About the Tour
This program combines a 3-night cruise through the Greek Islands with extended time on land in Greece and Turkey, allowing the group to experience key biblical and historical sites in a balanced and comfortable way. The itinerary is designed to minimize long overland travel while still including important destinations such as Ephesus, Patmos, Philippi, Berea, and Thessalonica.
This is a journey for those willing to listen, to participate, and to be present, allowing the land and its people to speak in their own voices.
Tour Host: Father Jerome Magat Email: fathermagat@gmail.com
Trip Organizer: Sami Khoury, General Manager, Sacred Travel Paths Mobile: (WhatsApp) +(972)505221225 Email: sami@sacredtravelpaths.com
Day by Day Itinerary
| DAY 1: TUE – ATHENS ARRIVAL Journey Begins | Depart USA on your cross Atlantic flight to Athens, Greece. |
| DAY 2: WED – ATHENS ARRIVAL | Upon arrival at Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”, meet our local representative who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Enjoy an orientation panoramic tour of the city, before check-in. Your journey to the Biblical land of Greece begins. Overnight: Athens Meals: Dinner |
| DAY 3: THU – ATHENS AND CORINTH | Today we depart for our morning tour out of Athens. Driving along the Saronic Gulf, we enjoy a quick photo stop at the historic Corinth Canal. Continue to Corinth archaeological site (Acts 18:1-18) where the Apostle Paul lived and worked, establishing a thriving church, subsequently sending two of his epistles, now part of the New Testament. Here, we see all of the sites associated with his ministry: the Agora, the Temple of Apollo, the Roman Odeon, the Bema and Gallio’s Seat. The small local archaeological museum is an absolute must! Return to Athens for an afternoon city tour. Climb up the Acropolis Hill to see the famous Parthenon and Erectheion temples and the spectacular views of Athens below. Then walk to nearby Mars’ Hill (Areopagus) (Acts 17:22) where the Apostle Paul spoke to the Athenians about the one and only God. Our tour will finish with a panoramic bus tour to see the city highlights. Dinner will be served at the hotel. Overnight: Athens Meals: Breakfast & Dinner |
| DAY 4: FRI – CRUISE TO MYKONOS | Transfer to the port of Lavrion to embark on your Greek Island cruise. Sail at 1.00 p.m. and enjoy lunch onboard. Our first port of call is Mykonos at 6.00 pm, where we have free time for walking and exploring the town. Stroll on your own through the whitewashed, flower-decked alleyways, climbing to the sculpture church of Paraportiani or along the waterfront of “Little Venice” to the famous windmills. Enjoy dinner on board and sail for Kusadasi, Turkey at 11.00 p.m. Possibility to celebrate mass at a Catholic Church in Athens. Overnight: Cruise Meals: Breakfast & Dinner |
| DAY 5: SAT – KUSADASI & PATMOS | Arrive at Kusadasi port in Turkey at 7.00 am. This is the starting point for our tour to Ancient Ephesus (Acts 18:19-21). The Apostle Paul preached to the Ephesians, lived and worked here for a number of years. We tour the spectacular ruins in the city founded in the 10th century B.C. we also visit the House of Virgin Mary. After the visit, we return to the port for re-embarkation at lunchtime and sail to Patmos. Arrive in Patmos (Rev 1:9) in the afternoon and enjoy a guided tour to the Monastery of John the Evangelist where he was exiled and wrote the Book of Revelation. We also visit the Grotto of the Revelation (Cave of Apocalypse) before embarking on the cruise ship. Sail to Heraklion, Crete and enjoy dinner onboard. Possibility to celebrate mass at the House of Virgin Mary Overnight: Cruise Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner |
| DAY 6: SUN – CRETE & SANTORINI | At 7.00 a.m. we arrive in Heraklion, Crete (Acts 27:7-13). You can join the optional excursion to the Minoan Palace of Knossos, home of King Minos and the legendary Minotaur (half-bull and half-man). We sail for Santorini at 12.00 pm, the island with the most magnificent landscape! Ride the cable car up to the white-washed town of Thera, perched high on the rim of the ancient volcano. Set sail back to the port of Lavrion at 9:30 p.m. Possibility to attend mass at the local Catholic Church in Heraklion. Overnight: Cruise Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner |
| DAY 7: MON – ATHENS – METEORA MONASTERIES – KALAMBAKA | Disembark after breakfast on board. Meet the local guide and board the bus for a journey to Central & Northern Greece! Upon arrival in the town of Kalambaka, we enjoy a spectacular drive up to visit two Meteora Monasteries, which are built on the top of colossal symmetrical gray and reddish boulders high above the ground. They were first built in the 14th century by monks seeking isolation and salvation and are now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Check-in at the hotel. Dinner and overnight in Kalambaka. Overnight: Kalambaka Meals: Breakfast & Dinner |
