Ashdod Shore Excursion: Jerusalem and Bethlehem Day Trip

While your cruise ship is docked at Ashdod Port, meet your guide at the port side, and travel to Jerusalem by air-conditioned minivan for your full-day tour. On route, admire the scenic Judean Mountains and listen to commentary about Jerusalem and Bethlehem, the two holy cities revered by Christians as the places where Jesus lived and died some 2,000 years ago.

Your first stop is at the Mount of Olives, a ridge just east of Jerusalem. Soak up views of Old Jerusalem from the summit and listen as your guide recounts some of the biblical tales linked to the area.

Pass the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus reputedly spent his last night of freedom, and head to Mount Zion, site of the Last Supper. Visit the room where the Last Supper is said to have taken place, and then continue into Old Jerusalem through Jaffa Gate.

Admire the timeworn narrow streets as your guide leads you through both the Christian and Jewish quarters. Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, said to stand on the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, and walk part of the Via Dolorosa, an important pilgrimage route.

Take in the scenes at the Western Wall (aka the Wailing Wall) as you learn of its significance to the crowds of Jewish pilgrims, and then stroll through an Arab souk, whose stone streets brim with trinket and spice stalls.

Having explored Jerusalem, return to your minivan and head for nearby Bethlehem. On arrival, stretch your legs on an amble around Manger Square and visit the Church of the Nativity and the grotto, where a star marks the spot of Jesus’ supposed birthplace.

Lastly, enjoy free time to browse for souvenirs at Bethlehem’s Palestinian shops and markets, before your tour ends back at Ashdod port.

Please note: Visits to sites stated on the above itinerary are dependent on accessibility, religious festivals, queues and time constraints on the day of your tour. The order of sites visited, as described above, may also be subject to change on the day.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:We will ensure your timely return to the Ashdod Port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.