13 Days (12 Nights)
Land Only$3,290
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The Nicaea Pilgrimage Tour

October 3-15, 2025 ISTANBUL - NICAEA – PHRYGIA – PSIDIAN ANTIOCH - CAPPADOCIA

Welcome to an unforgettable spiritual journey: The Nicaea Pilgrimage Tour!

Embark on a remarkable seven-day adventure that will take you on a profound exploration of Christian history and faith. Join us as we delve into the heart of Nicaea, a city deeply rooted in the Christian tradition, where significant events shaped the course of Christianity as we know it today. Here the early Christians assembled to compose the Nicaean Creed, a foundational document for the Christian faith. Our carefully crafted itinerary ensures an immersive experience, combining historical landmarks, insightful lectures, and meaningful interactions. Led by seasoned theologians and knowledgeable guides, this tour is designed to inspire, enlighten, and deepen your connection to our faith.

Highlights of the Nicaea Pilgrimage Tour:

1. Visit Ancient Churches: Walk in the footsteps of early Christians as we explore the magnificent ancient churches of Istanbul, Nicaea, Phrygia and Cappadocia. From the iconic Hagia Sophia to the awe-inspiring Church of the Holy Apostles, each site holds centuries of devotion and spiritual significance.

2. Attend Lectures by Biblical and Theological Scholars: Engage in thought-provoking discussions and gain profound insights from professors and scholars.
Expand your knowledge and understanding of Christian doctrine as you engage in intellectual conversations.

3. Discover Ecumenical Council Sites: Explore the locations where the historic Ecumenical Councils took place, shaping the early Christian Church. Stand in the
very spots where crucial decisions were made, paving the way for the development of Christian theology.

4. Explore Iconic Landmarks: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul, Nicaea and Cappadocia as we venture beyond the religious sites. From the grandeur of ancient city walls to the vibrant local markets, experience the captivating blend of history and everyday life.

5. Forge Lasting Connections: Connect with fellow pilgrims from around the world who share a common passion for their faith. Engage in meaningful conversations, exchange spiritual insights, and create friendships that may last a lifetime.

Join us on this extraordinary journey as we retrace the footsteps of early Christians, unravel the mysteries of Christian history, and deepen our spiritual connection.

The Nicaea Pilgrimage Tour promises to be a life-transforming experience that will leave you with a renewed sense of faith and a deeper understanding of
Christianity.

Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today and embark on this remarkable spiritual odyssey.

Dr. Mark Robin FairchildHuntington University
Itinerary Details Hosts & Guide Policies Contact Useful Information

Oct 03 Fri
Depart USA (own flights or, ask for the air fares)

Oct 04 Sat
Arrive Istanbul Airport – Meet and transfer to the hotel.

Oct 05 Sun
Istanbul; Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, Archaeology Museum, St Irene Church

Oct 06 Mon
Istanbul; Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus Boat – Drive Nicaea - Iznik

Oct 07 Tue
Nicaea; Istanbul Gate, Lefke Gate, New City Gate, Ayasofya Church/Mosque – Iznik

Oct 08 Wed
Nicaea; Underwater Basilica, meet the local archaeologist Mustafa Bey, City Walls – Iznik

Oct 09 Thu
Phrygia Valley, Midas City – Kutahya

Oct 10 Fri
Phrygia – Ayazin - Afyon Museum - Afyon

Oct 11 Sat
Psidian Antioch – Konya (Iconium)

Oct 12 Sun
Konya – Sile Church – monastic Zelve Valley - Cappadocia

Oct 13 Mon
Cappadocia; Goreme Open Air Museum, Citadel of Uchisar, Underground City

Oct 14 Tue
Cappadocia; optional Hot Air Balloon Trip in early morning, Ihlara Valley and Soganli Village

