Middle East
Money, cards and tipping in Israel
ILSShekel
Money in Israel
Cards almost everywhere Cards and phones work almost everywhere, even at many market stalls. Buses don't take cash: use a Rav-Kav card or app. US$1 ≈ ₪3.05 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: Restaurants expect 10–15% (12% is standard), often in cash; ask if you want it on the card. Taxis: round up.
- ATMs: Use bank ATMs; standalone private cash machines charge higher fees. Decline currency conversion.
- Paying by phone: Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted; Bit and PayBox need an Israeli bank account.
- Price level: about 101% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tel Aviv | Cards almost everywhere | Cards and phones work almost everywhere, even at markets. Buses use Rav-Kav, not cash; keep small cash for tips. |
| Jerusalem | Cards almost everywhere | Cards and phones are accepted nearly everywhere, but small cash helps in Old City markets and for tips. |
| Eilat | Cards almost everywhere | Cards and phones are accepted nearly everywhere. Carry small cash for tips and desert kiosks. |
| Haifa | Cards almost everywhere | Cards and phones work almost everywhere. Small cash helps in markets in Wadi Nisnas and for tips. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Israel?
Restaurants expect 10–15% (12% is standard), often in cash; ask if you want it on the card. Taxis: round up.
Is Israel cashless?
Cards almost everywhere. Cards and phones work almost everywhere, even at many market stalls. Buses don't take cash: use a Rav-Kav card or app.
What currency does Israel use?
The Shekel (ILS). US$1 ≈ ₪3.05 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Israel
- ETA-IL (Population and Immigration Authority)
- Israel Tax Authority customs guidance
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.