GoIsrael Community

what credit cards are readily accepted in Israel? 

Do most companies (restaurants and stores) accept them or is cash a better option.   For example, if I go to the cafe to get a coffee would I use cash or could I use a credit card (in the US I would use my credit card)? 

Shalom

 Most major credit cards are widely accepted in Israel, even for small purchases - however Discover Cards are rarely acctpted in Israel.  Check with your card issuer as to what additional fees and charges they have for foreign currency transactions - that may well be the deciding factor for you.

Also,  keep in mind that you can usually use your credit card or ATM card at selected ATM's to withdraw cash in Israeli currency - which is another option to consider.

Thanks for the responses.

I called my credit card companies and found that there is a charge of either 2% or 3% for all charges.  It was also a good idea to call ahead so that the CC companies are aware of your travel and will authorize the payments while you are out of the country.  They placed a note in my file noting the times and countries I would be traveling to. 

Letting your credit card companies know you will be travelling abroad is a good idea - additionally, most US credit card companies have a toll free number you can call them while travelling or will accept your collect calls - you can check this out at their web-sites.

While you are checking, look into the 2% or 3% charge - in most cases these charges only apply to charges in foreign currency - if you are billed in dollars while travelling the fee usually does not apply.

Have a great trip.

Probably too late for a reply but Capital One does not charge the 2-3%.