The Route of Saint Paul IV with The Seven Churches

14 days

Easy

religious tour

This 14-day journey traces the footsteps of Saint Paul and the Seven Churches of Revelation across Turkey’s most sacred and historic landscapes. From the cave of Saint Peter in Antioch to the ruins of Ephesus, Pergamon, and Troy, this tour offers a profound blend of biblical history, archaeological marvels, and spiritual reflection. Designed for pilgrims, scholars, and curious travelers, it’s a journey through scripture, civilization, and culture.

Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar

  • Antioch & Adana: Cave of Saint Peter, Hatay Museum
  • Tarsus: Church & Well of Saint Paul
  • Cappadocia: Göreme, Avanos, Underground City
  • Konya & Yalvaç: Antioch of Pisidia
  • Antalya Region: Perge, Aspendos, Archaeology Museum
  • Pamukkale & Hierapolis: Martyrium of Saint Philip
  • Seven Churches: Laodikeia, Philadelphia, Sardis, Thyatira, Ephesus, Pergamon, Smyrna
  • Ephesus & Virgin Mary’s House: Apostolic legacy
  • Troy & Alexandria Troas: Missionary vision and mythic history
What's included?
    1. Domestic flight (Istanbul → Antioch)
    2. Airport transfers
    3. Professional English-speaking guide
    4. Air-conditioned private transport
    5. 13 Breakfast, 13 Lunch, 13 Dinners
    6. All entrance fees
    Exclusions
      1. International airfare
      2. Turkey entry visa
      3. Optional tours, personal spendings, tips
      Please note

        The Route's Geographical Flow and Logistics

        The route covers diverse geographies. The most practical flow is generally to proceed from the West toward the Southeast:

        • The Start (Istanbul): Begin your tour here, the major international entry point. You would then transition to the Aegean region (e.g., Troy) by land or air.
        • Aegean and Mediterranean Focus: This includes the Seven Churches of Revelation, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and the Antalya Region (Perge). Utilizing rental cars or intercity buses in this area offers the most flexibility.
        • The Anatolian Leap: For the jump from the Mediterranean to inland and southeastern sites like Tarsus, Cappadocia (Göreme), and Antioch (Hatay), using domestic flights(e.g., from Izmir/Antalya to Kayseri or Adana) will save significant travel time.

        Key Information to Know (Important Tips)

        • Museum Pass (Müze Kart): You should absolutely purchase a Museum Pass. It provides quick and often free access to many government-run museums and ruins (Ephesus, Topkapi Palace, Cappadocia open-air museum, etc.), saving both time and money.
        • Visit Timings: Especially during the summer, visit the major ancient sites (Ephesus, Perge) early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the most intense midday heat.
        • Local Culture: Don't hesitate to bargain in marketplaces like the Grand Bazaar (Istanbul). Also, make sure to experience the rich regional cuisines, such as those found in Antioch (Hatay) and Cappadocia.
        What to bring

          What to Wear and What to Bring (Essentials)

          The key to your packing should be adaptability due to the diverse nature of the sites:

          • Worship Site Attire (Mosques and Churches): To show respect in major Istanbul mosques and other sacred spaces, ensure you carry a headscarf(for women) and clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
          • Footwear: For the extensive walking at Ephesus, Perge, and the uneven terrain of Cappadocia, definitely opt for comfortable, non-slip walking shoes. Marble and stone pavements in ancient cities can be taxing and slippery.
          • Seasonal Protection: A large part of the route is outdoors. Make sure to pack sunscreen, a hat/cap, and sunglasses. If traveling in cooler months, include layers.
          • Water and Power: To prevent dehydration during long days in the ruins, carry a reusable water bottle. Also, bring a power bank for your mobile devices due to heavy photo and map usage.