Walk in the footsteps of the apostles John and Paul as you journey across the land once known as Asia Minor—the very soil where much of the New Testament unfolded. This remarkable 12-day tour will take you to each of the seven churches of Revelation (Revelation 1–3), where the risen Christ spoke timeless words of encouragement and warning to His people. Along the way, you will also visit key biblical cities such as Lystra, Iconium, Pisidian Antioch, Colossae, and Troas—places where Paul courageously preached the gospel (Acts 13–20).

From the bustling streets of ancient Ephesus (Acts 19) to the quiet ruins of Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7–13), from the grandeur of Pergamon (Revelation 2:12–17) to the white cliffs of Hierapolis (Colossians 4:13), every step of this journey connects Scripture with history in unforgettable ways.

This tour is more than sightseeing—it is a spiritual pilgrimage. As you explore ancient ruins, read the Bible in the very places it was lived, and reflect on Christ’s message to His church, you will be both inspired and challenged to live with greater faith and devotion today.

Important Things To Know: 

PASSPORTS: Passports must be valid with an expiration date at least 6 months beyond the tour's return home date. If you do not have a valid passport or need to renew it, you should start the process as soon as possible. 

CANCELLATION POLICY: Our full cancellation policy can be found at www.ekklesiatravel.com. In short, we always refund any amount we are able to get refunded from the airlines and other vendors. However, almost all airlines and some vendors have a no-refund policy. The $500 per person deposit should be considered nonrefundable. Other payments exceeding $500 per person are refundable in full up to 120 days before departure. After this date, refunds for unused accommodations and services will be limited to the amount received from and/or credited by all carriers, sightseeing operators, and hotels. All funds, including the deposit, are non-transferable.

AIR: Coach economy class airfare is included in the price of your trip. We can not accommodate seat selections, upgrades, the use of travel points, or other special requests. If you would like to book your own air travel, please select the LAND ONLY option at checkout.

LAND ONLY: Land Only Passengers arriving with or before the group are welcome to join the group bus at no additional charge. Those not arriving with the group flight will be responsible for their own transfer and any associated costs.  Ekklesia Travel can provide contact information to arrange a private transfer, but you will be responsible for paying for all transfers.

HOTELS: The tour price includes all hotels on the itinerary. The price is based on two people per room with a private bath and shower.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: A limited number of single rooms are available at additional supplement prices. Ekklesia Travel and/or the group leader will make every attempt to pair single participants requesting a roommate. However, the single supplement fee will be charged for each person occupying a single room, whether by choice or circumstance.

MEALS: While in the country, breakfast and dinner are provided daily. Lunch is generally the responsibility of the traveler. Plan on $20-$25 per day for lunches and refreshments. 

SIGHTSEEING: Entrance fees to all places listed in the itinerary are included, as well as an expert English-speaking guide.

LUGGAGE: Space is limited on the tour buses. Participants are allowed one suitcase weighing 50 lbs or less, which will be stored under the bus. Participants are allowed one backpack/daypack or personal bag to carry on the bus during the tour. These requirements will meet most airline carrier restrictions. Please check the carrier's website for airline-specific baggage restrictions and requirements. For the in-country domestic flight, you are allowed only one checked bag weighing less than 50lbs and one carry-on weighing less than 17lbs.

TIPS, SERVICE CHARGES, AND TAXES: Tips, service charges, and taxes ARE INCLUDED in the selling price. Taxes, as imposed by national and/or local governments, that are not included at the time of booking are the responsibility of the participant.

NOT INCLUDED: Excess baggage fees, passport fees, visa fees, food or drink items not listed on the regular table menu for included meals, and items of a personal nature such as room service, laundry, etc. Any service not indicated in the itinerary and/or the above list of included features.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: This tour involves moderate walking. Many of the sites are not wheelchair accessible, and the uneven terrain at some sites will be a challenge for those who are not steady on their feet. You do not have to be in the physical shape of an athlete, but all travelers should be in reasonable physical shape. You should be able to walk both uphill and downhill, navigate stairs and uneven terrain, or walk over loose stones. Ekklesia Travel reserves the right to refuse individuals who may require special attention beyond what the tour guide and tour host can provide.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Travel Insurance is not included in the purchase price. Travel insurance is not required but is recommended. Ekklesia Travel is not responsible for any agreements, disputes, or anything else associated with your travel insurance. Like with all insurance policies, please make sure you read and understand the terms and conditions before you purchase. After you register for the trip, we will send you additional information on travel insurance for your consideration.

Today, we depart the USA and fly overnight to Turkey,

Once in Istanbul, we will connect with our guide and drive through the city to check in and relax at our hotel. During your drive, your tour guide will provide a brief overview of Istanbul's history and point out interesting geographical and cultural features. If your flight arrives early enough, you will have an opportunity to stretch your legs at the famous GRAND BAZAAR before going to the hotel. This is the largest and oldest covered market in the world. With over 4,000 shops spread across a maze of winding streets, you will find everything from carpets and jewelry to spices and souvenirs. The bustling atmosphere offers a glimpse into centuries of trade and culture, and your guide will provide tips to help you navigate and enjoy this unforgettable shopping experience. Dinner and overnight at your hotel.

