An inspiring journey to the actual places where the Apostle Paul lived and preached God’s word!
This amazing man, moved by the Holy Spirit preached the “Good News” to Jews and Gentiles.
Traveling along the major trade routes of the Roman Empire and visiting large thriving communities of Asia Minor- Turkey and Greece his mission was accomplished; Christianity become the most widespread religion in the world.
Travel with our Bible-oriented guides down timeless roads, take time to pray and rejoice in the ancient biblical sites, visit thousand-year-old churches and temples, and encounter a unique spiritual experience that will help you to better understand the miracle of Christianity.
Come along on this small group tour, broaden your understanding of the Bible, and deepen your faith. Tour Coordinator Mrs. Kim Nelson
HAVE A QUESTION?
Contact 1.844.777.1517 or info@luthertours.com
B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
ITINERARY
Day 1, May 17 Depart U.S.A. to Athens, Greece
Day 2, May 18 Arrive Athens, Greece (D)
Upon arrival in Athens make your way to the group hotel to meet this evening for our “Welcome to Greece” group dinner. Dinner and overnight Athens
For those arriving Athens Airport with the group flight arrangements, the group will be met upon arrival of the group flight by our local representative and transferred by private motor coach to the Athens hotel. Along the way enjoy views of some of the major historic sites and landmarks of Athens. The group will check-in to the hotel have time to refresh before meeting for the welcome dinner. Dinner and overnight Athens
Day 3, May 19, Ancient Athens (B, D)
Today our professional tour manager will lead the group through ancient Athens including visits to the Agora the former center of the Athenian public life and primary location where democracy, business and social events were conducted, and the location of the Temple of Hephaestus dating from 450BC, remarkably this Doric peripheral temple remains largely intact. You will view Hadrian’s Library built 131AD, providing the people of Athens with a public library and cultural center. Walk the grounds of the hilltop Acropolis and the ruins of the Parthenon a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis, a massive place of worship, an enduring symbol of Ancient Greece, democracy, and Western civilization. Other notable iconic landmarks you will view include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Greek Parliament, National Library, the Panathenaic Stadium, the Royal Palace. Ascend the steps to the historic site of Mars Hill (the Areopagus) where Apostle Paul spoke to the ancient Athenians about “the one and only God.” From here we have an excellent view of the Acropolis and the Agora of Athens.
Later this afternoon stroll the picturesque Plaka District (or Monasteraki district) nestled among the slopes of the Acropolis. In the shadow of the ancient temples, stroll through the labyrinth of cobblestone streets admiring the neoclassical architecture that gives this “Neighborhood of the Gods” its extraordinary character. The lively squares are filled with open-air markets, a variety of boutiques, antique shops, souvenir shops, restaurants and cafés that are enjoyable to both visitors and locals. Dinner and Overnight Athens
Option- Visit the Acropolis Museum (instead of Plaka District) for those who wish to visit the museum on their own. View centuries old artifacts found only at the Acropolis Museum. Museum hours: M 9A-5P/ T-SU 9A-8P, F 9A-10P/Admission: 20Euro- advance reservation required.
