The 7 nights 8 days Turkey Biblical Tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore historically and religiously significant sites. Starting from Istanbul, the tour covers important locations such as Nicaea, Ephesus, Laodicea, Hierapolis, and Cappadocia. Visitors will encounter ancient churches, baptismal sites, and other significant places mentioned in the Bible. This tour is perfect for travelers who value their religious beliefs and wish to see historical sites up close.
Day 1: Istanbul Arrival
Upon your arrival at Istanbul airport, you'll be greeted by a representative from Turkey Tours waiting for you at the exit of the first gate. From there, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Istanbul. Enjoy your overnight stay in the city!
Day 2: Full Day Old City Tour By Walking
You’ll visit; Hagia Sophia - Blue Mosque - Topkapi Palace - Hippodrome - Obelisk of Theodosius and Grand Bazaar
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you'll be greeted by your tour guide to embark on a full-day exploration of Istanbul's Old City. Istanbul boasts an array of iconic landmarks, each steeped in history and grandeur. Today, you'll have the opportunity to witness these treasures firsthand, starting with the awe-inspiring Blue Mosque and the magnificent Hagia Sophia, which grace the city's skyline with their breathtaking silhouettes.
Next, we'll visit the illustrious Topkapi Palace, a splendid Ottoman residence that once housed the esteemed Ottoman Sultans and later served as the residence for the first president of Turkey. As we delve into its opulent halls and lush gardens, you'll step back in time to an era of regal splendor and intrigue.
Our journey continues to the site of the ancient Roman Hippodrome, where once gladiators entertained the masses. Here, amidst the remnants of history, you'll marvel at the enduring Obelisks adorned with intricate carvings, a testament to civilizations long past.
Our final destination is the bustling Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in Turkey nestled in the heart of the Old City. Immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere as you meander through its labyrinthine lanes, filled with an array of treasures waiting to be discovered.
At the conclusion of our tour, you'll be chauffeured back to your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. Overnight in Istanbul, where the echoes of centuries past mingle with the vibrant pulse of modern life.
Day 3: Istanbul Departure & Izmir Arrival & Smyrna - Pergamon - Tyhatira Tour
Following breakfast at your hotel, you'll be whisked away for a captivating journey to Izmir, the ancient city of Smyrna. Our first stop will be the St. Policarp St. Paul Tour, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the historic Izmir Smyrna church, steeped in religious significance and cultural heritage.
From there, our adventure continues to Akhisar, an ancient commercial hub intricately linked to Troy and Sardis. Here, you'll immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history as we delve into the remnants of this once bustling center of trade and commerce.
Next, we'll journey onwards to Pergamum, where history comes to life amidst the ruins of the ancient Asclepion, a renowned healing center of antiquity. Explore the Acropolis, a testament to the city's former grandeur, and pay homage to the Church at the site of Serapium, a symbol of spiritual devotion through the ages. Our exploration culminates at the Red Court dedicated to St. John, where echoes of the past mingle with the tranquility of the present.
As our day unfolds, we'll visit Akhisar, the site of ancient Thyatira, where you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the storied past of this ancient city.
At the conclusion of our tour, you'll be transferred back to your hotel in Izmir, where you can relax and reflect on the wonders of the day. Overnight in Izmir, where the echoes of history whisper through the streets, reminding us of the timeless allure of the past.
Day 4: Philadelphia - Sardes - Lepdecia - Pamukkale Tour
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, your tour guide will pick you up for an enriching journey to Sardis, where you'll have the opportunity to visit one of the seven churches of the Apocalypse and explore the remains of the Cathedral, steeped in religious significance and historical intrigue.
Next, our expedition takes us to the ancient city of Sardis, capital of the famed Lydia, where you'll marvel at the remnants of the Temple of Cybele & Diana. Witness the transformation of these ancient edifices, which later became a church, as you stroll along the royal road, tracing the footsteps of ancient civilizations.
Our journey continues to Alasehir, where you'll discover the haunting remains of St. John church, a testament to the enduring legacy of faith and devotion.
As we traverse the landscape, we arrive at Laodicea, the smallest among the Seven Churches of Asia Minor, where you'll be captivated by the rich history and spiritual significance of this ancient site.
Our final destination for the day is Pamukkale, ancient Hierapolis, a sacred city believed to have been founded by the god Apollo. Explore its famed hot springs, steeped in myth and legend, and immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of ancient life.
At the conclusion of our tour, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Kusadasi, where you can unwind and reflect on the wonders of the day. Overnight in Kusadasi, where the echoes of antiquity mingle with the tranquility of modern life.
