12 Days Memorable Turkey

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.

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.

Experience the historical and cultural magnificence of Istanbul. The day begins with a visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, known for its massive dome and rich mosaics. Next, explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, the power center of the Ottoman Empire for centuries. After savoring a traditional Turkish lunch in the historic Sultanahmet district, continue to the serene Blue Mosque, famed for its blue Iznik tiles and unique six minarets. The day concludes with a stroll through the bustling Grand Bazaar, an expansive market offering a variety of crafts, spices, and souvenirs.

Catch an early flight to Izmir, once known as Smyrna. Visit the ancient Agora, a well-preserved Roman marketplace. Then, journey to the ancient city of Pergamum, a major cultural center, where you’ll explore the Acropolis, the Temple of Zeus, and the ancient library. The day’s journey ends as you check into a beautiful spa hotel in Pamukkale, famous for its thermal mineral waters.

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. Enjoy the restorative properties of your hotel’s spa services in the evening.

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 the picturesque coastal town of Kusadasi.

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.

Depart for Cappadocia via Izmir, landing in Kayseri. The landscape of Cappadocia, known for its fairy chimneys and unique rock formations, is like stepping onto another planet. Settle into your hotel and enjoy a tranquil evening in this surreal setting.

Spend a full day in Cappadocia. Start at the Goreme Open Air Museum, where Christian monks carved churches and monasteries into the soft rock and adorned them with frescoes. Visit Uchisar Castle for panoramic views, and then go to Avanos, a town famous for its pottery. Participate in a pottery workshop to experience local crafts firsthand.

Continue westward to the Sultanhani Caravanserai, a well-preserved inn used by Silk Road travelers. After lunch near Konya, visit the ancient site of Lystra where the Apostle Paul preached. End your day in Konya, a city known for its spiritual significance as the home of Rumi, the Sufi mystic.

Return to Istanbul for a half-day of leisure. Explore more of the city at your own pace, perhaps visiting additional historical sites or enjoying last-minute shopping and sampling more delicious Turkish cuisine. Reflect on your journey over a farewell dinner with your group.

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.