12 Night Holy Land Cruise | Royal Caribbean Cruises

12 Night Holy Land Cruise on Odyssey of the Seas from Rome, Civitavecchia, Italy

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Celsus Library Close Up

The 12 Night Holy Land Cruise from Rome, Civitavecchia, Italy visits Naples / Capri, Italy; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Santorini, Greece; Haifa, Israel; Jerusalem (Ashdod), Israel; Limassol, Cyprus; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.

Royal Caribbean Cruises

Priced from: $1244.0 per person 1 sailing dates available

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12 Night Holy Land Cruise

Leaving from

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Onboard

Odyssey of the Seas

Day	Port
1	Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Departs at 5:00 PM
2	Naples / Capri, Italy From 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
3	Cruising Day at sea
4	Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey From 11:00 AM - 8:30 PM
5	Athens (Piraeus), Greece From 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
6	Santorini, Greece Tendered from 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
7	Cruising Day at sea
8	Haifa, Israel From 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
9	Jerusalem (Ashdod), Israel From 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
10	Limassol, Cyprus From 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
11 - 12	Cruising Day at sea
13	Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Arrives at 5:00 AM
	*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.

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Your ship Odyssey of the Seas

Your ship

Odyssey of the Seas

It’s time to see just how far adventure can take you. Introducing the newest Royal Caribbean® game changer, Odyssey of the Seas℠. Soak up the sun at a newly designed resort-style pool deck that brings island vibes poolside. Take play time to the next level at SeaPlex®, with bumper cars and glow-in-the-dark laser tag. Or kick back and watch all the action from above at Playmakers℠ Sports Bar & Arcade.

A TOP DECK TAKEOVER

There's never been a top deck that maxes out memory making like this one. Tame the tide on the FlowRider®or feel the freedom of freefall on RipCord®by iFLY®. Get your game on at the largest SeaPlex® ever, with bumper cars and glow-in-the-dark laser tag —plus hit the reimagined upper deck for the most interactive arcade ever to set sail, including classics like skeeball.

North Star^®

It’s time to raise the bar on adventure — with 360-degree views of the world from 300 feet above sea level in the North Star® observation capsule — winner of the Guinness World Record for tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship.

Adventure Ocean^®

It’s time to play outside the lines — the award-winning Adventure Ocean® is being totally reimagined. With wide open play places and dedicated spaces for all types of interactive activities, including head-to-head challenges, techy crafts and more, kids can choose their own immersive adventure.

Splashaway Bay℠

The fun comes in gallons. This bigger, better kids aqua park features slides, water cannons, waterfalls and more. And when the drench bucket gets full, everyone gets wet.

RipCord^® by iFLY^®

There’s no rush in the world like skydiving — and on the RipCord® by iFLY® simulator you can feel the freedom of freefall without even leaving the deck.

NEW DISHES FOR DAYS

Prep your taste buds for a culinary journey. The new Odyssey of the Seas℠ is primed to please every palate and satisfy any craving. Get a taste of authentic trattoria fare with a modern spin at the new Giovanni's℠ Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar. Enjoy gameday classics and ice-cold brews at Playmakers℠ Sports Bar & Arcade. Head to Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine for creative plates served with a heaping helping of awe. And sample Far East favorites, from sizzling hot teppanyaki cooked at your table to hand-rolled sushi that rivals any on land.

Wonderland

Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine is all about pushing the culinary envelope. Dishes are designed to tantalize your taste buds and present a visual feast. Find crispy crab cones topped with fluffy avocado mousse, gazpacho served with pepper spheres and bread foam, and dreamy desserts that will take your breath away. Pair your meal with cocktails described as “magical” elixirs crafted to deliver full-sensory experiences.

Giovanni’s℠ Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar

Sunday supper is served every day at the new Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar. The menu highlights Old World classics, including veal meatballs in sauce like they make in Sardinia and pappardelle served with rich radicchio cream. Save room for one of the hand-tossed pizzas, delivered straight from the oven. And ask a sommelier on staff to suggest the perfect pairing from a wine list that ranges from Sangiovese to Super Tuscan.

