Itinerary
Explore the Biblical History, Archaeology, and Geography of Turkey and Greece by land and sea!
A Passage to Understanding and Enrichment
There is no way to adequately describe what traveling to biblical sites will do for you, both spiritually and educationally. On this incredible journey, you will walk the ancient streets of Ephesus, see historic sites in Greece, explore ancient ruins in the land of Turkey, and more. Our highly unique program is designed to bring color, clarity, and a deeper understanding of the many customs, words, and practices of the people and settings of the Bible story and its historical and geographical context. The information and experiences gained from this trip will put you in a better position to understand the biblical text, share the word, defend the faith, and evangelize the lost. You will grow at an exponential rate, both in your understanding of the Bible, and in your own personal walk of faith. You will never look at the Bible in the same way again.
Friday, October 10
Depart from DFW or JFK
Saturday, October 11
Arrive Istanbul. Welcome to Turkey, the crossroads between East and West! Our representative will meet you at the Istanbul airport and escort you on a private transfer to the hotel for check in. Enjoy rest of the day at your own leisure to explore the hidden treasures of this magnificent city! Overnight in Istanbul. (Dinner Provided).
Sunday, October 12
After our morning worship service we will visit the famous Hagia Sophia mosque, the remains of the Hippodrome of Constantinople, and an obelisk brought from Egypt. Then it’s off to the Blue Mosque, followed by a visit to the iconic Basilica Cistern. We will enjoy lunch and visit a local spice Market (the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays) where the air is filled with the enticing aromas of cinnamon, caraway, saffron, mint, thyme and every other conceivable herb and spice. Our day will end with a short visit to the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. Overnight in Istanbul. (Breakfast only Provided)
Monday, October 13
After breakfast we will travel by luxury bus to ancient Troy to see the legendary walls and the replica of the wooden horse. From here we travel to Alexandria Troas, founded about 300 B.C, by one of the generals of Alexander the Great. During the Apostle Paul’s second missionary journey, it was from Troas that he received the “Macedonian call” to Europe. This is where Luke’s account changes from “they” to “we” (Acts 16:6-12), indicating that he joined Paul’s team in Troas. Returning from Macedonia during his third journey, Paul was in Troas for a week, when the young man Eutychus fell from the third floor as Paul preached. Paul soon walked some thirty miles to Assos. After Troas, we will drive to Assos for check in, dinner and overnight stay in Assos. (Breakfast and Dinner).
Tuesday, October 14
After breakfast and an early departure, we will drive to Pergamum, one of the sites of the Seven Churches of Asia [Rev. 1:11; 2:12]. Here we will explore the impressive Acropolis, the steepest theatre in the world, the Asklepion, famous medical Centre of classical times, see the Altar of Zeus, which thought by some to be “the throne of Satan” in the book of Revelation. We will also see the marble columns of the Temple of Trajan, and the remains of the Pergamum Library which was one of the largest of the ancient world, and was long a rival of the equally famous Library of Alexandria in Egypt. Its wealth of volumes was estimated at over 200,000. Then we will continue our visit to Thyatira, now called Akhisar, another one of the Seven Churches of Asia [Rev. 1:11; 2:18-24; Acts 16:14]. Here we will visit the remains of a basilica and some architectural fragments from the Roman period. Lydia, the seller of purple in Philippi, was from Thyatira. Next, it’s on to Izmir to check-in to our hotel for an overnight stay in biblical Smyrna. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided).
Wednesday, October 15
We begin our day at the ancient Agora of Smyrna. Then we depart for one of the most picturesque areas of any of the Seven Churches of Asia [Rev. 1:11; 3:1-4], Sardis, known today as Sart. This was the capital of the ancient Lydian kingdom of the 6th century BC, portrayed as a dying church. Here we will see the great Temple of Artemis, the restored gymnasium and reconstructed Synagogue. We will also see the last several meters of the royal Persian Road from Susa to Sardis built by Cyrus the Great. Then, we will continue our journey to Philadelphia, today called Alasehir, another of the Seven Churches of Asia [Rev. 1:11; 3:7]. There we will see the remains of a Byzantine Basilica built of brick, and some 11th century frescoes. From here we drive to the healing city of Hierapolis, (Pamukkale), the white “cotton fortress” where hot mineral water bursts from the earth and cascades over steep cliffs forming pools, channels and stalactites. The therapeutic waters were known to the founders of Hierapolis and of Laodicea in 190 BC. Check in at hotel for dinner and overnight in a Thermal Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast Provided).
