ITINERARY

Day 1: Friday, May 28th - Your Journey Begins

Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Istanbul.

Day 2: Saturday, May 29th - Arrival in Istanbul

Upon arrival in Istanbul, you will be met by a local rep of Mayflower Cruises and Tours and transferred to your hotel. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening. Meals: D

Day 3: Sunday, May 30th - Istanbul – City Tour 

After breakfast, begin your city tour of Istanbul. Visit Topkapi Palace, former residence of Ottoman sultans, where relics such as what is claimed to be John the Baptist’s arm are displayed. Continue to the Blue Mosque, the ancient Hippodrome, and the magnificent Basilica of St. Sophia (Hagia Sophia), originally built in 326. The tour will end with the visit of the Spice Market. Enjoy an included dinner this evening at a local restaurant. Meals: B, D

Day 4: Monday, May 31st - Istanbul • Thyatira • Pergamum • Izmir

After breakfast, depart by coach to Izmir, formerly known as Smyrna. Enroute, stop in Thyatira, one of the Seven Churches mentioned in Revelation (Rev. 1:11; 2:18–29) and a city visited by St. Paul during his missionary journeys (Acts 19:10). Continue to Pergamum (Rev. 2:12–17), where you will explore the Acropolis and its ancient theater. The Cable Car is also included during the excursion. Arrive in Izmir for dinner at the hotel and overnight accommodations. Meals: B, D

Day 5: Tuesday, June 1st - Izmir • Sardis • Philadelphia • Pamukkale

Begin the day with a visit to Sardis (Rev. 3:1–6), including the Temple of Artemis, the Royal Road, gymnasium, and ancient synagogue. Continue to Philadelphia (Rev. 3:7–13), described as the “New Jerusalem,” and then to Pamukkale, famous for its calcium-rich thermal waters that formed white terraces and basins. Dinner and overnight are in Pamukkale. Meals: B, D

Day 6: Wednesday, June 2nd - Hierapolis • Laodicea • Colossae • Pamukkale

Begin the day with a visit to Hierapolis, founded during the Hellenistic period. Upon arrival at the site, enjoy the views and use golf carts while discovering the excavations and ruins. Continue to Laodicea (Rev. 3:14–22), one of the Seven Churches known for being “lukewarm in faith”. Afterwards stop at Colossae, where Paul’s Epistle to the Colossians was addressed. Dinner and overnight in Pamukkale. Meals: B, D

Day 7: Thursday, June 3rd - Pamukkale • Ephesus • Izmir

After breakfast, depart for Ephesus, another of the Seven Churches in Revelation (Rev. 1:11). Visit the large amphitheater, gymnasiums, bathhouses, Library of Celsus, and the remains of the Temple of Artemis. Then visit the House of the Virgin Mary. Enjoy a traditional Turkish rug demonstration and lecture, where you’ll learn about the centuries-old art of carpet weaving, its symbolism, techniques, and its role in Anatolian Christian and cultural heritage. Before we start our drive back to Izmir we will visit the Basilica of St. John, where a small church was originally built over the tomb of St. John the Evangelist. Enjoy dinner at a local fish restaurant along the Izmir Bay this evening. Meals: B, D

Day 8: Friday, June 4th - Izmir • Istanbul • USA

Return home with full hearts and wonderful memories.

Optional Excursion to Cappadocia

Day 8: Friday, June 4th - Izmir • Istanbul • Cappadocia 

After breakfast, transfer to the Izmir airport for a morning flight to Istanbul for your flights home or join the optional excursion and board your onward flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival in Cappadocia, you will be transferred to the hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to begin discovering the sights. This evening, dinner is included at the hotel. Meals: B, D

