Jerusalem & Bethlehem

JERUSALEM … with over 4000 years of history, is the holiest place for Jews and Christians, as well as the third holiest place for Muslims. 

King David established Jerusalem as the capital of his kingdom about 3000 years ago.  His son, King Solomon built the first temple there – Jesus was crucified there.

Jesus ascended to heaven from the Mt. of Olives, east of the town, while Mohammad ascended to heaven to receive the prayer of Islam from Mt. Moriah, the Temple Mount.

BETHLEHEM … The bible tells us that David was born in this small town about 10 kilometers (6 miles) south of Jerusalem, and Jesus was born there 1000 years later. 

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Synopsis

From atop the Mt. of Olives, with the panorama of Jerusalem at your fingertips, an overview of the geography, the biblical and political situation, bring insight into the temperament of the times past and present. An Old City of Jerusalem visit followed by a journey to Bethlehem.

Tour Itinerary

Tour Code: AJBT1          

  • Drive from Ashdod Port on the Mediterranean, crossing the land of the biblical Phillistines, ascending the Judean mountains to Jerusalem.
  • Pass by MOUNT SCOPUS and visit the MOUNT OF OLIVES, for a panoramic view of Jerusalem, where over 4000 years of history will unravel in front of you.
  • Descend to the foot of the mountain for a thorough visit of the GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE.
  • Drive to BETHLEHEM, traditional site of the birthplace of Jesus, to visit the CHURCH OF NATIVITY and MANGER SQUARE.
  • Travel to the OLD CITY OF JERUSALEM and enter through one of the many gates, passing through the Jewish Quarter to visit the WESTERN WALL, the holiest shrine in Judaism today.
  • Walk along the VIA DOLOROSA (Way of Sorrows), stopping at the STATIONS OF THE CROSS en route to GOLGOTHA and the CHURCH OF THE HOLY SEPULCHRE, the church built over the place of the crucifixion of Jesus and the burial tomb.
  • Walk along the EASTERN BAZAAR before driving through new Jerusalem.
  • Return to Ashdod Port.

Note: The tour in Bethlehem is subject to Palestinian Authority regulations. A Palestinian guide and change of vehicle are required for Bethlehem visit.

 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT CRUISE EXCURSIONS

Tour Options

Below is a list of sites on the same route and close in themes which can be exchanged or added, depending on personal preferences and time constraints.

The tour may be operated as a JOINT TOUR enabling you to share expenses which allows you the benefits of a private tour excursion at a price competitive with bus tours.GET THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS.

GROUP TOURS can be arranged for large groups enabling itinerary flexibility and adaptability to groups requirements, interests, language etc.

Religious services may also be arranged for all faiths.

Note: As Bethlehem is in the Palestinian Authority, the tour at that location be led there with a Palestinian guide.