1. Route's Core Focus and Geographical Scope
This tour provides a rich exploration focused on Apostolic journeys and Early Christian history, encompassing distinct geographical regions of Turkey:
- Apostolic Hubs:
The itinerary covers essential centers tracing the footsteps of the apostles, including Antioch(Cave of Saint Peter), Tarsus(Church and Well of Saint Paul), Yalvaç(Antioch of Pisidia), and key sites related to the Seven Churches like Ephesus
and Laodikeia.
- Anatolian Core:
This includes Cappadocia, famous for its cave churches and underground cities used for refuge, and Konya(ancient Iconium), an important historical and spiritual city.
- Aegean and Thermal Regions:
The route features the historical significance of the Martyrium of Saint Philip
in Hierapolis, the unique thermal pools of Pamukkale, and visits to the ancient cities of Miletus
and Izmir(Smyrna).
2. Essential Travel Tips and Cost Components
This section outlines the critical logistics and cost items you must account for in your planning:
- External Costs (Exclusions):
The cost of the tour package typically excludes International Airfare
and the Turkey Entry Visa(which must be secured electronically or via the consulate prior to departure). These must be budgeted and organized separately.
- All Entrance Fees:
The cost of All Entrance Fees
to the scheduled museums and archaeological sites (Topkapi, Ephesus, Hierapolis, etc.) is generally included
in your tour package price. However, consider purchasing a Museum Pass Turkey
to save time and skip ticket lines at high-traffic sites.
- Discretionary Spending:
Budget separately for items that are typically not included
in the base price:
Optional Tours(e.g., Cappadocia hot air balloon ride).
Personal Spendings(Souvenirs, snacks, personal shopping).
Tips(For guides, drivers, and restaurant staff).
- Logistics:
Drink only bottled water
throughout the trip. Carry cash (Turkish Lira, TL)
for small vendors. Check the current status of sites in the Hatay region (Antioch) due to recent events, and bring comfort items for long bus journeys.
