Mount of Olives

Named after the olive groves that once covered its slopes, this 2,900-foot mountain stands opposite the Old City across the Kidron Valley. For more than 3,000 years, the Mount of Olives has served as Jerusalem's primary burial ground and the final resting place of notable biblical figures, such as Zechariah and Absalom.

There are also several notable religious sites found on the hill's slopes. For example, the Dome of the Ascension contains the last footprint Jesus made on earth before he ascended into heaven, and the Garden of Gethsemane marks the location of Jesus' prayers before the crucifixion (you'll also find olive trees that are roughly 1,000 years old). But above all else, come to the Mount of Olives for the views. According to one TripAdvisor user, "You look over the Kidron Valley to Jerusalem and Temple Mount. You can imagine Jesus as he looked over Jerusalem and saw a vision of the destruction."

The Mount of Olives is located in East Jerusalem about a 20-minute walk east of the Old City. You can access the Mount of Olives at any time (although individual sites feature their own hours of operation), and there is no entrance fee. Learn more about the Mount of Olives (and available tours) on the official website.