Footsteps of Paul with Greece
Led by Rev. P.C. Abraham
USA – Istanbul, Turkey – Izmir – Sardes – Philadelphia – Pammukale – Laodicea – Colossae – Ephesus – Kusadasi – Patmos – Pergamum – Thyatira – Athens, Greece – Corinth – Santorini – Mykonos – USA
Itinerary (Day Wise)
April 27, 2026
Depart USA
Assemble at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport or Seattle Tacoma International Airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure time. Flight details TBA.
Board your flight to Istanbul, Turkey.
Enjoy onboard amenities and overnight onboard your flight.
April 28, 2026
Arrival at Istanbul, Turkey (D)
Upon arrival to Istanbul airport, complete immigration formalities. After collecting the bags, transfer to the hotel for check-in & dinner.
Overnight at hotel.
April 29, 2026
Istanbul City Tour (B,L,D)
After breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore the iconic landmarks of Istanbul, the former capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.
The tour begins with a visit to the majestic Blue Mosque, known for its six minarets and stunning interior adorned with over 20,000 handmade blue Iznik tiles.
Stroll through the historic Hippodrome, once the social and sporting center of Constantinople, where chariot races and public events took place.
Next, proceed to the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia (St. Sophia), a former basilica, mosque, and now a museum-mosque that reflects the grandeur of both Christian and Islamic civilizations.
After local lunch at restaurant proceed to Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Discover its treasure-filled rooms, sacred relics, and breathtaking views over the Bosphorus.
Conclude the day with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world with thousands of shops selling carpets, spices, jewelry, ceramics, and more.
Enjoy dinner at restaurant & overnight at hotel.
April 30, 2026
Flight from Istanbul to Izmir, visit Sardes - Philadelphia - Pamukkale (B,L,D)
After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Izmir. Flight details TBA.
On arrival at Izmir, proceed to Sardis, the ancient capital of the Lydian’s, and visit the gymnasium, marble paved Jewish synagogue and the Temple of Artemis including ancient Christian Chapel of the 4th century.
After lunch at a restaurant, proceed next to the city of brotherly love, Philadelphia, founded by Pergamon King Attalos II for his brother Eumenes. Attalos wanted his new city to become the center of the Greco- Roman Civilization. The sixth letter of the Apostle John to the Seven Churches of Asia Minor was the letter to Philadelphia. Visit the ruins of the church of St. John.
Continue to Pamukkale for dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
May 01, 2026
Pamukkale - Laodicea, Hierapolis - Colossae - Pamukkale (B,L,D)
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to visit Hierapolis, meaning "Sacred City," was an ancient center for pagan cults until it was transformed into a Christian center in the first century. According to tradition, the Apostle Philip lived and was martyred in Hierapolis. It was likely the hot springs of Hierapolis (in contrast to the cold mountain springs near Colossae) that combined to bring application to the "lukewarm" Laodiceans (Rev 3:14- 22). This connection between the cities lies behind Paul’s reference to Hierapolis and Laodicea in his epistle to the Colossians (Col 4:13).
Laodicea that contains many acres of ruins which also has the ruins of a Christian Basilica, to a stadium (an ancient theatre) and remnants of a sophisticated water system (Aqueducts and pipes).
After local lunch at a restaurant, proceed to Colossae, well-known throughout Christian circles as the receiver of Paul's letter to the Colossians. Today, the town has fallen into obscurity and nothing remains.
Dinner and overnight in Pamukkale.
May 02, 2026
Pamukkale - Ephesus - Kuşadasi (B,L,D)
Breakfast at the hotel. Travel to the nearby town of Selcuk which is the modern name for ancient Ephesus. Ephesus was once a thriving port town of 250,000 people. Today one can still see the spectacular excavations of the major streets in this ancient city.
Proceed to visit the Library, Agora, theatre, colorful mosaics in the aristocratic Terrace Houses, and a panoramic outlook of the surrounding ancient port area (including a wealth of church history and cultural insight).
After local lunch at Restaurant continue with a visit to the Basilica Church of St. John, which houses an immersion baptismal pool and is believed to be resting place of John. From here one can have an excellent overview of the Ephesus harbor, the Mosque of Jesus, and see the site of the Temple of Artemis, which is listed as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The day will not be complete without a visit to a local Turkish Rug cooperative.
