Excellent
Seven Churches of Asia Minor
Embark on a spiritual journey through Turkey, beginning in Istanbul, where you'll explore iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Travel to Canakkale and visit the historic battlegrounds of Gallipoli. Explore the legendary city of Troy and the ancient city of Pergamum. Continue to Kusadasi to visit Ephesus and the charming village of Sirince. Journey to Akhisor, a town with Christian significance, and then visit Pamukkale, Hierapolis, and Laodicea. Explore Philadelphia and Sardis before concluding your pilgrimage back in Istanbul.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour Overview
Duration
9 daysStarts
IstanbulEnds
IstanbulRange
HandpickedTour Guide
Yes, for all included sightseeingGroup Size
Min 2 / Max 28Minimum age
15 yrs, accompanied by an adultDeparts
SaturdaysHotel Rating
4-5 starCountries
TurkeyArrival Transfer
Yes - from IST or SabihaDeparture Transfer
Yes, to Istanbul Airport at 9am & 1pm on day 9Meals included
Breakfast: 8, Dinner: 5Excellent
4.4 out of 5 based on
275 reviews
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Welcome to Istanbul
Day 1 - Welcome to Istanbul
Saturday. Welcome to the vibrant city of Istanbul, the beginning of your exciting adventure. Upon your arrival, our friendly representative will be there to greet you and accompany you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Day 2 - Tour of Istanbul
Day 2 - Tour of Istanbul
Following breakfast at the hotel, your day in Istanbul begins with a guided tour that will take you to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the exterior of St. Sophia, the enchanting Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
Day 3 - Gallipoli & ANZAC Cove
Day 3 - Gallipoli & ANZAC Cove
Istanbul - Canakkale. Today, you'll embark on a journey to Gallipoli, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the legendary landmarks of ANZAC Cove, Nek, Conk Bair, Lone Pine, and the 57th Regiment Memorial.
Afterwards, you'll proceed to cross the Dardanelles, where Asia and Europe meet. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in Canakkale, where you can enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 4 - Legendary Troy
Day 4 - Legendary Troy
Canakkale - Troy - Pergamum - Kusadasi/Izmir. Following breakfast, we'll head for the legendary city of Troy, where the renowned Trojan War unfolded. You'll have the opportunity to explore the fascinating archaeological site, delving into its rich history.
Continuing on, we'll cross the picturesque Ida mountain range and arrive in Pergamum. Here, you'll visit the ancient Acropolis. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in the charming town of Kusadasi, where you can relax and prepare for tomorrow's adventures.
Day 5 - Ancient Ephesus & Sirince
Day 5 - Ancient Ephesus & Sirince
Kusadasi/Izmir - Ephesus - Sirince - Kusadasi/Izmir. Today, a brief drive will take you to the ancient city of Ephesus. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the magnificent library, theater, and temples. The day's journey also includes a chance to discover the local craftsmanship of hand-made carpets and leather products.
Continuing on, you'll reach the charming village of Sirince, celebrated as one of Turkey's most beautiful villages. While in Sirince, you can shop unique local crafts and taste the delightful wines produced in the village. We'll end the night in Kusadasi.
Day 6 - Ancient Foundations of Thyteria
Day 6 - Ancient Foundations of Thyteria
Kusadasi/Izmir - Smirne - Thyateria - Kusadasi/Izmir. Delve into the Christian history of Akhisor, a modern town built upon the ancient foundations of Thyateira, which holds significance as one of the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse where early Christianity rapidly spread.
You'll spend some time exploring the historical and spiritual significance of this site before returning to Kusadasi for the night.
Day 7 - Hierapolis & Laodicea
Day 7 - Hierapolis & Laodicea
Kusadasi/Izmir - Pamukkale - Hierapolis - Laodicea - Pamukkale. Set off in the morning for a picturesque drive to Pamukkale, passing through the fertile Meander plain, known for its natural beauty.
Your first stop is the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you'll have the opportunity to explore its fascinating ruins and the captivating terraces.
In the afternoon, your journey continues with a visit to Laodicea, an ancient city located just seven kilometers from Pamukkale. Laodicea holds historical significance as one of the seven churches of Asia Minor, providing insights into early Christianity.
Day 8 - Ancient Cities & Back to Istanbul
Day 8 - Ancient Cities & Back to Istanbul
Pamukkale - Philadelphia - Sardis - Istanbul. Begin your day with a drive to Philadelphia, one of the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse, where you can explore its historical and religious significance mentioned in Revelation (3: 7-13).
Your journey continues to the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Lydia, Sardis, referred to in the New Testament (Rev 2; 18-29). During your visit to Sardis, you will encounter a Roman-era synagogue, a remarkably well-preserved gymnasium, and various other ancient ruins mentioned in Revelation (3: - 6).
Afterwards, head to Izmir airport for your included flight back to Istanbul.
Day 9 - Goodbye
Day 9 - Goodbye
Sunday. Today marks the end of your adventure. Departure transfer to your onward flight is included.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Pre-Tour Accommodation - Istanbul (From price)
Double
Twin
Single
Post-Tour Accommodation - Istanbul (From price)
Double
Twin
Single
Hotels
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
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4.4 out of 5 based on 275 reviews