Why This Trip Is Special

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

• Arrival in Istanbul: Land at Istanbul Airport (IST) and transfer to our hotel.

• Check-in: Meet with our Tour Director, at the hotel.

• Orientation Walk: Take a stroll with our Tour Director around the hotel.

Day 2: Istanbul Highlights   (Breakfast, Dinner)

• Hagia Sophia: We begin our exploration at the Hagia Sophia, one of the most significant monuments in the history of Christianity and Islam. Our professional, experienced guide will lead us through its stunning mosaics, architectural grandeur, and transformation from a church to a mosque and now a museum.

• Hippodrome: We wander through the ancient Hippodrome, once the social center of Constantinople, where chariot races, public ceremonies, and political events took place. Our guide will provide insights into its role in early Christian gatherings and Byzantine history.

• Sultanahmet Square: We explore the surrounding area, home to several key historical landmarks. The square, once the heart of the Byzantine Empire, offers a serene space to contemplate Istanbul's rich and diverse past.

• Dinner: We conclude the day with a traditional Turkish welcome dinner at a local restaurant, featuring regional dishes such as mezze, kebabs, and baklava, while enjoying the warm hospitality.

Day 3: Istanbul Sights and Boat Tour (Breakfast)

• Topkapi Palace: We embark on a guided tour of Topkapi Palace, the grand residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Our guide will take us through the Treasury, home to sacred Islamic relics, including the Prophet Muhammad’s cloak and sword, and the harem quarters.

• Grand Bazaar: We dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Our guide will help us navigate its labyrinthine alleys, lined with shops selling spices, textiles, jewelry, and antiques.

• Spice Bazaar: We visit the aromatic Spice Bazaar, a feast for the senses with its colorful array of spices, dried fruits, nuts, and sweets, and learn about their traditional uses in Turkish cuisine.

• Bosphorus Boat Tour: In the afternoon, we enjoy a private boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe and Asia. Our guide will share the historical and strategic significance of the palaces and fortresses lining the shores.

Day 4: Fly to Cappadocia (Breakfast, Dinner)

• Flight to Cappadocia: We take a morning flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia, landing at either Kayseri or Nevşehir Airport.  Enjoy the scenic drive to the heart of Cappadocia.

• Goreme Open-Air Museum: We visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its rock-cut churches adorned with well-preserved frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Our guide provides insight into the monastic life of early Christians.

• Explore Cappadocia: We spend the rest of the day discovering Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes, including the iconic fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and unique geological formations.

Day 5: Cappadocia Adventures    (Breakfast, Dinner)

• Hot Air Balloon Ride (Optional): For an unforgettable experience, we take an early morning hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s surreal landscape, watching the sunrise over the fairy chimneys and valleys.

• Underground City: We visit one of Cappadocia’s fascinating underground cities, such as Derinkuyu or Kaymakli. These subterranean complexes were used by early Christians to hide from Roman persecution, complete with tunnels, storage rooms, and chapels.

• Carpet Workshop: In the afternoon, we visit a local carpet workshop to learn about the art of Turkish carpet weaving, a tradition passed down through generations. Witness the intricate processes involved in creating these beautiful handwoven masterpieces and understand their cultural significance.

Day 6: Drive to Konya  (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

• Drive to Konya: We embark on a scenic drive to Konya, taking approximately 3-4 hours. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes and brief stops at points of interest.

• Mevlana Museum: We explore the Mevlana Museum, the former lodge of the Whirling Dervishes and the mausoleum of Rumi, with our guide providing insights into Sufi teachings.

Day 7: Drive to Pamukkale   (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

• Drive to Pamukkale: We embark on a longer drive to Pamukkale, covering approximately 6-7 hours. Enjoy the picturesque views and stop for a lunch break en route.

• Laodicea: Upon arrival, we visit the ancient ruins of Laodicea, one of the Seven Churches of Asia mentioned in the Book of Revelation. Explore the remains of the city, including the theater, stadium, and ancient streets, and reflect on its historical and biblical significance.

• Hierapolis: We continue to the ancient city of Hierapolis, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and the stunning travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Explore the ancient theater, the Necropolis, and the Temple of Apollo before taking in the surreal beauty of the white terraces, where thermal waters cascade down the hillsides.

