Israel – Cycling

How popular is cycling in Israel — is it a common way to get around?

Cycling in Israel serves both as an everyday mode of transport and as a widely enjoyed sport, and its popularity has grown considerably over the opening decades of the twenty-first century. Israel’s cycling culture has not yet reached the heights seen in the Netherlands or Denmark — where the bicycle is simply how most people move — but it has developed at a meaningful pace. A closer parallel might be drawn with cities such as Barcelona or parts of France, where cycling is a visible and valued part of urban life without yet being the overwhelming preference.

In Tel Aviv, the sight of residents weaving through the city on bicycles — heading to the office or picking up groceries — is entirely unremarkable, with more than 100,000 people taking to two wheels in the city each day. As of 2025, around 17% of Tel Aviv’s residents use a bicycle to travel to and from work. That proportion is remarkable for a city in the Middle East and reflects how substantially attitudes towards cycling have shifted in recent years.

Beyond getting from A to B, cycling is an enormously popular leisure pursuit across Israel. Weekend mornings see a steady stream of cars fitted with bike racks as enthusiasts travel to their favourite trails, and group rides are a fixture of social life for many Israeli cyclists. Outside the main cities, cycling is primarily a recreational activity rather than a transport choice — a pattern more reminiscent of Australia or Spain than of northern Europe.

A 2020 survey found that 10% of Israelis ride bikes or e-bikes on a weekly basis. This upward trajectory has been given additional momentum by high-profile events, including Israel hosting the opening three stages of the 2018 Giro d’Italia, as well as the growing international profile of Israeli professional cycling teams — all of which have helped embed cycling more deeply in the national consciousness.

What is the cycling infrastructure like in Israel?

Dedicated cycling infrastructure in Israel is still heavily concentrated in and around Tel Aviv, though investment is gradually reaching other cities. By 2025, Tel Aviv had amassed 200 km of cycling provision, establishing it as the country’s most bike-friendly urban environment. The network encompasses segregated lanes, shared paths running along the seafront, and dedicated routes through the celebrated Bauhaus White City district.

Building this infrastructure has not been without its difficulties. A deeply entrenched car culture, fragmented lane networks with poor connectivity, and persistent safety concerns have all posed obstacles. Early cycling lanes were often little more than painted strips on the road, plagued by interruptions and a lack of coherent planning. Gradually, however, the construction of properly separated lanes and the integration of cycling into broader urban planning has encouraged more people to make the switch to two wheels.

Jerusalem possesses 42 km of cycling provision, incorporating the Jerusalem ring project, and in 2022 saw the opening of the city’s first dedicated cycling tunnel at Kerem Pass. A 2020 municipal plan set out ambitions to extend the network to 120 km. While Jerusalem is not as immediately accessible for cyclists as Tel Aviv, it still offers rewarding riding, particularly on the flatter, more central routes through the city.

In the Negev Desert, considerable effort has gone into establishing biking trails that cater to riders of varying experience levels, backed by solid supporting facilities. Inter-city cycling infrastructure, by contrast, remains rudimentary — the dedicated cycle paths running alongside inter-city highways that are a standard feature of countries like the Netherlands are largely nowhere to be found in Israel.

For the most up-to-date route maps and forthcoming developments, expats are advised to consult the Israeli Ministry of Transport and Road Safety and the Israel Bicycle Association (IBA), the national governing body for cycling and a reliable source of infrastructure news.

Is cycling safe in Israel?

Cycling is a familiar sight in Tel Aviv, meaning that most drivers are accustomed to sharing the road and tend to show reasonable consideration. That said, vigilance and compliance with traffic rules are essential, as in any city. Beyond Tel Aviv, attitudes among motorists can be considerably less accommodating, and roads shared with fast-moving vehicles demand a higher level of caution from riders.

Each year, between 2,500 and 3,000 children and young people under the age of 17 are admitted to hospital emergency departments in Israel following cycling or electric vehicle accidents. Adhering to the specific road safety regulations that apply to cyclists and e-bike riders would prevent a significant proportion of these incidents. The rapid spread of e-bikes in particular has been associated with a rise in road collisions, prompting the Israeli government to consider more stringent rules.

