10 Days Memorable Turkey

Departure

Begin your transformative journey with an overnight flight to Turkey. As you embark, prepare yourself for an expedition through time and faith. Rest on the flight, for tomorrow you will walk the paths once trod by the apostles.

Istanbul

Your adventure starts with your evening arrival in Istanbul, the city that straddles two continents. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel where you can settle in, enjoy a delicious Turkish dinner, and rest in preparation for the exciting days ahead.

Istanbul

Today, we uncover the opulence of the Topkapi Palace, heart of the Ottoman Empire, including its intriguing Harem section. Later, we lose ourselves in the vibrant Grand Bazaar and breathe in the exotic fragrances of the Spice Market, a sensory reminder of ancient trade routes. We cap the day with a soothing cruise on the Bosphorus, witnessing the city’s unique blend of East and West.

Thyatira, Sardis & Philadelphia

Travel to Thyatira, today’s Akhisar, a city known for its dyeing industry in ancient times. See the remains of the Roman road and public buildings. Continue to Sardis, once a Roman provincial capital, where you’ll visit the gymnasium and the synagogue. The day’s tour ends in Philadelphia, now Alasehir, where you’ll see remnants of the ancient city walls and Byzantine basilica. Spend the night in Pamukkale.

Hierapolis, Laodicea & Colossae

Explore Hierapolis, known for its thermal springs and a grand necropolis. Visit the ancient theater and the Martyrium of St. Philip the Apostle. In Laodicea, walk through the ruins of the city criticized in the Book of Revelation for its lukewarm faith, viewing its aqueducts and ancient council chamber. Nearby, discover Colossae, famous for its New Testament letter. Overnight in Pamukkale.

Ephesus

Journey to Ephesus, one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Visit the Basilica of St. John and then proceed to the ancient city, where you will see the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, and the enormous amphitheater. Discover the Terrace Houses, where the wealthy Romans lived, adorned with beautiful mosaics and frescoes. Conclude your exploration with a visit to a renowned local rug-making cooperative, where you’ll learn about this ancient craft. Overnight in Kuşadası.

Pergamon Acropolis & Asclepion

Travel to Pergamon, an ancient city renowned for its impressive acropolis and historical significance in early Christianity. Explore the Pergamon Acropolis, where you will see the ruins of the Temple of Trajan, the steepest theater of the ancient world, and the remains of the Altar of Zeus, once considered one of the wonders of the ancient world.

Continue to the Asclepion, the renowned healing center of the ancient world dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. Walk along the Sacred Way, visit the theater used for healing rituals, and explore the ancient treatment rooms where innovative medical practices were once performed.

Conclude the day’s journey by traveling to Çanakkale, a charming coastal town on the Dardanelles, where you will spend the night.

Ancient City of Troy

Travel to Troy, the legendary city immortalized in Homer’s Iliad, where history and mythology intertwine. Explore the ancient ruins, including the remains of the Trojan Walls, the Temple of Athena, and the famous replica of the Trojan Horse, symbolizing the epic Greek siege.

See the different layers of civilization that reveal Troy’s rich history, from the early Bronze Age to the Roman period. Walk through the ancient city gates, visit the Odeon, and stand on the very grounds where the great battles of legend took place. Overnight in Istanbul.

Istanbul

Visit the iconic Blue Mosque, famous for its striking blue Iznik tiles and six towering minarets. Walk through the historic Hippodrome, once the heart of Byzantine Constantinople, where you’ll see the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain.

Continue with a photo stop at Dolmabahçe Palace, the grand Ottoman-era residence on the Bosphorus, showcasing a blend of European and Turkish architectural styles.

Head to the charming Ortaköy Village, known for its stunning waterfront views, quaint streets, and the picturesque Ortaköy Mosque, set against the backdrop of the Bosphorus Bridge. Enjoy some free time to explore the local cafés and artisan shops.

Return

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home, carrying with you a treasure trove of memories, new insights into ancient history, and a deeper understanding of the biblical narratives that have shaped civilizations.