12-Day Christian Tour to 7 Churches of Revelation in Turkey & Greece

Day 1: Meet and Geet in Istanbul

• Welcome to Istanbul, Turkey! Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, our representative will greet you with a personalized sign and transfer you to your hotel. Take the evening to relax and soak in the unique atmosphere of this city that spans two continents. Enjoy your first taste of Turkish hospitality and cuisine as you prepare for the spiritual journey ahead. Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 2: Full Day Istanbul Tour – Flight to Izmir

• After breakfast, begin your exploration of Istanbul, a city rich in Christian and Byzantine history. Visit the magnificent Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque, marveling at architectural wonders that reflect the city’s spiritual legacy. Explore the Hippodrome, where historical events shaped the course of empires. Later, stroll through the Grand Bazaar (or Spice Market on Sundays) and feel the vibrant life of the city. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your flight to Izmir and check in to your hotel. Overnight in Izmir.

Day 3: Pergamum – Thyatira – Izmir

• After breakfast, depart for Pergamum (Bergama), one of the Seven Churches of Asia mentioned in Revelation. Explore the Acropolis, the steepest theater in the ancient world, and the Asklepion, a center of classical medicine. See the Altar of Zeus, known as the “Throne of Satan,” and the historic Library of Pergamum, which rivaled Alexandria in knowledge. Continue to Thyatira (Akhisar), another of the Seven Churches, known for its purple dye industry and biblical significance through Lydia, the seller of purple. End the day with a panoramic drive through Smyrna, rich in Christian history, before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Izmir.

Day 4: Izmir – Sardis – Philadelphia – Laodicea – Hierapolis

• Today, journey to Sardis, the capital of the ancient Lydian kingdom and one of the Seven Churches of Asia. Visit the Temple of Artemis, the restored gymnasium, and the synagogue. Explore Philadelphia (Alasehir), the only church not censured in Revelation, and then Laodicea on Lycus, a hub of commerce in biblical times. Conclude the day at Hierapolis (Pamukkale) to marvel at the thermal springs and the “cotton castle” terraces that have drawn visitors for centuries. Overnight in Pamukkale.

Day 5: Ephesus – Kusadasi

• Visit the ancient city of Ephesus, where Apostle Paul lived and preached for three years. Walk the marble streets past the Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theatre. See the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and explore the Basilica of St. John. Finally, visit the House of Virgin Mary, a sacred pilgrimage site. Transfer to Kusadasi for your overnight stay.

Day 6: Kusadasi – Ferry to Samos

• After breakfast, transfer to Kusadasi port for a ferry ride to Samos, an island visited by Paul and Timothy according to Acts and Christian tradition. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy your evening exploring the island’s charming streets, scenic landscapes, and historical landmarks. Overnight in Samos.

Day 7: Samos – Flight to Athens – Christian Tour of Athens & Corinth

• Fly from Samos to Athens, where your Christian journey continues. Begin at the Ancient Agora, the center of early Athenian life and discussions about Jesus’ resurrection. Climb Mars Hill (Areopagus), where Apostle Paul delivered his famous sermon to the Athenians. Explore the Acropolis and Parthenon, symbols of both classical civilization and the early Christian era. Continue to Corinth via the breathtaking Corinth Canal, visiting Aquila and Priscilla’s home, the synagogue, and the Bema of Apostle Paul. End at Kechries Port, the starting point of Paul’s journey to Ephesus. Overnight in Athens.

Day 8: Athens – Vlatades Monastery of St. Paul – Thessaloniki

• Drive through Thermopylae and admire the statue of Leonidas before continuing to Thessaloniki. Visit Vlatades Monastery, associated with Apostle Paul and his revered “Holy Water.” Explore the nearby Orthodox Church of St. Paul and enjoy a scenic walk along the Thermaic Gulf coastline. Sample local Greek cuisine or relax at a traditional café, reflecting on the journey. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

Day 9: Nea Fokea – Philippi – Kavala – Lydia’s Baptismal Site

• Depart Thessaloniki for Nea Fokea and visit the Agiasma of St. Paul, an underground refuge of the Apostle. This sacred site evokes the early struggles and unwavering faith of Paul during his ministry. Continue to Philippi, where Paul preached his first sermon in Europe and baptized Lydia, the pioneering convert. Explore the forum, basilica, theatre, and other ruins, imagining the early Christian gatherings that shaped Europe. Visit Kavala (ancient Neapolis), the port city where Paul began his mission to Europe, and learn about its historical and biblical significance. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

Day 10: Thessaloniki – Veria – Meteora

• Tour Thessaloniki, visiting Rotonda, St. Demetrius Basilica, Acheiropoietos Church, and the White Tower, while reflecting on their Christian heritage and historical importance. Travel to Veria, where Apostle Paul preached, and see the Apostle Paul’s Podium, a site revered by pilgrims worldwide. Continue to Meteora, known for its breathtaking monasteries perched atop towering rock formations, symbolizing spiritual devotion and architectural marvels. Take in the panoramic views and serene atmosphere that have inspired monks and travelers for centuries. Overnight in Meteora.

Day 11: Meteora – Athens

• Visit the Great Meteoron Monastery and St. Stephen Monastery, both UNESCO heritage sites, marveling at their history and stunning locations. Enjoy an optional traditional Greek lunch in Kalambaka and experience local hospitality and flavors. Reflect on the incredible spiritual journey through some of Greece’s most sacred sites, from ancient churches to cliffside monasteries. Return to Athens and spend your evening strolling through historic streets, savoring the city’s vibrant culture and Christian legacy. Overnight in Athens.

Day 12: Departure from Athens

• Our driver will transfer you to Athens Airport according to your flight schedule. Take home unforgettable memories of this immersive 12-day Christian pilgrimage through Greece and Turkey, walking in the footsteps of Apostle Paul.