The increase in accidents is partly a consequence of the surge in popularity of alternative transport modes in a country whose public transport operates for only five and a half days a week and which endures some of the most severe traffic congestion among OECD member states. This combination of dense traffic and an expanding cycling population means that care on major arterial roads is especially important.

The National Road Safety Authority (OR) publishes road safety data and runs public awareness campaigns. Expats are encouraged to visit the Authority’s website for the most recent statistics on cyclist injuries and fatalities; figures available as of 2024 indicate that e-bike-related incidents represent a growing share of the total. Even where the law does not compel it, safety organisations strongly advise all riders to wear a helmet.

What are the rules of the road for cyclists in Israel?

Cycling legislation in Israel is set at the national level but contains certain variations depending on context — most notably regarding helmet requirements in urban as opposed to rural settings. The Israel Bicycle Association’s cycling laws page offers a readable plain-language overview; the full legal framework is contained within Israel’s Traffic Regulations.

Helmets: The law mandates that children wear a helmet whenever they cycle. Adults riding non-electric bikes in urban areas are not required to wear one, though it is emphatically recommended. Adult cyclists outside cities are legally obliged to wear a helmet, although enforcement has historically been light. This approach resembles that of Spain, which similarly exempts adult urban cyclists from mandatory helmet use, while differing markedly from Australia and New Zealand, where helmet laws apply to all ages in all settings and are rigorously enforced.

Lighting: Under Regulation 132 of the Traffic Regulations, every bicycle must carry yellow reflectors on the pedals, a white light at the front, and a red light at the rear. Lights must be angled downward to avoid dazzling other road users.

Road positioning: Regulation 128 requires cyclists on the road to keep to the right wherever practicable. Riding on pavements (footpaths) is generally not permitted where dedicated cycling infrastructure exists. Cyclists are expected to use cycle paths, areas closed to vehicles, or quieter streets; in all circumstances, using the footpath is not allowed.

Passengers and cargo: Children may be carried as a passenger on a bicycle up to the age of 8, provided they are seated in an appropriate and secure child seat. The cyclist carrying them must be at least 14 years old. Carrying cargo is permissible so long as it does not impair the rider’s ability to control the bicycle.

E-bikes: The minimum age to operate an electric bike in Israel is 16. The Israeli government has approved a proposal making helmet use compulsory for all e-bike riders, though as of the most recently available information this had not yet been fully enacted. Expats planning to ride e-bikes should confirm the current position with the Ministry of Transport before taking to the road. For the complete and current legal text, refer to the official Traffic Regulations published by the Ministry of Transport.

Do I need to register my bike or have insurance to cycle in Israel?

There is currently no obligation to register a standard pedal bicycle in Israel. Unlike motor vehicles, ordinary bikes do not require a number plate or any form of government registration before use. This is consistent with the position in most European countries — France and Germany among them — where registration for non-motorised bicycles is equally unnecessary.

There is likewise no statutory requirement for cyclists to carry third-party liability insurance in Israel. Nevertheless, given the state of the roads and the regularity of cycling-related incidents, many expats and Israeli cyclists voluntarily obtain personal accident cover or specialist cycling insurance. Some home contents policies include an optional cycling extension — it is worth scrutinising the terms of any policy you arrange when settling in the country.

When hiring a bicycle through the Metrofun bike-share scheme, riders should be aware that no insurance is bundled with the rental. This is a noteworthy point for anyone who makes regular use of shared bicycles.

For e-bikes, the regulatory landscape is in flux. The Ministry of Transport has been examining additional requirements for electric bike riders, potentially including high-visibility clothing and standardised lighting at night. Expats who own e-bikes should monitor developments via the Ministry of Transport, as this area of regulation is liable to evolve.

Are there public bike-sharing or rental schemes in Israel?

Tel Aviv broke new ground in Israel by launching a municipal bike rental service — Tel-O-Fun — back in 2011, intended as a credible alternative to the private car and to public transport. The scheme, now trading under the name Metrofun, offers both conventional and electric bikes for hire and shares the city with three scooter rental operators: Bird, Lime, and Dott.

