Excursion Explore bethlehem tour at Ashdod

Explore the birthplace of Jesus and some of history's most sacred sites during this unforgettable, on this full-day sightseeing excursion to Bethlehem.

Ashdod, Bethlehem

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive north to Bethlehem, the city of Jesus' birth. There is so much history in Israel, both secular and religious, that familiar names catch your attention throughout the drive from Ashdod to Bethlehem. Upon arrival in Bethlehem, a guided visit is made to the Church of the Nativity, The oldest major church in the Holy Land.

Church of the Nativity, Grotto of the Nativity

The Church of the Nativity is a basilica built above the Grotto of the Nativity, an underground space which forms the crypt of the Church of the Nativity and where Christ is said to have been born. It is situated beneath the main altar, and typically accessed by two staircases on either side of the chancel. Time-permitting, visit the Grotto of the Nativity. The actual cave of the Nativity is a small crypt with a vaulted masonry roof. Poor Bethlehem families once used the rocky hollows of the region as stables or dwellings, so the tradition that places the Nativity in a cave is not at odds with the story of the manger.

Shopping Stop, Local Restaurant, Oriental Lunch

Leaving the Church of the Nativity, some free time is made available to browse for souvenirs of your visit at a local shoppe. Afterward, proceed for a light, traditional Oriental lunch at a nearby restaurant. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Ashdod, Bethlehem, Church of the Nativity, Grotto of the Nativity, Shopping Stop, Local Restaurant, Oriental Lunch

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 547 yards (about 500 metres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the Church of Nativity. Walking in Bethlehem is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and US Dollars, Euros, Shekels, or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Please dress conservatively when going ashore. Proper attire is required to enter holy or religious sites; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least 6 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Guests must carry their passports for the visit to Bethlehem. The visit of the Grotto is subject to time permitting due to long queue at the entrace. The driving time between Ashdod and Bethlehem is approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. The tour sequence may vary.