Day 4, May 20 Corinth, Winery Visit and Wine Tastings (B, D)
Today we visit Corinth where Apostle Paul stayed for one and a half years, established a thriving church, and wrote 2 of the epistles. Along the way, visit the beach of Kinetta, and a brief stop to learn more about the amazing Corinth Canal. From here, travel on to ancient Corinth. Visit the museum, the Bema a place of public worship where “Paul dedicated every hour to preaching the message...” (Act 18:5), the Temple of Apollo, the Asklepion and the Agora, the Roman Odeon. And the port of Cenchreae where Paul sailed to reach Ephesus. These visits will enhance your understanding of Corinthians I and II. Before returning to Athens, the group will enjoy a Nemea Winery visit. The mountains and valleys surrounding the small village of Neméa have been producing wine for centuries. This region is well-known for producing some of the most prestigious wines in the world, showcasing an array of immaculate wines. Your visit includes wine tastings and finger food with cheese and olives. Afterwards, the group will return to Athens. Dinner and overnight Athens
Day 5, May 21 Delphi, Kalambaka (B, D)
Today we continue our journey northward to Delphi, the ancient sanctuary of Apollo, to learn more about Greek religious heritage and its influence on the early Christian years. Delphi was regarded as the center of the world, the omphalos (navel) and the most important cultural and religion center of old times. You will visit the Delphi Archeological Museum, Temple of Apollo, Athenian Treasury, Theater and Stadium, the Castalian Fountain, and the Tholos of Athena Pronaia. We continue on to Kalambaka for dinner. Dinner and overnight Kalambaka
Day 6, May 22 Meteora, Vergina, Veria, Thessaloniki (B, D)
After breakfast we will visit the spectacular Meteora Monasteries, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and official holy place for Greece since 1995. A mountainous region of stunning scenery. Here you will view centuries-old Byzantine monasteries perched on the huge cliffs first built in the 14th century by monks seeking isolation and salvation. From the early Christian times, the cliffs of Meteora were regarded as a perfect place to achieve absolute isolation. A place for people to find peace and harmony and to support mankind’s eternal struggle for spiritual ascension. Visit Vergina, a World Heritage Site, and location of the legendary burial site of the Macedonian kings, and location of the tomb of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great and conqueror of Greek territories. Next, we continue on the path of Apostle Paul to the ancient city of Berea, known today as Veria, the town evangelized by Paul, where he preached to the Jewish community and created an important Church. We visit the ancient synagogue to view the beautiful mosaic monument commemorating his preaching. Completing our day in Thessaloniki, an early center for Christianity, location where Paul visited and preached the Gospel during his missionary journey of 49-50A.D. and wrote two epistles to the ancient Thessalonians. Dinner and Overnight Thessaloniki
Day 7, May 23 Thessaloniki (B, D)
Today explore the second largest city in Greece, Thessaloniki, where St. Paul preached and founded a church, and to whom he wrote two epistles (Acts 17:1-9; 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians). Our walking tour includes a visit to the Church of St. Sofia, the Church of Prophet Elias, and the Byzantine fortress of the city, the Byzantine Cathedral of Saint Demetrios- the protector of the city and the White Tower. Completing our day at the triumphal Arch of Galerius, starting at the Via Egnatia, once a strategic artery of the Roman Empire.
Option to visit the nearby Rotunda, one of the oldest monuments in Thessaloniki, its sixteen centuries of its existence, as pagan monument, Christian church and Muslim house of worship, have left their traces on it. It is now one of the 15 Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki that were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988.Dinner and overnight Thessaloniki
Day 8, May 24 Philippi, Kavala, Turkey Border crossing (B, D)
After breakfast we depart for Philippi the town where Paul delivered his first sermon in Europe, sowing the seeds of Christianity. “And from there (He went) to Philippi, which is the leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman Colony...” (Acts 16:12-18). Visit the Baptistery of St. Lydia, location where Paul baptized the first Greek and European Christian woman named Lydia of Thyatira. Also visit the Roman Theatre, known to be the prison where Paul and Silas were held. We will continue towards the city of Kavala and the ancient city of Neapolis (Acts 16:11) where Paul landed with his disciples, Timothy and Silas. It was later renamed Christoupolis, meaning city of God, as the first European city to accept Christianity. Learn more about the Roman Aqueduct and the ruins of the Acropolis. Our journey continues to the Greek border, crossing to Canakkale, Turkey where we begin our pilgrimage to visit the Seven Churches of Revelation. Dinner and overnight Canakkale
