14 Day Christian Tour Greece: Athens, Meteora, Crete, Santorini & Rhodes

Day 1: Arrival in Athens – Welcome!

• Arrive in Athens and meet your guide at the airport. Transfer to your hotel and relax. Take a quiet evening stroll in Plaka, soaking in the historic and spiritual atmosphere of the city. Overnight in Athens.

Day 2: Christian Tour in Athens and Corinth​ - Following Apostle Paul’s Footsteps

• Meet your driver for a private Christian tour in Athens and Corinth, retracing the footsteps of Apostle Paul. Begin at the Ancient Agora, the bustling heart of classical Athens, where Paul preached to locals about Jesus’ resurrection, laying the foundation for the first Christian communities in the city. Visit Mars Hill (Areopagus), the site where Paul delivered his influential sermon to the Athenian philosophers, proclaiming the message of the one true God to a pagan audience. Travel to the Corinth Canal, an impressive engineering marvel, before exploring Ancient Corinth, including the synagogue where Paul taught, the home of Titus Justus, and other sacred sites where the Apostle ministered to the first Christian converts in the region. Conclude at Kechrias Port, a serene location for reflection on Paul’s. Overnight in Athens.

Day 3: Athens to Meteora – Monasteries in the Sky

• Meet your driver at the hotel to begin your private tour to Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the breathtaking Byzantine monasteries, marveling at their architecture, frescoes, and sacred treasures. Visit the Great Meteoron Monastery, (or similar)  perched atop a giant rock with panoramic views, and the Monastery of St. Stephen, set on the plain. Discover centuries-old chapels, iconostases, and frescoes, reflecting Meteora’s rich Christian heritage. Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in Kalambaka, soaking in the unique atmosphere of the region. Conclude your day immersed in history, spirituality, and stunning landscapes. Overnight Meteora.

Day 4: Veroia - Thessaloniki - St. Paul Cultural Route & Historic Highlights

• Begin your journey in Veroia, a city closely associated with Apostle Paul, exploring historic sites where he preached and ministered to the first Christian communities in Europe. Continue to Thessaloniki, visiting iconic landmarks such as the White Tower, Church of St. Dimitrios, Arch of Galerius, Rotunda, Upper City, and Byzantine Walls. Discover the Monastery of Vlatadon, perched on the northern side of Ano Poli, the only surviving Byzantine monastery in Thessaloniki. Inside the church, see the famous “St. Paul’s stone”, marking the spot where the Apostle is believed to have preached. Explore the Eptapyrgion Fortress (Heptapyrgion/Yedi Kule), a UNESCO World Heritage site and key stop on the St. Paul Cultural Route, offering museum exhibits, cultural events, and panoramic views of the city and the Thermaic Gulf. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

Day 5: Philippi & Kavala - First Sermon in Europe

• Follow the footsteps of Apostle Paul in Philippi, the city where he delivered his first sermon on European soil, marking a pivotal moment in Christian history. Explore the ancient ruins of Philippi, including the forum, basilicas, and the prison where Paul and Silas were famously imprisoned. Visit the Baptistery of Lydia, commemorating the conversion of Lydia, the first European believer, according to Acts 16. Walk along historic streets that have witnessed centuries of faith, culture, and tradition. Learn about the spread of Christianity in Europe and the enduring legacy of Paul’s mission. Explore city of Kavala before returning back. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

Day 6: Thessaloniki - Flight to Crete 

• Enjoy free time in Thessaloniki before your flight to Crete, an island with a rich Orthodox Christian heritage. Upon arrival, your driver will transfer you to your hotel for check-in. Overnight in Crete.

Day 7: Crete - Knossos, Rethymno & Arkadi Monastery 

• Optional: Explore Knossos, the legendary Minoan palace near Heraklion, Crete, and step into the heart of ancient civilization. Wander through grand throne rooms, vibrant frescoes, and intricate architectural ruins that reveal the power and culture of the Minoans. Continue to the charming city of Rethymno, stroll its narrow Venetian streets, admire historic buildings, and enjoy the vibrant local atmosphere. Visit Arkadi Monastery, a historic symbol of Cretan resistance and heroism during Ottoman rule. Discover the monastery’s impressive Renaissance architecture, chapels, and the dramatic history of the 1866 siege. Overnight in Crete.

