Turkey: Steps of St. Paul

Day 1 — Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul. Transfer to your hotel. Dinner and overnight in Istanbul

Day 2 — Istanbul

Today we start the visit with Hagia Sophia — now a mosque, formerly the world's greatest cathedral. Afternoon cruise on the Bosphorus.

Day 3 — Istanbul

The Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. Afternoon: the ancient Hippodrome and the Basilica Cistern.

Day 4 — Troy & Pergamon

Drive to Troy — mythical city of the Iliad. Continue to Pergamon (Bergama), one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. Visit the stunning Acropolis and the Red Basilica.

Day 5 — Ephesus

The crown jewel of the tour — the ancient city of Ephesus where St. Paul lived for three years. Visit the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theatre, and the House of the Virgin Mary.

Day 6 — Seven Churches

Visit the sites of Smyrna (Izmir), Thyatira (Akhisar), and Sardis. All among the Seven Churches addressed in the Book of Revelation.

Day 7 — Pamukkale

Hierapolis — ancient city where the Apostle Philip was martyred. Marvel at the stunning white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, the "Cotton Castle".

Day 8 — Konya & Cappadocia

Visit Konya, home of the Whirling Dervishes and Rumi's tomb. Evening arrival in the magical landscape of Cappadocia.

Day 9 — Cappadocia

Optional hot-air balloon flight at sunrise. Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum, underground city of Derinkuyu, and the valley of the fairy chimneys.

Day 10 — Tarsus & Antioch

Visit Tarsus — birthplace of St. Paul. Drive to Antakya (ancient Antioch), where followers of Jesus were first called Christians. Visit St. Peter's Grotto Church.

Day 11 — Departure

Return flight from Adana or Gaziantep. A journey through the New Testament world comes to its close.