Ashdod Shore Excursion: Jerusalem and Bethlehem – for Cruise Ship Guests Only

Cruise ship passengers docking at the Port of Ashdod have an opportunity to embark on an exclusive day-long tour of Jerusalem and Bethlehem. This excursion promises to whisk guests away to the holiest sites, from the iconic Mount of Olives to the revered Church of the Nativity. With an expert guide leading the way, travelers will explore the rich history and spiritual significance of these iconic destinations. But beyond the sacred, the tour also offers a chance to take in local culture, browsing Palestinian markets for unique souvenirs. It’s a comprehensive experience not to be missed.

Key Points

• Guided full-day tour from the Port of Ashdod to holy sites in Jerusalem and Bethlehem, exclusively for cruise ship passengers.
• Visits to iconic landmarks like the Mount of Olives, Western Wall, Church of the Nativity, and Manger Square.
• Opportunity to explore the Old City of Jerusalem and engage with the local culture and souvenirs.
• Pickup and drop-off directly at the cruise port, with a professional guide providing an overview during transportation.
• Tour not suitable for guests with mobility challenges, and requires a valid passport and moderate physical fitness.

Overview of the Excursion

This shore excursion provides cruise ship passengers with a full-day guided tour to the holy sites of Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at the Port of Ashdod, and is available exclusively for cruise ship guests.

In Jerusalem, you will visit the Mount of Olives for panoramic views, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Western Wall, and the Old City. They’ll walk along the Via Dolorosa, the Cardo, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

In Bethlehem, the highlights include exploring the Church of the Nativity, Manger Square, and the Mosque of Omar. Guests will also have the opportunity to shop for souvenirs at local Palestinian markets.

Pickup and Drop-off at Port

The tour begins with pickup of cruise ship passengers directly from the Port of Ashdod, conveniently located near the cruise terminal.

Guests are met by their professional guide, who’ll escort them to an air-conditioned minivan for the journey.

During the drive, the guide provides an overview of the day’s itinerary and points of interest.

At the end of the tour, passengers are dropped off back at the port, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.

This shore excursion caters exclusively to cruise ship travelers, offering a hassle-free way to explore the historic and religious highlights of Jerusalem and Bethlehem without the need to arrange separate transportation.

Highlights in Jerusalem

After pickup at the Port of Ashdod, the tour begins with a visit to the iconic Mount of Olives, where guests can take in panoramic views of the historic Old City of Jerusalem.

From there, they’ll explore the Garden of Gethsemane, a serene olive grove associated with the final hours of Jesus’s life.

Next, they’ll walk along the Via Dolorosa, retracing Christ’s steps to the crucifixion, and visit the Western Wall, the holiest site in Judaism.

The tour then continues through the winding streets of the Old City, leading to the impressive Church of the Holy Sepulchre, built on the site of Jesus’s crucifixion and burial.

Exploring the Old City

Wandering the winding streets of Jerusalem’s Old City, guests marvel at the historic alleyways, bustling markets, and ancient religious sites that dot the landscape. Along the Via Dolorosa, they follow the path Jesus walked on the way to his crucifixion, passing the Stations of the Cross. At the Western Wall, they observe Jewish worshippers in reverent prayer, notes tucked between the timeless stones. Exploring the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, they discover the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. The diversity of the Old City is encapsulated in the following table:

Site	Significance
Western Wall	Holiest Jewish prayer site
Church of the Holy Sepulchre	Christian site of Jesus’ death and resurrection
Dome of the Rock	Iconic Islamic shrine on Temple Mount
Armenian Quarter	Home to one of the world’s oldest Christian communities
Jewish Quarter	Center of Jewish life in the Old City

Visiting the Church of Nativity

Next, guests visit the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, the sacred site where Jesus is believed to have been born.

Inside the ancient basilica, they descend into the Grotto of the Nativity, a cave-like structure marking the traditional location of the manger where Jesus lay as a newborn.

Nearby, they find Manger Square, a bustling plaza home to the Mosque of Omar and a hub for local artisans and vendors selling handcrafted souvenirs. Visitors can browse the stalls, haggling with merchants and selecting unique gifts to take home.

The Church of the Nativity and Manger Square offer a profound connection to the history and culture of this revered holy site.

Discovering Manger Square

Visitors then discover Manger Square, a lively plaza at the heart of Bethlehem.

They find the Mosque of Omar anchoring one side of the square, its distinctive architecture and minaret a testament to the area’s rich cultural tapestry.

All around, local artisans and vendors ply their wares, offering an array of handcrafted souvenirs and traditional Palestinian goods for visitors to browse and purchase.

The square is bustling with activity, from the muezzin’s call to prayer echoing through the streets to the sounds of haggling and laughter as shoppers negotiate prices.

It’s a vibrant, immersive experience that allows travelers to connect with the local culture and take home a piece of Bethlehem.

Shopping for Souvenirs

Browsing and bartering through the vibrant Palestinian markets allows cruise ship passengers to uncover a trove of unique souvenirs reflective of the local culture. From intricate hand-woven tapestries to fragrant spices and aromatic teas, the marketplaces offer a sensory experience that immerses visitors in the rich heritage of the region.

Three must-have souvenirs include:

1. Carved olivewood figurines depicting biblical scenes or traditional Palestinian dress.

2. Delicate glass ornaments and vases in vibrant hues, handcrafted by local artisans.

3. Embroidered textiles, such as cushion covers and table runners, showcasing the region’s distinctive patterns and techniques.

These captivating keepsakes not only serve as reminders of the journey but also support the local economy and artisan community.

Requirements and Considerations

When embarking on this shore excursion, it’s important to keep in mind certain requirements and considerations.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility challenges may need to opt for an alternative.

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and clothing covering the shoulders and knees are highly recommended, as the itinerary involves significant time spent outdoors.

Since the tour includes a visit to Bethlehem, a valid passport is required.

Plus, a moderate level of physical fitness is necessary to fully enjoy the experience.

While the tour is designed for cruise ship passengers, it’s crucial to adhere to these guidelines to ensure a smooth and memorable journey through Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Visit Other Sites in Jerusalem Besides the Highlights?

Yes, visitors may be able to visit other sites in Jerusalem besides the highlighted ones, but the tour itinerary is typically focused on the major religious and historical landmarks due to time constraints. Additional sites can be explored independently before or after the guided excursion.

Is There an Option to Visit Masada or the Dead Sea?

Unfortunately, the provided tour does not include visits to Masada or the Dead Sea. The itinerary is focused on the highlights of Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Visiting other sites would require booking a separate excursion or extending the duration of the tour.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour to Spend More Time in Bethlehem?

While the standard tour duration can’t be extended, travellers can ask the tour operator about customizing the itinerary to spend more time in Bethlehem. This may incur additional costs, but it’s worth inquiring to maximize the Bethlehem experience.

Are the Tour Guides Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The tour guides are fluent in multiple languages, allowing them to effectively communicate with and guide passengers from diverse backgrounds. They provide insightful commentary and facilitate smooth interactions throughout the excursion.

Are There Any Restrictions on Taking Photos During the Tour?

The tour guidelines generally permit taking photos, but there may be restrictions in certain religious sites. Visitors should be respectful and follow the guidance of the tour guide regarding appropriate photography during the excursion.

Recap

This exclusive shore excursion from the Port of Ashdod offers cruise ship guests a comprehensive full-day guided tour to explore the iconic holy sites of Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

Travelers will discover the Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Western Wall, and Church of the Holy Sepulchre, then continue to Bethlehem to visit the Church of the Nativity and Manger Square, with opportunities to shop for unique local souvenirs.