St. Paul's Missionary Journey in Turkey & Greece - 18 Days/17 Nights

Arrive at Istanbul Airport, meet with the transfer assistant, and then transfer to the Istanbul hotel. After a short rest, you can discover Istanbul in your free time. We hold a pre-meeting with our guide and provide information about our 17-day tour.
Overnight stay 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.
The 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 - Dinner )

Today, discover Istanbul's natural beauty and historical heritage, 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 thousand and one aromatic spices, Turkish delight, and freshly roasted coffee. Local people come to this market all day long to shop. 
Rustem Pasha Mosque, 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 )

We will take a domestic flight from Istanbul to Hatay or Gaziantep. Antakya (Antioch) was an important centre of early Christianity. This is where the followers of Jesus Christ were first called Christians (Acts 11; 26).
We have a lunch break in a local restaurant after our arrival.
Hatay Mosaic Museum: This magnificent museum exhibits the most comprehensive collection of classical and Roman mosaics, as well as striking sarcophaguses, statues, and objects belonging to Mesopotamian civilisations.
St. Pierre Church is located in a cave on the slope of Starius Mountain, where the first Christians of Asia Minor worshipped. The name Christianity was first declared in this church.
Saint Peter, with St. Paul and Barnabas, used Antioch as a centre to spread Christianity. Thus, the church grew quickly, becoming the third most important Episcopacy after Jerusalem and Rome.
Note: The great earthquake on February 6, 2023, destroyed Hatay province. You feel sorry for Hatay City and its miserable people. The state is rebuilding the whole city and houses.
Overnight stay in Hatay. (Breakfast - Dinner)

After breakfast, we continue our sacred journey from Hatay to Tarsus via sightseeing in Adana.  Tarsus, once the capital of the province of Cilicia, was also where Mark Antony and Cleopatra first met.
Tarsus is an important pilgrimage site for Christians, following in the footsteps of St. Paul. According to the Acts of the Apostles, Paul was born as "Saul of Tarsus" but grew up in Jerusalem, ultimately becoming the "Apostle Paul" after his encounter with Christ (Acts 9:11; 21:39; 22:3). Tarsus is a city where the early Christian communities flourished and played a significant role in the spread of the Gospel.
Visit the St. Paul Church, the St. Paul Well, and the ancient road St. Paul used during his journeys.
Lunch break in Tarsus and set out through Konya.
Overnight stay in Konya. (Breakfast - Dinner)

Konya, known as Iconium during antiquity, was frequently visited by Paul the Apostle and Barnabas as part of their missionary efforts. During her first missionary journey, Paul preached and encouraged believers (Acts 14: 1-6).

Visit the Mevlana Museum, which houses the tomb of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Balkhi, the great 13th-century Persian poet and founder of the Order of the Whirling Dervishes.

 Afterwards, visit the ancient Sille Village, which is 5000 years old. It was one of the first centres of the Early Christian era and an important stopping point on the Christian pilgrimage route between Istanbul and Jerusalem.  Visit the Church of Hagia Elena, built in 327 AD by Helena, the mother of the Byzantine Emperor Constantine..
After a 2-hour 150 km journey, we arrive in Yalvaç. Take lunch in a local restaurant.
Visit Yalvaç (Antioch in Pisidia). This ancient city was once a Roman colony that Paul the Apostle visited on his First Missionary Journey with Barnabas.
This city marked a significant turning point in Paul’s ministry, as it became the first place to have a fully Gentile Christian community.  You will visit the remains of the Church of Saint Paul. This church was built in the location of the synagogue that Paul preached in (Acts 13:14-52). We studied the archaeological site and visited the Yalvaç Archaeological Museum, where many of the region's unearthed artefacts are displayed.
Afterwards, drive to Antalya via Egridir Lake, Turkey’s famous and touristic resort city on the Mediterranean coast.
Overnight stay in Antalya (Breakfast - Dinner)

We will begin our tour with the sights of Antalya, a city home to numerous civilisations for thousands of years, owing to its mild Mediterranean climate, beautiful sea, and stunning geography. St. Paul came to Antalya on his first missionary journey.
Perge: We will visit the archaeological site of Perge, a principal city of Pamphylia that was visited twice by Paul the Apostle and his companion St. Barnabas (Acts 13:13–14 and 14:25). Saint Paul, Barnabas, and his cousin John Mark arrived in Perge during their first missionary journey in AD 47 or 48 (Acts 13:13, 14:25). Here, we will explore Perge’s extensive ruins, which include a well-preserved theatre, the Agora, Roman baths, a collonaded street, a grand gymnasium, the necropolis, a memorial fountain, and the Greek and Roman gates. 
Aspendos: We will visit the ancient Greco-Roman city of Aspendos to view its well-preserved theatre. Today, concerts and art events are still held in this magnificent venue.
Lunch break at a local restaurant serving Mediterranean flavours. Afterwards, visit Antalya Old City and Kaleiçi.
Hadrian's Gate is one of the most striking Roman structures. It has three gates: the Antalya Clock Tower and the Fluted Minaret. Ottoman-style mansions and buildings in the narrow streets of the historical Kaleiçi district surround the ancient port. Take a boat tour of the Ancient Port, and enjoy the Düden waterfall and city views as you cruise the Antalya coast.
Overnight in Antalya.  ( Breakfast – Dinner )

We set off for Honaz and Pamukkale early in the morning. En route, we visit the sacred site of Colossae. This region has an essential importance in the history of Christianity because St. Paul's Letter to the Colossians was written to a church here.

St. Paul was residing in Ephesus when he sent the letter to Colossae (Acts 19:10). Paul had not visited Colossae at the time of writing his epistle, and it is likely that the gospel was preached by Paul’s companion, Epaphras, who hailed from Colossae (Col. 1:7; 4:12-13).
After visiting Colossae, we will proceed to the ancient city of 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, complete with ancient theatres, marble pathways lined with columns, ruins of basilicas, antique stone water pipes, temples, an agora, and monumental fountains. 
Upon our arrival in Pamukkale, we will have lunch at a restaurant.
Hierapolis, visit the Martyrium of the Apostle Philip, where he was martyred during the persecutions ordered by Domitian. We will 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 the white calcium carbonate behind. The entrance to the Kleopatra thermal pool is an extra payment. 
Overnight in a Thermal hotel in Pamukkale.  ( Breakfast – Dinner )

After breakfast, we continued our journey to Philadelphia, nowadays called Alaşehir.
Philadelphia Church is one of the Seven Holy Churches called 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. Sardes was the capital of the Lydian Kingdom, where the first money was found.
Sardes 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. And Arrive at Izmir.
Izmir: With a history of over 3,000 years, it is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Turkey and the third largest city in Turkey. It is known for its industrial and agricultural income, mild Aegean climate, and friendly people with a modern secular lifestyle.
Smyrna is the second city of the seven churches in the Book of Revelation to receive the message from St. John, which was that of Smyrna. (Rev. 1:11;2:8), and known in the Bible as “The Persecuted Church” (Rev 2:8-11), mentioned as one of the Seven Churches in Asia Minor in the Book of Revelation. Afterwards, we will visit the oldest church of Izmir, the Saint Polycarp Church, the bishop of Smyrna and a student of St. John, who was martyred here in the 2nd century.

We will see what remains of the Agora, the ancient marketplace built in the 4th century B.C.
End of the tour. You may enjoy Kordonboyu and some of Izmir's sights and streets during the night.
Overnight in Izmir. (Breakfast - Dinner)

After breakfast, arrive at ancient Ephesus, 20 km from Kusadasi.
Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of today's best-preserved Roman cities. 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 located in the forest on the side of a mountain 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.
We will have a lunch break at a selected local restaurant. Afterwards,
Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Saint John Church is the resting place of St. John the Evangelist. Houses the tomb of St. John under the central dome.  St. John, author of the Fourth Gospel 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.
We will visit Şirince village, famous for its 300-year-old houses, history, beautiful scenery, handmade local fruit wines and delicious food.
At the end of the tour, there is a shopping break for souvenirs and a Fashion Show in a Leather Fabric Outlet centre.   
Overnight in Izmir or Kusadasi.  (Breakfast – Dinner)

After breakfast, we will set off for Akhisar (approx. 100 km). Upon arrival, we will visit the Church of Thyatira, 
Thyatira Church, one of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor [Rev. 1:11; 2:18-24; Acts 16:14]. Paul's sermons in 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).  
Afterwards, we will drive to Pergamon (Bergama) and have lunch at a local restaurant. 
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. 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 antiquity 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.
This concludes our tour. We will then drive to Ayvalik and check into our hotel.
Overnight in Ayvalik or Altinoluk   (Breakfast –Dinner)

After breakfast, we will visit ancient Assos, one of the significant settlements of the Ancient Age, founded in Behramkale Village (3000-1200 BC). The Temple of Athena, built on a hill, offers a magnificent view and a mystical atmosphere. On the last leg of his third missionary journey, St. Paul travelled from Alexandria Troas to Assos (Acts 20:5-6, 13-14) and met his companions advancing by sea. St. Paul and his companions set sail from the port of Assos to the island of Lesbos on their way to Jerusalem.
Then, we continue our exploration of the other ancient city, Alexandria Troas.
Alexandria Troas is located in the Dalyan village of Çanakkale's Ezine district. It holds significance in Christian history as St. Paul visited during his second missionary journey (Acts 16:9) and delivered sermons during his third journey (Acts 20:6-10).
Our next stop is Troia.  We have a Lunch break on the road.
Troy is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is 27 km away from Çanakkale. We will visit the real-life location of the legendary Trojan War described in Homer's Iliad. Visit the Troy Museum, ancient ruins, and city walls, where the legendary iconic wooden Horse and modern and rich ancient artefacts are exhibited.
Overnight in Canakkale. (Breakfast – Dinner)

After breakfast in Çanakkale, we will cross the Dardanelles and arrive at the Ipsala Customs Station (150 km). Pass to Kipou on the Greek side and change vehicles.  After customs formalities, we will head to Kavala.
Kavala is known as the ancient city of Neapolis (Acts 16:11). Paul came to Kavala with his disciples Silas and Timothy from Troas. Since Kavala was the first European city to adopt Christianity, it took the name Hristoupolis. We will visit the Roman Aqueduct and the ruins of the Acropolis. After a lunch break in Kavala, we will continue to Thessaloniki.
Philippi: The Apostle Paul visited Philippi around 49-50 AD and founded one of the first Christian communities in Europe there. His Letter to the Philippians in the New Testament is addressed to this community. 
Lydia, the first European convert to Christianity, was baptised near Philippi.
Overnight stay in Thessaloniki. (Breakfast - Dinner)

 Breakfast and city tour in Thessaloniki, where Paul preached the gospel on his second and third missionary journeys. He wrote letters known as "The First and Second Epistles to the Thessalonians" for the first Christians of this city. Here, we will see the White Tower, the symbol of Thessaloniki, the Church of Saint Demetrius, St. Sofia Church, and the Byzantine castle.
Afterwards, we will have lunch at a local restaurant and head for Vergina, the legendary burial place of Macedonian Kings. The tomb of King Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great, who significantly contributed to the development of Hellenism in Greek lands, is located here.
Our next place to visit is Veria (Berea), which Paul visited (Acts 17.10-14). On his visit to Veria town in AD 50, St. Paul encountered a more "noble" Jewish community. He also met his friend Sopatros on his return trip to Asia from his missionary trip, with whom he travelled together for a long time.
During our trip, we will visit the ancient synagogue where Saint Paul preached. Finally, we will head for Kalambaka.
Overnight stay in Kalambaka. (Breakfast - Dinner)

After breakfast in Kalambaka, we will visit the Monasteries built on top of Giant Rocks, which offer magnificent views of the Meteora region's geography.
Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the 14th century, monks built monasteries on high, steep, and gigantic rocks in Meteora to seek an isolated place away from oppression and occupation. We will admire the old manuscripts, icons, colourful original frescoes, and unique mosaics in these churches built on rocks and get information from the priests in charge. Access to these Meteora monasteries, most of which did not have stairs, was provided by a manual system made with a rope and pulley system.
At the end of our Meteora tour, we will have lunch in a local restaurant and continue to Delphi.
Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Greece's major archaeological sites. Visit the Temple of Apollo, famous for its treasury of the Athenians, the Stoa of Athens, the Argive Kings monument, the Polygonal Wall, the Platea monument, and its Prophecy.
Overnight stay in Delphi. (Breakfast - Dinner)

After breakfast, departure towards Athens.  First visit Areopagus Hill (Mars Hill). The Apostle St. Paul, who first introduced Christianity to the Athenians, preached here (Acts 17:22-31). We see a Bronze plaque with Paul's sermon, a view of the Acropolis and Athens.
We explore the Athena Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Propylaea. Our guide provides detailed information about ancient Greek religion and architecture.
Walk through the charming historical area under the Acropolis, Plaka, and Anafiotika (Old Town). It is great for photos, souvenirs, and local culture. Discover the hidden Byzantine churches in the small streets.
Take a lunch break at one of the local restaurants in Plaka or Monastiraki. Try dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, or genista.
Unknown Soldier and the Royal Palace, and the agora are among the places we will see.
Overnight stay in Athens. (Breakfast)

We start the day with breakfast at our hotel in Athens and leave for Corinth (approx. 90 km).
A short photo break at the Corinth Canal, built in the 19th century and with high walls.
Visit the archaeological site and museum of ancient Corinth, known from two letters of St. Paul in the New Testament, and the places where St. Paul preached (Acts 18.1 - 18).
The Bema of the Apostle Paul (Acts 18:12-17). The place where Paul was tried before Gallio. A plaque with a biblical passage. The Temple of Apollo - pre-Christian heritage. The Agora (Forum) where Paul preached. The museum where early Christian works, inscriptions and Roman artefacts are exhibited is the place we will visit.
Lunch Break in Modern Corinth or Loutraki.
After the day tour, return to Athens and have free time.
Overnight Stay in Athens.  (Breakfast) 

After breakfast, transfer to the Athens Airport for your onward flight to your country.
Our tour concludes here, and we hope to see you on another tour. (Breakfast)