Teppanyaki℠

At Teppanyaki℠, expert chefs elevate cooking to a performance art form — and you’ve got front row seats to the show. Enjoy authentic Far East flavors prepared right at your table and served up with a sizzle, from succulent seafood to top-grade steaks seared to perfection.

Chops Grille℠

For more than a decade, the chefs at Chops Grille have specialized in serving up quality, hand-cut meat. Dinner at this hallmark Royal Caribbean specialty restaurant goes far beyond the typical steakhouse experience, though, with reimagined classics like succulent Maine lobster, gruyere cheese tater tots, white truffle-scented mushroom soup, and of course, expertly prepared prime beef.

DOWNTIME THAT’S UP FOR ANYTHING

Give your downtime a major upgrade. Set your mood to serene at the adults only Solarium. Get a front row view from the Music Hall dance floor while cover bands rock like the real thing. Experience the cutting edge tech at Two70®as the space comes alive with aerialists, robots and much more. Prep your taste buds for a culinary journey, from gameday classics and ice-cold brews to sizzling hot teppanyaki and hand-rolled sushi. This is how you unwind, redefined.

Symphony of the Seas Playmakers Couple Enjoying Draft Beer — Playmakers Couple Enjoying Draft Beer

Playmakers℠ Bar & Arcade

With a menu of game-day favorites and icy-cold draughts on tap, anything you order at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade is a winner. And while you’re working on a signature Playmakers Burger or the five-scoop Touchdown Sundae, you can catch your home team live on dozens of screens or face off against your friends in the arcade.

Two70^®

By day, it's an open area living room with panoramic views through windows two decks high. By night, the lights go down, the windows become screens and the space comes alive with aerialists, robots and much more. This is Two70® — a place that can take you anyplace.

Bionic Bar^®

At Bionic Bar®, meet two robotic bartenders who know how to shake, stir, and mix up your night out. With moves as fluid as the Pimm’s in your cup, these mecha mixologists can create an almost endless combination of cocktails, from classic cosmos to custom-crafted sips designed by you.

Music Hall℠

At Music Hall℠, no night sounds the same as the last. Get a front row view from anywhere on the dance floor while live music plays — or take in the scene in an intimate hideaway corner with your favorite cocktails.

Day 1: Rome, Italy

Day 1

Rome

Civitavecchia, Italy

With 28 centuries of celebrated history, Rome holds the edge when it comes to unrivaled adventures. The city that sparked the world’s largest empire is very much alive today with a jumble of ancient ruins, world-renowned art and vivacious street culture. Here you can live la dolce vita, recalling the glory days of Ancient Rome and twirling forks full of pasta in a trattoria. Ride past centuries-old basilicas in a three-wheeled Ape Calessino, or stand in awe of paintings by Italian masters at Villa Borghese. Whether it’s Vatican City’s spiritual allure, Trastevere’s backstreet charms, or the Colosseum’s embattled legacy— The Eternal City endures with endless adventures.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Pantheon — The Pantheon in Rome, Italy

ANCIENT AND AMAZING

Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill— and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.

Insider tip

The train ride between Civitavecchia and Rome is approximately 80 minutes each way.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Piazza Navona — A fountain in Piazza Navona in Italy

ADVENTURE SQUARED

Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisan stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Trevi Fountain — The Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Statues — Statues in the Vatican Museum

SACRED SPACES

Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Vatican — The Vatican dome in Italy

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Pizza and pasta — Pizza, pasta, and antipasta on a table in Rome

LOCAL CUISINE

Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a sidewalk café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Colosseum Vatican Models — Minitature models of the Colosseum and Vatican

SHOPPING

Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighborhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market— and La Rinascente, the first department store.

