8 Days Seven Churches Tour with Istanbul
Overview
Embark on an 8-day guided journey through Turkey, immersing yourself in the rich Biblical history and cultural heritage of this captivating land. This tour combines religious landmarks with historical treasures, providing an unforgettable spiritual and cultural experience. TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
· Istanbul: Discover the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, the iconic Blue Mosque, the bustling Grand Bazaar, the scenic Bosphorus, the vibrant Spice Market, and more.
· Smyrna (Rev 2:8-11): Visit the site of the persecuted and impoverished church.
· Ephesus (Rev 2:1-7): Walk through the ancient ruins of the church that lost its first love.
· Thyatira (Rev 2:18-29): Explore the remains of the church that struggled with immorality and idol worship.
· Pergamon (Rev 2:12-17): Discover the site of the church in need of repentance from false teachings.
· Sardis (Rev 3:1-6): Visit the church that is spiritually asleep and needs revival.
· Philadelphia (Rev 3:7-13): Stand at the site of the faithful church.
· Laodicea (Rev 3:14-22): Explore the ruins of the lukewarm church, called to be fervent in faith.
Visiting these profound Biblical sites offers an enriching connection to the early roots of Christianity, bringing ancient history to life.
Day 1: ARRIVAL & AIRPORT TRANSFER
Welcome to Istanbul!
Upon arrival, our driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to join our optional Dinner Cruise tour.
Day 2: EXPLORE OLD CITY
After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive guided walking tour of Istanbul, the unique city straddling two continents. Explore:
· Topkapi Palace: Discover the grandeur of this historic Ottoman residence.
· Hagia Sophia: Visit this iconic structure.
· Blue Mosque: Admire the architectural beauty of this renowned mosque.
· Hippodrome: Wander through the historic site of ancient chariot races.
Day 3: JEWELS OF ISTANBUL & FLY TO IZMIR
Today, your itinerary includes visits to the Rüstem Paşa Mosque, Spice Bazaar, and a Bosphorus boat trip:
· Rüstem Paşa Mosque: A 16th-century gem in Eminönü, known for its stunning Iznik tilework, designed by Mimar Sinan for Grand Vizier Rüstem Paşa.
· Spice Bazaar: One of Istanbul’s oldest markets, offering spices, herbal remedies, and delicacies. Located in Eminönü, it’s open on Sundays.
· Bosphorus Boat Trip: Cruise between Europe and Asia, passing landmarks like Beylerbeyi Palace and charming waterfront villas.
· Grand Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets.
Day 4: IZMIR & THYATIRA & PERGAMON
Start your Biblical adventure upon meting your guide at the hotel.
· Agora of Smyrna (Izmir): Begin your journey at the ancient Agora of Smyrna, a beautifully preserved Roman-era marketplace. Walk among its colonnades and vaulted chambers as your guide explains its significance as a bustling center of commerce and early Christian life.
· Thyatira (Akhisar): Explore the site of one of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor (Revelation 1:11; 2:18-24). Famous as the hometown of Lydia—a devout worshipper of God and a successful merchant dealing in purple dye (Acts 16:14)—Thyatira is steeped in Christian heritage.
· Pergamon (Bergama): Savor a delicious lunch at a local eatery before diving into the history of the ancient Acropolis. Must-see landmarks include:
· The Pergamon Theatre, the steepest of its kind in the ancient world.
· The Altar of Zeus, mentioned in Revelation 2:12-16 as “The Seat of Satan.”
· The Red Basilica and the Asklepion (optional), an ancient center of medicine.
Conclude your day with a scenic drive back to Izmir, where you’ll settle into your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Day 5: SARDIS & PHILADELPHIA & LAODICEA & PAMUKKALE
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Izmir, starting with a visit to Salihli (Sardis), the former capital of the ancient Lydian kingdom in the 6th century B.C. Once described as a “dying church,” Sardis is home to several fascinating historical landmarks:
· The Temple of Artemis and the Temple of Cybele, later adapted into a Byzantine church.
· The beautifully restored Sardis Gymnasium and the reconstructed Synagogue.
Stop for a delightful lunch at a local restaurant before heading to Philadelphia (Alasehir), another of the Seven Churches of Asia (Revelation 1:11; 3:7). Notably, Philadelphia is the only church that received no rebuke. Visit the remnants of a Byzantine basilica, admired for its high arches and striking 11th-century frescoes.
Then set out to explore the breathtaking ancient city of Hierapolis in Pamukkale. Key highlights include:
· The Martyrium of Apostle Philip, marking the site of his martyrdom during the reign of Domitian.
· The Gate of Domitian, the Arcadian Way, the Roman Theater, the Nymphaion, the Temple of Apollo, the Plutonium, and the extensive Necropolis.
· End your exploration with a relaxing stroll through Pamukkale’s famous white travertines, where thermal waters cascade down natural terraces.
Afterward, we travel to Laodicea, another of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor (Revelation 1:11; 3:14). Explore its fascinating ruins, including the ancient theater, remnants of a basilica, and the intricate stone water pipes that once supplied the city.
End your day with a drive to Pamukkale, where you’ll enjoy dinner and unwind at a thermal hotel for the night.
Day 6: EPHESUS & ST. JEAN & HOUSE OF THE VIRGIN MARY & KUSADASI
After breakfast, set off to explore the ancient city of Ephesus, with a picturesque drive (approximately 2.5 hours).
Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most prominent of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor. This city holds deep historical significance, as it’s believed to be where the Gospel of John was written and where Apostle Paul spent three years preaching to the Ephesians, later addressing them in his epistle.
Pause for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before visiting two renowned sites:
The Temple of Artemis one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The Basilica of St. John a historic monument honoring the Apostle John.
End the day with a visit to the tranquil House of the Virgin Mary, a charming stone house tucked away in the forested hills near Ephesus, believed to be her final residence.
Day 7: AIRPORT TRANSFER & FLY TO ISTANBUL
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Izmir Airport for your midday flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, our representative will greet you and arrange your transfer to your hotel. The afternoon is left free for you to relax or explore the vibrant streets of Istanbul at your own pace.
Day 8: DEPARTURE & AIRPORT TRANSFER
After breakfast, our tour concludes and we say goodbye and transfer to the airport.
What's Included
· 6 nights accommodation on B&B basis
· 2 Domestic flight tickets (15 Kg / Per Person)
· All sightseeing tours of the places mentioned in the program
· 4 Lunches / Per Person
· All tours with English-speaking guidance licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism
· All transports with new model & AC vehicles
· All airport transfers throughout the trip
· All parking fees, ferry tools, and petrol
· All entrance fees and taxes
Not Included
· International Airfare to Turkey
· Travel Insurance
· Turkey Entry visa
· Personal expenses
· Tips
· Everyday departure available
· Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
· Topkapi Palace is closed every Tuesday
· Grand Bazaar is closed every Sunday
· Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, comfortable clothes and shoes.
· A moderate amount of walking is involved at both attractions.
- Free Cancellation & Refund. · The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours before the start time.
- Book Now & Pay Later. · Make your reservation now, pay anytime before the tour starts.