Transfer: Arrival – Istanbul Airport | Flight: Istanbul – Izmir
Arrival at Istanbul International Airport. A warm welcome upon arrival, followed by assistance and a smooth transfer to the domestic terminal for the onward flight to Izmir.
Arrival in Izmir and transfer to the hotel. The day gently winds down with time set aside for rest and quiet relaxation, allowing the body to recover from long-haul travel and prepare for the spiritually enriching journey that begins the next morning.
Transfer: Izmir – Ephesus (1 Hr) | Ephesus – Izmir (1 Hr)
The pilgrimage begins with a journey to Ephesus, the first of the Seven Churches of Revelation—an ancient city where the early Church took deep root under apostolic guidance.
The morning includes a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a serene and sacred place traditionally believed to be where the Blessed Virgin Mary spent her final years. Set amidst quiet hills, it offers a gentle and prayerful beginning to the day.
Exploration of Ephesus follows, where grand colonnaded streets and enduring ruins reveal stories of faith, devotion and the spread of early Christianity. Highlights include the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, the Temple of Hadrian and other remarkable remains of this once-thriving centre. A visit is also made to the Basilica of St John, associated with the beloved apostle.
Lunch featuring regional specialties, offering a simple and authentic taste of the land.
Return to Izmir, ancient Smyrna, the second of the Seven Churches—remembered as the persecuted church for its steadfast faith amidst trials. Time is spent reflecting at the historic site, along with a visit to the Church of St Polycarp.
Transfer: Izmir – Pergamum (1 Hr 30 Mins) | Pergamum – Thyatira (1 Hr 30 Mins) | Thyatira – Sardis (1 Hr) | Sardis – Philadelphia (45 Mins) | Philadelphia – Pamukkale (1 Hr 30 Mins)
An early start marks the beginning of a spiritually rich and logistically important day. With four churches to be covered in sequence, a sense of punctuality and discipline gently guides the day’s rhythm, ensuring each sacred site is experienced meaningfully and without haste.
At Pergamum, the third church, the ascent to the Acropolis is made by cable car from the town of Bergama, offering sweeping views before arriving at this remarkable hilltop sanctuary. The ruins here—temples, terraces and the dramatic theatre—speak of a powerful city where faith endured amidst strong external influences.
The journey continues to Thyatira, the fourth church, once a thriving center of textile trade and renowned for wool dyeing. This industrious city forms the backdrop to reflections on steadfast faith and moral vigilance, as conveyed in its message in Revelation.
A pause for a simple lunch along the way, featuring local favourites such as Pide, offers rest and refreshment before continuing the journey.
At Sardis, the fifth church, the atmosphere shifts to one of quiet introspection. The ruins echo the call to awaken and renew, standing as a reminder of both past prominence and spiritual reawakening.
Further onward to Philadelphia, the sixth church, known as the church of brotherly love, where a legacy of perseverance and unwavering faith continues to resonate.
By early evening, arrival into Pamukkale, where the day gently comes to rest after a full and fulfilling passage through scripture, history and devotion.
Transfer: Pamukkale – Laodicea – Hierapolis – Pamukkale (Short transfers)
The morning unfolds with a visit to Laodicea, the seventh and final of the Seven Churches of Revelation—often remembered as the “lukewarm church.” Set amidst wide open plains, the ruins carry a quiet, reflective atmosphere, echoing the timeless call to renewal and wholehearted faith.
The journey continues to Hierapolis, an ancient healing city closely associated with early Christian history. Its sacred significance is intertwined with the nearby thermal springs, long believed to hold restorative properties.
Lunch features simple regional preparations, rooted in the culinary traditions of the area.
Time is then set aside to experience the breathtaking beauty of Pamukkale—a landscape of cascading white travertine terraces shaped by mineral-rich waters over centuries. The gentle stillness of this natural wonder offers a moment for rest, reflection and quiet appreciation.
Return to the hotel as the day draws to a peaceful close.
Transfer: Pamukkale – Pisidian Antioch (3 Hrs 20 Mins) | Pisidian Antioch – Konya (2 Hrs 15 Mins)
The journey turns inland this morning, moving deeper into the heart of Anatolia toward one of the most significant early mission fields of St Paul.
At Pisidian Antioch, the setting of St Paul’s first recorded sermon, the ruins stand as a powerful reminder of the moment the message of Christ began reaching the Gentile world in a profound way. Time is spent exploring the remains of the ancient synagogue and the later church, reflecting on the birth of one of the earliest non-Jewish Christian communities.
A pause for lunch along the way features simple, traditional Anatolian fare, offering both nourishment and a taste of the region’s culinary heritage.
