Journeys of Paul and Cities of Early Christianity
MAY 28-JUNE 7, 2025
Explore the Journeys of Paul and the Cities of Early Christianity with NOBTS
Embark on a transformative journey with fellow members of the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary as you explore the rich heritage of early Christianity in Turkey. This tour traces the footsteps of the Apostle Paul and the early church through key biblical sites. Begin your journey in Hatay with visits to the ancient St. Peter Church and the Titus Tunnel. Walk the streets of Tarsus, Paul’s birthplace, and see significant landmarks such as Cleopatra’s Gate. Continue through the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia, experiencing its famous underground cities and rock-carved churches. Discover the early Christian communities of Lystra, Iconium, and Psidian Antioch, where Paul preached the Gospel.
Visit the ancient cities of Perga, Aspendos, Myra, and Didyma, immersing yourself in the history of the early believers and their perseverance in the face of challenges. With expert guides offering insightful biblical and historical commentary, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to deepen your understanding of Paul’s missionary journeys and the early spread of Christianity. Return home with a renewed sense of faith and inspiration after walking in the footsteps of the early apostles.
May 28 Wed Depart New Orleans
May 29 Thu Arrive Istanbul – connection flight to Mersin – overnight Iskenderun
May 30 Fri St Peter Church, Hatay Museum, Seleucia Pereia, Titus Tunnel – overnight Iskenderun
May 31 Sat Tarsus; Cleopatra Gate, Donuktas Temple – overnight Cappadocia
June 1 Sun Underground City, Goreme Open Air Museum, Avanos Village – overnight Cappadocia
June 2 Mon Cappadocia – Lystra – overnight Iconium
June 3 Tue Psidian Antioch – Antalya
June 4 Wed Perga – Aspendos – SPCC – Overnight Antalya
June 5 Thu Myra – Andriake – Overnight Marmaris
June 6 Fri Didyma, Miletus, Priene – overnight Izmir
June 7 Sat Transfer to Izmir Airport – End – Fly back to US
OPTIONAL EXTENSION:
Join Global Smyrna Meeting June 7-13
https://www.globalsmyrnameeting.com
Including
• New Orleans-Istanbul roundtrip flights
• Istanbul-Mersin domestic flight
• 2 Nights at Anemon Hotel in Iskenderun or similar
• 2 Nights at Barcelo Hotel in Cappadocia or similar
• 1 Night at Anemon Hotel in Konya or similar
• 2 Nights at Best Western Khan Hotel in Antalya or similar
• 1 Night at 4 star Hotel in Marmaris or similar
• 1 Night at Kordon Cankaya Hotel in Izmir or similar
• Daily breakfast at the hotels (all open buffet)
• 9 Dinners at the hotels
• Sightseeing as per the itinerary
• Transportation by private A/C Deluxe Bus with driver throughout the tour
• Bible Oriented, Government-Licensed English speaking professional tour guide throughout the tour
• All Entry fees to the sites & museums
• Service charges & local taxes
Excluding
• Lunches and all drinks
• Tips to driver and guide (Suggested tipping; $5 per person per day for the guide and $2 for the driver)
• Optional Hot Air Balloon Trip in Cappadocia