Day 9: Saturday, June 5th - Cappadocia – Hot Air Balloon & Historic Exploration

Early morning optional hot air balloon flight to drift over unique rock formations and rich fertile valleys, all set against the dramatic volcanic landscape that formed the region over two million years ago. After the excursion, return to the hotel for breakfast followed by touring of the historical region. Visit the UNESCO Göreme Open-Air Museum containing century rock-cut cave churches, chapels, and original Byzantine Christian frescoes from the 10–12th centuries, representing the ‘golden age’ of religious art in Göreme. Enjoy a photo stop at Uchisar Castle, one of Cappadocia’s most iconic rock formations. Admire the impressive fortress-like structure from the outside and capture panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and unique landscape. Continue to Ortahisar, a striking natural rock castle, for another photo stop of the impressive silhouette and its surroundings. The tour continues with Pasabagi (also known as Monks Valley) where tall, conical, rock pillars stand in the middle of a vineyard. Housing three pillar hermitages, monks’ cells and cave churches, this is truly a unique monastic site. Proceed to the pottery town of Avanos where Kizilirmak (Hallys) river, the longest river of Turkey, meanders leaving the red clay on its banks that has been the raw material of pottery for centuries. Visit a ceramic studio and watch a demonstration as a local artisan creates these amazing works of art. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Meals: B, D

Day 10: Sunday, June 6th - Cappadocia – Valleys & Underground City

After breakfast visit Soganli Valley which was continuously inhabited since the earliest days of the Christian era and has churches dating from the 9th–13th centuries. Some churches contain inscriptions giving the exact dates of construction providing scholars with valuable clues to date other churches in Cappadocia. Next, visit Keslik Monastery with its cave chapels and preserved frescoes. Visit the Archangelos Church depicting scenes from Christ’s entombment and Stefanos Church displaying the Saint Euphemia cross from the iconoclastic period. Enjoy an included lunch at Hidden Apple Garden Restaurant followed by a visit to Kaymakli Underground City where five levels extend below ground and include living quarters, kitchens, wine presses, stables and ventilation shafts. Early Christians carved out these subterranean complexes to avoid invaders between the 6th–9th centuries. End the day at Rose Valley which gets its name from the rose-colored rock that varies in hue and intensity depending on time of day, season and weather conditions. Dinner and overnight in Cappadocia. Meals: B, L, D

Day 11: Monday, June 7th - Cappadocia • Istanbul • USA

After breakfast, one group transfer departs to the airport for a morning flight to Istanbul where you’ll connect to your onward flights. Meal: B

Itinerary subject to change.

This tour is priced at $5,299 (+ optional Traveler Protection Plan).  The Optional Cappadocia Extension is priced at $1,544 per person.  You can download a Tour Brochure Here.

To reserve your spot(s) on this trip - click the I WANT TO GO link below and provide the required information.  We will follow up with you to confirm your spot and provide deposit information.  Total capacity on the tour is limited.  

TRIP FAQ'S 

1) What's Included:  Air and taxes as noted (included airfare is out of Chicago, IL - additional cities can be quoted), including intra-Turkey flights (which must be booked via the tour company on this tour); hotel accommodations; and meals as noted;  Destination airport transfers; Professional tour directors; Baggage handling; Local step-on guides.  

2) Gratuities:  Optional gratuities will be collected for our Tour Manager and Motorcoach Driver prior to the end of the tour.  

3) How much walking:  Physical activities such as longer walking tours, walking over uneven terrain, climbing stairs and periods of standing will all be part of the experience.

4) Time zone:  Turkey is 8 hours ahead of Eastern Daylight Time.

5) Luggage:  We recommend that you travel light. To that end, you are allowed 1 checked bag and 1 carry on (back pack, etc.). Most airlines charge for checked luggage today. Luggage handling on tour is generally provided for you.

6) Clothing:  We recommend comfortable, casual clothing and walking shoes. Layered clothing is best so you can add or take away as temperatures change. Occasionally motor coaches and airplanes can be cool, so a light jacket or sweater is good to include. We will let you know if there are any clothing requirements (such as closed toe shoes for accessing churches, etc.).

7) International Travel: Any tour outside the United States will require a valid passport. Your passport's expiration date must be at least six months after you return from your trip (if it's shorter than that you should renew it now). The name you enter on your reservation form MUST match EXACTLY as it appears on your passport (or you will be subject to denied boarding by an airline and/or incur additional fees.). 

8) Cancelling your trip:  Refunds are always at the discretion of the vendors providing the service to our company. Airfare is generally non-refundable. Optional traveler protection plan is available with each tour and is strongly encouraged.

