Jerusalem & Bethlehem Day Tour from Ashdod Port with Guide

Summary

Walk ancient streets in Jerusalem then stand quietly in Bethlehem

You’ll walk through Jerusalem’s Old City with a local guide, pausing at landmarks like the Western Wall and Via Dolorosa before heading to Bethlehem’s Church of the Nativity. Expect sensory moments: incense in ancient churches, city sounds echoing off stone, maybe even laughter over spilled juice. This tour includes port pickup and drop-off so you can focus on what you’re feeling rather than finding your way back.

4.56

(149 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think the Mount of Olives would actually smell like olives — but it did, faintly, when we stepped off the minivan after leaving Ashdod port. Our guide, Avi, waved us over to this low stone wall and pointed out the rooftops of Jerusalem below. The air was sharp and a bit dusty; I could hear someone singing somewhere down the hill. It’s strange, standing there trying to take it all in while Avi tells you about centuries of pilgrims doing exactly that — except they probably didn’t have air conditioning or sunscreen.

Walking through Jaffa Gate into the Old City felt like stepping into another layer of sound and color. There were kids darting between stalls, old men selling pomegranate juice (I spilled some on my shirt — classic), and everywhere you looked, something ancient. The Via Dolorosa wasn’t quiet like I’d pictured; instead, there was this hum of voices and footsteps echoing off stone. Avi paused by the Western Wall so we could watch people press notes into its cracks — he said even locals come here when they need hope. I tried to write something but just stood there for a while instead.

Bethlehem surprised me most. Crossing over felt different — maybe because you need your passport, maybe because our driver stopped joking for a minute and just looked out at the road ahead. The Church of the Nativity was crowded but somehow hushed inside; incense hung in the air and everyone moved slowly, almost tiptoeing around each other. I caught myself whispering without meaning to. We had free time after that — I bought a tiny carved olive wood camel from a woman who smiled but didn’t say much. Still have it on my desk now.

7h–10h

Step-by-step itinerary

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Ashdod port to Jerusalem & Bethlehem?

The full-day tour typically lasts several hours, depending on traffic and site accessibility.

Is pickup from Ashdod cruise port included?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at Ashdod port are included in the tour.

Do I need my passport for Bethlehem?

Yes, a valid passport is required on the day of travel for visiting Bethlehem.

Are there many walking sections during this tour?

Yes, expect moderate walking through Jerusalem’s Old City and Bethlehem; good shoes are recommended.

Which main sites are visited on this shore excursion?

The tour visits Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Jaffa Gate, Jewish Quarter, Via Dolorosa, Western Wall, Christian Quarter, Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem.

Is lunch included in this Jerusalem & Bethlehem day trip?

No lunch is included; however, there is free time for shopping or grabbing food independently.

Can infants or children join this excursion?

Yes; infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to walking requirements.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transport from Ashdod port by air-conditioned minivan with a professional guide leading you through both Jerusalem and Bethlehem’s historic sites—plus Viator's worry-free guarantee so you won’t have to stress about getting back to your ship on time.

Do you have any questions before booking? Reach us anytime — we’re available 24/7.

Contact