Depart from the hotel to visit the historical highlights of Istanbul, including the ROMAN HIPPODROME, where the chariot track was built in AD 203 by the Roman Emperor Septimus Severus on the model of the Circus Maximus in Rome. No stadium, ancient or modern, was ever so famous, or played such an important role in its city’s public life. Much more went on here than just chariot races and the athletic events. You will also marvel at the Egyptian obelisk from around 1450 B.C. that was transported here by the Roman emperor Constantius II. Next, you take a short walk to the BLUE MOSQUE. This massive structure, officially called the Sultan Ahmet Camii-the Mosque of Sultan Ahmet I, is studded with domes and surrounded by six minarets. Only after entering do you understand the name. The interior is decorated with 21,043 shimmering blue Iznik tiles and interspersed with 260 stained-glass windows; an airy arabesque pattern is painted on the ceiling. Following this visit, we will stop at the ST. SOPHIA MUSEUM, The greatest church in Christendom for more than a millennium with a huge dome, massive pillars, and magnificent wall mosaics, the 1,500-year-old HAGIA SOPHIA is one of the most magnificent buildings ever constructed. Inside, you will also find an amazing mosaic of Jesus whose eyes will follow you wherever you go. It is believed Michelangelo was first inspired by this work to create the famous Mana Lisa painting.  Today we will also visit the vast TOPKAPI PALACE, Istanbul’s number one attraction, which sits on Seraglio Point, where the Bosphorus meets the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara. This palace was the heart of the Ottoman Empire for more than four centuries. This former imperial palace of the sultans holds priceless jewels, porcelain, paintings, costumes, royal armory, and holy relics. Today’s visit to this ancient city will lay the foundational historical knowledge you will need to fully grasp the significance of the region and the early Christian church in modern-day Turkey. If there is time your guide will lead you to the famous spice market where you can shop for local spices. Dinner and overnight at your hotel. 

This morning we leave our hotel to catch our flight to Kayseri and then enjoy a short drive to Cappadocia. After lunch we will experience the breathtaking beauty of Cappadocia on a panoramic drive with stops at five of its most iconic locations. Marvel at the Three Fairy Chimneys, the region’s most famous natural rock formations shaped by centuries of wind and water. Stroll through the charming village of Ortahisar, crowned by its towering stone castle. Capture sweeping views of Pigeon Valley, named for the ancient dovecotes carved into its cliffs. Explore the striking Fort of Uçhisar, the highest point in Cappadocia offering a spectacular vantage over the landscape. Conclude at Göreme Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where cave dwellings and churches carved into soft volcanic rock tell the story of early Christian life. This scenic journey showcases the very heart and wonder of Cappadocia. Dinner and overnight at our hotel in Cappadocia. 

For those who are interested in an early start and an optional hot air balloon ride, you will be picked up at the hotel in the early morning hours and then returned to join your group and the day’s itinerary shortly after breakfast. Please note the hot air balloon ride is NOT INCLUDED in the price of your trip and can only be purchased and scheduled through your guide for those who are interested. Everyone else will enjoy a few extra hours of sleep. After breakfast, the entire group will head out to explore the ZELVE OPEN AIR MUSEUM and GOREME OPEN AIR MUSEUM; Göreme, ancient Karaman, was one of the great centers of Christianity from the 6th century AD to the 12th century AD, and there were about 400 churches around. The architectural design of the churches tended to follow the accepted Byzantine patterns with arches, pillars and dome. The St.Basil’s, the Apple, the St. Barbara, the Serpent (St. Onophrius), the Carikli (Sandals) are the churches to see within the open air museum, and the Tokali (Buckle) church outside of it. Today, you will also take a tour and learn how the famous Turkish rugs are made. For those who want to, you can purchase a rug and have it shipped back to your residence in the United States. If time permits, we will also do some additional souvenir shopping today. Dinner and overnight at the hotel

After breakfast we depart for the city of Konya. On our way we will stop at SULTANHANI, which was a refuge for caravans on the Silk Road. Next we will visit the MEVALANA MUSEUM which is dedicated to the mystic philosopher and poet Rumi. Here we will witness the famous Turkish whirling dervishes. We continue with a drive into ancient LYSTRA. This was likely the hometown of Timothy and served as a market town of Lycaonia in south-central modern-day Turkey. Paul preached here on his first missionary journey (Acts 14:6-22). After he healed a lame man, the superstitious citizens immediately assumed that he was Hermes (messenger of Zeus) and Barnabas was Zeus himself (same as the Roman god Jupiter). There was a temple to Zeus near the gates of the city, and a statue of Hermes dedicated to Zeus was found here as well. Next we continue our drive to ICONIUM. Here Paul and Barnabas boldly preached the gospel despite opposition (Acts 14). Many believed here, but persecution also arose. Their ministry here reminds us that the message of Jesus always advances, even in the face of persecution. Next we head to our hotel in Koyna for dinner and overnight. 

