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: 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 3: Pergamum and Thyatira

• Bus trip to Pergamum (Pergamon). Discover its towering Acropolis, the healing sanctuary of Asclepion, and the enigmatic Red Basilica. Journey through time amidst the ruins of this influential ancient city., 
• Bus trip to Thyatira, (modern-day Akhisar), one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. Explore historical sites and immerse yourself in the city’s connection to early Christianity.
• Overnight stay in Izmir.

Day 4: Philadelphia and Sardes

• Bus trip to Philadelphia and Sardes. Discover the two of the Seven Churches of Revelation. Explore ancient ruins and gain insights into these early Christian communities mentioned in the Bible.
• Overnight stay in Izmir.

Day 5: 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.
• Overnight stay in Izmir.
• Full Ephesus exploration: Ancient city, House of the Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John. 
• Overnight stay in Kusadasi or Selcuk.

Day 6: 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/Selcuk.

Day 7: Pamukkale (Hierapolis)

• 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.
• Overnight stay in Pamukkale.

Day 8: Laodicea, and Colossea

• 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 9: 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 10: 

• Flight back to the U.S.