Activities
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This tour is an incredible way to explore the spiritual and cultural heritage of early Christianity, offering not just a glimpse of biblical history, but also of the stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and rich traditions of Turkey. From the ruins of ancient cities to the breathtaking natural wonders, this is a journey that combines faith, history, and the beauty of the Aegean and Mediterranean regions.
Whether you are a pilgrim, a history buff, or a traveler seeking to deepen your understanding of the Bible, the 10 Seven Churches Tour provides a life-changing experience, taking you on a profound exploration of some of the most significant locations in early Christian history.
Attractions
Highlights
- Ephesus (Selçuk): The Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) The Library of Celsus The Great Theatre where the Apostle Paul preached St. John's Basilica and the House of the Virgin Mary (where many believe Mary spent her final years)
- Smyrna (Izmir): A vibrant city today with a rich history. Visit Agora of Smyrna and St. Polycarp Church, dedicated to the martyr and bishop of Smyrna.
- Pergamum (Bergama): The ancient Acropolis with the Altar of Zeus (which was once moved to Berlin). The Red Basilica, dedicated to Egyptian gods, now a Christian church. The ruins of Asklepion, an ancient medical center.
- Thyatira (Akhisar): Visit the ruins of this ancient city, notable for its early Christian church. It is said to be the home of Lydia, a seller of purple goods mentioned in Acts 16:14.
- Sardis (Sart): Explore the ruins of the ancient city, including the Temple of Artemis and the Roman Synagogue, one of the largest in the region.
- Philadelphia (Alaşehir): Discover the ruins of this early Christian city, including the remains of an ancient church and the St. John Church.
- Laodicea (Denizli): The ruins of this once-wealthy city, famous for its hot springs and textile industry. The remains of the ancient theater, basilica, and ancient streets provide a fascinating glimpse into Roman urban life.
- Pamukkale: Known for its stunning white limestone terraces formed by thermal waters, Pamukkale is not only a natural wonder but also home to the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, a spa city built on the healing waters. The Roman Baths and Theater of Hierapolis are key sights.
- Kusadasi: A popular resort town on Turkey’s Aegean coast, Kusadasi is the gateway to Ephesus. It’s also a great spot for enjoying Turkish hospitality, local cuisine, and the beautiful coastline.
- Istanbul: The final destination of the tour takes you to the vibrant city of Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople. Here you will visit iconic sites such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and Basilica Cistern. The city has played a crucial role in Christian history as it was the capital of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire and later, the Ottoman Empire.
Itinerary
(Dinner included)
You will be transferred from Izmir Airport to
your hotel. On arrival please check into the hotel where your accommodation has
been reserved for the night. You will be given your room key and the rest of
the day is yours to enjoy party and explore Izmir
(Breakfast, lunch and
dinner included)
After breakfast at our hotel in Kusadasi, we
drive to Pergamum, actually called
Bergama. It is one of the sites of the Seven Churches of Asia [Rev. 1:11;
2:12]. Here we explore the impressive Acropolis,
the steepest theatre in the world. Then the Asklepieion, famous medical centre of classical times, see the Altar of Zeus, which mentioned as the
«Throne of Satan» in the book of Revelation. Moreover, the marble columns of
the Temple of Trajan and the Library, which was foremost in the
world and was, long a rival of the equally famous Library of Alexandria in
Egypt. Its wealth of volumes was estimated at over 200, 000. It inspired the
invention of parchment.
We also visit the Red Basilica (St. Johns Church). Lunch break will be given en
route. Then we continue our visit to Thyatira,
now called Akhisar, another one of the Seven Churches of Asia [Rev. 1:11; 2:18
- 24; Acts 16:14]. It was a city famous for purple dyes. We visit the remains
of a basilica and some architectural fragments from the Roman period. Lydia,
the seller of purple in Philippi, was from Thyatira.
Before we check in at the hotel in Izmir, we
enjoy a panoramic ride of Smyrna,
the third largest city in Turkey and one of the sites of the Seven Churches of
Asia [Rev. 2:12 - 17]. Smyrnas is a city scarred with a bloody history of trade
and warfare. We ascend to Mount Pagus where we visit the Citadel of Lysimachos,
commander of Alexander the Great, erected in the 4th century BC. We will also
see the Clock Tower. Check in at the
hotel for dinner. Overnight in Izmir.
(Breakfast, lunch and
dinner included)
Today we depart early in the morning to one of
the most picturesque areas of any of the Seven Churches of Asia [Rev. 1:11; 3:1
- 4], Sardis, presently Sart. This
was the capital of the ancient Lydian kingdom of the 6th century BC, portrayed
as a dying church. We visit the great Temple
of Artemis and the Temple of Cybele,
which became a Byzantine Church. We will also visit the restored gymnasium and
reconstructed Synagogue. We also see the last several meters of the royal
Persian Road from Susa to Sardis built by Cyrus the Great and the «golden»
river Pactolos. Lunch en route.
