12 Days Turkey and Greece

Upon arrival in Istanbul you will be greeted by your tour guide and driver. We transfer to the hotel to unpack and take a moment to settle in. Enjoy a relaxing evening with your fellow pilgrims in Istanbul.

The beautiful Hagia Sophia, one of the greatest architectural wonders in the world, will be the first place we visit. This remarkable landmark, which was first built in the sixth century, has functioned as a cathedral, a mosque, and now represents the rich spiritual and cultural legacy of Istanbul. Its enormous dome, historic mosaics. Next, we travel to the Byzantine Hippodrome, Important monuments like the Serpent Column and the Obelisk of Theodosius can be seen here. Next, we go to the magnificent Blue Mosque, which is also called the Mosque of Sultan Ahmet. It was constructed in the early 17th century and is well-known for its exquisite domes, six thin minarets, and stunning blue Iznik tiles. We then visit the magnificent Chora Church and Museum, which is well-known for its stunning Byzantine frescoes and mosaics. These works of art offer insight into early Christian art and theology. After that, we explore the enigmatic Subterranean Cisterns beneath the city streets. The day closes with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest markets. Dinner and stay in Istanbul.

After breakfast, we depart Istanbul for the historic city of Nicaea (modern-day İznik). We visit St. Sophia of Nicaea, an ancient church involved with one of Christian history's most momentous events, the First Council of the Christian Church in 325 AD. Following our tour, we carry on to Bursa, the Ottoman Empire's first city, which is recognised for its rich history, spectacular architecture, and stunning mountain landscape. Dinner and overnight in Bursa.

After breakfast, we leave Bursa and head to Pergamum, one of the ancient world's most important cultural and religious hubs. We will explore the remains of the Temple of Trajan (also known as the Trojan Temple), a stunning example of Roman imperial architecture, as well as the spectacular Grand Theatre, one of the steepest and most dramatic theatres in antiquity, with breathtaking views. We then travel to Thyatira, another important biblical city noted in antiquity for its trade guilds and textile industry. Following our tour, we head to Izmir.

After breakfast, we depart Izmir, the modern city built upon ancient Smyrna. Our first stop is Sardis, historically known for its wealth and impressive architecture. We continue to Philadelphia, another significant biblical city. Though only limited ruins remain today, the site holds deep historical importance as part of the early Christian communities. We travel onward to Pamukkale, famous for its stunning White limestone terraces.

After breakfast, we will visit Pamukkale to explore the spectacular ruins, which include an ancient theatre and necropolis, as well as the remarkable thermal pools, whose mineral-rich waters cascade down the white terraces. We then travel to Laodicea, Here, we look at the excavated streets, theatres, and church ruins. Our final stop is Colossae, although nothing remains of the ancient city today, the site is historically significant and provides insight into the region's early communities. Return to Pamukkale for dinner and overnight.

After breakfast, we travel to Ephesus, where we walk through its marble streets. Among the highlights is the Odeon. We proceed to visit the brilliantly designed Trajan Fountain, the remnants of thermal baths and ancient latrines, and the majestic Temple of Hadrian. We then visit the historic Celsus Library, followed by Ephesus' splendid Grand Theatre, which can seat thousands and is still a symbol of the city's former grandeur. Following that, we will visit the tranquil House of the Virgin Mary, which is nestled on a wooded slope overlooking the region and holds significant spiritual significance and pilgrimage. We conclude our day in Kusadasi, where we enjoy dinner and overnight.

After breakfast, we transfer to the port to begin our scenic cruise through the Greek Islands, we enjoy breathtaking coastal views as we make our way to the sacred Island of Patmos. Upon arrival, we visit the impressive Monastery of Saint John (San Juan), Built in the 11th century, stands as one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the region. We then proceed to the revered Grotto of the Apocalypse, the cave traditionally associated with the writing of the Book of Revelation. This sacred site offers a powerful atmosphere of reflection and spiritual significance. After our visit, we return to the ship and continue our cruise. Dinner and overnight onboard or return to Kusadasi (as per cruise schedule).

After breakfast, we visit the renowned Palace of Knossos in Heraklion, Crete, and walk through its ancient courtyards and marble passages. We then travel to Santorini. Our journey begins in Fira, the island's cliffside capital, where we meander through beautiful streets and enjoy stunning views of the caldera. We proceed to Oia, known for its whitewashed dwellings and blue-domed churches, and finish the day.

After breakfast, we travel to Corinth to view the Temple of Apollo, one of Greece's oldest and most renowned ancient temples, as well as the adjoining old museum. Returning to Athens, we climb the Acropolis, admiring the Parthenon, a masterpiece of Greek architecture, and the surrounding monuments. We also visit the Olympic Stadium, a historic location that held the first modern Olympic Games, capping off a day immersed in Greece's rich history and cultural legacy.

Today we board our return flight home.This concludes our services, thank you for traveling with Holy Travel.