Day 1 – Istanbul
After breakfast, we will spend the whole day experiencing and enjoying historic Istanbul. Hagia Sophia, the place where religions meet, the symbol of tolerance and harmony, is surely in our list. Next is its neighbour, the Blue Mosque, famous for its blue Iznik tiles and for being one of the architectural marvels of the world. The Hippodrome Square is very close as well and awaits us. It used to be the social and sporting centre of two empires, where ancient chariot races were held.
We haven’t forgotten about nice places for shopping and colourful locations at the same time, of course. The Egyptian Spice Market – a world of spices and smells where you can enjoy these both. Last but not least is a boat tour on the Bosphorus, viewing the picturesque beauty of the European and Asian shorelines on either side. (balkan tours 2020-21)
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – round tours Turkey – Sardis, Philadelphia, Pamukkale
On that day we will have a short flight from Istanbul to Izmir. Upon arrival at Izmir we will lose no time but get along ancient trade routes and we will visit some of the 7 Churches of Revelation. Sardis was the capital of one of the richest kingdoms of the ancient worlds. Its great location and the stronghold the inhabitants of the city built, made them overconfident and proud. The church in Sardis started with great promise as well but soon faded. It starts with a message ‘You have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.’
Philadelphia, on the other hand, is the church which is introduced as the key to doors, important doors. It has a renewal of life, love. Philadelphia, unlike Sardis, had endured patiently.
After having felt the lesson from this church, which is to focus on the things that matter, we will pay a visit to the natural salt flats of Pamukkale, a truly spectacular sight indeed!
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 – A morning to relax
It will be an easy and relaxing morning before we leave for the Aegean coast or the picturesque port city of Kusadasi. We will spend the morning enjoying Pamukkale, the natural hot spring pools of the hotel. You might like to experience the Turkish baths and spa facilities!
On the way to Kusadasi we will visit another church of the Seven Churches of the Book of Revelation, Laodicea. This is the church that received no praise, no affirmation from Jesus. He says that they are neither hot, nor cold. They are lukewarm which means they were half-hearted Christians.
You will have dinner at the hotel in Kusadasi.
Day 4 – Ephesus
Today, we will spend the whole day exploring the unforgettable ruins of Ephesus. The city of Ephesus was once considered the most important trading centre in the Mediterranean region. It had one of the finest harbours in the world. Unfortunately, it lost its port due to natural disasters, and gradually lost its significance over time. Nevertheless, it was known as ‘the first of the greatest’ and ‘the first and greatest metropolis in Asia’.
One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World used to be in Ephesus, the Temple of Diana. It was blessed by Paul and John. Ephesus used to be most probably the place where Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, lived until she died. Not only did the city had a commercial significance but religious one as well. Everything spiritual that started in Ephesus quickly spread abroad. The church received perhaps one of the best praises ever as one that is hard-working, patient but not to those who are evil. Ephesus was the ‘desirable church’ that left its first love!
Our day also includes a visit to the church of Apostle John.
Dinner is back at the hotel in Kusadasi.
Day 5 – Smyrna, Pergamon and Troy
After breakfast we depart for a day visiting other sights of the Seven Churches of Revelation – Smyrna and Pergamum.
Smyrna is one of the oldest cities in the world. It is the second of the Seven Churches of Revelation and the only one today of the seven that still exists as a major city. It’s a harbour city today and its modern name is Izmir.
The church was constantly persecuted but though they were poor in earthly goods due to these persecutions, they were rich in character and spiritual things. Smyrna church was agreeable and beautiful to Jesus.
The time period of Pergamos coincided with Emperor Constantine’s conversion to Christianity. Due to that, Rome went from paganism to Christianity. That was dangerous because people felt comfortable in the new situation. There were people who said they were Christians but they still continued certain pagan practices. Soon a big separation occurred – that between the compromised majority and the persecuted minority. Jesus here is represented as the one who has a sword with two edges. He knew what was going on and he also knew the church of Pergamos needed to repent.
Towards the end of the day we shall arrive at the site of the ancient city of Troy.
Dinner and overnight in a hotel in Canakkale.
Day 6 Canakkale to Istanbul
In the morning, after breakfast we will depart for Istanbul. We will cross the Dardanelle Straits and drive to Istanbul.
In Istanbul we will visit Istanbul’s perfect jewel – the oldest and biggest shopping mall of the world, the Grand Bazaar.
(We are also happy to share our experience with you for Bulgaria. Please, visit Sofia private guided tours)
Overnight in the hotel.
Day 7
Transfer to airport.
Contact us for this tour and for more.
Seven Churches
Follow Footsteps St. Paul’s
