. Minivan (Renault Scenic, Citroen C4 Picasso) – for large families or groups.

6. Premium (Mercedes-Benz C-Class, BMW 3 Series) – for those who appreciate comfort and style.

7. Automatic transmission – very popular and convenient, especially for drivers unfamiliar with manual transmissions.

8. Diesel engine – can be beneficial for long trips.

9. Hybrid car – an environmentally friendly and economical option.

10. Convertible – to enjoy the views of Israel.

Approximate car rental prices (prices may vary depending on the season and availability):

Prices may vary depending on the season and availability.

Documents, Age, Insurance & Payment

To rent a car, you will need: a valid driver's license (an international driving permit may be required, depending on the country of issue of your license), a passport, and a credit card in the driver's name. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, but some companies may require 23 or 25. Young drivers may be subject to an additional fee. Upon pickup, you will most likely be asked for a deposit, which will be returned after returning the car in good condition. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted. Make sure your card has sufficient funds for the deposit and rental.

Regarding insurance, you will be offered several options: CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) – covers damage to the car in the event of an accident, Theft Protection – protects against theft, and third-party liability insurance. Read the insurance terms carefully and pay attention to the excess amount – this is the amount you will have to pay yourself in case of damage or theft. Don't hesitate to ask the company representative about all the details of the insurance.

Driving in Israel: A Quick Overview

In Israel, traffic is on the right. The speed limit on highways is usually 110 km/h, and in cities – 50 km/h. Some roads may have toll sections. Parking in cities may be paid, pay attention to signs and parking meters. Driving in Israel can be quite intense, especially in cities, so be careful and cautious.