According to the Israel Ministry of Tourism, public transportation does not operate during Shabbat in most cities. However, transportation between cities, such as Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, is still available in the form of the shared taxi, or sherut. According to Travel Dudes, these taxis depart from the New Central Bus Station in Tel Aviv and Zion Square in Jerusalem. Travel Dudes notes that sherut rides ordinary cost about 50 percent more than a public bus ticket, and that travelers may need to wait for other passengers to arrive before the taxi can depart.
While government public transportation is limited or unavailable during Shabbat, some options remain. Even travelers who observe Shabbat and do not wish to drive have options. According to the New York Times, some areas, such as Tel Aviv, offer private minibus service over the main public transportation routes during Shabbat. Partial bus service is available on Saturday in Haifa.
According to the U.S. State Department, demonstrations frequently occur on holidays, such as Shabbat. These demonstrations could potentially become violent without warning, especially in ethnically mixed neighborhoods. These gatherings could delay travel or become a danger to personal safety. Travelers on foot should avoid large gatherings if possible. High pedestrian traffic on Shabbat can make travel more difficult in areas such as the Old City, which has few exits.
Even observant Jews from foreign countries may discover that they have accidentally violated local religious customs on Shabbat. According to the U.S. State Department, travelers should exercise caution when visiting religious sites on any holiday, and dress appropriately in the Old City and in very observant orthodox neighborhoods. Many roads into these neighborhoods are blocked off during Shabbat, and visitors who drive or dress inappropriately may encounter problems. Observing correct dress and behavior in these areas can help prevent conflict.
Since few businesses are open on Shabbat, and transportation is limited, travelers need to pay close attention to schedules for those which are operating. According to the New York Times, many shops close by 2 or 3 p.m. on Friday, and buses and trains cease to run about an hour before sundown in most of Israel. However, some businesses close briefly on Friday afternoon, then reopen later that evening. Haifa and Jerusalem offer limited nightlife, though restaurants open Friday night may be nonkosher. Many museums are open for part of Shabbat, but have limited hours.
