Private Turkey Highlight Tour With Seven Churches of Revelation

This 9-day private tour of Turkey offers an in-depth exploration of some of the most significant religious and historical sites across the country, priced at $3,100 per person. The tour, organized by Sunnova Travel Agency, is highly rated with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on 2 reviews, emphasizing its thorough planning and knowledgeable guides. Bookings typically open 34 days in advance, making it accessible for travelers planning ahead. It includes private transportation, professional guides, and comfortable accommodations, with most activities scheduled around 8 to 12-hour days.

This tour is ideal for those interested in religious history, ancient ruins, and Turkey’s cultural diversity. It covers major sites like Hagia Sophia, the Seven Churches of Revelation, Ephesus, and Cappadocia, all while providing a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation. A key strength is the inclusion of exclusive guided visits and private transfers, ensuring a personalized experience. However, travelers should be prepared for a busy schedule and some walking at archaeological sites. The tour’s long durations and extensive itinerary make it best suited for active guests comfortable with full days of exploration.

Key Points

• All-inclusive, private 9-day tour across Turkey with a focus on religious and historical sites
• Visit the Seven Churches of Revelation, including Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Hierapolis, Laodicea, Ephesus, and Smyrna
• Includes Istanbul highlights such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and a Bosphorus boat tour
• Tour covers Pamukkale’s thermal pools and Hierapolis, plus Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, underground cities, and optional hot air balloon ride
• Professional guides and private transport ensure a smooth, personalized experience
• Tour requires full days of walking and sightseeing, suitable for active travelers

Starting in Istanbul: From Hagia Sophia to the Bosphorus

The journey begins in Istanbul, where the tour starts at Istanbul Airport with a warm welcome. The first day includes a local breakfast, followed by a walk through Taksim Square and along Istiklal Street, exposing visitors to vibrant city life. The itinerary features a visit to St. Antuan Church and an absolutely stunning view from Galata Tower, known for its panoramic terrace.

Later, travelers enjoy a Bosporus boat tour from Eminönü, which provides a scenic view of Istanbul’s skyline and historic bridges. The first day offers a relaxed yet comprehensive taste of the city’s diversity, blending cultural landmarks with lively street scenes.

Exploring Istanbul’s Historic Heart: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace

On Day 2, the tour deepens into Istanbul’s historic core. The Blue Mosque, with its iconic blue tiles, is one of the key highlights, along with the Hagia Sophia, which has served as both a church and a mosque. The Topkapi Palace provides insight into Ottoman royalty, situated on a hill with views overlooking the Golden Horn.

Additional explorations include the Basilica Cistern, an impressive underground water storage with its atmospheric columns, and the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, home to invaluable artifacts. The day wraps up with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, where the lively atmosphere and artisan crafts offer a perfect shopping experience.

Discovering Pergamon and the Seven Churches of Asia Minor

From Pergamon’s ancient ruins, the tour moves to Akhisar (ancient Thyatira), a city historically linked to one of the Seven Churches. Pergamon, once a major Hellenistic capital, reveals remains of its Acropolis and Pergamon Altar. The guide highlights the site’s significance as the northernmost of the Seven Churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation.

Next, the journey continues to Smyrna (modern İzmir), where the Church of Smyrna and St. Policarpa Church are visited. These sites connect visitors with early Christian history, set against the backdrop of ancient Greek and Roman infrastructure.

Exploring Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea in the Aegean Region

The itinerary advances with visits to Sardis, the capital of the Lydian Kingdom, featuring remains like the Temple of Artemis and ancient houses. The city is known for being one of the Seven Churches of Revelation and is a notable archaeological site.

Next, the tour visits Philadelphia (modern Alasehir), the only church in the Revelation list that remains uncensured, displaying 11th-century frescoes and ruins of a Byzantine basilica. The journey concludes at Laodicea, where travelers see the ancient theater, basilica remains, and stone water pipes. The focus on these sites underscores their historical and religious significance during early Christian times.

Pamukkale’s Thermal Pools and Ancient Hierapolis

After a busy road trip through ancient cities, the tour reaches Pamukkale, famous for its thermal pools and travertine terraces. Visitors enjoy relaxing in the calcium-rich mineral waters for about three hours, experiencing both natural beauty and therapeutic benefits.

The exploration continues with Hierapolis, an ancient city nearby, where the amphitheater and Cleopatra Pools attract attention. The Martyrium of the Apostle Philip adds a spiritual element, linking the history of early Christianity with the natural landscape of Pamukkale.

Cappadocia: From Underground Cities to Balloon Rides

Crossing into Cappadocia, the tour includes stops at Selime Monastery and Ihlara Valley, where visitors walk amidst rock-cut churches and enjoy the scenic beauty of the canyon. The Kaymakli Underground City demonstrates impressive ancient subterranean architecture, once used for protection.

An optional hot air balloon ride offers spectacular views of fairy chimneys and valleys, renowned for their unique formations. The Goreme Open-Air Museum showcases ancient monasteries and churches carved into the rocks, highlighting the region’s spiritual past.

Uçhisar Castle and Sunset in Cappadocia

In Uçhisar, visitors climb Uçhisar Castle for sweeping panoramic views of Cappadocia’s landscape. As the day ends, the tour offers a sunset experience that captures the region’s iconic scenery, perfect for photography and reflection.

The Güvercinlik Valley and the Pottery Workshop in Avanos provide additional cultural insights, emphasizing local craftsmanship. The day’s activities combine natural wonders with cultural richness, rounding out a full day of exploration.

Tour Logistics and Practical Details

This private tour includes airport pickups, private transportation, and a professional guide throughout. Accommodations are comfortable, and breakfasts are included in the schedule. The tour operates seven days a week, with the ability to book well in advance, typically 34 days ahead.

Travelers should be aware that lunch and dinner are not included, and optional activities like the hot air balloon in Cappadocia involve additional costs. The tour’s pacing is full, with long days that suit active travelers comfortable with walking and site exploration. The free cancellation policy offers flexibility, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Why This Tour Stands Out: A Focus on Religious Heritage and Unique Sites

What makes this private Turkey trip particularly compelling is its comprehensive coverage of early Christian sites along with Turkey’s iconic landscapes. The inclusion of all Seven Churches of Revelation and the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Hierapolis provides a meaningful connection to religious history.

The tour’s expert guides and private transport create a smooth experience, allowing guests to spend ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. Natural highlights like Pamukkale’s thermal pools and Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys add scenic variety to the historical and spiritual journey.

A notable strength is the personalized experience, perfect for travelers who appreciate deep culture and detailed guided explanations. The long days can be demanding, so it’s best suited for those with good stamina and a keen interest in Turkey’s historic and religious landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While most sites involve walking and some uneven terrain, the tour is designed for active guests comfortable with full days of exploration.

Are meals included in the tour price?
No, lunch and dinner are not included. Guests should budget for meals during the trip.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, it offers flexibility for adjustments, but the core stops and schedule are pre-planned for a comprehensive experience.

Is the hot air balloon ride included?
No, the hot air balloon in Cappadocia is optional and costs extra if chosen.

What’s the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

Who organizes this tour?
The tour is operated by Sunnova Travel Agency, known for its professional guides and well-organized itineraries.

This 9-day private tour presents a well-rounded, in-depth look at Turkey’s most important religious sites and scenic wonders, making it ideal for history buffs and spiritual explorers alike. Its detailed itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and seamless logistics promise a memorable journey through the heart of Turkey.