How to get to Eilat

Eilat is a sun-drenched jewel in the south of the country, located on the Red Sea coast, where travelers flock for magnificent beaches and the underwater world. When planning a trip to Eilat, you will discover that this resort city offers a multitude of route options: from a quick flight to a scenic drive through the desert. Whether you are looking for how to get to Eilat for a family vacation or diving, the city is open and accessible to tourists from all over the world.

The fastest way to reach the resort is by air. The main aerial gateway is the international Ramon Airport (ETM), which serves about 1.8 million passengers annually and is located just a few kilometers from the city. This modern airport receives both domestic and international flights, ensuring a comfortable arrival.

Additionally, travelers may consider flying via neighboring transport hubs. Located very close by are the airports of Aqaba (just 6 km away) and Taba (9 km away), and for more complex routes, the airport of Neom is sometimes utilized. The choice of airport depends on your initial point of departure and available connections.

Currently, there is no direct rail connection to the resort itself, as the city of Eilat does not have its own railway station. Tourists who prefer trains usually travel to the country's central cities, after which they transfer to comfortable buses heading south through the Negev Desert.

Although geographically cities like Aqaba or Taba are located very close (less than 10 km), the railway networks of these regions are not connected by direct passenger routes. Therefore, the train should be viewed only as part of a combined itinerary, rather than a way to get directly to your hotel.

Bus service is one of the most economical options to get to the resort, especially if you are traveling from neighboring regions. For instance, a trip from the Egyptian city of Taba, located practically on the border, will take only about 30 minutes, as the distance is a mere 10.5 km.

Modern buses operating in this direction are usually equipped with air conditioning, making the journey comfortable even in hot weather. This is a great way to view the desert landscapes and quickly arrive at the center of the action.

Traveling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy unique views. If you are driving from the direction of Jordan, the route from the city of Aqaba is about 15 km long and will take approximately 30 minutes. You can arrive even faster from the Egyptian border: the road from the city of Taba (about 11 km) will require just 20 minutes of travel time.

For enthusiasts of long road trips, there is a route from the direction of Saudi Arabia, from the city of Neom. The distance is about 245 km, and the time on the road is approximately 3.5 hours. Taxi services on short cross-border routes are also available, though the cost should be negotiated in advance.

To ensure your vacation on the shores of the Red Sea goes perfectly, it is worth noting a few local features in advance. Eilat is a city of eternal summer, but even here there are nuances, knowledge of which will make your trip more comfortable.

1. Clothing and sun protection. The climate here is very hot and dry. Be sure to bring headwear, sunglasses, and high SPF cream. Even in winter, it is warm during the day, but in the evening, a light sweater or windbreaker may be needed.
2. Transport. It is convenient to move around the city by taxi (always ask to turn on the meter) or on foot in the tourist zone. For trips to distant beaches or the desert, it is better to rent a car.
3. Finances and shopping. Eilat is a VAT-free trade zone, so prices here are often lower than in the rest of the country. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but a little cash in shekels is useful for small expenses.
4. Hydration. Due to the dry air, dehydration can occur unnoticed. Always carry a bottle of water with you and drink regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty.
5. Language and communication. The official language is Hebrew, but in the tourism sector, people speak excellent English, and very often Russian as well.
6. Respect for nature. The Red Sea is the city's main treasure. It is strictly forbidden to break corals, feed fish, or remove anything from the sea — large fines are provided for this.
7. Operating hours. Keep in mind that from Friday evening to Saturday evening (Shabbat), many shops and public transport may not operate or may work on a reduced schedule.
8. Safety. The city is very calm and friendly to tourists; you can safely walk around even after dark while observing basic precautions.

By observing these simple rules, you can completely relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the southern resort, its warm sea, and hospitality.