Ashdod Jerusalem-Bethlehem, Israel

Israel

Few passengers come to Ashdod for Ashdod itself. As soon as the ship ties up in this large port complex on Israel's Mediterranean coast, all eyes turn inland, toward a three-thousand-year-old city perched in the hills of Judea. Jerusalem sits about 65 kilometres from the dock, a little over an hour's drive away, and that proximity makes this one of the most meaningful ports of call anywhere in the eastern Mediterranean.

An Industrial Port That Takes Some Planning

The modern city itself remains, first and foremost, a working commercial port, one of the busiest in the country. Walking is not permitted within the port area: passengers leave by excursion coach, shuttle or taxi. Shuttles generally drop travellers downtown in the modern city, from where it's possible to reach the train station. It's worth planning the day out before going ashore, since the distances involved make the choice of excursion especially important.

Jerusalem, the Destination

The road climbs gradually from the coastal plain up into the hills of Judea. At the end of the drive, the Old City unfolds its ramparts, paved lanes, and Jewish, Christian, Muslim and Armenian quarters. From the Mount of Olives, the view takes in the golden dome, the cypress trees and the ochre walls all at once. Below, the faithful pray at the Western Wall while pilgrims follow the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. A day in port allows time to see the highlights of the Old City, as long as visitors accept they won't see everything: this city rewards those who take it in bit by bit.

Bethlehem, a Little Farther Still

Several excursions combine the Holy City with Bethlehem, where the Church of the Nativity watches over one of the most revered sites in Christianity. Visitors enter through a doorway so low that stooping is required, an act of humility shaped by centuries of tradition. The contrast between the deep devotion of the site and the bustle of the surrounding market streets makes for an experience that stays with visitors long after.

The Dead Sea and Masada, a Different Horizon

Those who have already visited Jerusalem often choose the desert instead. A road descends toward the lowest point on Earth, where the Dead Sea spreads out its dense, milky water lined with salt crystals. Floating here takes no effort at all, an odd sensation that brings a smile even to the most reserved visitors. Nearby, the Masada cable car carries visitors up to Herod's fortress, its ruins overlooking the Judean Desert from atop a rocky plateau.

Tel Aviv and Jaffa by Train

More independent travellers can make their way to the Ashdod train station and head to Tel Aviv. This seaside metropolis lines up its listed Bauhaus buildings, urban beaches and lively café terraces. At its southern edge, the old port of Jaffa layers Ottoman-era stone, artist galleries and views over the bay. Its relaxed, Mediterranean atmosphere offers a striking counterpoint to the gravity of Jerusalem.

Ashdod Port Call at a Glance

Days in port here run long and full. A hat, water and sturdy shoes make visiting the sites far more comfortable, especially in summer.

The Way Back to the Coast

On the way back, as the coach descends from the hills toward the coastal plain, a quiet often settles over the passengers. Everyone replays their day: a prayer slipped between the stones, the light of the desert, salt still on the skin. Ashdod may have been just a starting point, but few ports of call leave so much to carry home.