As of 2016, the Metrofun network (then still called Tel-O-Fun) comprised 200 active docking stations providing access to more than 2,000 bicycles. Subscriptions are structured as daily, weekly, or annual options. Daily and weekly passes can be bought at any station using a credit card, while an annual membership can be arranged online through the Metrofun website or in person at the city hall. For up-to-date pricing, visit the Metrofun official website, as fees are subject to periodic revision.

Metrofun’s operating company also runs Jerufun, a sister bike-share service in Jerusalem, giving riders a shared cycling option in that city as well. Jerusalem’s network is smaller in scale than Tel Aviv’s but provides useful access for leisure rides and short city trips.

The Tel Aviv municipality is actively working to broaden its micro-mobility offer, with plans to bring in as many as six operators to supply scooters and bicycles better suited to longer journeys. This expanding market means fresh options may become available to expats in the coming period. For the latest on bike-share provision in your city, contact the relevant municipality — in Tel Aviv, the Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality is the appropriate body.

It is also worth knowing that bicycles can be taken on inter-city buses in Israel at no charge, making a combination of cycling and bus travel a practical approach for expats who want to venture beyond city boundaries without a car.

Where can I buy or service a bike in Israel?

Israel’s bicycle retail market is well established, with a healthy concentration of shops in the major cities — particularly Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and Beersheba. Road bikes and mountain bikes both enjoy strong popularity, and most retailers carry a range spanning basic commuter models through to high-specification racing and off-road machines. The surge in e-bike demand has led the majority of larger shops to substantially expand their electric range.

Quality bike shops can be found along many of the country’s popular cycling routes, with further options available to those prepared to travel a short distance off the beaten track. Specialist outlets include the Alon HaGalil All-Terrain Center, Haitham Cycling in Daliyat al-Karmel, and the Geofun Desert Cycling Center at Midreshet Ben Gurion (Sde Boker), all of which cater to trail riders and touring cyclists alike.

Pre-owned bikes are plentiful through Israeli online marketplaces and classified advertisement platforms, with Yad2 being the country’s leading second-hand goods site — roughly equivalent to Germany’s Kleinanzeigen or France’s Leboncoin. Prices for quality used bikes vary considerably; as with any second-hand purchase, it is wise to examine the bike in person before committing to a sale.

Bikes placed on sale in Israel should conform to an official standard issued by the Standards Institution of Israel (SII) and must be fitted with a bell or horn, functioning lights, and reflectors. When purchasing a new bicycle, ask the retailer to confirm SII compliance — this is Israel’s equivalent of CE certification in European markets. New bike warranties are governed by Israeli consumer protection legislation, which ordinarily provides for a minimum one-year guarantee on goods.

Can I bring my bike when I move to Israel, and are there any import rules?

Relocating expats generally have the option of including their bicycle within a personal effects shipment. New immigrants (olim) and qualifying returning residents are typically entitled to import personal belongings — including sporting equipment such as bikes — free of customs duty, subject to meeting the relevant eligibility criteria. This relief is administered by the Israel Tax Authority and the Israel Customs and VAT Division.

For those who do not qualify as new immigrants, bicycles brought into Israel are treated like most consumer goods and attract customs duty and VAT. Applicable rates and any associated import conditions can change, so it is important to check the current tariff classification for bicycles — ordinarily falling under Chapter 87 of the Harmonised System — with the Israel Customs and VAT Division before dispatching your shipment. Online figures should not be treated as definitive, since tariff rates are reviewed from time to time.

In practical terms, most expats find that bringing a bicycle to Israel as part of a general shipping container is a straightforward process, provided that customs declarations are completed accurately. Your removal company or freight forwarder should be well placed to guide you through the formalities. For the most precise and current import requirements, contact the Israel Customs and VAT Division directly before arranging the shipment.

What are the best cycling routes or destinations in Israel?

A national biking trail runs the full length of the country from Metula in the far north to Eilat in the south, connecting Mount Hermon to Israel’s southernmost point. The route is fully waymarked and well maintained, making it accessible to cyclists of varied abilities. In scope and character, it compares favourably with celebrated long-distance trails elsewhere, such as France’s Via Rhôna or Germany’s Elbe Cycle Route, combining natural beauty, historical sites, and a diversity of terrain.