Day 2: Naples / Capri, Italy

Day 2

Naples / Capri

Italy

With a skyline defined by towering Mount Vesuvis, Naples is a bustling Italian city brimming with beauty. Experience its rich neoclassical architecture at sites like Gesu Nuovo Church, with its lavish interior adorned with detailed frescoes, statues and gold inlay. Go even deeper into history at the San Gennaro catacombs, where Naples' first bishops were buried in the second century A.D. Walk along the Miglio Sacro ("Holy Mile") and people-watch your way through the cafes and shops of the Sanita district with a zuccherato (sweetened espresso) in hand. Jump onboard a Naples cruise and take the short bus ride to the base of Mount Vesuvius — it's an easy 20- to 30-minute hike will take you to the summit — and tour the ruins of Pompeii afterward.

Naples - Capri, Italy, Catacombs of San Gennaro — The Catacombs of San Gennaro in Italy

Go Underground

Interested in getting up close and personal with Naples' past residents? Head underground to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro. These historic burial places are the oldest in the city and the largest in all of Southern Italy. Spend some time wandering around the different rooms to see how the rooms where the wealthy and poor were buried.

Insider tip

You won't be able to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro without a guided tour, so be sure to book yours well in advanced.

Naples - Capri, Italy, Gesu Nuovo interior — The interior of the Gesu Nuovo in Italy

Church Bells Ring

Naples' churches are a great way to tour its architectural treasures, and most of them are concentrated in the old town center. Check out San Domenico Maggiore, with its impressive gold-gilded ceiling and interior. Inside Sansevero Chapel, you'll find a number of impressive Baroque statues and classical art. And don't miss the beautiful frescoes and peaceful vibe of Gesu Nuovo Church during your Capri cruise.

Insider tip

Wear comfortable shoes; you'll be doing a lot of walking over cobblestones while in the city.

Naples - Capri, Italy, Margherita pizza — A margherita pizza in Naples, Italy

Local Cuisine

Neopolitan-style pizza is Naples culinary gem. Grab a seat at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, which has been serving up pizza since 1870, and order a slice of simple, classic margherita, topped with fresh basil, tomato sauce and local mozzarella di fiore. Cruise to Naples and head to Friggitoria Vomero for the town's best arancini — gooey, fried spheres of rice and cheese — or panzarotti, a mini-calzone stuffed with mozzarella, tomato and other ingredients like spinach or ham.

Naples - Capri, Italy, San Francesco di Paola church — San Francesco di Paola church in Naples, Italy

Naples - Capri, Italy, Traditional pots — Traditional pots at a shop in Italy

Shopping

Head to Via Toledo, the longest shopping street in Naples, which offers small boutiques and a huge department store. Continue down the road to Galleria Umberto I, a beautiful shopping gallery for some high-end souvenirs such as silk scarves and leather shoes to take back home.

Day 3: Cruising

Day 3

Cruising

At Sea

Odyssey of the Seas Man Surfing Flowrider

Splashaway Bay℠

The fun comes in gallons. This bigger, better kids aqua park features slides, water cannons, waterfalls and more. And when the drench bucket gets full, everyone gets wet.

Odyssey of the Seas North Star Pool Deck Aerial

RipCord^® by iFLY^®

There’s no rush in the world like skydiving — and on the RipCord® by iFLY® simulator you can feel the freedom of freefall without even leaving the deck.

Mom and Son on Bumper Cars — Mon and Son Driving and Enjoying the Bumper Cars

Adventure Ocean^®

Girl Trapeze at the Circus School at the Sea Plex

Trapeze School

Within SeaPlex®, a cutting edge indoor activity space, the complimentary Trapeze School offers lessons you’ll flip for.

Day 4: Ephesus, Turkey

Day 4

Ephesus

Kusadasi, Turkey

The UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Ephesus impress even those familiar with the world's other ancient cities. Though excavations have been underway for 150 years, only 20 percent of the city has been uncovered. Check out the the Celsus Library — built in 117 A.D., the site is made up of towering columns highlighted by the statue of the goddess of wisdom. Cruises to Ephesus will give you a taste of Turkish life by strolling the seafront promenade and the bustling city center. Walk Marble Street, paved with actual marble slabs, which takes you from downtown to the Temple of Artemis — you can still see one lone remaining column from this wonder of the ancient world.