Thursday, October 16
It’s off to Laodicea along the Lycus Tributary of the Meander River where we will visit the city established in the 3rd century BC by the Seleucid Antiochus II and named after his wife Laodicea. Recent excavations and massive restoration projects have made this a must-see site in Turkey. From here we will drive to Ephesus and visit the ancient city where the Apostle Paul preached to the Ephesians and lived for three years. This church also received an epistle from him. We will tour the spectacular ruins where excavations continue in this once great and important city, founded in the 10th century BC. While there we will walk along marble streets lined with wonderful public buildings, among them the Baths of Scholastica, the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Ephesian Theatre. The Temple of Diana, one of the seven ancient wonders of the world, was built nearby and if time permits, we will make a brief stop to see the single column that remains, along with portions of its foundation. Next, we will drive to our hotel for an overnight stay in Kusadasi. (Breakfast and Dinner provided).
Friday, October 17
After breakfast, drive to the ancient Anatolian-Greek city of Priene in the forest overlooking the fertile Meandros Valley. Priene was an ancient Greek holy city and the home of an important temple of Athena. Next, we will head to Miletus, home of ancient philosopher Thales (640-546 B.C.), one of the fathers of Greek geometry, astronomy, and philosophy. It was here, in the first Christian century, that the Apostle Paul called for the Ephesian elders and preached a powerful message to them (Acts 20:15-38) on his third missionary journey. It was also here that Paul left his friend Trophimus, who was too ill to continue (II Timothy 4:20). The city’s remote quietness makes it special to devout students of Scripture. Its ancient ruins include the marvelous 15,000-seat theatre. We will then proceed to Didyma and visit the massive Temple to Apollo, one of the most impressive sites in Anatolia. Ordinary people did not reside in ancient Didyma. It was home only to a priestly family whose oracle came from Delphi and who lived in luxury, as they guarded their temple treasuries supplied by the people they deceived. Overnight in Kusadasi. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided).
Saturday, October 18
This morning we check out of the hotel and drive to the port to embark on a 3-day cruise! After our departure, we will enjoy lunch onboard. Our first stop will be at the Island of Patmos (disembarkation by tender-boats, sea & weather permitting). It is here that the Apostle John wrote the Book of Revelation (Rev 1:9). Enjoy the guided visit to St. John’s Monastery and the Grotto of the Apocalypse. We then sail to Heraklion, Crete. All meals and overnight on board our cruise ship (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Provided).
Sunday, October 19
An early morning arrival and worship service aboard our cruise ship at Heraklion, Crete (Acts 27:7-13) will be a special treat. Enjoy the included excursion to the Minoan Palace of Knossos, the first European civilization and the legendary home of the Minotaur (half bull and half man). At 12:00 noon we set sail forSantorini. Lunch onboard. (Disembarkation by tender- boats, sea & weather permitting). Guided excursion to the beautiful and picturesque village of Oia where you can see the famous blue domed churches, or take the cable-car up to the town of Fira, perched high on the rim of the ancient volcano. Free time for taking photos, browsing, shopping and enjoying the breathtaking view of the caldera. We then sail for Piraeus. All meals and overnight on board. (Breakfast , Lunch, and Dinner Provided).
Monday, October 20
Today we arrive at the port of Lavrio, Greece. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Athens for a city tour. Walk around the ancient Greek agora and then climb the marble-capped Acropolis Hill and visit the famous Parthenon and Erechtheion Temples. Then we will walk to nearby Mars' Hill (Areopagus) (Acts 17:22) where Paul delivered his soul-stirring sermon to the giants of philosophy, logic and learning and spoke about the inscription: “to an unknown god”. Enjoy the rest of the day at your own leisure in the shopping district of Plaka, the oldest and most picturesque area of Athens. Check into hotel in Athens for dinner and overnight stay (Breakfast and Dinner Provided).
Tuesday, October 21
Destination Corinth. Driving along the Saronic Gulf, we enjoy a quick photo stop at the historic Corinth Canal. Continue to Corinth archaeological site (Acts 18:1-18) where the Apostle Paul lived and worked, establishing a thriving church, subsequently sending two of his epistles, now part of the New Testament. Here, we see all the sites associated with his ministry: the Agora, the Temple of Apollo, the Roman Odeon, the Bema, and Gallio’s Seat. The small local archaeological museum is an absolute must! On our return to Athens we will stop for a devotional along the shoreline of biblical Cenchrea. Return to Athens in the afternoon and your evening will be free to explore the historical and modern center of the city before dinner and overnight at our hotel. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided).
Wednesday, October 22
Greece and Turkey only participants will depart by luxury bus to Athen’s airport for your flight back to the US. While your journey comes to an end, you will leave with a lifetime of memories and a stronger faith in God and a better understanding of the Bible.
