Journey of Faith
Walking in the Footsteps of the Apostle Paul
12 days / 10 Nights
Embark on a transformative journey through Greece and Turkey, tracing the steps of the Apostle Paul. This 12-day pilgrimage offers a profound connection to early Christian communities and the historical sites mentioned in the New Testament, enriching your faith and understanding of biblical history.
Tour Highlights
Tour Inclusions
Tour Exclusions
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Departure for Greece
Begin your spiritual adventure with an overnight flight to Thessaloniki, Greece. Meals and overnight on board, reflecting on the journey ahead and the historical significance of the places you will visit.
Day 2: Into the Footsteps of Paul – Thessaloniki
Arrive in Thessaloniki, where St. Paul and his companions established the first Christian communities. Transfer to your hotel and settle in. Thessaloniki, an important city in early Christianity, is where Paul planted a church and later wrote two New Testament epistles. Enjoy a guided tour of Thessaloniki, including the Rotunda, the Arch of Galerius, and the Byzantine walls. Dinner and overnight stay in Thessaloniki.
Day 3: Thessaloniki – Kavala – Philippi
Travel along the Via Egnatia, an ancient Roman road, viewing remnants of Rome’s highway system, including tombs and chariot wheel ruts. Visit Philippi, where Paul preached his first sermon in Europe and baptized Lydia, the first Christian convert on European soil. Explore the archaeological site, including the forum, basilica, and the prison where Paul and Silas were held. Enjoy free time in Kavala Port, where Paul first landed in Europe. Return to Thessaloniki to visit St. Demetrius Basilica, the White Tower, and the Arch of Galerius. Dinner and overnight stay in Thessaloniki.
Day 4: Kalambaka – Meteora – Delphi
Marvel at the Meteora Monasteries, perched atop towering rock formations. These monasteries, dating back to the 14th century, offer stunning views and house exquisite examples of Byzantine art. Visit two of these monasteries, experiencing the spiritual serenity and historical significance of these unique sites. Continue to Delphi, known as the navel of the ancient world, for dinner and an overnight stay. Enjoy an evening walk in Delphi’s quaint village, absorbing the atmosphere of this historic location.
Day 5: Delphi – Athens
Explore the ancient site of Delphi, home to the oracle of Apollo. Visit the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Museum, which houses artifacts from the site, including the famous Charioteer statue. Enjoy lunch in a traditional Greek taverna before traveling to Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. Spend the evening at leisure, soaking in the vibrant culture and nightlife of Athens. Dinner and overnight stay in Athens.
Day 6: Full-Day Tour in Athens – Areopagus and the Acropolis
Embark on a full-day tour of Athens, including the Panathenaic Stadium, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, and the Acropolis. Climb Mars Hill (Areopagus), where Paul addressed the Athenians about their religious idolatry. Visit the Acropolis Museum and the ancient Roman Agora. Take a walking tour of the Parliament Building, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Plaka, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Enjoy a traditional Greek dinner in the Plaka district, filled with music and local delicacies. Overnight stay in Athens.
Day 7: Corinth
Depart for a full-day tour to Ancient Corinth, a major center of trade and early Christianity. Visit the Isthmus of Corinth, the ruins of the ancient city, the agora, and the Temple of Apollo. Learn about Paul’s time in Corinth and his efforts to establish the Christian community there. Stop at the Corinth Canal for a photo opportunity and to marvel at this engineering feat. Return to Athens for free time in the evening to explore the city on your own. Overnight stay in Athens.
Day 8: Athens – Izmir
Depart Athens mid-morning and arrive in Izmir, Turkey. Visit the archaeological site of ancient Smyrna, one of the seven churches of Revelation. Explore the ruins and learn about the early Christian community. Drive to Kusadasi, a charming coastal town, for dinner and an overnight stay. Enjoy an evening stroll along the picturesque waterfront.
Day 9: Kusadasi – Ephesus
Visit Ephesus, a key site for the Apostle Paul and one of the seven churches of Revelation. Explore the well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis. Visit the Basilica of St. John, believed to be the burial site of the Apostle John, and, time permitting, the House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site believed to be the last home of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Overnight in Kusadasi, with free time to enjoy the town’s lively bazaar and harbor.
Day 10: Izmir – Istanbul
Depart from Izmir to Istanbul. Enjoy a full-day tour of Istanbul, including the Grand Bazaar, Suleymaniye Mosque, and Pierre Loti Hill. Meet with a Muslim professor to gain insights into the religious diversity of the region and engage in interfaith dialogue. Dinner and overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 11: Istanbul
Explore Istanbul’s rich history, visiting the Museum of the Ancient Orient, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and Hagia Sophia. Visit the Topkapi Palace, former residence of the Ottoman sultans, and its impressive collection of artifacts, including religious relics and exquisite jewels. Enjoy free time to explore the city on your own or indulge in a traditional Turkish bath. Dinner and overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 12: Return to the USA
Check out and transfer to the airport for your flight back to the USA. Reflect on the spiritual journey, the historical insights gained, and the connections made with early Christian communities as you return home with cherished memories and a renewed faith.
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