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Library of Celsus — A close up view of the Library of Celsus in Ephesus, Turkey

Window Into Ancient Life

Don't miss the Library of Celsus or the Scholastica Baths — their dozen ancient marble toilets are a unique sight from antiquity. Consider buying the extra ticket to see Ephesus' Terraced Houses. Not only are they shaded, but you get a sense of what ancient life was like and can see the restoration work in progress.

Insider tip

Ephesus' excavated section is in a 1.5-square-mile area; you'll need good walking shoes.

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Home of the Virgin Mary — The home of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus, Turkey

Set Your Sights on Selcuk

Walk from Ephesus' Lower Gate to the village of Selcuk, where you can visit what's said to be the burial site of John the Apostle at the Basilica of St. John. You'll also find the remains of the Temple of Artemis. About five miles from here lies the House of the Virgin Mary, which traditions holds as the last place she lived.

Insider tip

The sun reflects strongly both from above and off the white marble streets. Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water.

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Homemade Carpets — Homemade carpets on a cart

Haggle for a Turkish Carpet

Stroll the seaside promenade in Kusadasi to catch a cooling breeze. Shop for souvenirs like carpets and spices in the bazaar near the port. Vendors will encourage you to sample their wares and will offer tea to serious carpet buyers. You can also visit Pigeon Island for views from the Byzantine castle once used by pirates during your Turkey cruise.

Insider tip

When negotiating in the market, make sure you're serious about buying — it's considered rude to bargain for items you're not going to buy.

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Lamb Kebob — Two lamb kebobs on a black plate

Local Cuisine

Most visitors will have tried sis kebab (grilled meat on a skewer) and doner kebab (meat shaved from a vertical skewer) before arriving in Turkey. Lamb is popular for both. Be sure to try kofte, spiced lamb or beef meatballs served with yogurt dipping sauce. Have a few meze (appetizers) to get your vegetable fix — great options include grilled eggplant salad and cicek dolmasi, fried squash flowers stuffed with raisins and rice.

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Ancient Amphitheater — An ancient amphitheater in Ephesus, Turkey

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Colorful Pottery — An assortment of colorful pottery in Turkey

Shopping

The Kusadasi bazaar is naturally the place to go for shopping. A Turkish blue eye, meant to ward off the evil eye, makes a great souvenir. Also consider a traditional Turkish kilim (a woven carpet) or a more luxurious knotted carpet. Cruise to Ephesus and look for handmade tiles and pottery in the Iznik design, with floral-inspired geometric patterns. Prices are negotiable, and the first offer by the vendor will be at least double what you should pay.

Day 5: Athens, Greece

Day 5

Athens

Piraeus, Greece

Athens offers a looking glass back in time into Greece's powerful ancient civilization. Art lovers, epicureans and history buffs will be delighted by the ancient ruins, museums and tavernas of this picturesque town. Just 10 minutes from the port, you'll find the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, filled with sculptures from the Bronze Age to the Romans. Walk to the Zea Harbour to discover how the Hellenic Maritime Museum will bring to life the grandeur of ancient Greece's naval capacities. Jump onboard an Athens cruise and relax at the small harbor of Mikrolimano, enjoying a meal of grilled octopus and chilled white wine at a small restaurant overlooking the sea.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Agia Triada Church — The Agia Triada church in Greece

Take Me to Church

The Agia Triada is one of the finest examples of Byzantine-style churches in Greece. The Church of St. Nicholas, which overlooks the port, has a magnificent interior filled with orthodox icons, frescoes and sculptures.

Insider tip

The yellow trolley bus (number 20) will take you from the port to Passalimani, going through Castella and ending at the Metro station.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Mikrolimano Harbour — Mikrolimano harbour in Greece

Mediterranean Romance

Part of the Castella district, Mikrolimano is the smallest and most picturesque port of Athens, making it perfect for a romantic afternoon. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade to take in the amazing views, then settle in a cafe or taverna for some fresh seafood or a refreshing drink with your cruise to Athens.