• Check-in: Arrive at our hotel in Pamukkale, relax in the thermal pools, and unwind after a day of exploration.

• Dinner: Enjoy a leisurely dinner at the hotel, featuring local and international cuisine.

Day 8: Explore Pamukkale and Drive to Izmir   (Breakfast, Dinner)

• Drive to Izmir: We begin our journey to Izmir, traveling approximately 3-4 hours through the scenic Aegean region.

• Sardis: We stop at Sardis, the ancient capital of Lydia and another of the Seven Churches of Asia. Explore the ruins, including the impressive Temple of Artemis, the ancient synagogue, and the gymnasium, while learning about Sardis’ rich history and its role in early Christianity.

• Philadelphia (Alaşehir): We visit the modern town of Alaşehir, built on the site of ancient Philadelphia, another of the Seven Churches. Discover the remains of the ancient city walls and reflect on the city's spiritual legacy as described in the Book of Revelation.

Day 9: Ephesus and St. John Basilica   (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

• Ephesus: We spend the day exploring the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire and a pivotal site in early Christianity. Walk through the Marble Street, visit the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre where St. Paul preached, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

• St. John Basilica: We visit the Basilica of St. John, located near Ephesus, believed to be the burial site of St. John the Evangelist. Explore the ruins of this 6th-century basilica, including the tomb of St. John, and learn about his influence on the early Christian church.

• Return to Izmir: We spend the evening in Izmir, where we can explore the city's vibrant streets or relax at our hotel.

Day 10: Pergamon and Akhisar   (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

• Pergamon: We take a day trip to Pergamon, an ancient city known for its impressive acropolis and the Asclepion, an ancient healing center dedicated to the god of medicine. Explore the ruins of the theater, the Temple of Trajan, and the library, which once held one of the largest collections of scrolls in the ancient world.

• Akhisar (Thyatira): We continue to Akhisar, the site of ancient Thyatira, another of the Seven Churches of Asia. Although little remains of the ancient city, the visit provides an opportunity to connect with the region’s early Christian heritage and enjoy the local culture.

• Return to Izmir: We return to Izmir for the night, where we can relax or explore more of the city’s lively atmosphere.

Day 11: Fly to Athens   (Breakfast,  Dinner)

• Flight to Athens: We take a morning flight from Izmir to Athens.

• Arrival in Athens: Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel in the city center, ideally located near the historic sites.

• Leisure Time: We spend the afternoon at leisure, either relaxing at the hotel or taking a preliminary stroll through Athens. You might explore the Plaka district, known for its charming streets, shops, and cafes.

Day 12: Athens Highlights  (Breakfast, Dinner)

• Acropolis: We begin our exploration with a visit to the Acropolis, the most iconic landmark of Athens. Ascend to the Parthenon, dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of the city. Visit the Erechtheion with its famous Caryatids and learn about the historical and cultural significance of these ancient structures that have stood the test of time.

• Free Time: We enjoy the afternoon at our own pace. You may choose to visit the Acropolis Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Acropolis, or explore local markets like Monastiraki Flea Market, known for its antiques and curiosities. Alternatively, relax at a café in the Plaka district, soaking in the ambiance of this historic area.

Day 13: Corinth and Farewell Dinner  (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

• Corinth: Take a day trip to ancient Corinth, where St. Paul lived, worked, and wrote his letters to the Corinthians. Explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the Bema (tribunal) where St. Paul was judged, and the ancient agora. Learn about Corinth’s significance in the early Christian world and its strategic location as a major trade hub.

• Return to Athens: We spend the rest of the day exploring Athens or relaxing at our hotel.

• Farewell Dinner: We celebrate the conclusion of our journey with a farewell dinner in Athens. Enjoy a selection of traditional Greek dishes, perhaps at a rooftop restaurant with views of the Acropolis, as we reflect on the experiences and memories of our trip.

Day 14: Fly Back to the US

• Transfer to Athens Airport (ATH): We transfer to Athens Airport (ATH) for our flight back to the US, carrying with us the rich memories and insights gained from our exploration of Biblical Turkey and Greece.

Ephesus Celsus Library, 2nd century A.D