Embark on a profound historical journey tracing the missionary paths of St. Paul and Barnabas across the heart of Anatolia. This immersive tour begins in the vibrant city of Istanbul before heading south to the cradle of early Christianity. You will explore the ancient city of Antioch, where the term 'Christian' was first adopted, and visit the sacred St. Peterβs Grotto, a pivotal meeting place for the earliest believers. The route continues through the diverse landscapes of Turkey, from the Mediterranean coast to the unique volcanic terrain of the central highlands.
Witness the architectural legacy of the Roman and Byzantine eras as you visit Tarsus, the birthplace of St. Paul, and explore the subterranean wonders of Cappadocia. Here, you will marvel at the surreal 'Fairy Chimneys' and the intricate frescoes within ancient rock-cut churches, such as the Apple Church and the Church of St. John the Baptist. Delve into the history of Derinkuyu, an expansive underground city that served as a sanctuary for early Christians seeking refuge from persecution, providing a tangible connection to the struggles and resilience of the early church communities.
The final leg of your journey takes you through the historic regions of Konya, ancient Iconium, and the significant sites of Derbe and Lystra, where St. Paul preached and performed miracles. Your exploration concludes along the stunning southern coast, where you will discover the magnificent ruins of Perge, Side, and Aspendos. Stand in awe of the world-renowned Aspendos Theatre, an architectural masterpiece of antiquity, and walk among the remains of temples dedicated to Athena and Apollo, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry that defined the world of the Apostles.
| Tour type | Private Β· multi-day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | 8 Days 7 Nights |
| Price | From β¬1,950 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | Licensed guide in your language |
| Stops | 16 |
| 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 in Istanbul, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to rest or begin your initial exploration of this historic city. Overnight in Istanbul.
Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to Adana. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the local surroundings of this significant southern city. Overnight in Adana.
After breakfast, travel to Antioch-on-the-Orontes, a city founded in 300 BC that became a vital hub for early Christian thought. Visit the local museum to view its superb mosaic collection. Explore St. Peterβs Grotto, the cave church used by early Christians, and visit the nearby site of Daphne. Continue to Seleucia Pieria, the ancient port of Antioch, to see the impressive Tunnel of Titus and Hellenistic rock tombs. Return to Adana for an overnight stay.
Drive to Tarsus, the birthplace of St. Paul and a prominent university city in antiquity. Highlights include St. Paulβs Well, the Tomb of Sardanapulus, and Cleopatraβs Gate. Afterward, travel north to Cappadocia. Explore the underground city of Derinkuyu, a labyrinthine 8-level dwelling used by early Christians. Continue to the Goreme region to see the famous Fairy Chimneys and visit the Apple Church, the Church of St. John the Baptist, and the Church with a Buckle. Overnight in Cappadocia.
After breakfast, depart for Konya, known in antiquity as Iconium. This city became a major center for St. Paulβs ministry during his missionary journeys. En route, visit the significant sites of Derbe and Lystra, where St. Paul preached. Upon arrival in Konya, enjoy time to experience the historic city center, which retains its ancient character. Overnight in Konya.
Depart early for Yalvac to visit the ruins of Pisidian Antioch, where St. Paul opened his message to the wider world. Explore the remains of the acropolis propylaea, carved stones, and a Byzantine church. Continue your journey past the scenic Egirdir Lake before arriving in the coastal city of Antalya. Overnight in Antalya.
Spend the day exploring the ancient Pamphilian cities. Begin at Perge, where St. Paul arrived from Cyprus; walk past the gymnasium, the baths, the agora, the theatre, the stadium and the Hellenistic Gate. Proceed to the ancient theater of Aspendos, recognized as the best-preserved in the world. Conclude the day in Side, a town built directly over its ancient predecessor, where the temples of Athena and Apollo, the state agora, the theatre and the museum await. Return to Antalya for an overnight stay.
After your final breakfast at the hotel, you will be picked up and transferred to the airport in Antalya for your departure flight, marking the end of your journey through the footsteps of St. Paul.
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 Antioch, Daphne, Seleucia Pieria β Tarsus, Derinkuyu, Cappadocia β Derbe, Lystra, Konya β Pisidian Antioch, Antalya β Perge, Aspendos, Side β Antalya
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, Antioch, Daphne, Seleucia Pieria, Tarsus, Derinkuyu, Cappadocia, Derbe, Lystra, Konya, Pisidian Antioch, Antalya, Perge, Aspendos, Side, Antalya.
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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!