Ashdod Shore Excursion: Private Jerusalem and Bethlehem Day Trip

The Ashdod Shore Excursion offers travelers a chance to explore the iconic cities of Jerusalem and Bethlehem, delving into their rich religious heritage. With customizable itineraries and knowledgeable guides, guests can discover significant landmarks like the Western Wall and the Church of the Nativity, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s diverse cultures. Convenient pickup and drop-off at the Port of Ashdod ensure a hassle-free journey, leaving visitors intrigued by the possibility of a truly personalized experience. Whether seeking spiritual enlightenment or a deeper appreciation for history, this day trip promises to leave a lasting impression.

Good To Know

• Customizable private day trip from Ashdod port to explore the historical and religious sites of Jerusalem and Bethlehem.
• Highlights include the Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Western Wall, and Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem.
• Guided tour provides insightful commentary on the rich history and cultural diversity of the Old City neighborhoods.
• Wheelchair and stroller accessible itinerary, with modest dress required at holy sites.
• Flexible cancellation policy and Reserve Now, Pay Later option for convenience.

Highlights of the Tour

Exploring the Mount of Olives, visitors are treated to sweeping views of Jerusalem’s Old City.

They’ll descend to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prayed before his crucifixion.

In the Old City, the tour explores the Western Wall, the holiest site in Judaism.

Travelers walk the Via Dolorosa, following Jesus’ path to his crucifixion.

In Bethlehem, they visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity, the traditional birthplace of Jesus.

The tour also includes the Milk Grotto and the Church of St. Catherine.

Throughout the day, the guide provides insights into the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim histories and cultures that shape this ancient, sacred land.

Exploring Jerusalem’s Old City

The tour of Jerusalem’s Old City takes visitors on a captivating journey through its diverse quarters.

Guests explore the Jewish, Armenian, Christian, and Muslim neighborhoods, each with its unique customs and architecture.

The Western Wall, a sacred site for Jews, is a highlight, where participants can observe worshippers and leave notes in the ancient stones.

The Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus is said to have walked on the way to his crucifixion, is another notable stop, allowing travelers to retrace this historic event.

Throughout the exploration, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the city’s rich history and cultural heritage to life.

Visiting the Mount of Olives

Towering above Jerusalem’s Old City, the Mount of Olives commands sweeping vistas over the sacred landscape. This historic hill is a revered site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s storied past.

Visitors can explore the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prayed before his crucifixion, and marvel at the Church of All Nations, a stunning Romanesque church that stands as a testament to the site’s profound religious significance.

The mount also features:

• The Tomb of the Virgin Mary
• The Chapel of the Ascension
• The Pater Noster Church
• The Dominus Flevit Church
• Panoramic views of the Old City and the Dome of the Rock

Significance of the Western Wall

One of the most sacred sites in Judaism, the Western Wall is a remnant of the ancient wall that once surrounded the Jewish Temple.

Also known as the Kotel, the Western Wall is the closest accessible place to the holiest site in Judaism – the Temple Mount. Millions of visitors, both Jewish and non-Jewish, come to the Western Wall each year to pray, touch the ancient stones, and leave handwritten notes in the crevices.

The Western Wall is a powerful symbol of Jewish faith and resilience, as it has withstood centuries of conflict and destruction.

Exploring the Western Wall is a deeply moving experience for many visitors on the Jerusalem and Bethlehem day trip.

Discovering Bethlehem’s Landmarks

After exploring the sacred Jewish site of the Western Wall, the day trip continues on to the city of Bethlehem – the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

In Bethlehem, the tour visits several significant landmarks, including:

• Manger Square, the central plaza surrounding the Church of the Nativity
• The Church of the Nativity, built over the site believed to be Jesus’ birthplace
• The Milk Grotto, a chapel commemorating the Holy Family’s rest during their flight to Egypt
• The Church of St. Catherine, adjacent to the Church of the Nativity
• The Greek Orthodox Church, showcasing its stunning Byzantine-era architecture

These sites provide visitors with a deeper understanding of Bethlehem’s rich Christian heritage and the historical significance of the city.

Accommodations and Accessibility

The tour’s pickup and drop-off point is the Port of Ashdod, conveniently located for cruise ship passengers. Confirmation of the tour is received at the time of booking.

The itinerary is customizable based on personal preferences. Participants must have a valid passport. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, but modest dress is required for visits to holy sites.

Guests appreciate the guides’ ability to provide historical and cultural insights, though some have reported communication challenges during the tour.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

Positive Customer Experiences

Numerous positive reviews highlight the personalized experiences and knowledgeable guides on this private day tour.

Customers praise the tour’s ability to accommodate their preferences and provide historical and cultural insights. Notable guides mentioned include:

• Avi Shalev
• Moshe
• Rom

While some issues with delays and communication difficulties were reported, tour participants overwhelmingly appreciated the guides’ expertise.

The private nature of the excursion allowed for customized experiences, catering to the diverse interests of the travelers.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The price for this private day trip from Ashdod to Jerusalem and Bethlehem starts from $500.00 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size.

Travelers can also utilize the Reserve Now and Pay Later option. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This provides flexibility for those with uncertain plans.

The tour operator aims to offer a hassle-free booking process and clear pricing, allowing guests to focus on the enriching cultural and historical insights during the excursion.

These reasonable rates and generous cancellation policy make the tour an accessible option for visitors to Israel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized based on the customers’ preferences. According to the overview, the itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit individual interests.

Are Food and Drinks Included Throughout the Entire Tour?

Yes, food and drinks are included throughout the entire tour. The inclusions state that "Food and drinks" are provided as part of the private shore excursion from Ashdod Port to Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for the Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum group size requirement. The price per person varies depending on the total group size, but you can book the tour without needing to meet a minimum number of participants.

What Is the Dress Code for the Holy Sites?

The tour requires modest dress for the holy sites. Visitors should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees to respect the religious nature of the sites.

Can the Tour Be Arranged for a Date Other Than the Scheduled Departure?

The tour can be arranged for a date other than the scheduled departure. According to the overview, the itinerary is customizable based on preferences, allowing flexibility in scheduling the tour.

The Sum Up

The Ashdod Shore Excursion offers an immersive journey through Jerusalem and Bethlehem, allowing travelers to discover the profound religious and historical significance of these iconic destinations. With customizable itineraries and knowledgeable guides, the tour provides a personalized experience that highlights the rich cultural heritage of the holy sites. Convenient pickup and drop-off from the Port of Ashdod ensures a hassle-free day trip, making it an ideal choice for cruise passengers.