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: Istanbul

• Discover Istanbul’s iconic treasures:  Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, marvel at the Blue Mosque‘s intricate tiles, and delve into Ottoman history at Topkapi Palace. Experience the blend of Byzantine and Ottoman heritage in this captivating city.
• Escape the city bustle on a Bosphorus boat tour.  Admire Istanbul’s skyline, bridges, and picturesque villages from the water, enjoying a unique perspective and a relaxing journey.
• Overnight stay in Istanbul.

Day 3: Iznik (Nicea)

• Bus trip to Iznik (ancient Nicea), a city of historical and religious significance. Explore its Byzantine heritage, including the Hagia Sophia, where the Nicene Council convened in 325 AD. As the 1700th anniversary of this pivotal gathering approaches, experience the city where Christian doctrine was shaped and history was made.
• Overnight stay in Iznik

Day 4: Izmir (Smyrna)

• Flight to Izmir, home to the Church of St. Polycarp, a revered martyr of the early Church. Explore the ancient Agora, a well-preserved Roman marketplace and the landmark Clock Tower. 
• 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.
  • 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 Izmir.

Day 6: Cappadocia

• Flight to Kayseri

• Bus trip to Cappadocia, filled with fairy chimneys, subterranean cities, and otherworldly landscapes. 
• Explore Göreme and Ürgüp, where hidden cave churches tell tales of underground cities shaped by early Christians.
• Overnight stay in Cappadocia.

Day 7: 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 Urgup.

Day 8: Lycia and Patara 

• Flight to Dalaman 

• Journey to Lycia, a land of ancient wonders. Explore the dramatic coastline and discover Patara, a magnificent harbor city where St. Paul embarked for Rome and the birthplace of Saint Nicholas (the inspiration for Santa Claus). 
• Overnight stay in Patara.

Day 9: Saklikent Gorge

• Bus trip to Saklikent Gorge. Experience the natural wonder of Turkey’s hidden canyon. Hike along rushing rivers, marvel at towering rock walls, and cool off in cascading waterfalls within this breathtaking natural marvel.
• Afternoon at Patara Beach.
• Overnight in Patara.

Day 10: Istanbul

• Flight to Istanbul 

• Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Istanbul. Explore the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, overflowing with treasures. Inhale the exotic aromas and colors of the Spice Market, a feast for the senses.

• Farewell dinner 
• Overnight stay in Istanbul

Day 11: Flight back to the U.S.