Seven Churches of Revelation (Turkey)
Walking in the Footsteps of the Apostle Paul
13 days / 11 Nights
Embark on a profound journey through Turkey and Greece, tracing the footsteps of the Apostle Paul and exploring the Seven Churches of Revelation. This 13-day pilgrimage offers a rich spiritual experience, connecting you to the early Christian communities and the ancient wonders of the region.
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, where East meets West. Meet with your guide after luggage claim and customs for a full-day tour, starting with a visit to the vibrant Spice Market, famous for its exotic spices and bustling atmosphere. Explore the historic Chora Mosque and visit the Süleymaniye Mosque, one of the largest in Istanbul, before heading to the Eyüp Mosque, a significant pilgrimage site. End the day with dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel in Istanbul.
Day 3: Istanbul
After breakfast, meet your guide and continue your exploration of Istanbul’s rich history. Visit the Hagia Sophia, once a Byzantine church and later an Ottoman mosque, now a museum blending Christian and Islamic heritage. Marvel at the Blue Mosque’s stunning architecture and the ancient Hippodrome, once hosting grand chariot races. The day concludes with a visit to Topkapi Palace, the historic residence of Ottoman sultans, where holy relics are kept. Dinner and overnight stay at your hotel in Istanbul.
Day 4: Adana, Antakya (Antioch) & Adana
Transfer to Istanbul Airport for a domestic flight to Adana. Upon arrival, enjoy a half-day tour, including a visit to the Archaeological Museum and a panoramic city tour.
Note: Due to ongoing renovations from a recent earthquake, Antakya cannot be visited.
Day 5: Adana, Tarsus & Cappadocia
After breakfast, depart for Tarsus, the birthplace of the Apostle Paul. Visit St. Paul’s Well and St. Paul Church to gain insights into his early life. Continue your journey to Cappadocia, stopping to explore the Kaymakli Underground City, a refuge for early Christians. Dinner and overnight stay in Cappadocia.
Day 6: Cappadocia
Begin your day with an optional early morning hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia. After breakfast, visit Derinkuyu Underground City, the Göreme Open Air Museum with its ancient rock-carved churches, Zelve Valley, and Pasabaglar. End the day in Avanos, a town famous for its pottery traditions. Dinner and overnight stay in Cappadocia.
Day 7: Cappadocia to Istanbul
Fly from Kayseri to Istanbul. Upon arrival, visit the Istanbul Archaeology Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts from different eras, including significant biblical objects. Spend the afternoon exploring the bustling Grand Bazaar. Dinner and overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 8: Istanbul, Alexandria Troas, Troy & Ayvalik
Depart from Istanbul and travel towards Ayvalik, with stops at Alexandria Troas, where Paul visited, and the ancient city of Troy, famous for its role in Homer’s Iliad. Explore the ruins before continuing to Ayvalik for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 9: Pergamum, Thyatira & Izmir
After breakfast, visit Pergamum, one of the Seven Churches, where you’ll explore its Acropolis, the Red Church, and the Sanctuary of Asclepion. Continue your journey to Thyatira and then to Izmir for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 10: Ephesus, Miletus, Didyma & Kusadasi
Start your day with a visit to Ephesus, a significant city in early Christianity. Explore the Temple of Artemis, the Library of Celsus, and the Great Theatre. Continue to Miletus, where Paul gave his farewell speech, and Didyma, known for its impressive temple and oracle. Dinner and overnight stay in Kusadasi.
Day 11: Aphrodisias, Laodicea & Pamukkale
After breakfast, visit the ancient city of Aphrodisias, famous for its marble sculptures. Continue to Laodicea, another of the Seven Churches, and then head to Pamukkale, renowned for its hot springs and white terraces. Dinner and overnight stay in Pamukkale.
Day 12: Pamukkale, Hierapolis, Sardes & Izmir
After breakfast, visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, then continue to Sardes, known for its well-preserved synagogue and ruins. The day ends in Izmir with dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 13: Return to the USA
Reflect on the spiritual journey as you transfer to the airport for your flight back to the USA. Carry cherished memories and a renewed faith, inspired by the rich history and profound experiences of your pilgrimage.