Day 8: Crete - Saint Paul’s Church and Baptistery – Early Christian Sites in Crete

• The Church of Saint Paul and the early Christian Baptistery are located near Kamilari and Agios Ioannis in Crete, Greece. The Byzantine church features a cruciform shape, a large central dome, and an unusually spacious narthex, adorned with impressive frescoes, including the Evangelists. According to tradition, the Apostle Paul passed through this area on his way to Gortyna, preaching Christ’s word and staying for two days. The baptistery marks the spot where he is believed to have preached, while the church was built later in the 13th century. On the hill west of Kali Limenes beach stands the Chapel of Saint Paul (Agios Pavlos), built in 1911 on the site of an earlier Christian church. Next to the chapel is a small cave where Paul is said to have stayed before continuing to Rome, highlighting his role in spreading Christianity and establishing early basilicas in southern Crete. Overnight in Crete.

Day 9: Crete - Ferry to Santorini 

• Transfer to the port and take the ferry to Santorini, exploring the island’s historic chapels and Byzantine churches along the way. Reflect on the spread of Christianity across the Aegean islands. Overnight in Santorini.

Day 10: Santorini - Semi-Private Cruise to Caldera with BBQ on board

• Optional: Explore the therapeutic Hot Springs on Palea Kameni and take a refreshing swim in their rejuvenating waters. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Aspronisi, the Ancient Lighthouse, Akrotiri, and Indian Rock, capturing stunning photos along the way. Discover the renowned Red Beach with its unique volcanic sand and the secluded White Beach, accessible only by boat. Delight your taste buds with our onboard BBQ buffet, featuring an array of fresh seafood, succulent grilled meats, crisp salads, and decadent desserts. As the day draws to a close, bask in the mesmerizing sunset views in Oia. Overnight in Santorini.

Day 11: Santorini to Rhodes  & Overnight Ferry

• Free day in Santorini until to get the the ferry at around midnight to Rhodes, a medieval Christian stronghold. Begin exploring its historic sites during the overnight ferry journey, preparing for the spiritual exploration ahead. Overnight on ferry/Rhodes.

Day 12: Walking Tour of the Medieval Town of Rhodes

• Optional: Step back in time and explore the enchanting Medieval Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with ancient walls, fortified gates, and charming squares. Discover hidden courtyards, historic fountains, and centuries-old buildings that tell the story of the Knights of St. John. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Palace of the Grand Master, the Street of the Knights, and the Church of the Virgin of the Burgh. Learn about the fascinating history, culture, and architecture of one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns. Perfect for history enthusiasts, and anyone eager to experience the magic of medieval Rhodes on foot. Overnight in Rhodes.

Day 13: Tour at Filerimos Monastery, Lindos & St. Paul’s Bay

• Follow the footsteps of the Apostle Paul on Rhodes, where he briefly stopped during his missionary journey to Jerusalem, as recorded in Acts 21:1. Climb the sacred hill of Filerimos, with its ancient monastery, impressive Cross, and sweeping panoramic views of the island. Then, step into history at Ancient Lindos, a charming village of whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, and vibrant bougainvillea. Ascend to the Acropolis of Lindos, marvel at ruins dedicated to Athena Lindia, and enjoy breathtaking vistas over the sparkling bay. Finally, discover St. Paul’s Bay, a hidden circular bay named after the Apostle, where he is believed to have taken refuge before departing for Jerusalem. Overnight in Rhodes.

Day 14: Departure from Rhodes 

• Transfer to Rhodes Airport for your departure. Take home memories of a spiritual journey through Greece’s mainland and islands, walking in the footsteps of Apostle Paul and visiting sacred Christian sites across the Aegean.

 ***Travel Insurnace: We would also like to draw your attention to the importance of taking out an insurance policy in the event of an unexpected happening that may cancel or interrupt your trip. Here is the link to see what the travel insurance covers: Rad more...