Day 5: Full Day Ephesus Tour & Cappadocia Arrival
Following breakfast at your hotel, your tour guide will collect you for an unforgettable excursion to Ephesus, a city steeped in history and spiritual significance. Explore the ancient streets where St. Paul once walked, and visit notable landmarks including the House of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. John.
Next, our journey takes us to Miletos, where St. Paul delivered a stirring speech to propagate Christianity, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of religious history.
As the day draws to a close, you'll be chauffeured to Izmir Airport for your flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, our representative will warmly welcome you at the first exit door, ensuring a seamless transition to your hotel.
Overnight in Cappadocia, where the enchanting landscapes and ancient wonders await your exploration.
Day 6: Full Day Cappadocia & Goreme Tour
In the morning, after breakfast at your hotel in Cappadocia, you'll embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of this ancient land. Cappadocia, once the focal point of the Hittite Kingdom of the Old Testament, boasts a landscape unlike any other, characterized by its extraordinary rock formations and surreal beauty.
Our adventure begins in Caesarea (Kayseri), the center of Cappadocia, where you'll delve into the rich history of the region and marvel at its timeless charm. Prepare to be mesmerized as we explore the Valley of the Fairy Chimneys, where unique rock formations stand as silent sentinels of the past.
Next, we'll visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where ancient cave churches and dwellings offer a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.
In Avanos, renowned for its pottery, you'll have the opportunity to watch skilled artisans at work, shaping clay into exquisite works of art using techniques passed down through generations.
Our journey culminates with a visit to the Citadel of Uchisar Valley, where you'll savor the natural wonders and breathtaking vistas that define this remarkable landscape.
At the conclusion of our tour, you'll be transferred back to your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. Overnight in Cappadocia, where every moment is a testament to the enduring beauty of the past.
Day 7: Underground Cities Tour & Adana Arrival
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, our adventure in Cappadocia continues with a visit to one of the most expansive underground cities in the region, nestled beneath a rocky hill. Carved out over centuries, with the earliest levels believed to have been created by the Hittites around 2000 B.C., these underground cities served as crucial refuges for early Christians escaping persecution by Roman authorities. During times of conflict, as many as 5000 people sought shelter within their labyrinthine passages.
Day 8: Antakya & Pierer & Museum Tour
As dawn breaks, you'll be greeted at your hotel to begin our journey to Antakya (Antioch), a city steeped in biblical history and significance. It was here, according to the Acts of the Apostles, that Jesus' followers were first referred to as Christians. Antakya holds a special place in the hearts of believers, as it was a key center for early Christian teachings.As dawn breaks, you'll be greeted at your hotel to begin our journey to Antakya (Antioch), a city steeped in biblical history and significance. It was here, according to the Acts of the Apostles, that Jesus' followers were first referred to as Christians. Antakya holds a special place in the hearts of believers, as it was a key center for early Christian teachings.
Our first stop will be St. Peter's Grotto, a sacred site where tradition holds that St. Peter himself once preached and where early Christians congregated. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this ancient sanctuary as we reflect on its significance.
Next, we'll visit the Mosaic Museum, home to a stunning collection of ancient mosaics that offer a glimpse into the rich artistic and cultural heritage of the region. Marvel at the intricate designs and vibrant colors that adorn these ancient works of art, each telling its own unique story.
At the conclusion of our tour, you'll be transferred back to your hotel in Adana, where you can relax and contemplate the profound experiences of the day. Overnight in Adana, where the echoes of the past mingle with the vibrant energy of the present.
Day 9: Istanbul Arrival
Following breakfast at your hotel in Adana, it's time to bid farewell to this vibrant city as we transfer you to the Adana Airport for your return flight to Istanbul.
Upon arrival at the airport in Istanbul, our dedicated representative will be waiting for you at the first exit door, ready to extend a warm welcome and assist you with your transfer to your hotel.
Once you've settled into your accommodations, you'll have the remainder of the day to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of Istanbul at your leisure. Overnight in Istanbul, where the captivating blend of history, culture, and modernity awaits your exploration.
Day 10: Istanbul Departure
As per your international flight schedule, we will ensure your timely transfer to the airport, allowing for a comfortable 4-hour window before your departure. With the convenience of self-check-in available, you'll have ample time to complete any necessary formalities before your flight.
We hope that your time exploring Turkey has been filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. It has been our pleasure to accompany you on this journey, and we sincerely hope to welcome you back again in the future. Safe travels, and until we meet again!