Tel Aviv’s flat topography and mild climate make it an ideal base for cycling of all kinds. The city offers a wealth of attractive pedestrian and cycling paths totalling over 100 kilometres, and the beachfront promenade stretching from Tel Aviv to Jaffa ranks among the most beloved leisure rides in the country — level, scenic, and open to riders of every ability.

The Coastal Plain between Haifa and Tel Aviv presents spectacular scenery punctuated by significant towns, cities, and ancient ruins. Cyclists venturing further afield can discover the shores of the Sea of Galilee or push into the Golan Heights to take in some of Israel’s most distinctive landscapes.

The Israel Ride is a celebrated multi-day event covering five days of riding from Jerusalem to Eilat, traversing the Negev Desert and offering encounters with some of the country’s most arresting scenery. The Negev itself has seen considerable investment in trail development, resulting in a network suitable for both seasoned riders and those new to off-road cycling.

Bike hire is readily available throughout Israel, and the entire country has been mapped at a 1:50,000 scale for off-road navigation, though these maps are generally produced in Hebrew only. For route planning, the Israel Bicycle Association and the Israel Ministry of Tourism are both excellent starting points. The Holyland Challenge route is a thoroughly documented bikepacking itinerary that has attracted considerable interest from international cyclists.

The table below summarises the principal cycling areas and what they offer:

Frequently asked questions about cycling in Israel

Do I legally have to wear a helmet when cycling in Israel?

Children are legally required to wear a helmet whenever they cycle. Adults riding non-electric bikes in urban areas are not legally obliged to wear one, though the Israel Bicycle Association strongly advises all riders to do so. Outside cities, Israeli law requires adult cyclists to wear a helmet at all times. You should always wear a helmet when cycling away from urban areas or when riding any form of electric bike.

Is Tel Aviv really a good city for cycling as a daily commuter?

Tel Aviv has a well-deserved reputation as a cycle-friendly city. Its flat landscape, generally pleasant weather, and extensive network of dedicated cycling lanes combine to make getting around by bike both practical and enjoyable. As of 2025, approximately 17% of Tel Aviv residents cycle to work — a figure that underlines just how viable daily cycling has become in the city.

What lighting do I need on my bike at night?

Israeli law requires your bicycle to be fitted with yellow reflectors on the pedals, a white headlight at the front, and a red light at the rear. All lights must be directed towards the ground to avoid causing glare for other road users. These requirements apply whenever you ride in darkness or reduced visibility.

Can I take my bike on public transport in Israel?

Bicycles may be taken on inter-city buses in Israel free of charge. Travelling by train or Egged bus with a bike is straightforward and affordable. It is advisable to check with individual train operators and bus lines for their specific policies on bike carriage, as conditions can differ depending on the route and time of travel.

Is there a bike-share scheme I can use when I first arrive?

The Metrofun service in Tel Aviv (formerly Tel-O-Fun) provides both standard and electric bikes for hire across more than 200 stations throughout the city. A related service, Jerufun, operates in Jerusalem. Daily, weekly, and annual subscriptions are all available, with short-term passes purchasable at any docking station by credit card. Current pricing can be found on the Metrofun website.

Do I need to register my bike or take out insurance in Israel?

No registration is required for a standard pedal bicycle in Israel, and there is no legal obligation to hold insurance. That said, taking out cover is strongly recommended given the frequency of cycling incidents and the nature of road conditions. It is worth checking whether your home contents or personal accident policy can be extended to include cycling, and bear in mind that Metrofun bike-share rentals provide no insurance whatsoever for the rider.

Can I bring my bicycle with me when I relocate to Israel?

In most cases, yes — your bicycle can be included in a personal effects shipment when you move. New immigrants (olim) may be eligible to import personal belongings, including sports equipment, free of customs duty. Those who do not qualify for this exemption will generally be subject to import duties and VAT. Always confirm the current requirements and rates with the Israel Customs and VAT Division before shipping, as conditions can change.

Is mountain biking popular in Israel, and are there good trails?

Mountain biking has grown substantially in Israel, and the country now boasts a rich variety of off-road trails that have helped foster a passionate community of outdoor cyclists. The Negev Desert stands out for its well-developed trail network, which is accessible to riders across a wide range of experience levels and is supported by good facilities. The Holyland Challenge is a nationally recognised bikepacking route running the full length of the country and is particularly popular with visiting international riders.