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October 16-26, 2025
*Must be 8 years and older
11 Day Tour Includes
Separate Costs
Itinerary – Greece
Depart from home and head to Athens, Greece.
Prepare yourself for a life-changing experience. Get some rest on the flight — tomorrow you will be walking where the apostles walked!
Arrival in Athens and transfer to our hotel.
Dinner and overnight at Wyndham Grand Athens Hotel.
Acropolis: a UNESCO World Heritage site and renowned ancient citadel. Dominating the city’s skyline, it houses several historically significant structures, including the iconic Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Dating back to the 5th century BC, the Acropolis represents the pinnacle of Classical Greek architecture and cultural achievement.
Mars Hill: also known as the Areopagus, this site holds a profound connection to the Apostle Paul’s ministry in Greece, as depicted in the New Testament. It was at this significant location in Athens that Paul delivered his renowned speech to the Athenians, articulating his interpretation of the Christian faith and engaging with the city’s intellectual and philosophical traditions. This pivotal moment in early Christian history reflects the dynamic interaction between Paul’s teachings and the philosophical climate of the ancient Athens, highlighting the cultural intersection between Christianity and classical Greek thought.
Dinner and overnight at the Wyndham Grand Athens Hotel once again.
Corinth: this city connects the Peloponnese to mainland Greece and was a bustling commercial hub renowned for its strategic location and prosperity. With its diverse population and cultural influence, it became a crucial center for trade, arts, and worship. The Apostle Paul’s missionary journeys brought Christianity to this vibrant city, leaving and enduring spiritual legacy that shaped the early Christian community in Greece and beyond.
Mycenae: an ancient Greek city known for its legendary Bronze Age civilization, is famed for its monumental architecture. This architecture includes the Lion Gate and the imposing citadel. Explore these fascinating ruins and discover its rich cultural legacy. This UNESCO World Heritage site provides valuable insights into the early civilization of Greece, complementing the historical context of the Apostle Paul’s ministry in the region.
Dinner and overnight at the Wyndham Grand Athens Hotel again.
Morning transfer to port of Piraeus to embark on our cruise — Celestyal Cruises. We will arrive in Mykonos in the afternoon and be there until late evening.
Mykonos: an alluring Greek island in the Aegean Sea celebrated for its stunning beaches, lively town, and architecture. In Mykonos, you can indulge in a variety of experiences, and visit iconic landmarks like the 16th century windmills and the picturesque district of Little Venice.
Upon return to the ship we will continue our journey in the Mediterranean Sea as we sleep.
Today we are docked in Kusadasi and head for our excursion towards ancient Ephesus.
Ephesus: it is here where Paul first came on his 2nd missionary journey (Acts 18:19-21). Ephesus was one of the most beautiful cities of the ancient world and its former glory can still be appreciated today from its well-preserved streets, temples, fountains, public baths, terraced houses, and theatres. Paul returned to Ephesus on his 3rd missionary journey, staying and preaching for a period of about two years, where “special miracles” were wrought (Acts 19:11-12 & 20:20).
We will sail in the afternoon for a short journey to the island of Patmos. In Patmos we will visit the cave of John and Patmos Monastery.
Cave of John: this cave, also known as the Cave of the Apocalypse, is a sacred site on the Greek island of Patmos. It is believed to be the location where Saint John the Apostle received the visions that inspired the Book of Revelation. This significant spiritual site offers profound connection to early Christian heritage.
Patmos Monastery: this UNESCO World Heritage site is a Byzantine monastery, dating back to the 11th century. It houses valuable religious artifacts and a remarkable library. It is renowned for its historical significance and serves as a site of pilgrimage amongst Christian believers.
Overnight aboard the cruise ship.
Today we are docked on the island of Rhodes. We disembark and head towards the ancient site of Lindos. In Lindos, we will see the ancient ruins of the Acropolis of Lindos and the Port of St. Paul. It is here that the Apostle Paul stopped during his last journey to Jerusalem from Miletus.
Acropolis of Lindos: this ancient citadel is renowned for its archaeological significance and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. This historical site, featuring remnants of ancient temples, theatres, and monumental stairways, offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, making it a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Port of St. Paul: according to tradition, it is at this site in Greece that the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked during his journey to Rome. This account is described in Acts 27.
Overnight on the cruise ship.
Palace of Knossos: The largest and most significant Bronze Age archaeological site in Greece. It was the political and ceremonial center of the Minoan civilization, which flourished from around 2000 to 1450 BCE. The palace is often associated with the legend of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth, as well as King Minos.
