The Journey Begins: We’ll meet you at the Izmir Airport or your hotel to kick off this incredible journey. We start at the Church of Smyrna, a community that stayed remarkably faithful even under intense pressure.
Ancient Pergamum: From there, we drive north to the towering Acropolis of Pergamon. You’ll stand where the Altar of Zeus once stood and look out over the valley before we head back to Izmir for a restful evening.
The Lydian Path: After a good breakfast, we’ll explore the ruins of Thyatira, then move on to Sardis, the once-wealthy capital where the first coins were minted.
Faith and Endurance: We’ll finish the day in Philadelphia, the “City of Brotherly Love,” a place commended for its endurance, before we reach Pamukkale to settle in for the night.
Philip’s Legacy: We spend the morning in Hierapolis, focusing on the Martyrium and Tomb of St. Philip. You’ll also have some time to take in the surreal white calcium terraces of Pamukkale.
The Lukewarm Church: In the afternoon, we visit Laodicea, where St. John famously addressed the “lukewarm” congregation. Then, it’s off to the coast for an overnight stay in Kusadasi.
Exploring Ephesus: A full day dedicated to Ephesus, the city where St. Paul preached and St. John lived. Walking through the Library of Celsus and the Grand Theater really puts the scale of ancient life into perspective.
Sacred Ground: We’ll also visit the House of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. John, which is believed to be his final resting place. We’ll stay in Kusadasi again tonight.
Eastbound: Today we trade the sea for the mountains. We’ll get you to the airport for your flight to Cappadocia. Once you land, we’ll take you to a Cave Hotel—it’s a one-of-a-kind experience that connects you directly to the history of the region.
Hidden Sanctuaries: (If you’re up for it, the sunrise balloon flight is amazing). We’ll spend the day at the Goreme Open Air Museum, exploring the rock-cut churches like the Dark Church, still vibrant with ancient frescoes.
The Hermit Life: We’ll also visit Pasabag to see the cells where monks like St. Simeon lived in total isolation. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Life Under the Earth: We’ll descend into one of Cappadocia’s Underground Cities, where early Christians found safety. It’s a powerful reminder of their resilience.
Final Reflections: After a peaceful walk through the green Ihlara Valley and a visit to Uchisar Castle, we’ll head to the airport for your flight back to Istanbul, where we’ll see you safely to your hotel.
- 6 nights of B&B accommodation in 4-star and hand-picked Boutique Cave hotels.
- A professional guide who is an expert in biblical history (and a great storyteller).
- All domestic flight tickets (Izmir – Cappadocia / Cappadocia – Istanbul).
- All airport transfers and private, non-smoking, air-conditioned transport.
- Entrance fees for every site listed in the plan.
- Lunch and dinner (your guide will help you find the best local spots).
- The optional Hot Air Balloon flight in Cappadocia.
- Entrance fees for the Terrace Houses in Ephesus or Cleopatra’s Pool.
- Personal expenses and tips for your team.