Insider tip

Traffic can be chaotic, so be cautious at all times.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece. Decorative Vases — Various decorative Greek vases

Boats and the Bronze Age

The Naval Museum has exhibits that present ship building from ancient times to the present day. You will be fascinated by the Neosoikoi, the archaeological remains of the ship sheds where local craftsmen maintained and repaired the boats. Art lovers will have plenty to see at the Piraeus Archaeological Museum, from Bronze Age sculptures to classical Hellenistic pottery.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Parthenon — View of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Grilled Octopus — Grilled octopus on a white plate with a lemon on the side

Local Cuisine

Try the local dishes prepared with sun-ripened tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers and fresh seafood like mussels and grilled octopus. Look for trovolia, a typical fresh cheese to savor with marinated olives. Ask for recommendations on local wines — the most common white is lively, floral and aromatic Moschofilero, while the red of choice is Xinomavro, an indigenous grape with a bold, complex flavor.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Herodes Theater — Herodes Theater in Athens, Greece

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Greek Souvenirs — An assortment of Greek souvenirs such as helmets and sculptures

Shopping

You may want to bring back home some of the typical liquors such as the anise-flavored Ouzo or the strong Tsipouro. Greek olives, spices and capers can be vacuumed-packed, making for convenient souvenirs. Look for locally made leather sandals, pottery and hand-painted ceramics. You'll find most shops in the Psyri district, not far from the Acropolis during your Athens cruise.

Day 6: Santorini, Greece

Day 6

Santorini

Greece

Santorini is one of the world’s most popular islands, known best for its dramatic scenery, whitewashed villages and fiery volcanic activity. Here adventure bubbles above the Aegean Sea in the most bold and breathtaking ways. A cable car takes you to the capital of Fira, a bustling cliff-top town awash with old cathedrals, enthralling museum collections and cozy tavernas. Venture to the coast for a swim in the deep blue waters that lap red and black pebbled beaches. And peel back layers of lava and history among excavated Akrotiri. Whether it’s by bicycle, ATV or on your own two feet, exploring this Cyclades isle never fails to impress.

Santorini, Greece Volcano — Nea Kameni volcanic island in Santorini, Greece

VOLCANIC WONDERS

Explore the volcanic history and geology of Santorini, site of an immense eruption 3,500 years ago. Trek the rocky landscape of Nea Kameni, an island in the center of the Santorini caldera, to see its smoking craters. Then soak in the soothing hot springs of Palea Kameni.

Insider tip

Wear hiking boots or comfortable sneakers and plenty of sunscreen when hiking the caldera.

Santorini, Greece Byzantine Castle Ruins — Early morning in Byzantine Castle Ruins in Oia village, Santorini, Greece

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

Considered the island’s most picturesque village, Oia radiates authentic Cyclades charm. Meander along tiny paths squeezed between stark-white villas. Snap selfies with the blue-domed St. Gerasimos Church, and view Byzantine castle ruins. Or dine on Greek seafood in a waterfront taverna— also the perfect perch for watching Oia’s fabulous sunsets.

Insider tip

Don’t be in a rush— dining in Greece is a laid-back, drawn-out affair.

Santorini, Greece Grapes Vineyard — Bunch of white grapes in the vineyard in the Wine Museum of Thira, Santorini, Greece

THE GLASS HALF FULL

Indulge your taste buds in a delectable tasting journey among the island’s traditional wine cellars. Vineyards dapple Santorini’s countryside, and many are among some of Europe’s oldest. White Assyrtiko and red Mantilaria are both popular varietals— and be sure to sample Santorini’s beloved dessert wine, Vinsanto.

Santorini, Greece Terrace Flowers — View of the sea from a beautiful terrace with flowers in Santorini, Greece

Santorini, Greece Raki — Alcohol drink Raki with anis on wooden board in Santorini, Greece

LOCAL CUISINE

Thanks to Santorini’s rich volcanic soil, the island has a solid reputation for producing fantastic wines and vegetables— fresh cherry tomatoes, fava beans and white eggplant included. Try egg-based sfougato and fried tomatokeftedes fritters, two Santorini specialties. Pick up melitinia cookies from a local bakery. And for an after-dinner drink, sip unsweetened, anise-flavored raki.

