Churches of Revelation (Turkey)
Classic Tour – Footsteps of Paul
9 Days / 7 Nights
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Turkey, tracing the rich history of early Christianity and exploring the Seven Churches of Revelation. This 9-day pilgrimage offers a profound spiritual experience, connecting you to ancient biblical sites and the deep heritage of the Christian faith.
Tour Highlights
Tour Inclusions
Tour Exclusions
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Departure for Turkey
Begin your journey with an overnight flight to Istanbul, Turkey, filled with anticipation for the spiritual adventure ahead.
Day 2: Arrival in Istanbul
Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay, preparing for the adventures ahead.
Day 3: Istanbul
Discover the rich history of Istanbul with a visit to the famed Blue Mosque, the stunning Hagia Sophia, and the magnificent Topkapi Palace, home to Ottoman treasures. After lunch, explore the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, housing incredible artifacts including the sarcophagus of Alexander the Great. Return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 4: Sea of Marmara & Ancient Troy
Travel across the European portion of Turkey, crossing the Dardanelles Strait by ferry. Enjoy the scenic views and listen to commentary about the significant battles fought in this region during World War I. Visit the ancient city of Troy, famous for its legendary wooden horse and extensive ruins. Explore the layers of history and archaeological finds that date back thousands of years. Continue to Canakkale for dinner and an overnight stay, where you can reflect on the rich history of the day.
Day 5: Pergamum, Thyatira & Izmir
Visit the ancient city of Pergamum, an important center of early Christianity, where you’ll explore the Acropolis, the Altar of Zeus, and the ruins of the library which once housed 200,000 volumes. Pergamum is also known for its impressive theater, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Continue to Thyatira, another key site in early Christian history, renowned for its “seller of purple” Lydia, mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles. Conclude the day in Izmir (ancient Smyrna), one of the Seven Churches of Revelation, and take a leisurely evening stroll along the waterfront before dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 6: Sardis, Philadelphia & Pamukkale
Depart Izmir and travel to Sardis, an ancient city known for its wealth and impressive ruins, including the large synagogue and the gymnasium. Reflect on the messages to the churches in the Book of Revelation as you explore the site. Proceed to Philadelphia, where early Christians were encouraged to “hold fast” to their faith. Not much remains of the ancient city, but you can still see the ruins of a Byzantine basilica and city walls. Continue to Pamukkale, renowned for its stunning white terraces and hot springs. Enjoy a soothing soak in the thermal waters before dinner and an overnight stay in Pamukkale.
Day 7: Hierapolis, Laodicea & Colossae
Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, with its rich Christian history and famous hot springs. Visit the site where the Apostle Philip is believed to have been martyred. Continue to Laodicea, known for its lukewarm faith, where you can explore the extensive ruins, including the ancient theater, stadium, and sophisticated water systems. Nearby Colossae, once an important city, now lies in ruins, offering a quiet and contemplative end to the day’s explorations. Travel through the Turkish countryside to Kusadasi, a charming coastal town, where you will enjoy dinner and an overnight stay, with an optional visit to a local Turkish rug cooperative to learn about this traditional craft.
Day 8: Ancient Ephesus
Travel to Selcuk to explore the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world. Walk along the marble-paved streets, visit the Library of Celsus, and see the Great Theatre where the Apostle Paul preached to the Ephesians. Explore the Terrace Houses, which offer a glimpse into the daily lives of Ephesus’ wealthy residents, and see the remains of the Basilica of St. John. Visit the nearby site of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Return to Kusadasi for dinner and an overnight stay, reflecting on the spiritual significance of Ephesus in early Christianity.
Day 9: Return to the USA
Transfer to Izmir airport for your flight back to the USA, reflecting on the rich spiritual and historical journey you’ve experienced.
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