Drive to Kuşadasi.
Enjoy dinner and overnight in Kuşadasi.
May 03, 2026
Kuşadasi - Patmos - Kuşadasi (B,L,D)
After breakfast (lunchbox provided due to early boat departure), transfer to the port for a boat trip to the Island of Patmos. This historical site is where the apostle John was imprisoned for preaching the gospel of Jesus and received the revelations recorded in the Book of Revelation.
Visit the Monastery of St. John and the grotto where the book was written.
Return to Kusadasi by boat at the end of the day. Upon arrival at the port, transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
May 04, 2026
Kuşadasi - İzmir (Smyrna) (B,L,D)
After breakfast, drive to Izmir, which is the third largest city in Turkey and a long-time center for Jews and Christians. In Paul's day, Izmir was known as Smyrna and was another of the Seven Churches (Rev. 2:8-11)
Smyrna (Izmir) Old Smyrna was located just across the bay from present-day Izmir. Polycarp, a bishop from 115 to 156 AD, was one of the earliest members of the church at this site. There are several contemporary accounts of him and some of his own writings are still preserved. In a letter to the Philippians, he warned them “…the love of money is the root of all evil.” A martyr, he was important to the early church as a preserver of the purity of the gospel. John told the Christians in Smyrna not to be afraid to suffer, but “…be faithful till death…” (Revelation 2:10-11).
After lunch, visit the Agora of the City which is the Roman-era marketplace and Kadifekale (Mount Pagos).
Dinner at the hotel and overnight in İzmir.
May 05, 2026
Izmir - Pergamum - Thyatira - Izmir (B,L,D)
After breakfast at the hotel, visit Pergamum. The church of Pergamum was praised for its forbearance; (Rev. 2:12-17) it was here that the first Christians were executed by Rome. Further, visit the fabled Acropolis, pass through the Royal Gates, view the foundations of the Altar of Zeus and visit the ruins of the library (which once held 200,000 volumes). Next, travel east to Thyatira viewing the ancient roadway and period columns.
After local lunch at restaurant, proceed to visit the church at Thyatira. Thyatira was once a busy trading center and famous as a "seller of purple", the most favored of the Seven Churches.
Return to Izmir for dinner at the hotel and overnight.
May 06, 2026
Fly from Izmir to Athens (B,D)
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the Izmir airport for your flight to Athens via Istanbul. Flight details TBA.
Arrival to Athens and transfer to the hotel.
Enjoy dinner and overnight.
May 07, 2026
Athens & Corinth of Apostle Paul (B,L,D)
After breakfast, follow your guide on a journey to the ancient Acropolis where you will see the Propylaea, the Parthenon and the Erectheum. View Mars Hill where Paul preached the gospel to the intellectual Athenian community of his day (Acts 17:15-34).
In 51 AD, Apostle Paul traveled from Berea to Athens by boat. His boat anchored at Faliron that used to be the main port serving Athens. Apostle Paul traveled from port to Athens. While waiting for Silas & Timothy to come from Macedonia, he spent most of his time talking with citizens at the Synagogues and the Agora. The Athenians took an interest in his teachings and invited him to present it more analytical at the Aeropagus, the hill west of Acropolis. Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus and gave his famous Aeropagus Sermon, emphasizing the need to know God rather than worship the unknown as described in Acts 17:16-34.
View the ruins of the Agora, ancient marketplace and center of Athenian public life, where Paul preached to the skeptical Athenians. You will view the Olympic Stadium, where the modern Olympics began and where the games returned in 2004.Continue to Corinth, Corinth Visit Corinth (Acts 18:1-18), a city that inspired of St. Paul's most familiar letter.
You will visit the Archeological Museum, the Market Place, and Temples. Walk among the ruins and stand on the Bema where Paul stood. Read Paul's letter to the Corinthians and visualize his address to the Gentiles as he began the task of building Corinth's church. Imagine where Aquila and Priscilla lived and where they had their tent making business. Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.” And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them. (Acts 18:9-11)
Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
May 08, 2026
Santorini (B, L, D)
Early morning departure from Athens with a breakfast box provided. Transfer to the port. Board the ferry to Santorini and enjoy a scenic journey across the Aegean Sea.
Upon arrival in Santorini, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Check-in to the hotel and enjoy some free time to relax or explore the nearby surroundings.
