Currency exchange and the use of bank cards while traveling are among the key issues that determine the comfort of your trip. In Tel Aviv, you can rely on both cash and cards, but it is better to think through your strategy in advance so that you do not overpay on commissions and feel confident in any situation.
Many tourists rush to exchange money at the airport immediately after arrival, but this is not the best option: the exchange rate here is usually significantly worse than in the city. There are many exchange offices in Tel Aviv, especially in the area of central streets and markets. As a rule, they offer a fair and favorable exchange rate without hidden commissions. It is worth comparing several exchange offices before exchanging a large amount. In addition, there are official licensed exchange offices in Tel Aviv, where you can always be sure of the transparency of the transaction.
It is convenient to pay by bank card in large stores, hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Israel has actively switched to contactless technology, so chip cards and smartphones with Apple Pay or Google Pay are accepted almost everywhere. Cards are convenient and safe: you don’t need to carry a lot of cash with you, and if you lose your card, you can quickly block your account. However, before traveling, it is worth checking with your bank about the commission for transactions abroad. Sometimes it is more profitable to apply for a separate card for travel with minimal fees.
There are also situations when cash is indispensable. Cards may not be accepted at markets, small cafes, on public transport, or from street vendors. In such cases, it is better to have a moderate amount of shekels with you for everyday expenses. Cash can also come in handy if you need to tip or quickly pay for small purchases.
To avoid losing money on ATM fees, it is better to withdraw large amounts at once rather than small amounts every day. But here, too, it is important to be careful: ATMs inside banks are generally more reliable and offer a fairer exchange rate than those on the streets.
The optimal strategy for tourists in Tel Aviv is simple: carry a card for all large payments and some cash for small expenses. This way, you will avoid unnecessary expenses and feel comfortable in any situation, whether it’s dinner at a trendy restaurant, buying fruit at the market, or a ticket to a museum.