Santorini: this stunning island is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, iconic white-washed building with blue domes, and dramatic landscapes. Shaped by the by a massive volcanic eruption around 1600 BCE, which left behind a caldera, now filled with the sea. This eruption also contributed to the decline of the Minoan civilization and is linked to the legend of Atlantis.
Overnight on the cruise ship for one final night.
Following breakfast in the morning, we begin with our tour of the Meteora Monasteries. From there our group will travel southward past Thermopylae where we will learn about the famous Spartan battle.
Meteora Monasteries: this collection of stunning monastic complexes are perched atop towering natural sandstone rock pillars. These UNESCO World Heritage sites, dating back to the 14th century, serve as a testament to the dedication and resilience of the Eastern Orthodox monks who once sought refuge in these awe-inspiring retreats. Today, these monasteries continue to captivate guests with their remarkable architecture, spiritual significance, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Overnight and dinner at the Grand Meteora hotel in Kalambaka.
We will drive to Berea to view the ancient synagogue where the Apostle Paul spoke. The Bema is surrounded by mosaics of Paul and the plaque of scripture regarding the “more noble” church.
We will continue to Thessaloniki following the famous Via Egnatia. We will arrive in the city driving past remnants of the original Roman road that spanned the nation during Paul’s time. En route we will view the old city ramparts; the newly excavated Forum; St. George’s Church; and the Galerius Arch.
Via Egnatia: this prominent Roman road was constructed during the 2nd century BC. This road connected the Adriatic Sea to Byzantium (Istanbul). This vital trade and military route fostered the flow of commerce, culture, and ideas, contributing significantly to the expansion of the Roman Empire’s influence across the Balkans and Greece. Although not directly linked to the Apostle Paul and his time in Greece, the Via Egnatia facilitated the socio-cultural exchange that indirectly shaped the historical backdrop of Paul’s missionary journeys in the region.
St. George’s Church: this has a storied history that reflects the city’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Constructed during the Byzantine era, the church stands as a testament to the flourishing Byzantine artistic and architectural tradition. Over the centuries, it has weathered numerous historical events and transformations, embodying the enduring spirit of Orthodox Christianity and serving as a symbol of spiritual resilience ofr the local community and visitors alike.
Galerius Arch: this triumphal arch, constructed during the late 3rd or early 4th century AD, commemorates the Roman Emperor Galerius’ military victories. Adorned with intricate reliefs and sculptures, the arch serves as a testament to the grandeur of the Roman Empire and stands as a prominent symbol of Thessaloniki’s rich cultural and historical legacy.
Dinner and overnight at Lazart Hotel in Thessaloniki.
We begin the day by following the massive battlement Byzantine wall to the citdael for a panoramic view of the city. Next we will visit Philippi and Kavala.
Kavala is Greece’s prettiest mainland port with a most elegant harbor. Paul landed here with his disciples, Timothy and Silas. Luke, the Evangelist, also came here from Troas. This ancient city of Neapolis was later renamed Christopolous beacuse it was the first European city to accept Christianity. Imagine walking on the same sod as these men of the Bible! We will see the Roman Aqueduct and the ruins of the Acropolis in this beautifully located city.
Continue on to Phillipi where Paul preached his first evangelical sermon and baptized the first Christians on European soil. We will view the baptismal site where Lydia surrendered her life to Christ. Of course we will also visit the crypt, traditionally thought to have served as a prison for Paul. See the famous Acropolis, the Market Place, Basilica, and Theatre.
We return to Thessaloniki and visit St. Demetrius Basilica, dedicated to a distinguished member of the Roman army and a martyred Christian convert, before returning to the hotel for our overnight.
Dinner and departure to the airport. Return home or continue on to our Istanbul extension.
Itinerary – Istanbul
Fly from Thessaloniki to Istanbul in the late evening. Arrival in Istanbul and overnight at the Kent Hotel.
Hagia Sophia: one of the most iconic and historically significant buildings in the world. Originally built as a cathedral by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 537 CE, it was the largest Christian church of its time and a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. The name “Gaia Sophia” means “Holy Wisdom” in Greek, reflecting its original role as a place of Christian worship.
After the fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans in 1453, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque by Sultan Mehmed II. Islamic features, such as minarets, a mihrab (prayer niche), and large calligraphic roundels, were added, blending Christian and Islamic elements within the structure. It remained a mosque until 1935 when it was secularized and turned into a museum by the Turkish Republic under Mustafa Kemal Attaturk. In 2020 it was reconverted into a mosque, but remains open to visitors and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Hippodrome of Constantinople: now known as the Sultanahmet Square, was the social and sporting center of the Byzantine Empire. Originally constructed around 203 CE by the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus and later expanded by Constantine the Great in the 4th century CE, it was primarily used for chariot races, the empire’s most popular form of entertainment.
The Hippodrome had a U-shaped track lined with tiered seating that could hold up to 100,000 spectators. It also served as a venue for political events, public ceremonies, and even revolts, such as the infamous Nika Riots in 532 CE, where thousands were killed during an uprising against Emperor Justinian.
Several monuments still remain in the square, including: The Obelisk of Theodosius (3,500 year old Egyptian obelisk brought from Luxor), The Serpent Column (a bronze column from Delphi, Greece, originally made to celebrate the Greek victory over the Persians), and the Walled Obelisk (stone column added by Emperor Constantine VII.
The Blue Mosque: one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul, this mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I. It remains an active place of worship and a popular destination. An iconic feature is the Six Minarets, unusual for a mosque as most have one or two. This feature sparked controversy, as only the Great Mosque of Mecca had six at the time, prompting Sultan Ahmed to fund a seventh minaret in Mecca to resolve the issue.
Another notable feature is inside, the vast prayer hall is lit by more than 200 stained glass windows, and the blue tiles, arranged in floral and geometric patterns, give the mosque a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Basilica Cistern: This vast underground water storage facility provided water to the Great Palace of Constantinople and surrounding buildings in the 6th century. By far, this cistern is the largest of the several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city. The structure measures approximately 140 meters long and 70 meters wide, capable of holding 80,000 cubic meters of water.
What makes the Basilica Cistern particularly striking are its 336 marble columns, each about 9 meters high, arranged in 12 rows. Many of these columns were repurposed from earlier Roman buildings, showcasing various designs, including two famous Medusa heads at the base of two columns. These heads are positioned sideways and upside down, adding a mysterious, almost mythological atmosphere to the cistern.
Boat Ride: private boat ride on Bosphorous to see houses, palaces, and mansions located on the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
Dinner and overnight at the Kent Hotel.
Grand Bazaar: founded in the 15th century under Sultan Mehmed II, the Grand Bazaar has been a bustling hub of commerce for centuries. Covering 61 streets and housing over 4,000 shops, the bazaar is like a labyrinth of traditional Turkish goods. Visitors can find everything from handmade carpets, jewelry, and antiques to spices, leather goods, and ceramics. The bazaar is also famous for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, with vendors calling out to shoppers, negotiating prices, and offering Turkish tea.
Topkapi Palace: a sprawling historic palace in Istanbul that served as the primary residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Built by Sultan Mehmed II in the late 1450s after the conquest of Constantinople, it reflects the grandeur and power of the Ottoman Empire at its height.
The palace is renowned for its lavish courtyards, harem, imperial treasury (which still houses a collection of priceless jewels, gold artifacts, and historic relics, including the Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond), sacred relics (believed to have been possessed by the prophet Muhammad), and imperial council chambers.
Spice Market: also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is one of the most vibrant and aromatic marketplaces. The name “Egyptian Bazaar” comes from the fact that it was historically funded by the taxes collected from Egypt, which was then part of the Ottoman Empire. The Spice Market is famous for its wide array of spices, herbs, dried fruits, and nuts. In addition to spices, the market also offers many cheeses, treats, textiles, and more. It is much smaller than the Bazaar, and a more intimate experience for tourists and vendors alike.
Dinner and overnight at the Kent Hotel.
Free time in this amazing city before flights home. Guests will arrange their own transportation to the airport, allowing them to spend as much or as little time exploring the city as they wish.
Payment Terms: $300 pp deposit required at the time of booking. Final payment due 90 days before departure.
**this tour is based on a minimum of 20 passengers and a maximum of 30 passengers
*Rate of Exchange and City Taxes apply
Meet your guide!
Legacy Tours are priced to ensure our clients get the most economical price for the tour. In doing so we base our tour price on the value of the US dollar to the Euro when final payment is made. The published price and rate of exchange for the dollar when published is the marker. If the dollar has decreased when the final payment is due, the cost for the tour may be more than the published price. However if the dollar increases in value when your final payment is due, then you will pay less than the price that is published for the tour.
A number of European cities are likely to increase or impose a new tourism tax in the near future. These taxes may be added without warning. These extra taxes may end up being added to the final cost of the tour or it’s possible you will be asked to pay locally on the spot. Barcelona just recently added a city tax that was between 1-3 EU per night. This is just to let you know of this possibility. In any advent you will want to bring some extra Euros to have on hand in case that happens on our tour.
Legacy Tours & Travel
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Office: 801-683-0123
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