Seven Churches of Revelation Christian Tour - 9 Days

Arrival at Istanbul Airport for the Seven Churches of Revelation—Christianity tour. Our assistant will be waiting for you at the exit point. Transfer to the hotel and check in. You’ll have the rest of the day free. We hold a pre-meeting with our guide and provide information about the tour.
Overnight in Istanbul. 

Meet your guide at the hotel at 08:30, and we’ll start the day's tour. 
Hagia Sophia: Visit the magnificent Hagia Sophia Cathedral, built by Emperor Justinian between 532 and 537. St. Sophia is one of humanity's greatest shared treasures, known as the Church of Divine Wisdom.
Topkapi Palace served as the Ottoman Empire's administrative and legislative centre for over 400 years. Its magnificent craftsmanship, tile decoration, and vast garden are worth a visit. The Treasury houses the golden throne of the Sultans, weapons and clothes decorated with precious stones and diamonds, and the holy relics of the Prophet Muhammad.
Hagia Irene Church is the oldest church in Istanbul and the only church that has not been converted into a mosque.
Take a lunch break and continue our tour.
Hippodrome Square is where horse-chariot races and other events were held during the Byzantine Empire. Here, we can see the Serpent Column from Delphi in Greece, the Egyptian Obelisk, the German Fountain of Wilhelm ll, and the tombs of Ottoman sultans and princes.
Blue Mosque (extra Payment), also known as Sultanahmet Mosque, was built between 1609 and 1617 by Sedefkar Mehmet ağa, the Architect. It is best known for its six minarets and blue Iznik tiles, which lend the mosque its name.
Grand Bazaar, the world's oldest and largest covered bazaar, comprises 61 covered streets. It is home to over 4000 shops. In an exotic and unique atmosphere, it is always bustling with locals and tourists.
Overnight stay in Istanbul. (Breakfast  )

Today, discover Istanbul's natural beauty and rich historical heritage, which is home to ancient religions.
The Spice Bazaar, built by the Ottomans, is Istanbul's second-largest covered bazaar. It attracts attention with its authentic shops selling small souvenirs, a variety of aromatic spices, Turkish delight, and freshly roasted coffee. Local people visit this market throughout the day to shop.
Rustem Pasha Mosque is one of the best examples of Ottoman Architecture. We'll then embark on the boat at Golden Horn Pier.
The Bosphorus Cruise is the finest way to experience Istanbul. Embarked on an enchanting journey along the strait dividing Europe from Asia. As the boat sails through the iconic waterway, you will see Istanbul's most renowned landmarks, such as the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Maiden’s Tower, the historic wooden mansions, the Rumeli Fortress, and the magnificent Bosphorus Bridge.
Lunch break at a fish restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus. Then, visit the Balat neighbourhood, where history and colours meet.
Chora Church (Kariye Museum) was built in 530 by the Byzantine emperor Justinian. It contains 14th-century mosaics and frescoes of great artistic value.  Visit St. George Church,
Balat is one of the oldest and most colourful neighbourhoods in Istanbul. Its historic churches, mosques, and lively streets offer visitors a unique atmosphere. The churches, synagogues and mosques reflect the neighbourhood's religious and cultural diversity. While the colourful historic houses on the narrow streets offer perfect photo frames, the friendly tradesmen and locals add a warm spirit to this neighbourhood.
Overnight stay in Istanbul. (Breakfast )

Early departure from Istanbul to Izmir (approx. 480 km - 6 hrs). Lunch break in a local restaurant on the way. 
Thyatira Church, one of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor [Rev. 1:11; 2:18 - 24; Acts 16:14]. Paul's sermons in the city of Philippi, Macedonia, mention Akhisar (Thyatira) and the church there. He describes Thyatira as the hometown of a wealthy purple dye merchant named Lydia, who worshipped God. (Acts 16:14)
Arrive at Izmir, the third-largest city in Turkey and a long-time centre for Jewish and Christian communities. In Paul's day, Izmir was known as Smyrna (Rev. 2:8-11).
The Christian community of Smyrna is mentioned in the Book of Revelation, written by the Apostle John.
Smyrna Church is the second city in the Seven Churches of the Book of Revelation to receive messages from St. John (Rev. 1:11; 2:8). Visit the glorious Agora and observe the remains of basilicas and architectural works from the Roman period.
Afterwards, visit Saint Polycarp Church. This church was built in the name of the bishop of Smyrna and a student of St. John, who was martyred here in the 2nd century.
Accommodation in Izmir. (Breakfast  - Dinner)

After breakfast, we continued our journey to Philadelphia, now known as Alaşehir.
The Philadelphia Church is one of the Seven Holy Churches referred to as the "Faithful Church" in the Bible (Rev. 3:7-13). Home to one of the Christian communities, Philadelphia is famous for its enduring, persistent and faithful historical and cultural significance. The biblical reference speaks to the congregation's unwavering commitment to their faith.
Ancient Sardis was the capital of the Lydian Kingdom, where the first coins were discovered.
Sardis Church is one of the Seven Churches referred to in the Bible as “The Dead Church” (Rev 3:1-6).  The biblical reference highlights the challenges faced by the early Christians, highlighting the need for revival and spiritual awakening within the congregation. As you tour the archaeological ruins of Sardis, you will gain new insight into the spiritual lessons conveyed in the book of Revelation.
Visit the great Temple of Artemis and the Temple of Cybele, which was converted into a Byzantine Church, the Sardis Gymnasium, and the reconstructed Synagogue.