9) Responsibility:  Indy Travel Group (Jerald Leuthold and Penny Schroder - Independent Sales Contractors) act only as an intermediary in the arrangements of your travel and vacation plans and are not responsible for any negligence of the various airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, transportation companies, hoteliers, etc. who provide travel, accommodations and other services included in cruise, tour or vacation packages. We accept no responsibility for damage or loss. We reserve the right to modify the cost or the schedule in the unlikely event of changes that would be necessary. 

10) Social Media Usage:  Indy Travel Group uses Social Media on trips such as Facebook and Instagram. Travelers on our tours usually enjoy sharing their experience with friends and family back home. If, for any reason, you prefer that we not include you on posts, please inform us in advance of the trip. Indy Travel Group will do the best we can to respect those wishes. However, you will be part of a greater group and may inadvertently be included. By traveling with Indy Travel Group you accept our policy of utilizing social media and hold us harmless from any and all damages. 

ITINERARY

Day 1: Tuesday, June 8th – Your Journey Begins

Your pilgrimage begins as we depart for Greece, following the footsteps of one of Christianity's greatest missionaries—the Apostle Paul. As you board your overnight flight, prepare your heart for an unforgettable journey through the lands where the early Church was born.

Day 2: Wednesday, June 9th – Welcome to Athens - Ancient History Meets Modern Greece

Welcome to Athens! After arriving in the birthplace of democracy and Western civilization, enjoy time to relax or begin exploring this remarkable city. Wander charming neighborhoods, sample authentic Greek cuisine, or simply soak in the atmosphere before our biblical adventure officially begins.

Day 3: Thursday, June 10th – Walking Where Paul Walked - Corinth • Mars Hill • The Acropolis

Today is one of the spiritual highlights of our journey. Stand in Ancient Corinth, where Paul spent nearly two years preaching the Gospel and writing letters that would become part of the New Testament. Visit the Bema, where Paul stood before Gallio, then travel back to Athens to climb Mars Hill, where Paul boldly proclaimed the "Unknown God."  We'll also explore the magnificent Acropolis before celebrating our first evening together with an authentic Greek dinner, local music, and traditional dancing in the heart of the historic Plaka district.

Day 4: Friday, June 11th – Sailing the Aegean Sea - Cruise to Beautiful Mykonos

This morning we board our cruise ship and begin an unforgettable voyage through the sparkling blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Our first island destination is Mykonos, famous for its whitewashed buildings, iconic windmills, colorful waterfront, and winding streets filled with boutiques and cafés. It's the perfect introduction to the beauty of the Greek Islands.

Day 5: Saturday, June 12th – Ephesus & Patmos - Walking Through the New Testament

Today we visit one of the most important biblical sites in the world—ancient Ephesus. Walk the marble streets where Paul ministered for three years, explore the grand theater, and visit the House of Mary.  Later we sail to the sacred island of Patmos, where the Apostle John received the Revelation of Jesus Christ. Visit both the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of St. John, places that have inspired pilgrims for centuries.

Day 6: Sunday, June 13th – Crete & Santorini - The Jewel of the Aegean

Spend the morning enjoying the lively city of Heraklion on Crete before continuing to one of the world's most breathtaking destinations—Santorini.  Explore the traditional village of Megalochori before arriving in picturesque Oia, where whitewashed homes cling dramatically to the cliffs overlooking the deep blue caldera. Few places on earth offer views as unforgettable as Santorini.

Day 7: Monday, June 14th – Across Mainland Greece - Thermopylae & Kalambaka

Leaving the islands behind, we journey north through mainland Greece. Along the way, we'll stop at Thermopylae, where King Leonidas and his Spartan warriors made their legendary stand.  Later we'll visit a traditional Byzantine icon workshop before arriving in Kalambaka, nestled beneath the towering rock formations of Metéora.

Day 8: Tuesday, June 15th – Metéora - Faith Above the Clouds

Today's visit to Metéora is unlike anything you've ever experienced. Towering sandstone pillars rise dramatically from the valley floor, crowned by centuries-old monasteries seemingly suspended between heaven and earth.  We'll visit two of these remarkable monasteries before continuing to Thessaloniki, where Paul preached during his second missionary journey and later wrote two of his New Testament epistles.