| DAY 8: TUE – BEREA – THESSALONICA | Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. We continue our journey to Thessalonica. On our way we will stop in Berea (Acts 17:10-15) to see the mosaic monument commemorating the Apostle Paul’s preaching. Later in the afternoon, check-in at the hotel in Thessalonica. Enjoy the evening at your own leisure. Take a walk by the seaside and explore the beautiful city center. Overnight: Thessalonica Meals: Breakfast & Dinner |
| DAY 9: WED – PHILIPPI – KAVALA – THESSALONICA | In the morning, we start our city tour of Thessalonica. We see the Old City Walls, the White Tower, Galerius Arch and the Rotunda. Continue with a drive to Philippi, where the Apostle Paul established a strong church and sent his letter (Acts 16:9-33). We see the river where Lydia is said to have been baptized, the ruins of a prison where the Apostle Paul and Sylas had been kept, the Agora, 5th and 6th century Basilica and the Theater. After the visit, we continue to Kavala, the ancient port of Neapolis (Acts 16:11) where we enjoy a panoramic tour before returning to Thessalonica for an overnight stay. Possibility to celebrate mass at the site of Philippi. Overnight: Thessalonica Meals: Breakfast & Dinner |
| DAY 10: THU – THESSALONIKI – ISTANBUL | Transfer to the airport for your flight to Istanbul, continuing our journey into the lands of Asia Minor where early Christianity continued to grow and spread. Upon arrival in Istanbul, meet your guide. Transfer to your hotel for donner and overnight. Afternoon free. Overnight: Istanbul Meals: Breakfast & Dinner |
| DAY 11: FRI- ISTANBUL | Today we explore the remarkable city of Istanbul, a unique metropolis that bridges Europe and Asia and served as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Our tour includes the magnificent Hagia Sophia, one of the greatest architectural achievements of the ancient world and for centuries the largest church in Christendom. We continue to Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman sultans and a place filled with imperial treasures and historic artifacts. In the afternoon enjoy a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus, sailing between two continents while admiring the elegant palaces, mosques, and fortresses lining the shores. We conclude the day with a visit to the colorful Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world. Overnight: Istanbul Meals: Breakfast & Dinner |
| DAY 12: FRI – ISTANBUL – IZNIK | Today we travel to the historic town of Iznik, known in antiquity as Nicaea. This city played a pivotal role in Christian history as the site of the First Ecumenical Council in 325 AD, where the Nicene Creed was formulated. During our visit we explore the ancient city walls, the lakeside setting, and several important Christian landmarks associated with the early church councils. Return to Istanbul in the afternoon. Overnight: Istanbul Meals: Breakfast & Dinner |
| DAY 13: SAT – ISTANBUL – KAYSERI – CAPPADOCIA | Transfer to Istanbul Airport for the flight to Kayseri. Upon arrival we drive into the extraordinary region of Cappadocia, famous for its dramatic volcanic landscape and early Christian heritage. We begin exploring the area with visits to Pasabag, known for its unique fairy chimney formations, and the town of Avanos, renowned for its pottery traditions. We also visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring rock-cut churches and monasteries decorated with beautiful Byzantine frescoes. Overnight: Cappadocia Meals: Breakfast & Dinner |
| DAY 14 SUN- CAPPADOCIA | Optional early morning hot air balloon flight over the valleys of Cappadocia. After breakfast we continue exploring the region including Rose Valley, the village of Cavusin, and Ortahisar Castle. We also visit the remarkable Kaymakli Underground City, where early Christians carved out entire subterranean communities to escape persecution. The day concludes with a stop at Pigeon Valley, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Overnight: Cappadocia Meals: Breakfast & Dinner |
| DAY 15: MON – DEPARTURE | Transfer to Kayseri Airport for your departure flight. |
Tour Cost
Costs: While international airfare is not yet available for booking, the total estimated cost including flights is expected to range between $5,800 – $6,800 per person, depending on the departure city and airfare availability at the time of booking.
