Biblical Turkey

Option A

Day 1 Sun: Istanbul | Your representative waits to greet you as you land in Istanbul. After transferring to your hotel, welcome briefing.

Day 2 Mon: Istanbul | Your day begins with a guided tour exploring the ancient city with highlights to include: the magnificent Topkapi Palace (main residences of Ottoman Sultans), then walk across the Byzantine Hippodrome that was the scene of chariot races. In the afternoon we visit Saint Sophia Basilica, historic seat of the Byzantine church, built in 537 AD and now a museum whose mosaics, stained glass windows and decorated domes have been crafted to create an environment of breath taking beauty. A short walk through gardens takes us to the Blue Mosque of Sultan Ahmet 1 built in 1616 that is famous for unequalled ceramic tiles. Overnight in Istanbul. B

Day 3 Tue: Pergamum – Thyatira – Smyrna (Izmir) | Early morning flight to Izmir and visit Pergamum (Rev. 2:12–17), and Aesculapiums, then continue to Thyatira (Rev. 2:18–29; Acts 16:14) a city of artisans’ guilds in St. Paul time. For evening we continue to Izmir (Smyrna, Rev 2:8–11) Homer’s birthplace on the Aegean Coast. B D

Day 4 Wed: Ephesus – St. Mary’s House – Izmir | This morning we explore Ephesus with its expansive synthesis of Greco-Roman and Christian remains (Ephesians; Rev 1:11: 2:1–7: Acts 18:19–28: 19:1–4), including the Church of Mary (The Council Church). It was the home of St. Paul between 54 & 57 AD. Nearby we visit Virgin Mary’s house on a wooded hilltop where it was miraculously discovered. In the evening, return to Izmir for overnight and dinner. B D

Day 5 Thu: Sardis – Philadelphia – Pamukkale | After breakfast we visit Sardis with its beautiful gymnasium and marble paved synagogue and the Temple of Artemis including ancient Christian Chapel of the 4th Century. Then continue to Philadelphia (Rev 3:7–13), a favorite city of Paul and John. In the evening, we continue on to Pamukkale, the Cotton Fortress, with white lime cascades formed by hot mineral springs. Visit ruins of the Roman health spa of Hierapolis and enjoy a leisurely bath in the warm mineral waters of your hotel’s thermal pool. B D

Day 6 Fri: Hierapolis – Laodicea – Izmir | Morning visit Hierapolis. This was Philip the Evangelist’s home. We will tour the extensive necropolis, churches and baths then stop at nearby Laodicea (Rev. 3:14–22: Col 2:1: 4:13–16), afternoon continue to Izmir for Overnight and farewell dinner. B D

Day 7 Sat: Izmir – Return | Your escort will transfer you to the airport for the flight home. B

Option B

Day 7 Sat: Izmir – Cappadocia | Morning short flight to Kayseri and visit Devrent Valley where various types of Fairy Chimneys are abundant. We will walk through this amazing valley. Thereafter visit Pasabagi (Monk’s Valley) with multiple stems and caps, peculiar to this area. After visiting Pasabagi, drive to Avanos which is known for the pottery, a craft dating back to the Hittite period. The red clay which is worked by local craftsmen comes from the residue in the Kizilirmak river, the longest river of Turkey. Further to the time for lunch proceed to Goreme Open Air Museum to visit the churches, chapels and monasteries carved into the Fairy Chimneys from the 10th to the 13th centuries with frescos painted on the walls. Overnight at Cappadocia. B L D

Day 8 Sun: Cappadocia – Istanbul | This morning visit Rose Valley, one of the most beautiful trekking valleys in Cappadocia, and explore the famous rock-cut churches by hiking through the valley. Rest in Cavusin, an old Greek village, known for its Christian houses and churches. After having time for lunch visit Ortahisar Castle, similar to Uchisar Castle in style, where storage caves can also be observed. In the afternoon visit Kaymakli Underground City where early Christians lived in fear and faith. On the way back visit to panoramic Pigeon Valley where pigeons contributed to the lives of locals with their manure to fertilize the vineyards. You may also like to taste Cappadocia wine in a local winery. Afternoon drive to Kayseri and take a short flight to Istanbul and overnight at hotel, close to the airport. B L D

Day 9 Mon: Istanbul – Return | Your escort will transfer you to the airport for the flight home. B

Note: Supplemental cost of flight to Istanbul and overnight in Istanbul: $150

Duration: 9 Days/8 Nights
Tour Code: BIB

Price Includes:

• Accommodation at 4 or 5 star hotels
• Sightseeing with English speaking expert tour guides
• All entrance fees.
• Meals are indicated by code letters B Breakfast, L Lunch and D Dinner
• Local taxes and service charges
• Porterage and tips at your hotels
• Transportation with air-conditioned vehicles

Price Excludes:

• Personal expenses
• Domestic flights (apprx.)
• Istanbul to Izmir $110
• Izmir to Kayseri $105
• Kayseri to Istanbul $115
• Customary tips to your guides and drivers