Then we continue our journey to Philadelphia, nowadays called Alasehir,
another church of the Seven Churches of Asia [Rev. 1:11; 3:7], and the only
church not censured. There we see the remains of a Byzantine basilica built of
brick, with a bit of high arch and some 11th century frescoes. We drive to the
healing city of Hierapolis, actually
Pamukkale, the white «cotton fortress» where hot mineral water bursts from the
earth and cascades over steep cliffs forming pools, channels and stalactites.
The therapeutic waters were known to the founders of Hierapolis and of Laodicea
in 190 BC. In Hierapolis [Col. 4:13] we visit the Martyrium of the Apostle Philip where he was martyred during the
persecutions ordered by Domitian.
We visit the Gate of Domitian, the Arcadian Way,
the 2nd century AD Theatre, the Nymphaion, the Temple of Apollo, the Plutonium
and the Necropolis. Dinner and overnight.Pamukkale
(Breakfast, lunch and
dinner included)
We depart for Laodicea (present name Denizli) yet another of the Seven Churches
of Asia Minor [Rev. 1:11; 3:14; Col. 2:1; 4:13 - 16]. We see the ancient
theatre, the remains of basilica and ancient stone water pipes. Aphrodisias is our next stop. We visit
the best - preserved ancient stadium ever excavated where the seating capacity
was 30, 000. We see the odeon with its extraordinary blue marble stage, the
Temple of Aphrodite that marks the site of ancient veneration, Hadrian’s Bath and the Bishop’s Palace, part of a building christened
by the archaeologists. Lunch en route.
Drive to Kusadasi, in the Turkish language,
Kusadasi, this lovely and peaceful little port and fashionable resort, means
“Island of Birds”. It is built along the shores of a glittering bay, around a
tiny islet covered with pine - trees and flowers. The terraced town overlooks
the most beautiful bay of the Aegean Sea and seems it has been created purely
for the delight of the holidaymaker. Dinner and overnight in Kusadasi.
(Breakfast, lunch and
dinner included)
After breakfast you will be collected from the
hotel for a picnic boat trip. On this day-long tour the boat will visit beaches
around Kusadasi and this is a perfect way to sit back and soak up the sunshine
and enjoy a fully inclusive cooked picnic lunch. You will arrive back at the
hotel around 5pm and dinner will be served around 7 - 8pm. Dinner and Overnight
in Kusadasi.
(Breakfast, lunch and
dinner included)
After breakfast between 08:30 am, departure from hotel fully guided tour
of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient sites in the world en -
route, visiting the Temple of Artemis, Curetes street, famous Roman baths,
Celsus Library and Grand theatre. Lunch break around 13:00 pm. After the lunch,
we will visit a place, which continues to perform one of the oldest arts of
Turkey; a carpet-weaving centre. After lunch, we will do a Turkish Village
Tour. Sirince’s construction style today belongs to Anatolian Greeks.
The houses on the slope are all Orginal with their white paints. Sirince
Village also has a fantastic reputation for making some of the best wines in
Turkey - especially fruit wines. We will see the vineyards and it is time to
learn how to make fruit wine. In the evening, you will be tested about your
knowledge of making fruit wine. On the way, we will visit one of the famous
leather production centers of the region, where you will have the opportunity
to get a good factory rate. On this guided tour, you will avoid the constant
nagging and sometimes bullying that is well known in the markets of Turkey.
Enabling you to enjoy the shopping experience whilst gaining the knowledge of
the ancient craftsmen. Dinner and Overnight in Kusadasi.
(Breakfast, lunch and
dinner included)
Breakfast & Check out from the hotel.
08.30 – Pick up from the hotel and meet with the local tour guide for Didyma
Priene and Miletus guided tour.
Didyma Miletus & Priene Ancient Cities Tour
Drive to Priene Ancient City. In the 2nd millennium BC, Priene Ancient City was
founded in an unknown location. Visit the theater, the temple of Athena, the
Bouleterium, the Agora, and the Altar of Zeus and Cybele. After visiting Priene
Ancient City, have lunch in one of the local restaurants in the area.
Afterward, drive to Didyma Ancient City, Visiting Temple Of the Apollon which
was the biggest Oracle Center of ancient Turkey. After visiting Didyma drive to
Miletus Ancient City was established on the sea shore at that period. Also, it
was known Thales’s home. He has reported forecasted solar eclipse. He has been
dealing with astronomy and solstices as one of the first astronomers to
calculate in advance. The city was destroyed by the Persians in 5th century BC.
After tour come back to hotel and rest of day is yours. Dinner and Overnight in
Kusadasi.
(Breakfast and Lunch included)
(Breakfast and Lunch included)
After breakfast, we have Istanbul City
Tour. Our first visit will be HIPPODROME.