Santorini, Greece Fishing Boats — Beautiful landscape of two fishing boats anchored in blue water at the old port in Oia, Santorini, Greece

Santorini, Greece Small white and blue houses — Small white and blue house souvenirs in Santorini, Greece

SHOPPING

Ypapantis Street in Fira is known for its dozens of jewelry stores selling pieces inspired by ancient Greek and Byzantine designs. You’ll find local artwork in the galleries of Oia and books about the Cyclades in Atlantis Books. A bottle of Santorini wine or Canava ouzo makes for a tasty souvenir.

Day 7: Cruising

Day 7

Cruising

At Sea

Navigator of the Seas Playmaker Table — Man Playing Pool at Playmakers

Playmakers℠ Bar & Arcade

Crusted scallops - Giovanni's Table — Oven baked almond crusted scallops w/red bell pepper pesto served at Giovanni's Table. Cruise fine dining Italian Restaurant

El Loco Fresh^®

Give your taste buds something to go wild over. El Loco Fresh® serves up Mexican fare that's insanely delicious. With classic mole sauce and tangy salsa verde topping beef burritos, carnitas and more, it's a fiesta of flavor from south of the border. The craziest thing about it is just how good it is.

Teppanyaki℠

Chef's Table

Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.

Day 8: Haifa, Israel

Day 8

Haifa

Israel

Set on the slopes of Mount Carmel, Haifa is Israel's Mediterranean oasis. Stroll around the smart German Colony, with its restored streets settled in the 1860s lined with restaurants, cafes and art galleries. Continue toward the tropical Bah'ai Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take a meditative walk around the 19 different terraced gardens. Cruise to Haifa, Israel and visit the Shrine of the Bab, with its striking golden dome composed of 12,000 tiles. For even better views, climb up to the Viewing Balcony to look down on the shrine and out toward the Mediterranean Sea. Perhaps it's time to relax on the beach now? Pop down to Bat Galim for windsurfing or a stroll along the boardwalk.

Haifa, Israel Shrine of the bab — Shrine of the Bab and lower terraces at the Bahai World Center in Haifa, Israel

Better in Bab

Visit the Shrine of the Bab, a pilgrimage site built in 1953. It's said to hold the remains of the Bab, the spiritual predecessor to the Baha'i faith's prophet Baha'ullah. Canadian architect William Sutherland Maxwell unified Middle Eastern and European styles here. Then, visit the symmetric Baha'i Gardens with their 19 steep terraces.

Insider tip

There are banks in Hadar and around Carmel Center where you can get the local currency, New Israeli Shekel (NIS).

Haifa, Israel Cable Car — Three cable cars in Haifa, Israel

Star of the Sea

Take the cable car up to Mt Carmel (546 meters) and enjoy the magnificent views. Visit the Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery, Latin for "Star of the Sea." Admire the church's beautifully painted ceiling and dome. Stretching back to the Crusader era, the monks originally inhabited the mountain caves.

Insider tip

Make sure the cab driver uses the meter or negotiate a price before you get in a taxi.

Haifa, Israel Typical House German Colony — A typical house from the German colony surrounded by trees and flower beds in Haifa, Israel

Romantic Quarter

Stroll around the picturesque, restored German Colony at the foot of the Baha'i Gardens. German Templars who came to establish a Christian community here built the houses in the 19th century. Cruise to Israel to admire the pretty stone houses, browse the little shops, and meet the locals in the lively cafes.

Insider tip

Dress modestly if you want to visit the Shrine of the Bab or a church.

Haifa, Israel Shawarma Falafel — Traditional Israeli shawarma and falafel with fried eggplant

Local Cuisine

Fill up for your Haifa adventure with some burekas, a crispy phyllo dough pastry often filled with vegetables, spices and cheese. Enjoy Middle Eastern fare like falafel wraps slathered in tahini sauce or lamb shawarma brightened up with herbaceous parsley in the Wadi Nisnas or Hadar neighborhoods. For desert, taste sweet baklava, with layers of flaky pastry and pistachio sweetened with honey, or knefah, a light cheesecake soaked in sweet syrup.