Optional Rome Excursion
Wednesday, October 22
Depart Athens (the flight from Athens to Rome is included with the Rome excursion package). Arrive at Fiumicino International airport in Rome mid-afternoon and travel by luxury bus on a panoramic tour of central Rome. We will see numerous historic sites including the Egyptian Obelisks at Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the one at St. John Lateran which dates to 15th Century B.C. Following the bus tour, we will visit the Circus Maximus and give an introduction to the geography and history of ancient Rome. From here we will travel to Piazza Venezia and up to Campidogolio/Capitoline Hill, designed by Michelangelo. We will also see the grand monument dedicated to Victor Emmanuel, and have a wonderful view from the back over the forum. Then, we will visit Mamertine Prison (where tradition says that the apostles Paul and Peter were imprisoned). Afterwards, we will walk near the forums of Hadrian, Trajan, and Julius Cesar. Spend the rest of the day on your own visiting one of the many iconic places of Rome. Then check-in to your hotel, refresh and prepare for a welcome dinner and orientation. Overnight in Rome. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided).
Thursday, October 23
Waking up in historic Rome is exciting. While the sounds of a busy city will be heard all around, your awareness of its enthralling and storied history will soon become clear as you make your way to Rome’s most iconic site—the Colosseum. This ancient stadium was used for more than four centuries for Roman entertainment including gladiator fights, wild animal fights, large mock combat engagements, and much more. As we are led by expert Italian guides in Roman history, imagine the horrific events that took place inside the Colosseum. From there we will visit Domitian’s Palace on Palatine Hill, and the home of Octavian. Proceeding down the hill, we will see the biblically significant Arch of Titus, the Roman Forum, and many of Rome’s most important basilicas and temples, some of which are mentioned in the Bible. Our day will conclude with a lecture and devotional at the Arch of Constantine. The arch commemorates one of Rome’s most important battles. We will also discuss what this meant for the history of Christianity. Overnight in Rome. (Breakfast Only Provided)
Friday, October 24
After breakfast, travel by bus to Vatican City and spend the morning walking through one of the largest museums in the world. Learn more about the history of Catholicism, see magnificent art treasures, view archaeological discoveries relating to the Bible, enter St. Peter’s Basilica, walk through the incredible map room, and visit the historic Sistine Chapel. Our afternoon will include a walking tour through some of the most iconic and familiar sites of Rome. We will see the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and the beautiful Piazza Navona, the site of Domitian’s stadium. A highlight of the tour will include a visit to the historic Pantheon, one of the most influential and well-preserved buildings of ancient Rome. Overnight in Rome. (Breakfast Only Provided)
Saturday, October 25
First, we will visit Piazza del Popolo with its many attractions and see the 118-foot-high obelisk constructed in Egypt (1300 BC) which was taken to Rome by emperor Augustus to be displayed at the Circus Maximus. Next, it’s on to Ara Pacis (Octavian’s altar of Peace) and Augustus’ mausoleum. Then, we will cross the Tiber River and explore the Castel St Angelo/Mausoleum of Hadrian. The rest of the day will be yours to enjoy on your own. There are numerous historic and modern sites to visit and explore.
Sunday, October 26
We begin our day with a visit to San Pietro in Vincoli to see Michelangelo’s famous Moses statue. From here we will travel to the church of Christ in Rome for worship. Following lunch, we will venture beneath the famous Appian Way to see the catacombs of St. Sebastian. We will walk along one of the most historic roads of ancient Rome to discover the ancient underground cemeteries, along with the aqueducts of Appian Park. We will also visit the Basilica of St Sebastian and see Lorenzo Bernini’s last great sculpture of Jesus, as well as many other well-known and iconic paintings of the renaissance. Then it’s back to the city center for any last-minute shopping and that last great opportunity to find the perfect Italian restaurant and gelato. Overnight in Rome. (Breakfast Only Provided).
Monday, October 27
Flight to US. Following breakfast at the hotel, your biblical journey in Rome will have come to an end. Check out of hotel and transfer to Fiumicino International airport via luxury bus for your flight home. (Breakfast only provided).
Not included in the itinerary above are on-site devotionals, onboard education seminars, times of singing together, and other faith-building opportunities provided by the Bible Passages team. As is the case with this type of trip, the itinerary and schedule may change. The Bible Passages team will be on-site and available at all times to guide the group regardless of changes made by the excursion team.
Pricing Information
See Official Brochure for Full Details, Terms, and Conditions
Prices are per person, double occupancy unless the single supplement is paid
Option 1: Land Only Biblical Turkey & Cruise - $3,900
Option 2: Biblical Turkey & Cruise with round-trip Airfare from DFW – est. $5,750
Option 3: Biblical Turkey & Cruise with round-trip Airfare from JFK – est. $5,650
Option 4: Biblical Turkey, Cruise, & Rome Excursion with round-trip airfare from JFK - est. $7,325
Option 5: Land Only Biblical Turkey, Cruise, & Rome Excursion - est. $6,225
Single Room Supplement for Options 1-3 ( add $1,100)
Single Room Supplement for Options 4-5 ( add $1,680)