Day 1: Arrive in Istanbul 

• Welcome to Istanbul, where Europe meets Asia! Echoes of ancient empires blend with the pulse of a modern metropolis, and your Turkish adventure begins.
• Overnight stay in Istanbul.

Day 2: Cappadocia

• Flight to Kayseri
• Bus trip to Cappadocia, where fairy chimneys, subterranean cities, and hidden cave churches tell tales of otherworldly landscapes and early Christian history.
• Overnight stay in Cappadocia.

Day 3: Full-day Cappadocia exploration 

• Immerse yourself in Cappadocia’s unique landscape and history
• Optional activities: Hot air balloon ride, hiking, cave dwellings.
• Overnight stay in Cappadocia.

Day 4: Izmir (Smyrna)

• Flight to Izmir, home to the Church of St. Polycarp, a revered martyr of the early Church, historical Agora, the landmark Clock Tower, and a bustling seaside promenade brimming with life.
• Overnight stay in Izmir.

Day 5: Journey to the Churches of Revelation: Thyatira, Sardis, & Philadelphia

• Explore three of the Seven Churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation. Bus trip to Thyatira (modern-day Akhisar), Sardis, and Philadelphia, gaining insights into the challenges and triumphs of early Christianity. This historical and spiritual journey offers a deeper understanding of the Book of Revelation and its enduring message.
• Overnight stay in Pamukkale. Enjoy swimming in thermal water.

Day 6: Pamukkale (Hierapolis), Laodicea, and Colossea

• Bus trip to Pamukkale, Turkey’s “Cotton Castle.” Explore cascading white travertine terraces, soak in mineral-rich thermal pools, and discover the ruins of the ancient spa city of Hierapolis – a captivating blend of natural wonder and history.
• Visit Laodicea (one of the Seven Churches) and Colossae (where St. Paul preached). Two ancient cities steeped in New Testament history. Experience sites that illuminate early Christian struggles and triumphs.
• Overnight stay in Pamukkale.

Day 7: Kusadasi 

• Bus trip to Kusadasi, a vibrant coastal town offering beaches, historical sites like Ephesus, charming bazaars, and lively seaside atmosphere.
• Overnight stay in Kusadasi or Selcuk.

Day 8: Ephesus 

• • Bus trip to Ephesus. Walk the marble streets of Ephesus, where St. Paul preached and the legacy of the early Church echoes amongst the timeless ruins.
  • Discover the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred site believed to be Mary’s final dwelling place. Experience the tranquility of this revered sanctuary nestled amidst the hills near Ephesus, a place of pilgrimage and reflection.
  • Explore the Basilica of St. John, believed to be built over the tomb of the Apostle John. Witness the remains of this once-grand Byzantine church and its enduring significance as a site of Christian pilgrimage near Ephesus.

• Overnight stay in Kusadasi or Selcuk.

Day 9: Enjoying Kusadasi all day

• Optional activities: Boat tour to Greek Islands, sunbathing and swimming, watersports, scuba diving, ancient sites of Priene, Miletus, Didyma, bazaars, Turkish baths (hamam), Dilek National Park.
• Overnight stay in Kusadasi or Selcuk.

Day 10: Istanbul

• Flight to Istanbul 

• Discover Istanbul’s iconic treasures:  Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, marvel at the Blue Mosque‘s intricate tiles, delve into Ottoman history at Topkapi Palace, wander the bustling Grand Bazaar, and immerse yourself in the vibrant Spice Market. Experience the blend of Byzantine and Ottoman heritage in this captivating city.
• Overnight stay in Istanbul.

Day 11: 

• Flight back to the U.S.