Ancient Hippodrome was the scene of chariot races, with the three monuments;
the Obelisk of Theodosius, the bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of
Constantine. Than we will visit SULTANAHMET
IMPERIAL MOSQUE. Across from Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, it was built in the
16th century by the architect Mehmet, is known as the BLUE MOSQUE because of
its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles. Our next visit will be
HAGIA SOPHIA GRAND MOSQUE. The Hagia
Sophia Grand Mosque, previously known as the Church of Divine Wisdom, is simply
the best of its kind! Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is the greatest surviving
example of Byzantine Architecture. For 1000 years, it was once the largest
church in the world, decorated with stunning 6th century golden mosaics. Today
it is a mosque. Lunch break at 13:00 pm. After the
lunch, TravelShop Group will take you to the ALI PASAZADE which is a unique atmosphere with reasonable prices
for your shopping. Here you will find; Exotic Spices and Herbs, Turkish
Baklava, Turkish Delights, Turkish Coffee, nuts and fruits, small souvenirs
such as Ceramic Handicrafts, Evil Eyes totems, all naturel olive oil, soaps and
many other goods in Souvenir Shops and stores. After tour, transfer back to hotel.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Please Note: Please do not forget to carry headscarf with you for the visit of religious places as Blue Mosque & Haghia Sophia Mosque.
(Breakfast and Lunch included)
After breakfast check out from your hotel and Tour start first step into the serene Kariye Mosque, where centuries of
history tell tales of faith, artistry, and cultural fusion. Nestled amidst the
labyrinthine streets of Istanbul, this architectural marvel, once a Byzantine
church, now stands as a testament to the city's diverse heritage.
As you wander through the hallowed halls, prepare to be enchanted by the
intricate mosaic masterpieces adorning the walls, each a vivid mosaic tableau
telling stories of biblical narratives and celestial wonders. Marvel at the
delicate interplay of light and color, a testament to the artistic brilliance
of Byzantine craftsmen.
Follow your guide and delve into the rich tapestry of history woven into every
stone of Kariye Mosque. Trace the mosque's journey from its humble beginnings
as the Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora to its transformation into a
magnificent Ottoman mosque, witnessing firsthand the seamless blend of
Byzantine and Islamic architectural elements.
Discover the spiritual significance of Kariye Mosque as a sacred sanctuary for
both Christians and Muslims alike, a beacon of tolerance and coexistence in a
city steeped in tradition. Gain insight into the cultural exchanges that have
shaped Istanbul's identity, from the reign of Byzantine emperors to the glory
days of the Ottoman Empire.
After tour transfer to Airport for your flight back to home. We hope
your tour was a memorable one and we would like to see you in the future in one
of our tours again. Have a nice trip back home and thanks for choosing TravelShop
Booking.
Trip includes
Included
2 nights hotel in
Istanbul - 5 Star La Quinta by Wyndham Istanbul
2 night hotel in
Izmir - 4 star Blanca Hotel
1 night hotel in
Pamukkale - 5 Star Pam Thermal Hotel
4 nights hotel in
Kusadasi - 4 Star Odelia Resort Hotel
PS: If This
hotel list not available at the time of your booking then we will arrange
similar other hotel for your group. If you prefer a Different category hotel,
there might be an additional cost
Professional
English - speaking tour guides
Guiding Method
Fully guided
9 open buffet
breakfasts
9 Lunch
7 dinners
Arrival airport
transfer from Istanbul airport
Transportation in a
fully air - conditioned, non - smoking coach
Return airport
transfer for Izmir Airport
Guided Istanbul
City Tour
Guided Bosporus
Cruise
Guided St.
Saviour in Chora (Kariye)
Guided Thyatira
Pergamum tour
Guided
Philadelphia, Sardes - Smyrna tour
Guided Laodicea -
Aphrodisias – Kusadasi tour
Guided Ephesus tour
Guided Didyma
Miletus & Priene Tour
Guided Boat Trip
All entrance fees
mentioned in the itinerary
Hotel room taxes
City Tax
Turkey is a land steeped in biblical history, and the Seven Churches of Revelation form one of the most significant Christian pilgrimage routes. These cities, referenced in the New Testament, are located in the western part of the country, where early Christians established communities and churches. Each city has a unique biblical and historical significance, and this 10-day tour allows you to explore these ancient ruins, along with other awe-inspiring sites in Turkey, such as Pamukkale, Istanbul, Kusadasi, Didim, and Izmir.
Your journey will begin in Istanbul, one of the world’s most historically rich cities, before moving on to key biblical cities like Ephesus, Sardis, and Laodicea. You will also discover the natural wonders of Pamukkale and Hierapolis, and explore vibrant coastal towns like Kusadasi and Didim.
This tour offers a deep spiritual experience for pilgrims and an educational journey for history enthusiasts, blending ancient ruins, beautiful landscapes, and biblical heritage.
Excluded
International flights
Domestic Flight Ticket from Izmir to Istanbul
Please Note: Domestic flight price for adult travelers is approximately Euros: 80,00 for one way and for under 2 years old, approximately Euros: 20,00 as an insurance policy.
Insurance: All types
Turkey entry visa
Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold
drinks, laundry
Any others expenses which are not mentioned at the
included section
Tipping
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Book the tour by paying only 25% upfront, and settle the remaining amount 30 days before the tour departure.
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