Stone arch in the Lagoon of Nahsholim Beach, Haifa, Israel

Haifa, Israel Ceramic Plates — Ceramic plates and other souvenirs in the flea markets in Haifa, Israel

Shopping

Haifa's largest shopping mall is the Grand Canyon and includes over 200 designer and boutique shops. In the Haifa Flea Market, you can find vintage and secondhand items, including handmade silver and gold jewelry. During your Israel cruise, look for decorative plates and ceramics hand-painted with traditional geometric patterns or Holy Land-themed designs.

Day 9: Jerusalem, Israel

Day 9

Jerusalem

Ashdod, Israel

After you arrive at the port at Ashdod, it's a one-hour drive to Jerusalem, the city sacred to Jews, Muslims and Christians alike. Enter the Old City through one of the eight gates, built in the early 16th century by the Turkish Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent — see the ferocious-looking animal carvings of the Lion's Gate or the flower rosettes carved above Herod's Gate. Cruise to Jerusalem and take in the smell of Arabian coffee, incense and spices at one of the markets of the Old City as you venture to the historic Wailing Wall. Enter the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and see its ornate shrines and austere icons. Then, head to the nearby Dome of the Rock, with its distinctive gold dome and traditional Islamic geometric designs.

Jerusalem, Israel Dome of the Rock Mosque — The Dome of the Rock Mosque with a golden dome and mosaic tiles in Jerusalem, Israel

Houses of the Holy

Head to the Temple Mount, an large public space sacred to all three monotheist religions. Visit the iconic gold-plated Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, built in 705 AD. The plaza is surrounded by walls, including the Western Wall, Judaism's holiest prayer site. Tourists and pilgrims alike write prayers on pieces of paper and crumple them into the crevices of the wall.

Insider tip

Check the opening hours before your visits, especially during Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath that begins on Fridays at sunset.

Jerusalem, Israel Old Church — Church of the Holy Sepulchre made out of stones with a blue dome and cross over it with blue skies in Jerusalem, Israel

Join the Pilgrims

Join the pilgrims to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of Christianity's most sacred sites. It is believed by many Christians that the church that stands today was built on the spot where Jesus' resurrection occurred. It was built in 335, destroyed in 1009 and gradually rebuilt. When you enter the sanctuary, take in the smell of frankincense and the contemplative candlelight.

Insider tip

Dress modestly — no bare legs, shoulders or backs — if you would like to visit a church, mosque or synagogue.

Jerusalem, Israel Holocaust Sculpture — The Holocaust Sculpture with broken columns coming out of the ground in Jerusalem, Israel

Powerful Memorial

Yad Vashem, an 18-hectare site, is Israel's official memorial to the 6 million Jews who perished during World War II. Photos of those killed completely cover one of the ceilings. There is a collection of works created in ghettos and camps, and an eternal flame burns near a crypt containing the ashes of the victims.

Jerusalem, Israel Old Church Pine Trees — The Church of Pater Noster with beautiful classical architecture and green pine trees in Jerusalem, Israel

Jerusalem, Israel Pita Bread Israeli Salad — A warm toasted pita bread topped with eggplant, tzaziki sauce, and israeli salad

Local Cuisine

The culinary scene is a creative mixture of cuisines from Jerusalem's countless immigrants. Enjoy some hummus with bread, falafel, kebab, shawarma or other Middle Eastern fare in the Old City during your Jerusalem cruise. For Mediterranean-style eateries, go to Jaffa Gate where you can find a bounty of street vendors selling local fare like burekas, a flaky pastry filled with savor cheese and vegetables.

Jerusalem, Israel Sunny City View — Top view of Jerusalem's Old City, Christian Quarter and the Church of Holy Sepulchre on a sunny bright day

Jerusalem, Israel Ceramic Plates Souvenirs — Blue painted ceramic plates sold at souvenir shops at Arab bazaar in Jerusalem

Shopping

Browse the arcade with art boutiques at Cardo in the Old City. In the Muslim Quarter and Mahane Yehuda Market, you'll find Arabic ceramics, embroidery, coffee, spices and sweets. For hand-stitched clothing and bags from a collective of West Bank women go to the Bint Al Balad Workshop and Cafe on HaAhim Pereire St.