The above pricing is based on a minimum of 16 participants. While Sacred Travel Paths will do its utmost to maintain the listed prices, adjustments may be necessary should the minimum number of participants not be reached.
What’s Included
- Land Package Includes
- Flight from Thessaloniki to Istanbul
- Flights to and from Kayseri
- 3 Nights’ accommodation in Athens at 4* Hotel Golden Age or similar.
- 3 Nights accommodation at Millennium Golden Horn Istanbul on HB basis
- 2 Nights accommodation at Borcelo Cappadocia on HB basis
- Daily breakfast and dinner at hotel.
- 1 Dinner at local restaurant in Turkey
- Hotel Resilience / Green tax (as per 2026).
- All land transportation and tours as outlined in the itinerary by deluxe motor coach including air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.
- Highway tolls (as per 2026).
- Bus drivers’ porterage.
- Comprehensive sightseeing tours and activities with the services of local government licensed, Bible oriented, English-speaking guides throughout.
- All entrance admission tickets to the archaeological, historical sites and museums as outlined in the itinerary (as per 2026).
- All bus transfers upon arrival and departure with English-speaking assistant/representative.
- Whisper headsets during the guided tours.
- Hotel service charges, local taxes and VAT.
- Cruise Package Includes:
- 3-Night Cruise to the Greek Islands & Turkey with embarkation in Lavrio, based on inside IB / outside XB cabin category, with private facilities (shower/bathtub, washbasin, toilet).
- Port fees and gratuities ($149 per person).
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Unlimited filtered coffee, tea, water, and juice during restaurant hours (opening hours usually 6:30 am-10:00 pm).
- Unlimited free-pour sodas with meals in main restaurants (Thalassa & Taverna).
- Entertainment and daily activities onboard.
- Complimentary Essential Wi-Fi (Essential Wi-Fi allows basic browsing, emails, and messaging. Social media and streaming require an upgrade, available onboard).
- Two (2) shore excursions organized by the cruise line:
- Ancient Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary – in Kusadasi
- St John’s Monastery & the Grotto of Apocalypse – in Patmos
- Travel experienced English speaking escort on board for the group.
What’s not included
- Lunches during the land tour
- All personal expenses
- Porterage at airport, ports
- Travel and trip cancelation insurance, medical health and accident insurance
- Optional Travel Protection: Trip cancellation/interruption, baggage delay/loss, emergency accident and sickness medical expense, and emergency evacuation/repatriation. Please refer to the Travel Protection section.
- Passport fees. A passport valid six months beyond date of reentry to the U.S. is required.
- International or domestic air transportation to/from Greece.
- Airport & security taxes, fuel surcharge.
- Sustainable Development Fee Per Person for Greek ports (below fees applied in 2025):
- Santorini & Mykonos (20€ June-September, 12€ April-May & October, 4€ November – March)
- Kusadasi (none)
- All other Greek ports (5€ June-September, 3€ April-May & October, 1€ November – March)
- The onboard system will charge your account on board when you scan your card to disembark at each of the ports. Should you choose to not disembark at a destination, you will not be charged. The total amount for all islands is to be paid by each person to the cruise ship directly upon check out.
