Contrary to what you are made to believe in your local evening news, Tel Aviv is remarkably safe. It’s been years since the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has had any impact on the city, which is nicknamed “the bubble” for its ability to keep the regional conflicts off its mind. And the crime rate is very low compared to big cities around the world.

All in all, you’re probably more likely to get hit by lightening than get hurt in a terrorist attack in Tel Aviv.

With a view to making the city safe, the level of security you’ll meet will probably be higher than what you are normally used to.

When entering a closed public space such as a train or bus station,  a shopping mall and the like,  you’ll be required by the security guard to open your bag for inspection. In some places you’ll be asked to put your bag in an X-ray machine, empty your pockets and walk through a metal detector. It’s not as bad as it may sound – most security inspectors go through this routine rather quickly and in a friendly manner.

Both men and women can walk around even well after dark almost anywhere in Tel Aviv. The Central Bus Station area has been steadily deteriorating, with drunks, drug users and dealers and prostitutes roaming the street, so although not necessarily dangerous, it’s best to be avoided. Actually, it’s not all that pleasant even during the day, but sometimes you need to take a bus.

Tourist Police and Emergencies

Address: the Tourist Police Station is located on the corner of Herbert Samuel St. and Geula St.

Contact: 03 516 5832.

The main Israeli emergency phone numbers are: