Embark on St. Paul's Journey: Discovering the Apostle's Path in Turkey, a transformative experience that goes beyond a typical tour. This journey combines rich history, deep spirituality, and vibrant cultural immersion, allowing you to connect with the profound legacy of St. Paul. Walk in the footsteps of the Apostle as you explore ancient cities, sacred sites, and stunning landscapes, creating unforgettable memories and insights along the way.
Arrival in Izmir
Stop 1: Izmir
Arrive in the vibrant city of Izmir, a historical hub that has seen many civilizations. After your arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in and rest.
Duration: 12 hours
Admission: Free
Exploring Izmir
Stops: 3
Miletus Ancient City
Begin your journey at Miletus, an important site where St. Paul met his followers during his third missionary journey. Explore the birthplace of philosophy and visit the impressive theatre, which once hosted grand performances.
Duration: 3 hours
Admission: Included
Ancient City of Ephesus
Discover Ephesus, a city that exemplified the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Walk through the ruins, including the magnificent Library of Celsus and the ancient amphitheater. Note that the House of Virgin Mary is an optional visit for an additional fee.
Duration: 3 hours
Admission: Included
Saint Polycarp Church
Before returning to Izmir, visit the Church of St. Polycarp, a fine example of French architecture. This site holds deep significance for early Christians.
Duration: 1 hour
Admission: Included
Pergamon and Surroundings
Stops: 4
Pergamon Ancient City
Start your exploration in Pergamon, closely linked to the Book of Revelation. Visit the Acropolis, where the Altar of Zeus and an impressive theatre await you. Understand how this Hellenistic city influenced early Christian communities.
Duration: 3 hours
Admission: Included
Akhisar (Thyatira)
Continue to Thyatira, celebrated for its rich trade and craftsmanship. Examine archaeological remnants that speak to a vibrant community.
Duration: 2 hours
Admission: Free
Sardis (Sardes)
Experience the splendor of Sardis, an ancient capital famed for its wealth. Explore the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, the Gymnasium, and the striking Temple of Cybele. The Sardis Synagogue showcases the city’s diverse religious heritage.
Duration: 2 hours
Admission: Included
Alasehir (Philadelphia)
Conclude your day in Philadelphia, known as the City of Brotherly Love. Walk the streets once traversed by St. Paul, and discover the ancient ruins, including remnants of city walls that reflect the early Christian presence.
Duration: 1 hour
Admission: Free
Hierapolis and Laodicea
Stops: 2
Pamukkale Thermal Pools
Visit the stunning Pamukkale, known for its thermal springs and travertine terraces. Here, you can also find the tomb of St. Philip. Enjoy the natural beauty and even take a dip in the ancient pool.
Duration: 4 hours
Admission: Included
Laodicea
Explore Laodicea, the final church of the region as mentioned in the Book of Revelation.
Duration: 2 hours
Admission: Included
Overnight accommodation in a Pamukkale hotel.
Konya and Antioch of Pisidia
Stops: 2
Antioch of Pisidia
Depart from Pamukkale early in the morning to follow in the footsteps of St. Paul. Your first stop is Antioch of Pisidia, an essential location in early Christianity.
Duration: 2 hours
Admission: Included
Konya Province
Visit St. Paul's Church in Konya, a site rich with historical significance linked to the Apostle Paul.
Duration: 1 hour
Admission: Free
Journey to Cappadocia
Stops: 3
Cappadocia
Arrive in Cappadocia, the cradle of early Christian communities. Discover the legacies of figures like Saint Basil and Gregory of Nazianzus, who shaped the theological landscape of the region.
Duration: 2 hours
Admission: Free
Göreme Open-Air Museum
This UNESCO World Heritage site features rock-cut churches and monastic complexes dating back to the 4th century, decorated with beautiful Byzantine frescoes.
Duration: 2 hours
Admission: Included
Ihlara Valley
Embark on a scenic trek through Ihlara Valley, where natural beauty intertwines with historical significance, showcasing ancient churches carved into the cliffs.
Duration: 2 hours
Admission: Included
More of Cappadocia
Stops: 3
Uçhisar Castle
Begin your day at Uçhisar Castle, a natural fortress offering breathtaking views of the unique Cappadocian landscape.
Duration: 2 hours
Admission: Included
Paşabağ Valley
Explore Paşabağ Valley, famed for its fairy chimneys. Experience the enchanting atmosphere while discovering ancient dwellings carved into the rock.
Duration: 2 hours
Admission: Included
Özkonak Underground City
Delve into the underground city of Özkonak, an engineering marvel showcasing the ingenuity of ancient Cappadocians.
Duration: 30 minutes
Admission: Included
Overnight accommodation in a Cappadocia hotel with half board.
Arrival in Istanbul
Stop 1: Istanbul
Fly from Kayseri Airport to Istanbul and transfer to your hotel for the night.
Duration: 1 hour
Admission: Free
Istanbul Highlights
Stops: 3
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
Begin at Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of architecture and a testament to the city’s rich history as a former cathedral and mosque.
Duration: 2 hours
Admission: Included
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
Visit the Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning blue tiles and magnificent domes.
Duration: 1 hour
Admission: Included
Hippodrome
Walk through the Hippodrome, once the center of public life in Byzantine Constantinople, and marvel at its ancient monuments.
Duration: 1 hour
Admission: Included
Free Day in Istanbul
Stop 1: Istanbul
Enjoy a free day in Istanbul. Optional activities include visiting Topkapi Palace or taking a scenic Bosphorus tour.
Duration: 12 hours
Admission: Free
Departure
Stop 1: Istanbul
Conclude your tour with a transfer back to the airport.
Duration: 1 hour
Admission: Free
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