Oct 15 Wed
Transfer to Kayseri Airport - End of our services

Including
  • 2 Nights at Kent Hotel in Istanbul or similar
  • 3 Nights at Limnades Hotel in Iznik or similar
  • 1 Night at Hilton Garden Inn in Kutahya or similar
  • 1 Night at Doubletree by Hilton in Afyon or similar
  • 1 Night at Anemon Hotel in Konya or similar
  • 3 Nights at Dilek Kaya Hotel in Cappadocia or similar
  • Daily breakfasts
  • 11 Dinners
  • Arrival and departure airport transfers
  • All entry fees to the sites and museums
  • Lectures by Dr Mark Fairchild
  • English speaking licensed tour guide
  • All entry fees to the sites and museums
  • Bosphorus Boat Tour
  • Transportation by private Midibus or Bus
  • Service charges and local taxes
  • Tips to the tour guide and driver
Excluding
  • All flights (you have to arrive Istanbul Airport on Oct 4 and depart Kayseri airport on Oct 15)
  • Lunches and drinks
  • Turkish Visa fee to be obtained online before arrival www.evisa.gov.tr
  • All personal expenses
Hotels
  • October 04, 2025 - October 06, 2025 Kent Hotel, Istanbul, Turkey
  • October 06, 2025 - October 09, 2025 Limnades Hotel, Bursa, Turkey
  • October 09, 2025 - October 10, 2025 Hilton Garden Inn, Kütahya, Turkey
  • October 10, 2025 - October 11, 2025 DoubleTree by Hilton, Afyon, Turkey
  • October 11, 2025 - October 12, 2025 Anemon Hotel, Konya, Turkey
  • October 12, 2025 - October 15, 2025 Dilek Kaya Otel, Nevşehir, Turkey

 Locations on the map may include pre program or extension locations with main program.
Including
  • 2 Nights at Kent Hotel in Istanbul or similar
  • 3 Nights at Limnades Hotel in Iznik or similar
  • 1 Night at Hilton Garden Inn in Kutahya or similar
  • 1 Night at Doubletree by Hilton in Afyon or similar
  • 1 Night at Anemon Hotel in Konya or similar
  • 3 Nights at Dilek Kaya Hotel in Cappadocia or similar
  • Daily breakfasts
  • 11 Dinners
  • Arrival and departure airport transfers
  • All entry fees to the sites and museums
  • Lectures by Dr Mark Fairchild
  • English speaking licensed tour guide
  • All entry fees to the sites and museums
  • Bosphorus Boat Tour
  • Transportation by private Midibus or Bus
  • Service charges and local taxes
  • Tips to the tour guide and driver
Excluding
  • All flights (you have to arrive Istanbul Airport on Oct 4 and depart Kayseri airport on Oct 15)
  • Lunches and drinks
  • Turkish Visa fee to be obtained online before arrival www.evisa.gov.tr
  • All personal expenses
Hotels
  • October 04, 2025 - October 06, 2025 Kent Hotel, Istanbul, Turkey
  • October 06, 2025 - October 09, 2025 Limnades Hotel, Bursa, Turkey
  • October 09, 2025 - October 10, 2025 Hilton Garden Inn, Kütahya, Turkey
  • October 10, 2025 - October 11, 2025 DoubleTree by Hilton, Afyon, Turkey
  • October 11, 2025 - October 12, 2025 Anemon Hotel, Konya, Turkey
  • October 12, 2025 - October 15, 2025 Dilek Kaya Otel, Nevşehir, Turkey

Hosts
Dr. Mark Robin Fairchild
Huntington University

Dr. Fairchild received his Ph.D. in New Testament Studies from Drew University. He also completed Ph.D. coursework at Union Theological Seminary (NY) and Princeton Theological Seminary. Dr. Fairchild has twice received research grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities. In 1992, he collaborated with 11 other scholars at Yeshiva University exploring the Greek encounter with Judaism during the Hellenistic Period. In 2002, he joined 20 other scholars at the University of Chicago to investigate societal transformations and the legitimization of power in the early Islamic states.

Fairchild’s recent discovery of two previously unknown ancient synagogues in Turkey (including the world’s oldest known synagogue) was published in the Biblical Archaeology Review in 2012. Research at this ancient synagogue was also published in the Journal of Ancient Judaism in 2014. The Biblical Archaeology Review also published Fairchild’s research on St. Paul’s first mission from Perga to Antioch (2013) and another article on the biblical city of Laodicea (2017). Fairchild’s book on Christian Origins in Ephesus and Asia Minor (originally published in 2015) has been expanded and a second edition is currently available with Hendrickson Publishers (2017).

Dr. Fairchild is currently the Program Director for the Ephesus Meeting, an academic conference at the ancient site of Ephesus in Turkey. He annually travels to Turkey, Greece, Israel, Egypt and Jordan for research and to conduct study tours.

  • $200 Per Person DEPOSIT : FEBRUARY 3, 2025
  • FULL (BALANCE) PAYMENT : JULY 3, 2025

    Cancellation Penalty:
    – 90–60 days prior to departure : No Penalty
    – 59–45 days prior to departure : 25%
    – 44–30 days prior to departure : 50%
    – 29–15 days prior to departure : 75%
    – 14 days & After : No refund

*Please email to info@tutkutours.com and ask for TUTKU’ bank account details if you wish to pay with bank wire transfer.

Tour brochure covers

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