Ashdod Port: Jerusalem and Bethlehem Day Trip

When heading to Ashdod Port, a visit to the nearby cities of Jerusalem and Bethlehem is a must. Whether you’re in the port on a cruise stopover or just staying there, you’ll enjoy a wonderful day exploring two of the holiest and most ancient cities in the world. Here’s an itinerary for the perfect Ashdod Port Jerusalem and Bethlehem day trip.

What to See in Jerusalem

Situated in the Judean Mountains, the Old City of Jerusalem is an incredibly beautiful and unique mix of ancient and modern culture—spanning all three of the world’s major monotheistic religions. While there’s no possible way to visit every site, here are some of the most popular attractions and some of our favorite things to do in Jerusalem:

The Western Wall (Kotel)

The Kotel, also known as the Western Wall, is located in the Jewish Quarter at the foot of the Temple Mount. The wall was built by King Herod around 19 BC, making it one of the oldest surviving structures in Jerusalem. It is the most visited site in Jerusalem, and is known as a place of prayer where people receive blessings and inspiration.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Built on the site of Jesus’s tomb, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is situated in the Christian Quarter of Old City Jerusalem. Inside the church you will find numerous relics, including the stone on which Jesus was laid out for his burial, as well as holiest sites for the three Abrahamic religions.

City of David

The City of David, also known as Ir David, is an archaeological site situated just south of the Old City. Here you can explore the ruins of ancient biblical Jerusalem, uncovering structures from as far back as 4000 BC.

Mt. Zion

Mt. Zion, also known as Zion Hill, is a hill situated just outside the walls of Old City Jerusalem. It was historically a military stronghold used to defend against invading armies. Today it has many spiritual sites including a garden tomb reputed to be that of Jesus’s tomb and the Cenacle, purported by Christian traditions to be the room where he celebrated his Last Supper with his Disciples.

What to See in Bethlehem

Bethlehem is a Palestinian city situated only 8 km south of Jerusalem and is believed by Christians to be the birthplace of Jesus. Here are some must-see sights during your visit to this sacred town:

Church of the Nativity and Manger Square

The Church of the Nativity, also known as the Basilica of Nativity, is the oldest continually working church in the world, only believed to have been founded by St. Helena in 326 AD and completed by St. Constantine in 333 AD. In its entranceway stands an enormous bronze door with a carved relief plaque by Valentine random claiming that Jesus was born inside this church—a claim supported by copious historical sources. On Manger Square outside stands a marvelous 14th century mosque with a colorful, 16th century clock tower at its center.

Shepherds’ Fields

Fields just south of modern day Beit Sahour, providing some suggested details about their biblical importance. According to Luke 2:8-20, this is where the shepherds were tending their flocks on that first Christmas night when “the glory of angel of the Lord shone round about them”, announcing Jesus’ birth.

Booking Your Trip

Organizing a day trip from Ashdod Port to Jerusalem and Bethlehem can be done quickly and efficiently using an experienced tour company. GetYourGuide provides an extensive range of private tours, transportation’s, activities and attractions in all parts of Israel. They offer tours tailored specifically to visitors heading through Ashdod Port and also offer regular tour recommendations for getting the most out of your day trips between Jerusalem, Bethlehem and other sites. Their customer service is excellent, their prices competitive and you can easily book your trip directly on their website here.

Tour operators that provide day trips from Ashdod to Jerusalem and Bethlehem will collect you from your hotel or cruise ship and take you straight to your destination with knowledgeable and experienced tour guides. You’ll learn about all aspects of these cities’ history and culture and have ample opportunity for sightseeing, souvenir shopping and tasting local cuisine (you must try a felafel!).

The best part about taking a day trip from Ashdod to Jerusalem and Bethlehem—two cities with centuries-old history—is that it allows you to get unique insights into their cultures that you simply can’t get without spending time there. With friendly tour guides at your side, you’ll get an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Whether you’re travelling solo or with family or friends, booking a tailored tour package with GetYourGuide is a highly recommended way to make sure you get the most out of your visit to these two cities. GetYourGuide combines top-level customer care with an extensive selection of activities so you can easily arrange your perfect day trip on any budget. Don’t forget to experience these two holy cities—just click here to get started!