Shekels, Tipping & Money in Israel: A Christian Pilgrim’s Guide

One of the biggest distractions for pilgrims arriving in the Holy Land isn’t the jet lag—it’s the anxiety about money. “Do I need to change dollars?” “How much do I tip the driver?” “Will my credit card work in the Old City?”

When you are walking in the footsteps of Jesus, you want your mind focused on the scripture, not on doing mental math in the souvenir shop. At Elbow Holy Land Tours, we want you to be fully prepared before you even step off the plane. Here is your essential guide to shekels, spending, and the culture of tipping in Israel.

1. The Shekel: What You Need to Know

The currency in Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS). While many larger shops in Jerusalem and tourist centers will accept US Dollars (USD), the exchange rate they offer is often poor. For small purchases—like a bottle of water, a falafel lunch or a taxi ride—you will need shekels.

Where to get cash:

• Use ATMs: The best way to get cash is simply to use an ATM (called a “Kaspomat”) in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. They offer bank-rate exchanges.
• Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, including hotels, restaurants and larger souvenir shops. You only really need cash for markets (shuks), street food, and tips.
• Avoid the Airport Kiosks: Exchange bureaus at Ben Gurion Airport often have higher fees than local ATMs.

2. The Tipping Guide: Standards for Group Tours

Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for the service provided by your tour team. For those traveling on our group tours of Israel, we recommend the following daily industry standards:

• The Tour Guide: $5 – $7 per person, per day.
• The Driver: $3 – $5 per person, per day.

Note: If you are traveling on a private tour of Israel, tipping standards are different as they are based on a much more personalized level of service. Please contact us if you need specific guidance for a private itinerary.

3. Spending Money: Budgeting for Souvenirs

Aside from lunch (if not included) and tips, your main expense will be souvenirs. The Holy Land offers beautiful craftsmanship that supports local families and “Living Stones.”

• Olive Wood: Hand-carved in Bethlehem. Look for smooth finishes and detailed grain.
• Dead Sea Products: Mineral-rich mud and creams are iconic gifts from the region.
• Armenian Pottery: Beautiful hand-painted ceramics found in Jerusalem’s Old City.

A Note on Bargaining: In the Shuk (Market) in the Old City, bargaining is part of the culture. It is not rude; it is a conversation! However, in established shops with printed price tags, the price is typically fixed.

4. Reducing the Distraction

The goal of this practical preparation is spiritual freedom. By setting aside your tip money in envelopes before you leave home and notifying your bank that you are traveling, you remove the “worldly” worries. This leaves you free to focus on what matters: hearing the voice of God in the land of His Son.

Walk the Path with us in 2026 / 2027

Now that the logistics are handled, the real journey begins. If you are looking for a pilgrimage that honors your faith and connects you deeply to God’s mission, we invite you to join us. We don’t just show you the sites; we invite you to walk in the Spirit alongside us. Ready to trade worldly worries for a life-changing experience?

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