The journey continues to Konya, a city layered with spiritual legacy across centuries. It is widely associated with the travels of St Paul during his missionary journeys. A visit is made to the Mevlana Mausoleum, the resting place of Jalal ad-Din Rumi and the spiritual heart of the Whirling Dervish tradition—an evocative space that speaks of devotion, reflection and the search for divine connection.
Arrival at the hotel by evening, as the day gently settles after a journey rich in apostolic history and spiritual depth.
Transfer: Konya – Kaymakli Underground City (3 Hrs 30 Mins) | Kaymakli – Cappadocia (1 Hr)
The journey continues across the wide Anatolian plains, gradually giving way to the unique landscapes of Cappadocia.
Arrival at Kaymakli, where an entire world lies hidden beneath the earth. This remarkable underground city, carved deep into soft volcanic rock, once provided refuge to early Christians during times of persecution. Narrow passageways, living quarters and communal spaces reveal a resilient way of life shaped by faith and survival.
Lunch is enjoyed en route, featuring simple regional dishes rooted in local tradition.
The onward drive leads into the heart of Cappadocia, a land of striking rock formations and ancient monastic heritage.
Arrival and check-in at the hotel, with the evening at rest after a day of travel and discovery.
Transfer: Cappadocia – Goreme – Uchisar – Valleys – Cappadocia (Short transfers)
The day unfolds amidst the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where nature and early Christian heritage blend in remarkable harmony.
An optional early morning hot air balloon ride offers a gentle ascent over the valleys and rock formations, as the first light of day casts a soft glow across this extraordinary terrain.
The exploration begins at the Goreme Open Air Museum, home to rock-cut churches and monasteries adorned with ancient frescoes, reflecting the deep spiritual life of early monastic communities.
Continue to Uchisar Castle, the highest point in the region, offering sweeping panoramic views across Cappadocia’s unique landscape.
At Pigeon Valley, time is set aside to take in the wide, open vistas shaped by centuries of natural forces and human presence.
Lunch features regional specialties, simple and rooted in local culinary traditions.
The journey proceeds to Devrent Valley, often called the “Imagination Valley,” where naturally sculpted rock formations create striking and unusual shapes.
Return to the hotel by evening, as the day draws to a close in this land of quiet wonder and reflection.
Transfer: Cappadocia – Tarsus (3 Hrs 30 Mins) | Tarsus – Adana (Short transfer)
The journey continues southward, descending from the highlands of Cappadocia toward the fertile plains of Cilicia, carrying the narrative from the early churches into the life of one of Christianity’s greatest apostles.
Arrival at Tarsus, the birthplace of St Paul, where the foundations of his early life and formation quietly endure. Time is spent visiting the traditional sites associated with him, including the historic well often linked to his home, offering a moment for reflection and connection to his enduring legacy.
Lunch along the way features simple regional fare, rooted in the culinary traditions of southern Türkiye.
A short onward drive leads to Adana, a vibrant city set along the Seyhan River, marking a gentle close to the day’s journey.
Arrival and check-in at the hotel, with the evening at rest.
Transfer: Adana – Antioch on the Orontes (3 Hrs) | Antioch – Hatay Airport | Flight: Hatay – Istanbul
The day’s journey leads to Antioch on the Orontes, one of the great centers of early Christianity, where the followers of Christ were first called “Christians” and where the early Church began to take shape beyond its Jewish roots.
At Antioch, time is spent at the historic Cave Church of St Peter, carved into the mountainside and regarded as one of the earliest places of Christian worship. The quiet setting offers a meaningful space for reflection on the missionary journeys of St Peter, St Paul and Barnabas, all closely associated with this city.
Lunch is taken en route, featuring simple regional preparations.
Transfer to Hatay Airport for the onward flight to Istanbul.
Arrival in Istanbul and transfer to the hotel, where the evening comes to rest after a day deeply rooted in apostolic history.
Transfer: City tour – Airport
The final day unfolds in the historic heart of Istanbul, where layers of empires and faith traditions come together in a rich and enduring tapestry.
The morning begins at the ancient Hippodrome, once the vibrant social and sporting centre of the Byzantine world.
A visit follows to the Blue Mosque, admired for its graceful domes and elegant minarets, and then to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that has stood as both cathedral and mosque through the centuries.
Lunch features local specialties, offering a final taste of Turkish cuisine.
The journey concludes with a serene cruise along the Bosphorus, where the meeting of Europe and Asia unfolds along the shores lined with palaces, mosques and timeless cityscapes.
Transfer to the airport for departure, carrying forward the memories of a journey woven with faith, history and reflection. (Check-in deadline 17:00)
There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency that may be brought into Turkey, buy any amount of USD 10,000 or more (or equivalent) must be declared to customs officials upon arrival. Not more than 5 5,000 worth of Turkish currency may be brought into or taken out of the country.