Later, depart for the cliffside village of Oia, one of the most photographed spots in Greece. Enjoy free time to explore Oia’s charming alleys, whitewashed houses, and iconic, blue-domed churches.
Enjoy dinner at local restaurant in Oia. Take a walk to the old fortress to witness Santorini’s legendary sunset, a breathtaking experience you won’t forget.
Overnight at hotel.
May 09, 2026
Mykonos (B, L, D)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to the port of Santorini to continue your island-hopping adventure. Ferry crossing to Mykonos, known for its cosmopolitan charm, whitewashed streets, and vibrant energy.
Arrive at Mykonos port. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Check-in at your hotel and enjoy free time to relax, explore the chic boutiques, or stroll through the maze-like alleys of Mykonos Town.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at local restaurant & overnight at hotel.
May 10, 2026
Mykonos to Athens (B, L, D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Enjoy a guided bus tour of Mykonos through the island's scenic landscapes, offering views of whitewashed villages, rolling hills, and coastal charm. Stop in Ano Mera, a tranquil traditional village in the heart of the island. Visit the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani, known for its beautiful architecture, wood carvings, and rich religious history.
Continue with a walking tour of Mykonos Town, discovering its iconic windmills, narrow alleyways, and famous sights such as Little Venice, the Old Port, and Paraportiani Church. Enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping or relaxing by the waterfront.
Enjoy lunch at local restaurant before proceeding to the port for your ferry back to Athens. Ferry crossing back to Athens.
Arrival at the port of Piraeus, followed by transfer to your hotel.
Dinner at local restaurant and overnight at hotel.
May 11, 2026
Depart Athens & USA Arrival
Transfer to Athens airport for your return flight home. Flight details TBA. Board your return flight and enjoy onboard amenities.
Arrive in New York & Seattle and return home with wonderful memories from your tour!
Tour Details
Tour Type: Religious Tours
Tour Date: April 27 - May 11, 2026
Starts From: USA
Countries: 2
$5890 per person/double occupancy
Single Supplement: $999 extra
Tour Information
Inclusions
- Round-trip flights from New York & Seattle (For other airports or business class pricing, please contact us)
- 2 Flights on tour with 1 checked-in luggage of 44 lbs + 1 carry-on luggage of 17 lbs (Istanbul-Izmir) & (Izmir-Athens)
- Accommodation at 4 Star Hotels
- Meals as per itinerary
- Round-trip ferry to Patmos Island from Izmir
- 3 Ferries in Greece (Athens-Santorini-Mykonos-Athens)
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Transfers and tours in AC coach
- Entrance fees as per the itinerary
- Use of whispers on tours
Exclusions
- Visas for Turkey & Greece may be required based on nationality (fees may apply). Not required for US passport holders
- Tips for drivers, guides, and other services. $10 per person/per day (total of $130) will be collected IN CASH by the tour manager at the beginning of the tour
- Porterage, laundry, wines, mineral water, mini bar, telephone charges, suggested excursions, all items of personal nature, and food and drinks not forming part of the group menus
- Pre-assigned seating and checked bag fees for airlines may apply
- Travel insurance is highly recommended and available for purchase (contact us for more information)
- Anything not specifically mentioned on the itinerary and inclusions
photos
Booking Terms & Conditions
Booking Procedures
Please read the Terms and conditions of travel and agree in the Booking form before submission, as your booking is subject to the terms listed below. A contract is entered into once your travel agent or Faith Holidays receives your signed booking form and deposit, and we accept and confirm the booking. Please note that travel arrangements are not confirmed until stated so in writing by Faith Holidays
Payment
A deposit of $750 per person is required to secure reservations, which will be applied to the price of the tour. Additional deposits may be required. The balance of the cost must be paid 90 days before you travel. Payments must be paid to the order of ‘Faith Holidays Inc.” If the final balance is not received on time Faith Holidays reserves the right to treat the booking as cancelled by you and cancellation charges may be applied. If you book your travel within 90 days of departure, the full amount must be paid at booking.
Credit Cards
All prices quoted include a 4 % discount for payment by cash, check and Money order.
