Bethlehem was a city of tourism before the word even existed. Since the year 2000, however, the travel market collapsed by more than ninety per cent and too many visitors pass by on whistle-stop tours, organised by Israeli tour operators, allowing the visitor nothing but a ten-minute tour of the Church of the Nativity.

The first impression of Bethlehem is distressing: a grey wall and a military checkpoint. But make the journey – and Bethlehem promises you a welcome that you will never forget.

 
You can visit Bethlehem as a tourist, a pilgrim, on a study tour, or perhaps to take the Open Bethlehem tour.  

This section contains travel information, recommended places to stay and eat and things to do while you are there.