Embark on a profound spiritual journey across Türkiye, exploring the foundations of early Christianity and the historical sites that shaped the faith. This 9-day pilgrimage begins in the vibrant city of Istanbul, the former seat of the Byzantine Empire, where you will visit architectural marvels including the 6th-century Hagia Sophia, the historic Hippodrome, and the sacred Chora Church. You will delve into the rich history of the Nicene Creed in Iznik, the Nicaea of antiquity and seat of the First Ecumenical Council in AD 325, visiting the remains of St. Neophytos Church and the town's own Hagia Sophia.
As the journey continues, you will follow the path of the Seven Churches of Revelation, visiting the ancient ruins of Pergamum, Thyatira, Smyrna, Ephesus, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Each site offers a unique connection to the early Christian communities, providing deep insight into the letters written to these historic congregations. You will also witness the architectural grandeur of Ephesus, including the Basilica of St. John and the Temple of Artemis, standing as testaments to the region's enduring religious and cultural significance throughout the centuries.
Your pilgrimage concludes with a visit to the natural wonders of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis, where thermal waters have flowed for millennia. Throughout this fully guided tour, you will be immersed in the intersection of faith, history, and archaeology. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the serene, silent stones of Anatolia’s ancient cities, this itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of the spiritual legacy that defines this sacred land, ensuring a meaningful and reflective experience for every traveler.
| Tour type | Private · multi-day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | 9 Days 8 Nights |
| Price | From €4,023 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | Licensed guide in your language |
| Stops | 10 |
| Booking | Instant request online, confirmation within 24 hours · TÜRSAB-licensed operator (A-5751) |
Your full program, day by day — click a day to see every stop.
Upon your arrival at Istanbul Airport, you will be met by a professional greeter who will assist with your transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to rest and prepare for the journey ahead. You will spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Istanbul.
Around 9:00 am your guide will collect you for a full day exploring the historic heart of Istanbul. You will visit the majestic Topkapı Palace, the ancient Roman Hippodrome, and the iconic 6th-century Hagia Sophia. The tour continues with visits to Hagia Irene, the Sergios Bakhos Church, and the Mosaic Museum. The day concludes with a walk through the historic Grand Bazaar before returning to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Today, you will experience the unique atmosphere of Istanbul by crossing continents. You will take a ferry to Kadıköy, ancient Chalcedon, and walk into its downtown. The itinerary includes a visit to the Chora Church, known for its exquisite mosaics, followed by a scenic Bosphorus Cruise. You will also have time to browse the historic Spice Bazaar. You will be returned to your hotel in the evening.
Departing early, you will travel to Iznik, the ancient city of Nicaea. Here, you will explore the St. Neophytos Church and the historic Hagia Sophia, sites of immense significance to Christian history and the Council of Nicaea. Your private driver then continues west for about three hours towards Bergama, with the overnight stay in Izmir.
Your day begins with an exploration of the Pergamum Acropolis and the ancient Asklepion, a significant healing center of the ancient world. Afterward, you will travel to visit the ruins of Thyatira in Akhisar. This day highlights the intersection of ancient medical practices and early Christian development. You will spend the night in Izmir.
Today is dedicated to the ancient wonders of the Aegean region. You will visit the Agora of Smyrna, followed by the magnificent ancient city of Ephesus. You will explore the Basilica of St. John and the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You will return to your hotel in Izmir for the night.
This day focuses on the sites of the Seven Churches of Revelation. You will visit the ancient ruins of Thyatira, the impressive archaeological site of Sardis, and the remains of the ancient city of Philadelphia. These locations provide a direct link to the historical context of the sacred letters. You will travel to Pamukkale for your overnight stay.
You will visit the stunning white travertines of Pamukkale and the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis, known for its thermal springs. The tour continues to the ancient city of Laodicea, another of the Seven Churches. In the late afternoon, you will be transferred to Denizli Airport for your flight back to Istanbul, where you will be transferred to your hotel.
On your final day, your private driver collects you at the hotel for the transfer to Istanbul Airport and your international flight. We wish you a safe journey home.
Handpicked 3-, 4- and 5-star hotels along your route. Choose your category — the price adapts.
Exact hotels are confirmed on booking based on availability and your chosen category; equivalent alternatives may be offered.
Istanbul → Iznik → Pergamum, Thyatira → Izmir, Ephesus → Sardis, Philadelphia → Pamukkale, Laodicea → Istanbul
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles — the same fleet we use on your tour.
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👥 37 Seats (2+1 VIP)
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👥 37+2 Seats
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👥 16+1 Seats
👥 16+1 Seats
👥 12+1 Seats
👥 6+1 Seats
Extra day tours you can add along your route — Istanbul, Iznik, Pergamum, Thyatira, Izmir, Ephesus, Sardis, Philadelphia, Pamukkale, Laodicea.
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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 — 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!