Mount of Olives A sacred hill overlooking the Old City of Jerusalem, the Mount of Olives is famous for its stunning panoramic views and deep religious significance. Visitors can explore historic churches such as the Church of the Ascension, Dominus Flevit, and the beautiful onion-domed Russian Church of Mary Magdalene, making it a must-see for both pilgrims and travelers alike.

Haram Al-Sharif (Temple Mount & Dome of the Rock) Step into one of the most sacred places on Earth, revered in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. This vast plaza above Jerusalem’s Old City is home to the glittering Dome of the Rock, the city’s most iconic landmark, built over the stone where Abraham is said to have offered his son to God, and where Muslims believe the Prophet Muhammad began his journey to heaven. On the southern side stands the historic Al-Aqsa Mosque, first established in 705 CE and still one of the world’s oldest mosques. A powerful spiritual and cultural highlight of any visit to Jerusalem.

✝️ Church of the Holy Sepulchre For Christian pilgrims, this is Jerusalem’s holiest site, believed to mark the place where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. The church was first commissioned in the 4th century by Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, who identified this spot as the biblical Calvary (Golgotha). Although the original structure was destroyed, the magnificent church standing today dates back to the 11th century. Inside, visitors find the final five Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa, as well as chapels and relics revered by various Christian denominations. Often bustling with pilgrims from around the globe, the church remains a profound spiritual center and a masterpiece of sacred architecture.

✝️ Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrow) The Via Dolorosa is a must-see for many Christian visitors, tracing the path Jesus walked after his condemnation toward Calvary. The route features 14 Stations of the Cross, some based on Gospel accounts and others on tradition. Walk independently or join the Friday procession led by Italian Franciscan monks. The journey begins on Via Dolorosa Street and winds through the Old City, ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where the final five stations are located. This historic route offers a deeply moving spiritual experience and a glimpse into Jerusalem’s religious heritage.

The Citadel (Tower of David) The Tower of David, or Jerusalem Citadel, was originally built by King Herod around 24 BCE to protect his palace. Over centuries, it was rebuilt and expanded by the Romans, Crusaders, Mamelukes, and Ottomans. The current structure, dating from the 14th century, stands on the foundations of the original Phasael Tower. Today, the Tower of David Museum showcases Jerusalem’s rich history through permanent archaeological exhibits and rotating cultural displays. Climb to the rooftop for one of the most spectacular panoramic views of the Old City.

⛰️ Mount Zion Located just south of Jerusalem’s Zion Gate, Mount Zion is a site of deep religious significance, home to Jewish and Muslim shrines as well as several historic churches. Christians revere it as the place where Jesus celebrated the Last Supper and, according to tradition, where the Virgin Mary spent her final years. For Jews, it holds great importance as the site of King David’s Tomb. Climb from the tomb’s courtyard to the Last Supper Room, which has served as both church and mosque over the centuries. Nearby, the Church of the Dormition marks where the Virgin Mary is believed to have died, and the Church of St. Peter of Gallicantu commemorates Peter’s denial of Jesus.

Old City Walls & Gates The Old City of Jerusalem is surrounded by magnificent fortifications dating from the Ottoman period. Nine historic gates punctuate the walls, each leading to different quarters of the city. Notable gates include Damascus Gate, one of the most famous entrances; Lion’s Gate (or St. Stephen’s Gate), which opens onto the Mount of Olives; Zion Gate, the main access to the Jewish Quarter; and Jaffa Gate, leading to the Christian Quarter. Walking along the wall ramparts offers stunning panoramic views of the Old City. Two sections are open to visitors: from Jaffa Gate north to Lion’s Gate, or from Jaffa Gate south to Dung Gate.