6 Day Tour on Apostle Paul’s Steps, Corinth, Veroia, Philippi & Athos Cruise

Day 1: Athens – Vlatades Monastery – Thessaloniki

• Start your day with a pick-up from your Athens hotel and a stop at Thermopylae to admire the statue of Leonidas, commemorating the Battle of the 300. Continue to Thessaloniki to visit the Monastery of Vlatades, perched on the northern side of Ano Poli, the only surviving Byzantine monastery in the city. Inside the church, see the famous “St. Paul’s stone,” marking the spot where the Apostle is believed to have preached. Founded between 1351–1371, by Vlatis, the monastery offers peaceful grounds and panoramic views of the Thermaic Gulf. Then explore the Eptapyrgion Fortress (Heptapyrgion/Yedi Kule), a UNESCO World Heritage site and key stop on the St. Paul Cultural Route, featuring museum exhibits. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

Day 2: Nea Fokea – Philippi – Kavala – Lydia’s Baptismal Site

• After breakfast, leave Thessaloniki for Nea Fokea, home to the Agiasma of St. Paul, an underground passage where Paul sought refuge. Explore the crypt where he endured imprisonment and continued his ministry. Continue to Philippi, where Paul preached Europe’s first Christian sermon and baptized Lydia, the first European convert. Walk through the ruins of the forum, basilica, and theater, imagining the early Christian gatherings. End the day in Kavala (Neapolis), reflecting on Paul’s journey while enjoying views of the ancient port. Overnight in Kavala.

Day 3: Kavala – Mount Athos Cruise – Thessaloniki

• Drive to Ouranoupolis and board a ferry for a scenic Mount Athos cruise, the spiritual jewel of Orthodoxy. Learn about the seven monasteries and their rich monastic traditions from your English-speaking guide. Admire the isolated beauty of Mount Athos, where monks have pursued contemplation for centuries. Capture stunning photographs of the dramatic coastline and peaceful waters. Return to Thessaloniki and enjoy free time exploring local shops or tasting authentic Greek cuisine. Overnight in Thessaloniki. ***The cruise in Athos is available May to September.

Day 4: Thessaloniki – Veria – Meteora

• Begin a private Thessaloniki Christian heritage tour, visiting historic churches such as Rotonda, St. Demetrius Basilica, and Acheiropoietos, along with landmarks like the White Tower and Arch of Galerius. Travel to Veria (Berea), where Apostle Paul preached, and visit the Apostle Paul’s Podium, a revered monument. Learn about the city’s role in early Christianity and walk its charming streets filled with Byzantine architecture. Continue to Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its breathtaking Byzantine monasteries perched atop towering cliffs. Enjoy the evening soaking in the dramatic sunset over the Meteora rocks. Overnight in Meteora.

Day 5: Meteora – Athens

• Explore the awe-inspiring monasteries of Meteora, including the Great Meteoron Monastery of Varlaam and the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoro, called “suspended in the air” due to the cliffs they rest upon. Learn about the monastic traditions, frescoes, and ancient manuscripts preserved here. Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in the picturesque village of Kalambaka. Stroll through the village, meeting locals and exploring quaint shops with local crafts. In the afternoon, return to Athens for an overnight stay, reflecting on the spiritual journey of the past days. Overnight in Athens.

Day 6: Mars Hill, Ancient Agora & Ancient Corinth Christian Tour

• Meet your driver to begin a private Christian tour of Athens and Corinth, retracing the steps of the Apostle Paul. Explore the Ancient Agora, the Acropolis, and Mars Hill (Areopagus), where Paul preached to the Athenians. Continue to Corinth to visit significant biblical sites, including the synagogue, the home of Titus Justus, and the Corinth Canal. Walk the streets where early Christians gathered and reflect on the challenges Paul faced. Conclude your journey at Kechrias Port, an ancient gateway to the East, before returning to Athens. Experience the enduring influence of his teachings as you follow in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul.