Istanbul: Missionary Journey of St. Paul 14-Day Turkey Tour

This 14-day Turkey tour offers a deep dive into the early Christian world, following the trail of St. Paul through historic sites, ancient cities, and iconic religious landmarks. Priced at $7,041 per person, this guided journey is designed for those interested in biblical history and classic archaeological destinations. Led by Castle Travel, the tour earns a solid 4.6-star rating, highlighting its quality and detailed itinerary.

The tour begins in Istanbul, with guided visits to major sites like St. Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. It then moves across Turkey’s Aegean coast, visiting places like Ephesus, Pergamon, Troy, and Hierapolis. A unique aspect is the inclusion of a Greek island trip to Patmos, where St. John’s Cave of Revelation is explored. The journey concludes with a visit to Cappadocia and the birthplace of St. Paul in Tarsus, giving a comprehensive look at the biblical and historical landscape.

While the journey covers many sites and involves a lot of walking and sightseeing, it includes most entrance fees, transportation, and domestic flights, making it a well-organized and thorough experience. The tour is best suited for those with an interest in religious history, archaeology, and biblical studies, and it suits travelers comfortable with a busy pace.

Key Points

• Follow the footsteps of St. Paul through Turkey, visiting seven Apocalyptic churches and key biblical sites.
• Includes guided visits to major landmarks such as St. John’s Basilica, the House of Virgin Mary, and Ephesus.
• Covers diverse locations: from Istanbul to the Greek island of Patmos and the Cappadocia region.
• All transportation between sites and entrance fees are included, plus domestic flights.
• The tour lasts 14 days, with a mix of historical, religious, and archaeological sights.
• The price of $7,041 includes most amenities, but meals and personal expenses are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Visiting the Historic Sites of Istanbul

The journey begins with an arrive-in Istanbul and an afternoon orientation tour. The city’s iconic St. Sophia, Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace offer a vivid introduction to the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman history. The St. Irene and St. Chora Museum provide additional insights into religious art and early Christian architecture.

This initial part of the trip sets a strong cultural and historical tone, with visits to sites that are central to Christian and Islamic heritage in Turkey. The tour’s inclusion of guided commentary helps explain the significance of each landmark.

Exploring the Roots of Christianity in Nicea and Bursa

Traveling from Istanbul, the tour visits Nicea (Iznik), known for the First and Seventh Ecumenical Councils, which shaped early Christian doctrine. The journey continues to Bursa, where the Green Mosque and Green Mausoleum highlight Ottoman religious architecture.

These stops provide context for the religious history of Turkey, emphasizing its role as a second-holiest land. The visits are well paced, allowing enough time to appreciate the religious and historical significance of each site.

From Troy to Pergamon: Ancient Ruins and Biblical Landmarks

Next, the coach heads to Canakkale, with stops at Gallipoli and Troy—famous for its legendary war and archaeological remains. The site of Alexandra Troas, where St. Paul met Luke, is also included, connecting biblical history with physical locations.

In Pergamon, the tour visits the Asclepion, the Acropolis, and the Red Court dedicated to St. John. The visits to these ancient centers of worship and healing emphasize the long history of religious life in Asia Minor.

Visiting the House of Virgin Mary and Ephesus

In Izmir, the tour explores Konak Square and the Policarp Church, then moves on to Ephesus. The visit highlights the House of Virgin Mary, where St. Paul stayed briefly, along with the Basilica of St. John.

Walking through Ephesus, travelers see the ancient city ruins, including the Theatre, Library of Celsus, and other monumental structures. The House of Virgin Mary is a key highlight, offering spiritual and historical insights.

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The Greek Island of Patmos

A special feature of this tour is a boat trip to Patmos, the Greek island famous for St. John’s Monastery and the Cave of Revelation. The private boat transfer allows for an intimate experience of this sacred site, and the visit includes St. John’s Monastery and the Cave of Revelation where St. John is believed to have received his visions.

This excursion enhances the biblical theme of the tour and offers a peaceful pause amid busy sightseeing.

Exploring Hierapolis, Laodicea, and Pamukkale

Traveling further, the itinerary visits Philadelphia, Laodicea, and Hierapolis. The basilica of St. John in Philadelphia and the healing waters at Pamukkale are notable stops.

The hot springs and terraces of Pamukkale are a natural marvel, providing a stunning backdrop after historical and religious explorations. The visit to Hierapolis adds archaeological depth, with remains dating back to Roman times.

Cappadocia’s Unique Landscape and Underground Cities

The journey through Cappadocia is marked by visits to the Goreme Open Air Museum, Zelve Valley, and underground cities. The region’s distinctive rock formations and cave dwellings make for a memorable experience.

The tour allows ample time to explore the underground city tunnels and rock-cut churches, highlighting the region’s historical importance for early Christians seeking refuge.

Tarsus and Antioch: The Birthplace of St. Paul

The tour visits Tarsus, the birthplace of St. Paul, and Antioch, where St. Paul and St. Barnabas stayed. The Museum of Antioch with its mosaics and the Cave Church where early Christians worshipped in secret are key highlights.

These sites underscore the biblical origins and early Christian communities in Turkey, enriching the spiritual journey.

Final Days in Istanbul and Practical Details

The tour concludes with a return to Istanbul, including a visit to St. Peter’s Grotto and St. John’s Basilica. The international flight back is arranged from Adana airport, with the final transfer to the hotel.

The package includes guided tours, entrance fees, local lunches, dinners, and transportation, streamlining logistics and ensuring a smooth experience. The tour offers skip-the-line access and live English guides.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This 14-day tour is ideal for travelers interested in biblical history, archaeology, and Christian landmarks in Turkey and Greece. It involves considerable walking, some physically demanding sites, and adherence to modest dress codes at religious sites.

It is important to note that meals and drinks outside meals included are not covered, and the tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, or those with mobility challenges.

Final Thoughts on the Istanbul: Missionary Journey of St. Paul Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive look at the biblical sites and ancient ruins of Turkey, uniquely combining religious, historical, and natural attractions. The well-organized itinerary covers a wide geographical area, from Istanbul to Cappadocia and the Greek islands.

While the cost of $7,041 reflects a premium experience, it covers most logistics, entry fees, and domestic flights, making for a convenient journey. Travelers passionate about early Christianity, biblical sites, and ancient civilizations will find this tour particularly rewarding.

The guided commentary and expert guides ensure that the rich history is accessible and engaging, though the busy schedule requires good stamina and interest in walking through archaeological sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes guided tours of Christian sites, entrance fees, transportation, domestic flight tickets, local lunches, and dinners.

Are meals outside the included lunches and dinners covered?
No, meals and drinks outside the provided meals are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 6 and may be challenging for travelers with mobility issues due to extensive walking.

What sites are visited in Istanbul?
You visit St. Sophia, Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, St. Irene, and St. Chora Museum.

Does the tour include a visit to Greece?
Yes, it includes a boat trip to Patmos, where St. John’s Monastery and Cave of Revelation are visited.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts 14 days, covering major biblical and historical sites across Turkey and a Greek island.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary are covered in the tour price.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, camera, and modest clothing for religious sites are recommended.

What makes this tour special?
The comprehensive route following St. Paul’s missionary journey, visiting seven Apocalyptic churches, and combining civilizations from Roman to Ottoman make this a unique religious and archaeological experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby