Embark on a profound 13-day pilgrimage tracing the footsteps of the Apostle Paul across the cradle of early Christianity. This comprehensive tour begins in the vibrant metropolis of Istanbul, where you will explore the architectural marvels of the Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the opulent Topkapi Palace. From the imperial capital, the journey transitions to the heart of Anatolia and the Mediterranean coast, following the historical routes of Paulβs missionary travels through ancient cities and significant biblical sites.
Experience the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where rock-cut churches decorated with biblical frescoes sit among the fairy chimneys, and underground cities recall the early Christians who sheltered there. Traverse the historic path to Tarsus, the birthplace of St. Paul, and Antakya, the site of the first church established by St. Peter. You will visit the ancient ruins of Ephesus, where Paul lived and preached for years, and walk through the Seven Churches of Asia Minor, including Laodicea, Philadelphia, and Sardis, each holding deep significance in the New Testament.
The itinerary further uncovers the legacy of the early church in cities like Pergamum and Thyatira, while also incorporating the natural wonders of Pamukkaleβs thermal pools and the legendary ruins of Troy. Throughout this fully guided expedition, you will gain deep insights into the spread of early Christianity, the Roman influence on the region, and the cultural tapestry of Turkey. This journey provides a unique opportunity to connect with the history of the ancient world in the very locations where these transformative events unfolded.
| Tour type | Private Β· multi-day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | 13 Days 12 Nights |
| Price | From β¬3,455 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | Licensed guide in your language |
| Stops | 18 |
| Entrance fees | Included |
| Booking | Instant request online, confirmation within 24 hours Β· TΓRSAB-licensed operator (A-5751) |
Your full program, day by day β click a day to see every stop.
Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Istanbul to rest after your journey.
Explore the historic heart of Istanbul. Visit the Hippodrome and the Blue Mosque, famous for its 21,000 blue Iznik tiles. Continue to the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, and discover the treasures of the Ottoman Sultans at Topkapi Palace, including the Spoonmaker's Diamond.
Fly to Adana and proceed to Antakya, the ancient Antioch where followers of Christ were first named Christians. Visit the cave church of St. Peter, the Hatay Museum with its extensive mosaic collection, and the port of Seleucia Pieria, from where Paul and Barnabas departed on their first missionary journey.
Travel to Tarsus, the birthplace of St. Paul. Stop at St. Paul's Well, a spring whose water is said to heal, and see the historic gate of Cleopatra before driving to the unique region of Cappadocia.
Spend a full day exploring Cappadocia. Visit the panoramic viewpoints of Uchisar, the fairy chimneys of Zelve, and the Goreme Valley. Discover the historic churches nestled in the valleys, featuring intricate frescoes depicting biblical scenes.
Explore a subterranean city used by early Christians for protection. Drive to Konya, where St. Paul preached during his first missionary journey. Visit the Mevlana Mausoleum and museum, honoring the legacy of the Whirling Dervishes.
Drive to the ruins of Antioch of Pisidia, where Paul delivered his first recorded sermon in the local synagogue. Explore the Church of St. Paul, the Roman Bath, the Temple of Augustus and the local museum before continuing to Pamukkale.
Visit the ancient city of Hierapolis and the white terraces of Pamukkale. Continue to the sites of the Seven Churches: Laodicea, Philadelphia, and Sardis, reflecting on their historical and biblical significance, before ending the day in Izmir. Early risers can enjoy the thermal pool at the Pamukkale hotel before setting off.
Visit the Church of St. Polycarp in Izmir and the House of the Virgin Mary. Explore the ancient city of Ephesus, where Paul spent more than two years, including the Baths of Scholastica, the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, the theatre and the Double Church (Church of Mary), seat of the Council of Ephesus in AD 431. Conclude the day at the Basilica of St. John and the ruins of the Temple of Artemis.
Travel to Thyatira and then to the Acropolis of Pergamum, a center of ancient scholarship. Visit the Asclepion, an ancient medical center, before driving to the coastal town of Assos for your overnight stay.
Visit the site of Alexandria Troas, visited by Paul on his journeys. Continue to the legendary city of Troy, home to the Trojan Horse, before returning to Istanbul.
Enjoy a full day at your leisure to explore the bustling streets, markets, and cultural sites of Istanbul at your own pace.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home or your next destination.
Handpicked 3-, 4- and 5-star hotels along your route. Choose your category β the price adapts.
Exact hotels are confirmed on booking based on availability and your chosen category; equivalent alternatives may be offered.
Istanbul β Adana β Cappadocia β Konya β Pamukkale β Izmir β Assos β Istanbul
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles β the same fleet we use on your tour.
π₯ 54 Seats
π₯ 37 Seats (2+1 VIP)
π₯ 55 Seats
π₯ 54 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 46 Seats
π₯ 37+2 Seats
π₯ 37 Seats
π₯ 35 Seats
π₯ 16+1 Seats
π₯ 16+1 Seats
π₯ 12+1 Seats
π₯ 6+1 Seats
Extra day tours you can add along your route β Istanbul, Adana, Cappadocia, Konya, Pamukkale, Izmir, Assos.
Daily
Daily
Daily
Daily
Daily
Daily
Daily
Daily
Daily
Daily
Daily
Daily
Other private and group tours that visit the same destination.
Fill in your details and we confirm your private departure within 24 hours.
Real, verified reviews from travellers who explored Turkey with us.
My husband and I chose Inca Tour for our honeymoon and we are so glad we did. The boutique hotel selection was beautiful and the Bosphorus dinner cruise was so romantic. Thank you for making our trip special!
It was important for us to have a guide who spoke Russian, and Ender was wonderful. He explained every detail at Dolmabahce Palace. The Princes Islands day trip was a beautiful break from the busy city.
Our guide Ender was incredibly knowledgeable about Turkish history. The hot-air balloon ride at sunrise in Cappadocia was the highlight of our trip. Everything was perfectly organized β from airport pick-up to the last d...
Ender was our Italian-speaking guide and we felt like family. He took us to local spots tourists never see. The hotel choice in Sultanahmet was perfect for walking everywhere.
10+ years later we still talk about our Cappadocia balloon ride and the Bosphorus sunset cruise. Some memories are timeless. Thank you Inca Tour!