Early Christianity in Greece and Turkey

May 18 - June 1, 2025

Embark on a sacred pilgrimage through the ancient lands of Turkey and Greece, where the pages of scripture come to life before your eyes. Join us on a deeply spiritual journey spanning two weeks, as we explore sites of profound biblical significance. Prepare to be transported back in time as we traverse the paths once walked by the apostles Paul, John, and Timothy, among other revered biblical figures. Delve into the heart of ancient Christianity as we visit the towns and cities where these luminaries lived, preached, and spread the message of faith. From the majestic ruins of Ephesus to the hallowed grounds of Corinth and Thessaloniki, each destination on our itinerary holds a sacred connection to the stories and teachings found within the pages of the New Testament. Join us as we embark on this transformative voyage of spiritual discovery and enlightenment, where every step is a testament to the enduring power of faith and devotion.

Tour Hosts

Dr. Clinton Eugene ArnoldBiola UniversityResearch Professor of New Testament

Barbara E Arnold

May 18 Sun Depart LAX
May 19 Mon Arrive Athens. Transfer to hotel. Overnight in Athens
May 20 Tue Tour Athens. Free time in Athens. Overnight in Athens
May 21 Wed Tour Corinth. Overnight in Athens.
May 22 Thu Fly to Thessaloniki. Tour Thessaloniki agora and museum. Hotel in Kavala.
May 23 Fri Tour Philippi. Drive to Turkish border; transfer bus and new guide. Drive to Assos hotel.
May 24 Sat Tour Troy. Free time in Assos. Overnight in Assos.
May 25 Sun Tour Assos and Alexandrian Troas. Drive to Ayvalık for overnight.
May 26 Mon Tour Pergamum. Drive to Izmir for overnight.
May 27 Tue Smyrna agora and museum. Polycarp church (if open) Free time in Izmir. Overnight in Izmir
May 28 Wed Tour Sardis and Hierapolis. Overnight in Pamukkale
May 29 Thu Colossae- Laodicea. Overnight in Pamukkale
May 30 Fri Aphrodisias and Miletus. Overnight in Kusadasi.
May 31 Sat Ephesus. Free time in Kusadasi. Overnight in Kusadasi
June 1 Sun Transfer to Izmir Airport.

Including

Roundtrip international air between Los Angeles LAX – Istanbul IST
Istanbul-Athens flight
Izmir-Istanbul flight
3 Nights at Herodian Hotel in Athens or similar
1 Night at Galaxy Hotel in Kavala or similar
2 Nights at Kervansaray Hotel in Assos or similar
1 Night at Grand Hotel Temizel in Ayvalık or similar
2 Nights at Moevenpick Hotel in Izmir or similar
2 Nights at Doga Thermal Hotel in Pamukkale or similar
2 Nights at Korumar Hotel in Kusadasi or similar
Daily open buffet breakfasts at the hotels
13 Dinners
Sightseeing as per the itinerary
All transfers and transportation by private AC buses
English Speaking, Government Licensed Tour Guide in Greece (Chrysida Tsakona)
English Speaking, Government Licensed Tour Guide in Turkey (Pinar Kizil)
All Entry Fees to the sites and museums
Service charges and local taxes

Excluding

Tips to GREEK guide, and driver, total $40 ($30 per person for the Greek guide - $10 per person for the driver)
Tips to TURKEY guide, and driver, total $70 ($50 per person for the Greek guide - $20 per person for the driver)
Lunches and Drinks
Travel and health insurances, any kind of insurance, any other item which is not listed above