Day 9, May 25 Seven Churches of Revelation, Turkey
Canakkale, Troy, Pergamum, Izmir (Smyrna) (B, D)
After breakfast, our journey begins in Troy, settled as early as 3000 BC, Troy was made famous by Homer’s Iliad. We continue on to Pergamum, the first of the Seven Churches of Revelation and one of the most powerful and wealthy cities in the ancient world. In the book of Revelation, the risen Christ instructed John to convey the message that the people of Pergamum, the site of “Satan’s throne,” needed to repent (Revelation 2:12-17). Tour the Acropolis of Pergamum, the pagan temples, and the Altar of Zeus. Test the acoustic phenomenon of the Great Theatre, which could entertain 10,000 spectators in its day. Dinner and overnight Izmir
Day 10, May 26 Izmir (Smyrna), Ephesus, Kusadasi (B, D)
Continueing our journey to the thriving modern city of Izmir and visit the ruins of ancient Smyrna, another of the Seven Churches (Revelation 2:811). It was here that Apostle John relayed a promise from God: “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10). Next, we visit ancient Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved archaeological sites in Turkey. Originally an ancient Greek Ionic city built in the 10th century BC, Ephesus grew to be one of the largest metropolises in the Roman Empire. Ephesus also played a vital role in the spread of Christianity. Starting in the first century AD, notable Christians such as Paul and John visited and rebuked the cults of Artemis, winning many Christian converts in the process (Acts 19:8-10). We stop at the ruins of Saint John’s Basilica; constructed by Justinian I in the 6th century, this basilica stands over the burial site of John the Apostle. Dinner and overnight Kusadasi
Day 11, May 27 Laodicea, Pamukkale Thermal Pools (B, D)
After breakfast, we board our private motorcoach for a drive to Pamukkale. Here you will visit the ancient city and church of Laodicea where Apostle John chastised the inhabitants for being lukewarm (Rev. 3:14-22). Here you will view the mineral-rich thermal healing waters flowing down white travertine terraces on a nearby hillside. Visit the nearby ruins of Hierapolis, an important seat of early Christianity. An ancient Roman spa city founded around 190 B.C. Ruins include a well-preserved theater and a necropolis with sarcophagi that stretch for 2km. Dinner and overnight Pamukkale
Day 12, May 28 Philadelphia, Sardis, Thyatira, Istanbul (B, D)
Today after an early breakfast, we visit the last two churches, ancient Philadelphia (in the modern town of Alasehir) to view the location of the church that received God’s highest commendation (Revelation 3:7-13)
And finally, traveling south to Sardis, where we explore the white marble Royal Road, the massive Temple of Artemis, the Bath-Gymnasium, and the famous Sardis Synagogue (Revelation 3:1-6). The ancient town of Thyatira, last of the Seven Churches of Revelation, praised for its increasing faith but admonished for its tolerance of Jezebel (Revelation 2:18:28). Later this afternoon we drive north to Istanbul, a city rich in history, vibrant culture and delectable cuisine. Dinner and overnight Istanbul
Day 13, May 29 Istanbul (B, D)
Awake in the city of wonders. Today our guide will lead us through the historical highlights of Istanbul including the Hippodrome where chariot races and competitive athletic events took place during the Roman period. Visit the Blue Mosque, a 17th-century Ottoman Mosque famous with its six minarets and magnificent interior of blue tiles. Next visit Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque the great Byzantine Basilica built in the 6th century originally a Christian church. Learn more about the Byzantine Cisterns built by Justinian the Great in 6th century AD to reserve water against the threats of siege- a unique edifice composed of 336 pillars quarried from the ancient Roman temples. The last stop will be the Grand Bazaar where there will be an opportunity to shop. Dinner and overnight Istanbul
Day 14, May 30 Tour Ends, Departure to U.S.A. (B)
Group transfer to Istanbul Airport for group departure flight.
Itinerary subject to change.
SPACE IS LIMITED
Register today to guarantee your reservation on this epic journey.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
TRAVEL DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS
All travelers must travel with a passport valid for at least 6-months beyond your return travel date. Turkey Entry Visa fee $50. Non-US passport holders contact LT regarding credentials required for this itinerary.
