The Highlights of Jerusalem
Your tour begins with a beautiful scenic drive from Ashdod into the Judean Hills. As you ascend into these hauntingly stark hills, your coach will be traveling along the same route used for centuries to reach Jerusalem. Jerusalem, the capital of Israel, is famous for its timeless beauty and was once considered the center of the world. As you navigate your way through this amazing city, you will pass Israel's most notable landmarks, such as the Hebrew University, home to 2005 Nobel Prize winner Professor Emeritus Robert J. Aumann, the Israel Museum, the Shrine of the Book, the Knesset (Israel's Parliament) and the State Supreme High Court. You'll proceed toward the Mount of Olives where time will be allowed to take photos from this highly favorable vantage point that provides an unparalleled and breathtaking panorama of the walled Old City. Near the base of the Mount, you will find the picturesque Gardens of Gethsemane, site of an ancient olive oil press yard that is surrounded by 1,000 year-old trees and visit the impressive Church of All Nations.Visit Mt. Zion, visit the Cenaculum, where Jesus shared the last meal with his Twelve Apostles before his death. In the basement of the building is King David's Tomb. Finally visit the Dormition Abbey that commemorates the site of the Dormition of the Virgin. Following an unforgettable morning, you will be treated to a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant (not included in our cost). It's time to continue your exploration of this fascinating destination with a walking tour of the historical Old City, your walk will take you past the most sacred sites in religious history. Enter by Zion Gate you will pass by the Jewish Quarter, and view the famous Western (Wailing) Wall, the holiest site in the Jewish world because it is believed to have been closest to where the Holy Ark once stood. Also you will see the golden-topped Dome of the Rock. With its stunning blue and gold ceramic tiles, this amazing shrine is considered the third holiest site in Islam. A visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher is also included. Perched on the hill known as Golgotha, the Church marks the site of Jesus' crucifixion, burial and resurrection. You'll observe the Christian Quarter, which rests beside a part of the famous Via Dolorosa, believed by many to be the route Jesus followed as he carried his cross to Calvary. As you make your way along a route that flanks the colorful bazaar, you end you tour at Jaffa Gate. After what will be an undoubtedly memorable visit, you'll re-board your coach and enjoy a leisurely drive back to the ship.
Please note: The sights on this tour are not wheelchair accessible and therefore, it is not available to wheelchair guests. There is approximately 2 hours of walking, some of it strenuous with steep steps to negotiate in the churches; therefore, it is not recommended for those guests with mobility concerns. When visiting the religious sites, your head must be covered and conservative attire is required. Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not permitted. Lightweight clothing, a hat and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested. The order of sites visited may vary.
Tips
This tour is only available to groups of 15 or more persons. We must have 15 persons or more in order to operate this tour.
Excursions listed for a port may not be available for every cruise.
Redemption and Voucher Details
- After you complete your booking, your credit card will be charged and our expert Shore Excursion Concierge agents will 'hand'-review your shore excursion selections against your cruise itinerary to confirm compatibility. Your credit card statement will list the merchant for the charges as Port Promo Cruise Tours.
- You will receive an email within 72 hours of booking from info@portpromotions.com which confirms your booking and contains the vouchers required for your shore excursions. Please print these vouchers and bring them with you on your cruise. You will be required to turn the voucher(s) in to the corresponding shore excursion supplier(s). The vouchers feature information regarding how to meet up with the tour leader upon arrival to a port and other important details.
- Your tour is completely refundable if your ship is unable to get into port or due to weather cancellations. See our terms and conditions for complete details.