A Warm Welcome: We’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Take this first day to rest and prepare your heart for the long and meaningful journey ahead through the lands of the early Church.
The Imperial World: We begin by understanding the world Paul navigated—the grand Roman and Byzantine empire. You will explore Hagia Sophia, once the center of Byzantine Christianity, the Blue Mosque, and the opulent Topkapi Palace.
The Trade Routes: We end the day at the Grand Bazaar, feeling the energy of the trade routes that Paul himself used to spread the Gospel.
Hidden Sanctuaries: After visiting the exquisite Rustem Pasha Mosque, we explore the Spice Market.
Peace on the Water: A private Bosphorus Cruise offers a moment of reflection, seeing Istanbul’s history from the water before our journey heads south to the roots of the faith.
The Christian Name: We fly to Antioch (Antakya), the starting point of Paul’s missionary journeys. You will stand in St. Peter’s Cave Church, the very spot where early believers were first called “Christians.” This city was the headquarters for the mission to the Gentiles.
Setting Sail: We visit the port of Seleucia Pieria, where Paul and Barnabas set sail for Cyprus.
The Roots of Saul: Then, we reach Tarsus, Paul’s home. You will visit St. Paul’s Well and Church, connecting with his early life before his life-changing encounter on the road to Damascus.
Canyon Churches: As we drive toward Cappadocia, we hike through the stunning Ihlara Valley. You will see rock-cut monasteries and churches hidden in the cliffs, showcasing how early Christians protected their devotion in the wilderness.
Biblical Frescoes: A full day at the Goreme Open-Air Museum. You will enter rock-carved churches like the Dark Church and Tokali, where 1,000-year-old frescoes still tell the story of the Gospel. These valleys served as a vital sanctuary for the early faith.
Labyrinths of Faith: We descend into Kaymakli Underground City, where thousands of Christians hid from persecution.
The Vantage Point: Later, we visit Uchisar Castle and Pigeon Valley, witnessing the resilience of a faith that was literally carved into the earth.
Bold Preaching: We visit Konya (Iconium), where Paul and Barnabas spoke boldly despite great opposition.
Turning to Gentiles: We then head to Yalvac (Pisidian Antioch), the site of Paul’s first recorded sermon, where he famously announced his mission to the Gentile world.
Paul’s Arrival: We reach the coast to visit Perge, where Paul arrived by sea and preached his first words in this region.
Roman Grandeur: We’ll also stand in the magnificent Aspendos Theater, one of the best-preserved symbols of the Roman world the Apostles navigated.
The Apostle Philip: In Pamukkale, we explore Hierapolis. You will visit the Martyrium and Tomb of St. Philip the Apostle, who was martyred here. You will also have time to reflect among the white thermal terraces.
Prophetic Reflection: We visit Laodicea, the church cautioned for being “lukewarm” in Revelation.
The Letters: We move to Colossae, recipients of Paul’s famous letter, and visit Philadelphia and Sardis, witnessing the ruins of one of the largest synagogues in the ancient world.
Purple Cloth & Parting: After visiting Thyatira, known for Lydia’s purple cloth trade, we head to the ancient port of Miletus.
The Tearful Farewell: Here, Paul gave his emotional farewell speech to the Ephesian elders, a moment of profound sadness and spiritual strength.
Paul’s Headquarters: A dedicated day for Ephesus, where Paul lived and preached for over three years. You’ll walk the marble streets, see the Celsus Library, and stand in the theater where the silversmiths rioted. We also visit the peaceful House of the Virgin Mary.
Suffering & Power: We visit Smyrna (Izmir), the church praised for its faithfulness under suffering.
The Throne of Satan: We then head to the towering Acropolis of Pergamon, exploring the “Altar of Zeus” and the ancient healing center of Asklepion.
Resurrection: We reach Assos and Alexandria Troas, where Paul famously raised Eutychus from the dead.
Myth & Reality: We finish the day at the legendary ruins of Troy, merging the world of ancient myth with the reality of Paul’s travels.
Reflections: We drive back across the Dardanelles and return to Istanbul. This is your time to rest and reflect on the thousands of miles you have covered in the footsteps of the Apostle, seeing the world as he saw it.
Going Home: After a final breakfast, we’ll drive you to the airport for your flight home. You leave Turkey with a deeper understanding of the courage, sacrifice, and faith that built the foundation of the Christian world.
- All private transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.
- A dedicated professional English-speaking guide specializing in biblical history.
- 17 nights of B&B accommodation in 4-star, Boutique, and Cave hotels.
- Domestic flight ticket (Istanbul – Adana).
- Entrance fees for all archaeological sites and museums mentioned.
- Skip-the-line access for all sites.
- Optional Hot Air Balloon flight in Cappadocia.
- Entrance fees for optional spots (Cleopatra’s Pool or Terrace Houses).
- Personal expenses, lunch, dinner, and tips for your dedicated team.
