THE FOOTSTEPS OF ST PAUL IN TURKEY

This tour introduces important sites and places where Saint Paul travelled. Explore his birthplace; visit the first church of Christianity and follow his footsteps as he travelled throughout this land to spread the word of the new religion.

Discover the magnificent Acropolis of Pergamon, Asclepion of Galen, walk in the streets of the ancient Roman City of Ephesus, be amazed by the Temple of Artemis that was one of the seven wonders of antiquity, heal in the thermal pools of Pamukkale, and visit Hierapolis, once the largest necropolis in Roman Empire.

Also, join mass service in the House of Virgin Mary, where the Blessed Virgin is reputed to have spent the last years of her life. This tour is customizable for your all travel needs and includes a qualified guide with knowledge of biblical sites and the history of Christianity.

Arrive in Istanbul Ataturk Airport and after visa and luggage claim, meet your driver and private car, for your transfer to the hotel. A welcome package with tour vouchers, map, and other touristic information will be waiting for you upon arrival. There are no plans for this day so we suggest you experience a traditional Turkish bath nearby your hotel.

Meals: No Meals

Day 2: Full Day Tour of Byzantine & Ottoman Highlights

Today you will have a full day tour of visiting St Sophia Museum, the pride of the Byzantine architecture, the Hippodrome, where once chariot races were held; the Blue Mosque, famous for its blue Iznik tiles; and enjoy shopping in the Grand Bazaar. After lunch, visit Topkapi Palace, famous palace of the Ottoman Sultans (The harem section is not included in the tour).

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 3: Istanbul - Antakya

Transfer to the airport for an early flight to Hatay (Antakya). Upon arrival, meet your guide and drive to the Archaeology Museum (Antakya Mosaic Museum) famous for its mosaic and coin collections. Then visit the first Catholic Church of the world, Saint Pierre. We will also tour other Catholic & Orthodox Churches still used by Christians in the city. After visiting an old traditional house, enjoy free time at the bazaar before checking into your hotel. Stay overnight in Hatay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Highlights of Antioch

Discover highlights of the city including St Simone Monastery, Tunnel of Emperor Titus, the Armenian Village, and Harbiye, a famous and beautiful plateau promenade and important district for uncovered statues and touristy souvenirs. Stay overnight in Antakya.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Tarsus - Izmir (Smyrna)

After an early breakfast, we will go to Tarsus, the birthplace of St. Paul. During St. Paul's time, Tarsus was a university city surpassing Athens and Alexandria. Cicero was a governor here in 51-50 BC and the romantic meeting between Cleopatra and Mark Anthony took place in Tarsus. Highlights here will be St. Paul's House, water well in the garden and Church. We will also see Cleopatra's Gate built by Marcus Antonius. Transfer to the airport to take a flight to Izmir where we will stay overnight.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 6: Pergamon

After an early breakfast, begin the tour of Smyrna, nowadays a modern Turkish city called Izmir. In ancient times, it was a powerful trading position on the Aegean Sea known for its harbours, commerce, and marketplaces. We will see Polycarp church, then drive to Pergamon, located on the plains and foothills along the Caicus River in Western Turkey.

The city, described in the Book of Revelations as having the throne of Satan, is “praised for its martyrdom and perseverance but those who hold false teachings are criticized” (Rev. 2:12-17). Here you will see the Acropolis, Greek & Roman Temples as well as the unique Greek theatre built into the steep hillside. Also visit the Asclepion, the ancient medical centre for the Greeks. Transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay in Pergamon. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia

After breakfast drive to Thyatira, known for its textiles and dyeing trade. It is now known as the Turkish city of Akhisar and was “praised for its increasing faith and service, but criticized for its tolerance of Jezebel, an immoral woman who calls herself a prophetess” (Rev. 2:18-29).

We then head to Sardis, located on the banks of the Pactolus River in western Asia Minor. “The church of Sardes is described as dead, and it must wake up. However, there are some who have not "soiled their clothes."” (Rev. 3:1-6). End the day with a visit to ancient Philadelphia that was known for its variety of temples and worship centres. “The church of brotherly love that endures patiently” (Revelation 3:7-13). Arrive in Pamukkale and stay overnight. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Hierapolis, Laodicea - Kusadasi

After breakfast, visit the ancient City of Hierapolis as well as the world famous travertine of Pamukkale. Lunch will be eaten on the way to Laodicea, located in the Lycus River Valley of western Asia Minor, a primary trade route between the cultures of the West and East. "The "lukewarm" church with a faith that's neither hot nor cold" (Rev. 3:14-22). Stay overnight in Kusadasi. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Ephesus

After breakfast, join Mass held in the House of the Virgin Mary, then visit Ephesus, the most influential capital city of Asia Minor on the Aegean Sea. "Ephesus receives praise for its perseverance, but criticism for forsaking its "first love"" (Rev. 2:1-7). Explore well preserved theatres, fountains and buildings, and see the nearby Basilica of St John which stands over the believed burial site of St. John, who is identified as the apostle, evangelist (author of the Fourth Gospel) and prophet (author of Revelation).Stay overnight in Kusadasi.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Fly Home

After breakfast, transfer to the airport or port for your departure flight to Istanbul or ferry to Samos, Greece (flight to Istanbul or ferry ticket to Samos is not included in the price).