This day tour of Bethlehem and Jerusalem visits some of the holiest and most fascinating sites in both the Old City of Jerusalem and in Bethlehem. Israel day tours are a popular way for visitors to get the most into one day, and this tour includes major Christian holy sites in both cities as well as important historical sites for other religions.
After pick-up at the Ashdod port, our day begins with a dramatic panoramic overview of the New and Old city of Jerusalem from Mount Scopus, including the Temple Mount Esplanade of the Old City.
We then enter the Old City of Jerusalem and walk along the Via Dolorosa (the Stations of the Cross) to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the site of the crucifixion. After that, we will head towards the renovated Jewish Quarter through the Cardo, a 1700 year-old ancient pathway constructed in Roman times.
We will also visit the Western Wall (also known as the Wailing Wall or Kotel), which was part of the outer walls of the holy Jewish Temple.
We then leave Jerusalem and drive towards Bethlehem via the Nativity Circle and visit Bethlehem’s Manger Square, named after the manger Jesus was born in. Manger Square is home to the Church of the Nativity, one of the world’s oldest-standing churches still functioning to this day.
We will visit the main Basilica of the Nativity, designed in the typical Roman-style and constructed on the ruins of its predecessor in 565 AD, as well as the Catholic Church of St. Catherine, adjoining the Basilica of the Nativity.
Underneath the Church stands the Grotto of the Nativity, the cave in which Jesus was born, the exact spot of birth is marked by a 14-pointed star of silver set into the floor. We also see the Armenian Chapel of the Kings or Magi and we visit the Crusader Church.
At the end of the tour, you will be returned to your cruise ship
* Due to visitor overload, a visit down to the Grotto of Nativity might not be possible because of the tour time schedule.
Jerusalem is the heart of the Holy Land, sacred to three religions. Filled with unique landmarks, historic monuments, and religious significance, this is one of the main destinations for tourists around the world. Our tours in Jerusalem help you discover the city and cover all the sites you want to see within your timeframe.
Bethlehem is famous for being the birthplace of Jesus and King David. With over one million visitors every year, Bethlehem has great historical and religious value to both Christianity and Judaism.
Tour ends at approximately at 17:00
*Modest dress is required at many major tourist sites in Jerusalem. On this tour, make sure your shoulders are covered and avoid wearing shorts.
*Bring your passports with you.
*This tour is subject to Palestinian Authority regulations
*Palestinian guide meets our tour at the border post only
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