Country and travel provider protocols and travel entry requirements around COVID-19 can and likely will continue to change between the time you register for a tour and the tour travel date. Continue to verify requirements for travel up to the day of departure.
TOUR LEVEL: MODERATE ACTIVE TRAVELER, WALKING SIGHTSEEING TOUR
Most sightseeing tours are walking tours 2-3 miles per day. The historic sites you will visit date back hundreds of years and may not provide elevators and ramps, and may require walking on uneven ground of stones and dirt. If you, or you will be traveling with someone who has difficulty walking, has special needs (use a wheelchair, walker), hearing or visually impaired please contact LutherTours.
PRIVATE SMALL GROUP TOUR
A custom-designed itinerary offering a comprehensive small group travel experience. Your journey will be escorted by our professional tour manager with expertise in Christian and cultural history.
TOUR INCLUDES
Private Group with custom-designed itinerary
Professional Tour Manager with expertise in Christian and cultural history will escort the group throughout the tour
Life Enriching Sightseeing Daily including entrance fees and admissions
Private Guided Sightseeing Tours by Professional Local Guides-sharing the nuances of the unique environments and making history come to life. Their knowledge in Christian, Cultural and Archeological history will ensure you have an exceptional journey of enlightenment.
Nemea Greece Winery Visit and Tastings with regional small bites
Time to Reflect and Worship in sacred places
Private Deluxe Air-Conditioned Motor Coach throughout the tour
12-Nights Deluxe 4 and 5-Star Accomodations- 6-Nights Greece/ 6-Nights Turkey
Hotel Tax
Breakfast and Dinner Daily (beverages of choice may be purchased on the spot)
Gratuities for Included Meals
TOUR PRICE is per person based on double occupancy
$3,690 with 25 travelers / $3,790 with 20+ travelers / $3,990 with 15+ travelers / $4,190 with 10+ travelers
Prices are subject to currency fluctuation.
Single Occupancy is available on a limited basis, add 50% to the above per person double occupany prices.
FLIGHT ARRANGEMENTS - Airfare is Additional to the Tour Price
Group airfare to be advised based on a minimum of 10 traveling together.
Contact LT for assistance with flight arrangments.
PAYMENT
Deposit of $350 per person due at time of registration (see link below)
Final Payment due no later than 75 days prior to departure. Payments may be made until final payment due date.
Those (including but not limited to U.S. citizens) who choose to travel internationally may encounter mandatory government requirements and implement restrictions with little notice. Any cost related to required travel regulations is the responsibility of the traveler. Continue to check requirements up to the day of departure and while on tour.
U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories and Alert Update
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html
For the most recent travel alerts and to enroll in S.T.E.P Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive travel alerts and register to ensure you can be located in an emergency.
Booking Agreement Terms and Conditions of Travel
We highly recommend that you read the LutherTours Booking Agreement Terms and Conditions of Travel which includes the trip cancellation and change policy. Up to 100% cancellation fee will apply. To view click here or call 1.844.777.1517 to request a copy.
LT and its partners reserve the right to alter the itinerary if necessary. Prices subject to change due to currency fluctuation.
Cancellation, Interruption and Medical Insurance- learn more about the benefits, coverage and limitations of purchasing a Travel Guard travel insurance plan.
NOT INCLUDED
Turkey Entry Visa fee $50. Travel Insurance, Land Tour Gratuities for Tour Managers in Greece and Turkey, Local Tour Guides, Private Motor Coach Drivers in Greece and Turkey. Passport fee, Visa fee for non-US passport holders; meals and beverages not listed in itinerary; personal items such as internet, Wi-Fi charges, phone calls. Additional cost related to new travel regulations or requirements. Additional expenses not specifically list above under tour includes.
QUESTIONS? Call 1.844.777.1517 or email info@luthertours.com
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