Travel Protection Plan (Optional charge)
Faith Holidays Inc. recommends you to purchase a Travel Protection Plan for Trip, Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical & Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and many more
Passports & Visas
A valid US passport is required for US Citizens. Passports must be valid for 6 months beyond completion of travel. Visas may be required and for US Citizens we will furnish the relevant details after receipt of your booking deposit and confirmation of your booking. Non US citizens should consult with appropriate Consulates and Embassies. It is the responsibility of the individual traveler to secure proper documentation prior to joining the tour. It is the responsibility of the Traveller to become informed about the most current travel advisories and warnings by referring to the US State Department’s travel website @ www.travel.state.gov or by phone at 1-888-407-4747. In the event of an active State Department. Should the Traveler choose to travel notwithstanding any travel advisory or Travel Warning against travel to the specific destination location/s of the trip, the traveler is subject to be responsible for all risk of personal injury, death, or property damage that may arise out of the events like those advised or warned against.
What Your Tour Price Generally Includes & Excludes
Your Tour Price Includes
- Economy class Airfare from USA as listed in the brochure (Business Class Option available- Please contact us)
- Accommodations on Double Occupancy with Bath, Single room supplement applies
- Standard class on rail, road, Cruise and other transportation as described in our brochure
- Inflight meals and/or refreshments according to Airline itinerary.
- Transfers between the appropriate overseas airports/stations/port and your hotels according to each itinerary unless otherwise stated.
- Excursions and tours as per brochure
- Meals as described in Brochure
- Services of professional guides and/or a Tour Escort
Your Tour Price Excludes
- International Airfare, unless otherwise stated.
- The cost of personal items such as laundry, drinks with meals or otherwise, incidentals , etc.
- Airport departure taxes.
- Optional excursions.
- Cost of Visas and passports.
- Transport between your home and home airport/station/port.
- Gratuities for services provided on a personal basis.
- Gratuities for services on all individual tours and gratuities to your Tour Escort.
- Airline baggage fees. Most Airline charges fees for checked bags.
- Pre-assigned Airline Seats incur additional fees.
- Still, video, film and professional camera fees
Alterations Made to the Scheduled Program
Our tours are planned in advance and changes may be unavoidable due to circumstances amounting to “Force Majeure” or similar reasons beyond our control, such as delays in departures on travel booking or closure of a hotel, strikes, riots, natural occurrences, decisions by State Government or Tourist Organizations altering the itinerary, the duration of time spend in a city or even omitting a city or part of the itinerary due to a local situation. In such cases we will offer comparable alternative arrangements. If any of the circumstances listed above occur during the course of the tour, we reserve the right to alter the schedule itinerary accordingly and no compensation will be paid.
We will make every reasonable effort to provide you with the booked tour arrangements but minor changes may occur. If they are significant we shall, if possible inform you or your travel agent before departure. In the event of such amendment being made, you will be liable for any cancellation/retention charges that may be levied for the previously booked service and for any costs incurred by Faith Holidays and their agents in attempting to secure any revised arrangements. Please note that Faith Holidays will not be liable to reimburse additional expenses undertaken by the client in preparation for the tour. These include and are not limited to international tickets, used mileage awards and fees, cost of visas, immunization etc.
Tour Prices
Tour prices are based on US dollars (Unless otherwise noted) and exchange rates in effect. They are subject to variation if there are increases due to governmental actions, additional taxes, exchange rates, increases in scheduled airfare or increases in fuel surcharges. Any increase in the original tour price will be notified to you at least 90 days before departure. If you make your booking within 90 days of departure surcharge will be included in your invoice. Faith holidays will absorb an amount equivalent to two percent of tour price. Any surcharge will not exceed 10 percent of the listed tour price. If you settle the final balance by the due date we will absorb any price increases after that due date. In return for this commitment, we are unable to make any refund or reduce any other costs should the value of the US dollar improve against the currencies used. For scheduled group departures, it may be necessary to re-cost your tour due to low number of participants. You will be contacted 90 days prior to your departure date and advised should a supplementary fee apply. If all group members accept the increased cost the tour will operate as scheduled. However, if the supplement is not accepted by you then you will be entitled to full refund of all monies paid or a transfer to another tour.