This morning our tour leads us to PISIDIAN ANTIOCH, where Paul and Barnabas ministered together. It was here in the synagogue, they traced God’s promises from Israel’s history to their fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While some rejected the message, others rejoiced, and the gospel began to spread to the Gentiles (Acts 13:42-52). Next we drive to LAODICEA. Here you will walk among the ruins and explore the once magnificent Roman streets. As you walk along these streets, look for the ancient Chi-Ro’s and Ichthus (fish) markings that identify homes and shops as belonging to early believers. We will also walk inside one of the largest and oldest known Christian churches and gaze at its magnificent mosaic floors and ancient baptistry. Here you will also find a large Villa that is believed to be the earliest known house church ever discovered. Take a moment to sit here, read scripture (Rev. 3:14-22), and pray as ancient persecuted believers did thousands of years ago. Before you leave make sure you climb the steps of the ancient temple and view the massive temple treasure vault that can be seen through the glass floor. Dinner and overnight stay in Pamukkale.

This morning we get an early start as we prepare to visit HIERAPOLIS. While not one of the 7 churches of Revelation this city was the home of Phillip and your guide will unpack some amazing biblical truths from this place. You will be able to gaze at the amazing healing waters the city was known for and the calcium rich hill side that glows white in the morning sun. The trek to the top of the ancient theater can be challenging, but golf carts can be rented for those needing assistance. Your guide will point out the monument to Philip who was martyred here for his faith. If time permits you can also walk to the far end of the ruins and explore the ancient cemetery that was in this city. Next we drive to PHILADELPHIA for a short stop. The Philadelphia church has a small set of ruins located in what is now the city of Alaşehir, Turkey. Though ancient Philadelphia is mostly buried, with only foundation stones and a few Roman columns remaining, a Byzantine basilica built later is dedicated to St. John and has three surviving pillars. This is a great place to read the letter Jesus sent to this church in Revelation 3:7-13. Our final stop today will be in SARDIS. Once a wealthy and powerful capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia, Sardis was known for its riches and influence. Here you will walk among impressive ruins, including the massive gymnasium complex, the restored synagogue, and remnants of the grand temple of Artemis. This setting provides a powerful backdrop to reflect on the warning Jesus gave the church here in Revelation 3:1–6, calling them to wake up and strengthen what remained. Dinner and overnight in Izmir. 

Our first stop today will be in SMYRNA. While Smyrna does not have the most impressive ruins above ground, this ancient site gives us an amazing view of what existed below ground level in this city. Take time to read Revelation 2:8-11 and reflect on the life and impact of this early Christian community. Our journey continues to PERGAMON, a city once known for its great library, medical center, and towering acropolis. You will see the steepest theater ever discovered which is built into the hillside of the city. This site is home to the remains of ancient temples, and the impressive altar site that was “Satan’s throne” mentioned in Revelation 2:12–17. From the heights of Pergamon you will look out over the valley below, while your guide unpacks the powerful message Jesus gave to this church, urging them to remain faithful in the midst of compromise. We then travel to THYATIRA, a city once known for its trade guilds and production of purple dye. Though only modest ruins remain, including sections of an ancient basilica, this site provides a vivid backdrop to reflect on the church addressed in Revelation 2:18–29. Here Jesus commended their love and service, yet warned them against false teaching and compromise. Standing among the scattered stones, your guide will help bring this important message to life. Dinner and overnight in Izmir. 

This morning we depart from the hotel for a short drive to the nearby town of Selcuk to visit the remains of the ancient city EPHESUS. Being a city of pure white marble and offering a full range of business and entertainment opportunities, the city of Ephesus rivaled Rome and Alexandria in its glory. For pagans, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, the nearby ARTEMIS TEMPLE drew pilgrims from around the world. About a quarter of a million people lived here at its height during the Roman and the early Byzantine Periods. The Council building, the City Hall, the Temple of Hadrian, the Public Toilets, the Brothel, the Celsus Library, the Marble Road, the Agora, the Theater and the Arcadian street are some of the highlights of the city to be seen. The house of the Virgin Mary; this is a sanctuary where, according to the belief of some, the Virgin Mary lived her last days. While we won’t visit the house of Mary our tour will allow us to stop at the CHURCH OF MARY located on the outskirts of the Ephesus archaeological site. It was here in this place that the second great Ecumenical Council was held in 431 A.D. This council was primarily convened to discuss and settle the debate concerning the humanity and divinity of Christ. Our final stop will be the BASILICA OF ST. JOHN. The remains of the Cathedral Church of St. John lie on the Ayasuluk Hill. This 6th century AD church by the Emperor Justinian had replaced an earlier chapel that just covered the grave of St. John. St. John is believed to have lived in Ephesus before and after his exile on the island of Patmos. We will end the day here by taking time to visit one of the local leather shops famous in Turkey. 

This morning we depart for home. Our driver and guide will take us to the airport in Izmir where we will board a plane for a short domestic flight to Istanbul. In Istanbul we will connect to our international flight back to the states.