Day 9: Wednesday, June 16th – Philippi - Where Christianity Came to Europe

Travel to Kavala, where Paul first stepped onto European soil. Continue to Philippi, where he preached the Gospel, baptized Lydia—the first Christian convert in Europe—and endured imprisonment for his faith.  Walk through the ancient ruins, visit the traditional site of Lydia's baptism, and stand in the prison where Paul and Silas sang hymns despite their chains. This is one of the most moving days of our pilgrimage. 

Day 10: Thursday, June 17th – A Time to Reflect - Return to Athens

As we journey back to Athens through the beautiful countryside of central Greece, we'll have time to reflect on the remarkable places we've experienced and the biblical history we've walked through together.  This evening we'll gather one final time for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating new friendships and a journey that will inspire our faith for years to come.

Day 11: Friday, June 18th – Until We Meet Again

With hearts full of unforgettable memories, inspiring biblical history, and breathtaking scenery, we depart Greece for home. Though the journey ends today, the lessons, friendships, and spiritual encouragement gained while following in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul will remain long after we return.

This tour is priced at $7,969 (+ optional Traveler Protection Plan).  For detailed information online, CLICK  HERE.  You can download a Tour Brochure Here.

To reserve your spot(s) on this trip - click the I WANT TO GO link below and provide the required information.  We will follow up with you to confirm your spot and provide deposit information.  Total capacity on the tour is limited.  

TRIP FAQ'S 

1) What's Included:  Air and taxes as noted (included airfare is out of Indianapolis, IN - additional cities can be quoted.  Hotel & Cruise Ship accommodations; and meals as noted;  Destination airport transfers; Professional tour directors; Baggage handling; Local step-on guides.  

2) Gratuities:  Optional gratuities will be collected for our Tour Manager and Motorcoach Driver prior to the end of the tour.  

3) How much walking:  Physical activities such as longer walking tours, walking over uneven terrain, climbing stairs and periods of standing will all be part of the experience.

4) Time zone:  Greece is 7 hours ahead of Eastern Daylight Time.

5) Luggage:  We recommend that you travel light. To that end, you are allowed 1 checked bag and 1 carry on (back pack, etc.). Most airlines charge for checked luggage today. Luggage handling on tour is generally provided for you.

6) Clothing:  We recommend comfortable, casual clothing and walking shoes. Layered clothing is best so you can add or take away as temperatures change. Occasionally motor coaches and airplanes can be cool, so a light jacket or sweater is good to include. We will let you know if there are any clothing requirements (such as closed toe shoes for accessing churches, etc.).

7) International Travel: Any tour outside the United States will require a valid passport. Your passport's expiration date must be at least six months after you return from your trip (if it's shorter than that you should renew it now). The name you enter on your reservation form MUST match EXACTLY as it appears on your passport (or you will be subject to denied boarding by an airline and/or incur additional fees.). 

8) Cancelling your trip:  Refunds are always at the discretion of the vendors providing the service to our company. Airfare is generally non-refundable. Optional traveler protection plan is available with each tour and is strongly encouraged.

9) Responsibility:  Indy Travel Group (Jerald Leuthold and Penny Schroder - Independent Sales Contractors) act only as an intermediary in the arrangements of your travel and vacation plans and are not responsible for any negligence of the various airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, transportation companies, hoteliers, etc. who provide travel, accommodations and other services included in cruise, tour or vacation packages. We accept no responsibility for damage or loss. We reserve the right to modify the cost or the schedule in the unlikely event of changes that would be necessary. 

10) Social Media Usage:  Indy Travel Group uses Social Media on trips such as Facebook and Instagram. Travelers on our tours usually enjoy sharing their experience with friends and family back home. If, for any reason, you prefer that we not include you on posts, please inform us in advance of the trip. Indy Travel Group will do the best we can to respect those wishes. However, you will be part of a greater group and may inadvertently be included. By traveling with Indy Travel Group you accept our policy of utilizing social media and hold us harmless from any and all damages.