- Celestyal does not determine or control these charges and does not retain any profit from the collection of this fee. Celestyal acts as an intermediary for the collection and remittance in full of the Tourism Sustainability, in compliance with legal obligations.
- Any meals, drinks and beverages not mentioned above during land tour (other than tap water during meals)
- Tips and gratuities to local tour-guides, bus drivers, escorts/assistants/representatives, hotel & restaurant staff.
- All personal expenses.
- Porterage at airport, hotel & port.
- Medical Health & Accident insurance.
- Travel and trip cancellation insurance.
- Optional shore-excursions offered during the cruise, not included in the package price.
- Any other items not specifically mentioned as being included.
Payment Terms and Conditions
PAYMENT SCHEDULE:
Your reservation and deposit of $500 per person are requested immediately to fulfil the group deadline requirements. Note that space is limited and reservations are taken on a first come, first served basis. A second payment of $1,500 is due on February 15, 2027. Final payment is due no later than April 15, 2027. The fee for late payment is $50 per traveler. For credit cards, STP accepts Visa and MasterCard (add 2.5 % credit card fees).
PAYMENT METHODS
Participants may pay securely online via credit card through our encrypted payment gateway. Alternatively, payment can be made by bank or wire transfer. Bank details will be provided upon request. For bank transfers, please ensure your name is clearly referenced with the payment and that the full amount is received after any transfer fees.
REFUND POLICY:
All cancellations must be in writing. There is no refund for partial or unused land arrangements. The following penalties will apply:
- Up to February 14, 2027 – $150 per person administrative fee plus any unrecoverable deposits;
- February 15, 2027 through April 14, 2027 – Deposit plus any unrecoverable payments to hotels, tour operators or airlines
- April 15 though May 4, 2027 – 50% non-refundable
- May 5, 2027 or after – No refund.
Travel Protection
Travel protection is optional but strongly recommended. It can provide important coverage for trip cancellation or interruption, baggage loss, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events.
For travel to Israel and Jordan, we recommend the Israel travel insurance plan offered by Insurance Consultants International (ICI): Click here for more information about the plan
Please note: Sacred Travel Paths acts only as a third-party tour operators and is not affiliated with or responsible for the sale, coverage, or claims process of any travel insurance policy. Travelers are responsible for reviewing the policy details, speaking directly with the provider, and purchasing coverage independently.
Conditions and Responsibility
Sacred Travel Paths (STP) provides customized travel planning throughout the world for group travelers who have a variety of reasons and goals for travel. The goals and/or opinions of these groups do not reflect or imply the position of STP in any matter. Brochure contents may not be duplicated without permission from STP. In offering these travel arrangements, Sacred Travel Paths (STP) acts solely as an agent for the sale of air transportation and other travel-related services. STP maintains no control over the personnel, equipment, or operations of any entity furnishing services, products, or accommodations. STP assumes no responsibility or liability for, and shall not be expected, asked, or required to pay for any injury, damage, expense, personal injury, property damage, inconvenience, or any other loss experienced by reason of: Any intentional, wrongful, negligent, or unauthorized act or omission on the part of any supplier, its agents, or employees. Any defect, breakdown, or other failure of any vehicle, equipment, service, product, or other instrumentality which is owned, operated, or otherwise used by a supplier. Any intentional, wrongful, negligent, or unauthorized act or omission on the part of any other party not under the direct control of STP. Financial problems causing nonperformance by any supplier. Any other cause, condition, or event whatsoever beyond the direct control of STP. STP cannot guarantee any rates, bookings, or reservations of any supplier. Your retention of tickets, reservations, or bookings after issuance shall constitute consent to the foregoing provisions. All prices quoted are subject to change if airlines or ground operators increase their prices, the U.S. dollar is devalued significantly against foreign currencies, the group falls below minimum numbers, or a fuel surcharge, government tax, or user’s fee is imposed. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owners at all times. STP reserves the right to withdraw from any tour any tour member whose conduct is incompatible with the interests of the group as a whole. The above Conditions and Responsibility also cover the group leader(s) and their respective organizations.