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Tour Overview
Arrival Port flight_land
Departure Port flight_takeoff
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Transfer: Arrival – Istanbul Airport | Flight: Istanbul – Izmir
Arrival at Istanbul International Airport. A warm welcome upon arrival, followed by assistance and a smooth transfer to the domestic terminal for the onward flight to Izmir.
Arrival in Izmir and transfer to the hotel. The day gently winds down with time set aside for rest and quiet relaxation, allowing the body to recover from long-haul travel and prepare for the spiritually enriching journey that begins the next morning.
Lunch & Dinner
Izmir
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Transfer: Izmir – Ephesus (1 Hr) | Ephesus – Izmir (1 Hr)
The pilgrimage begins with a journey to Ephesus, the first of the Seven Churches of Revelation—an ancient city where the early Church took deep root under apostolic guidance.
The morning includes a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a serene and sacred place traditionally believed to be where the Blessed Virgin Mary spent her final years. Set amidst quiet hills, it offers a gentle and prayerful beginning to the day.
Exploration of Ephesus follows, where grand colonnaded streets and enduring ruins reveal stories of faith, devotion and the spread of early Christianity. Highlights include the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, the Temple of Hadrian and other remarkable remains of this once-thriving centre. A visit is also made to the Basilica of St John, associated with the beloved apostle.
Lunch featuring regional specialties, offering a simple and authentic taste of the land.
Return to Izmir, ancient Smyrna, the second of the Seven Churches—remembered as the persecuted church for its steadfast faith amidst trials. Time is spent reflecting at the historic site, along with a visit to the Church of St Polycarp.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Izmir
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Transfer: Izmir – Pergamum (1 Hr 30 Mins) | Pergamum – Thyatira (1 Hr 30 Mins) | Thyatira – Sardis (1 Hr) | Sardis – Philadelphia (45 Mins) | Philadelphia – Pamukkale (1 Hr 30 Mins)
An early start marks the beginning of a spiritually rich and logistically important day. With four churches to be covered in sequence, a sense of punctuality and discipline gently guides the day’s rhythm, ensuring each sacred site is experienced meaningfully and without haste.
At Pergamum, the third church, the ascent to the Acropolis is made by cable car from the town of Bergama, offering sweeping views before arriving at this remarkable hilltop sanctuary. The ruins here—temples, terraces and the dramatic theatre—speak of a powerful city where faith endured amidst strong external influences.
The journey continues to Thyatira, the fourth church, once a thriving center of textile trade and renowned for wool dyeing. This industrious city forms the backdrop to reflections on steadfast faith and moral vigilance, as conveyed in its message in Revelation.
A pause for a simple lunch along the way, featuring local favourites such as Pide, offers rest and refreshment before continuing the journey.
At Sardis, the fifth church, the atmosphere shifts to one of quiet introspection. The ruins echo the call to awaken and renew, standing as a reminder of both past prominence and spiritual reawakening.
Further onward to Philadelphia, the sixth church, known as the church of brotherly love, where a legacy of perseverance and unwavering faith continues to resonate.
By early evening, arrival into Pamukkale, where the day gently comes to rest after a full and fulfilling passage through scripture, history and devotion.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Pamukkale
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Transfer: Pamukkale – Laodicea – Hierapolis – Pamukkale (Short transfers)
The morning unfolds with a visit to Laodicea, the seventh and final of the Seven Churches of Revelation—often remembered as the “lukewarm church.” Set amidst wide open plains, the ruins carry a quiet, reflective atmosphere, echoing the timeless call to renewal and wholehearted faith.
The journey continues to Hierapolis, an ancient healing city closely associated with early Christian history. Its sacred significance is intertwined with the nearby thermal springs, long believed to hold restorative properties.
Lunch features simple regional preparations, rooted in the culinary traditions of the area.
Time is then set aside to experience the breathtaking beauty of Pamukkale—a landscape of cascading white travertine terraces shaped by mineral-rich waters over centuries. The gentle stillness of this natural wonder offers a moment for rest, reflection and quiet appreciation.
Return to the hotel as the day draws to a peaceful close.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Pamukkale
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Transfer: Pamukkale – Pisidian Antioch (3 Hrs 20 Mins) | Pisidian Antioch – Konya (2 Hrs 15 Mins)
The journey turns inland this morning, moving deeper into the heart of Anatolia toward one of the most significant early mission fields of St Paul.
At Pisidian Antioch, the setting of St Paul’s first recorded sermon, the ruins stand as a powerful reminder of the moment the message of Christ began reaching the Gentile world in a profound way. Time is spent exploring the remains of the ancient synagogue and the later church, reflecting on the birth of one of the earliest non-Jewish Christian communities.
A pause for lunch along the way features simple, traditional Anatolian fare, offering both nourishment and a taste of the region’s culinary heritage.
