Tomb of the Virgin Mary (Mary's Tomb)

These are the global celebrations worth traveling for during the holidays.

More than 5,000 years old, Jerusalem is an epicenter of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The city is rich with holy sites, including the biblical locations of Bethlehem, Nazareth, and the Sea of Galilee. To make the most of your visit, see below for some of Jerusalem’s most sacred destinations.

With three days in Jerusalem, you can cover the Israeli capital’s highlights and then swim in the Dead Sea, visit ancient cities, or check out desert scenery. Here’s how.

From ancient temples to markets and landmark museums, Jerusalem invites travelers to explore the past, sample local cuisine, and discover traditional culture. Since key sites are found in the compact center, you can cover the essentials with just one day in the city. Here’s how.