What to expect
Christ's birthplace is a Middle Eastern village of shrines, caves, and Biblical history
When to go
Christmas for town-wide celebrations, nativity reenactments, church services, and caroling
What to do
Church of Nativity, Rachel's Tomb, Milk Grotto, Franciscan Church
Local colour
Buying olives, olive-tree wood, and olive oil at the shops on pedestrian-only Paul VI Street
Don't miss
The traditional cave and manger where Jesus was born at Manger Square
Don't forget
Bring walking shoes--the Shepherd's Fields are a half-hour trek from downtown