The journey continues to Konya, a city layered with spiritual legacy across centuries. It is widely associated with the travels of St Paul during his missionary journeys. A visit is made to the Mevlana Mausoleum, the resting place of Jalal ad-Din Rumi and the spiritual heart of the Whirling Dervish tradition—an evocative space that speaks of devotion, reflection and the search for divine connection.
Arrival at the hotel by evening, as the day gently settles after a journey rich in apostolic history and spiritual depth.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Konya
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Transfer: Konya – Kaymakli Underground City (3 Hrs 30 Mins) | Kaymakli – Cappadocia (1 Hr)
The journey continues across the wide Anatolian plains, gradually giving way to the unique landscapes of Cappadocia.
Arrival at Kaymakli, where an entire world lies hidden beneath the earth. This remarkable underground city, carved deep into soft volcanic rock, once provided refuge to early Christians during times of persecution. Narrow passageways, living quarters and communal spaces reveal a resilient way of life shaped by faith and survival.
Lunch is enjoyed en route, featuring simple regional dishes rooted in local tradition.
The onward drive leads into the heart of Cappadocia, a land of striking rock formations and ancient monastic heritage.
Arrival and check-in at the hotel, with the evening at rest after a day of travel and discovery.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Cappadocia
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Transfer: Cappadocia – Goreme – Uchisar – Valleys – Cappadocia (Short transfers)
The day unfolds amidst the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where nature and early Christian heritage blend in remarkable harmony.
An optional early morning hot air balloon ride offers a gentle ascent over the valleys and rock formations, as the first light of day casts a soft glow across this extraordinary terrain.
The exploration begins at the Goreme Open Air Museum, home to rock-cut churches and monasteries adorned with ancient frescoes, reflecting the deep spiritual life of early monastic communities.
Continue to Uchisar Castle, the highest point in the region, offering sweeping panoramic views across Cappadocia’s unique landscape.
At Pigeon Valley, time is set aside to take in the wide, open vistas shaped by centuries of natural forces and human presence.
Lunch features regional specialties, simple and rooted in local culinary traditions.
The journey proceeds to Devrent Valley, often called the “Imagination Valley,” where naturally sculpted rock formations create striking and unusual shapes.
Return to the hotel by evening, as the day draws to a close in this land of quiet wonder and reflection.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Cappadocia
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Transfer: Cappadocia – Tarsus (3 Hrs 30 Mins) | Tarsus – Adana (Short transfer)
The journey continues southward, descending from the highlands of Cappadocia toward the fertile plains of Cilicia, carrying the narrative from the early churches into the life of one of Christianity’s greatest apostles.
Arrival at Tarsus, the birthplace of St Paul, where the foundations of his early life and formation quietly endure. Time is spent visiting the traditional sites associated with him, including the historic well often linked to his home, offering a moment for reflection and connection to his enduring legacy.
Lunch along the way features simple regional fare, rooted in the culinary traditions of southern Türkiye.
A short onward drive leads to Adana, a vibrant city set along the Seyhan River, marking a gentle close to the day’s journey.
Arrival and check-in at the hotel, with the evening at rest.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Adana
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Transfer: Adana – Antioch on the Orontes (3 Hrs) | Antioch – Hatay Airport | Flight: Hatay – Istanbul
The day’s journey leads to Antioch on the Orontes, one of the great centers of early Christianity, where the followers of Christ were first called “Christians” and where the early Church began to take shape beyond its Jewish roots.
At Antioch, time is spent at the historic Cave Church of St Peter, carved into the mountainside and regarded as one of the earliest places of Christian worship. The quiet setting offers a meaningful space for reflection on the missionary journeys of St Peter, St Paul and Barnabas, all closely associated with this city.
Lunch is taken en route, featuring simple regional preparations.
Transfer to Hatay Airport for the onward flight to Istanbul.
Arrival in Istanbul and transfer to the hotel, where the evening comes to rest after a day deeply rooted in apostolic history.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Istanbul
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Transfer: City tour – Airport
The final day unfolds in the historic heart of Istanbul, where layers of empires and faith traditions come together in a rich and enduring tapestry.
The morning begins at the ancient Hippodrome, once the vibrant social and sporting centre of the Byzantine world.
A visit follows to the Blue Mosque, admired for its graceful domes and elegant minarets, and then to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that has stood as both cathedral and mosque through the centuries.
Lunch features local specialties, offering a final taste of Turkish cuisine.
The journey concludes with a serene cruise along the Bosphorus, where the meeting of Europe and Asia unfolds along the shores lined with palaces, mosques and timeless cityscapes.
Transfer to the airport for departure, carrying forward the memories of a journey woven with faith, history and reflection. (Check-in deadline 17:00)
Breakfast & Lunch
Not Applicable
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A spiritually immersive pilgrimage tracing the Seven Churches in biblical sequence, enriched by the legacy of St Paul