Have a lunch break at a local restaurant en route. We will proceed to the ancient city of Pamukkale.
Hierapolis was founded in the 2nd century BC and was an important religious centre during the Roman period, an ancient city famous for its thermal waters and sacred sites.
Hierapolis, meaning the holy city, was an ancient centre of Pagan Culture. The Apostle Philip lived here. The Dominicans martyred him, and later, Hierapolis became one of the centres of Christianity.
Explore the Gate of Domitian, the Arcadian Way, the Frentirus Gate, the Temple of Apollo, the Necropolis, and the Pamukkale Theatre. Stroll around the grave monuments honouring heroes and visit the museum.
Pamukkale: We will conclude our day with a leisurely walk on the travertine terraces formed by the flow of thermal waters. The thermal waters release carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide into the atmosphere, leaving behind white calcium carbonate. The entrance to the Kleopatra thermal pool is an extra payment. 
Overnight in a lovely thermal hotel in Pamukkale.  (Breakfast - Dinner)

After breakfast, set out for Ephesus and Kusadasi. First visit Laodicea.
Laodicea Church is another of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor [Rev. 1:11; 3:14; Col. 2:1; 4:13-16].
The Christians of Laodicea (Rev. 3:14-22) were reprimanded for being lukewarm, "You are neither cold nor hot" (Rev. 3:15), and for being too comfortable in blending pagan and Christian beliefs. Laodicea reveals an ancient city as remarkable as Ephesus.
Arrive in Selçuk and take Lunch in a local restaurant. Next, visit St. John Church and the İsabey Mosque.
Saint John Church is the resting place of St. John the Evangelist. Houses the tomb of St. John under the central dome.  St. John, the author of the Gospel of John and the Book of Revelation, was one of Christ's closest disciples. He wrote his Bible in Ephesus in 96 AD and the Book of Revelation on the Greek island of Patmos.
Note: Ayasuluk Hill, where St. John lived, is a special place because three important places of worship for the three major religions coexist here: the Temple of Artemis for Paganism, the St. John Church for Christians, and the Isabey Mosque, the place of worship for Muslims. The distance between the temples of these three religions ranges from 100 to 300 meters, as they face each other.
Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Overnight stay in Kuşadası or Izmir. ( Breakfast -Dinner )

Today, our tour begins in Ephesus, one of the most important of the Seven Churches in Asia Minor.
After breakfast, arrive at ancient Ephesus, 20 km from Kusadasi.
Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world today. We will walk through history along the marble streets lined with wonderful public buildings, including the Baths of Scholastica, the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Grand Theatre, which has a capacity of 25,000.

The House of the Virgin Mary: This small, modest stone house is situated in the forest on the side of a mountain, approximately 9 km from Ephesus. Christian pilgrims from all over the world visit it. St. John brought Mary to Ephesus, following Jesus Christ's advice to his mother (John 19:27).
The Book of Revelation highlights the Ephesus Church as “The Loveless Church” (Rev 2:1-7). It is thought that the Gospel of John was written here. Apostle Paul preached to the Ephesians and lived there for three years.
Have a lunch break at a selected local restaurant.
Visit Şirince village, renowned for its 300-year-old houses, rich history, stunning scenery, handmade local fruit wines, and delicious cuisine.
At the end of the tour, there is a shopping break for souvenirs and a fashion show at a Leather Fabric Outlet centre.   
Accommodation in Izmir or Kusadasi. (Breakfast - Dinner)

After breakfast, we will set off for Bergama (approx. 190 km)
Pergamon is a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE site; visit the Acropolis of Pergamon, which is perched atop a 1,000-foot windswept mountain, and the Theatre of Pergamon, the steepest theatre of the ancient world.
Pergamon Church: Revelation 2:12-16 describes the city as “The Seat of Satan," referring to the altar of Zeus, where we will take a moment to reflect on the fulfilment of Scripture. According to the passage, the church in Pergamon (2:12-17) existed where Satan had his throne.
Asklepion entrance fee (extra), the renowned ancient medical centre.
Red Basilica in Pergamon – A Marvel of Ancient Architecture, located in the centre of Bergama.  The Red Basilica is one of the most striking landmarks in Pergamon, Turkey. Originally built as a massive Roman temple dedicated to Egyptian gods, it became one of the Seven Churches of Revelation, symbolising its transformation into an early Christian site.
At the end of the tour, we will have lunch at a local restaurant and continue our journey to Istanbul (approx. 4 hrs).
Accommodation in Istanbul. (Breakfast)

Free time until your transfer to Istanbul Airport. Our tour concludes with your transfer to the Airport for your departure flight.  We hope to see you on another Turkiye tour. (Breakfast)
Customised Tours
Upon your request, we can create a tour program and offer an itinerary that suits your personal, educational, cultural, and budgetary requirements. Please get in touch with us with your requests.