Day 10: Limassol, Cyprus

Day 10

Limassol

Cyprus

Limassol offers ancient history, a wide variety of cuisine, Blue Flag beaches and some of the most beautiful coastline in the world. With a story that dates back to antiquity, the castle in the historic center is where Richard the Lionheart married, and it's from here that the entire town radiates. The surrounding area is a heady mix of restaurants, bars, nightclubs and shops. Cruise to Cyprus to find plenty of historical and cultural sites, including museums, churches and old shuttered houses that give you a view into the past. When you're ready to dust the sand off from the beach, head to the glamorous marina to discover how Limassol is much more than sun and sea.

Limassol, Cyprus Kolossi Clastle — Kolossi Castle, a former Cruisader stronghold on the edge of Kolossi village, in Limassol, Cyprus

Colossal Kolossi

Located about 11 kilometers from the city center, Kolossi Castle was built in 1210 by the Order of St. John of Jerusalem and acted as a stronghold for the city. During the Middle Ages, it stored reserves of sugarcane. While it is now partially in ruins, it stills bears its former owner's coat of arms and its three floors offer a one-of-a-kind look into the past with much to explore.

Insider tip

Limassol has plenty of sandy and rocky beaches within easy reach, including the main beach: Akti Olympion.

Limassol, Cyprus Ancient Amphitheatre — Ancient amphitheatre near Limassol, Cyprus

Antiquity Today

Considered the most impressive archaeological remains on Cyprus, much of what you discover at UNESCO-protected Kourion dates back to the Romans. This includes the Theater, the Forum, he Nymphaeum, the Public Baths, the House of the Gladiators and much more. The restored Greek Roman Theater is still in use today and offers unique acoustics as well as views of the city. While there are no guided tours of the ruins, there are plenty of information boards to read along the way.

Insider tip

Among the many churches you'll find in Limassol, the Agia Napa Church located in the center is the one to visit.

Limassol, Cyprus Medieval Castle — The medieval Limassol Castle in Limassol, Cyprus

Pottering Around Town

The Limassol Archaeology Museum is connected to Limassol Castle, and it traces the history and development of Cyprus from its prehistory roots through to Roman times. Much of what is on display was unearthed close by, including a number of items from Kourion. Part of the museum is dedicated solely to ancient Amathus, and for those who love to see pottery from throughout the ages, this is the place for you to visit during your vacation.

Limassol, Cyprus Fishing Boats — Fishing boats docked at the old port of Limassol, Cyprus

Limassol, Cyprus Greek Salad — Greek salad with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, basil and olives, in Limassol, Cyprus

Local Cuisine

Local, as well as, international influences are found in Limassol cuisine, including a strong Asian influence. Local seafood, such as clams and mussels, play a big part in traditional eateries. For something light, start with a Greek salad with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, basil and olives. With restaurants lining the waterfront as well as tucked away among the streets of the historic center, you'll find something to suit your palette.

Limassol, Cyprus Marina — A view of the commercial area in the beautiful, modern Marina in Limassol, Cyprus

Limassol, Cyprus Traditional Parasols — Limassol, Cyprus Traditional Handmade Lace Parasols in local souvenir shop in Limassol, Cyprus

Shopping

Head to Agiou Andreou Street for local items and Makarios Avenue for designer duds during your Cyprus cruise. Limassol has plenty to offer the inveterate shopper. Leather goods, olive oil, traditional lacework and glassworks are all of high quality and many are created using traditional methods.

Day 11 - 12: Cruising

Day 11 - 12

Cruising

At Sea

Two70^®

Solarium Bar Cocktail with Sunset in the Background

Music Hall℠

Navigator of the Seas Lime and Coconut at Night

The Lime and Coconut^®

The search for your favorite island bar is over. The Lime and Coconut® turns the vacay vibes way, way up with DJs, live music and two bars serving all your favorite poolside cocktails — including the signature Lime & Coconut. And when the sun goes down, this pool bar just might be the hottest spot onboard.