Our Responsibilities
Faith Holidays makes arrangements with airlines, hotels and other independent parties to provide you with the travel services you purchase. We do not own or operate any of the accommodations, transport or other facilities used in connection with our tours. We therefore cannot accept liability for negligence of the staff of these organizations. These parties are independent suppliers over whom we have no direct control. Faith holidays is not liable in the event of any failure by any person or company to render any transportation, accommodation or other travel service to be provided on the journeys, or for expenses incurred due to delays caused by weather, strikes, war, civil disturbances, natural disasters, flight delays, government actions, mechanical failures or any acts of God.
Faith Holidays cannot assume any responsibility for flight delays, cancellations or missed connections and is not liable for any expenses or consequences resulting therefrom, and such expenses shall be borne by the client. When you travel with an airline the Conditions of Carriage of that airline will apply. These conditions are subject to International Agreements and may limit or exclude liability.
The participant waives any claim against Faith Holidays for any damage to, or loss of, or injury to, or death of, due to any act, or negligence of any airlines, surface transportation companies, hotels or any person rendering any of the services or accommodations included. Faith Holidays cannot be held responsible for any claim, losses, damages for delay of baggage or other properties, inconvenience, loss of enjoyment, upset and disappointments, distress or frustrations, whether physical or mental, resulting from the act or omission of any party providing services. We do take all responsible steps to insure that organizations providing service maintain standards, which are acceptable within the norm in each locality. The participant assumes the risks and understands that all travel has inherent risk that may result in injury or death and that participation in activities, including but not limited to driving, hiking, walking on uneven surfaces, riding on rough roads, rafting, boating, canoeing, riding in helicopters, on trains, in boats, swimming, surfing, horseback or camel riding, and any other activities. The information contained in this brochure has been compiled with all reasonable care, is accurate to best of knowledge and is given in good faith. Faith Holidays highly recommend you to purchase Travelers insurance to protect your travel investment. Without insurance in case of incident, you may have to pay out of pocket for medical evacuation, medical care or other large expenses.
All services are subject to the laws of the countries in which these services are rendered. Venue for all claims or disputes shall be exclusively in whose courts using NYC law, shall have exclusive jurisdiction. Damage claims against Faith Holidays shall be limited to the value of the particular item in dispute and not for any incidental, consequential, or special damages. Faith Holidays assumes responsibility for representations it makes, but not for those made by others and including, but not limited to, any employee of Faith holidays or independent travel agent. Payment for reservations on any Faith Holidays travel arrangements shall constitute consent to all the provisions in the Booking Terms & Conditions published herein and is binding on all travel participants.
Cancellation
If you wish to cancel your travel arrangements, you must notify Faith Holidays in writing by letter, fax or email to Faith Holidays. Please note deposits are non-refundable. Please state the reason for cancellation as your reason for cancellation may be covered by insurance policy under their covered reasons. If notification of cancellation is received more than 90 days before departure you will only lose your deposit. For notification received within 90 days of departure, cancellation charges are as follows:
| Cancellation charges per person. | ||
| No of days of departure | Charges | |
|---|---|---|
| 91+ days before departure | Deposit Non- refundable | |
| 90-31 days before departure | Penalty 50 % | |
| 30- Day of Departure | Penalty 100% | |
(Airline and Cruise Penalties not part of the above percentages. There is no exception to cancellation fees)
Cancellations received Fridays for tour departures that Weekend (Saturday, Sunday and Monday) will be treated as day of departure cancellation. We cannot give any allowance for meals, rooms, excursions, etc. not taken, when these are included in the price of the program.
Points to be Noted
- All images in the brochures or advertisements are only for representation purpose.
- All passengers need to be in possession of valid visas, confirmed air tickets and overseas travel insurance.
- All Passengers joining the tours must travel to / from the hub city as per the itinerary, at their own expense.
- All meals are preset, and a-la carte is not possible. Packed meals may be provided on certain days to keep up the schedule of the itinerary.
- All damages caused to the hotel rooms/Coach/other amenities during the tour, shall be payable by the passengers. Faith Holidays Inc will not be liable for the same.
- All Passengers must take extra care of their personal belongings while on the tour, every country of travel is prone to thefts and bag/purse snatching. Faith Holidays Inc will not be liable for any loss of belongings/baggage.
- The tour cost does not include cost of airfare, visas and overseas medical insurance unless specified in each of the itineraries
- The company will not be responsible or accept any liability for any damages, loss, baggage loss, theft, injury, accident, death, breakdown or any irregularity, which may occur during the tour.
- The company will not be responsible for any damage or irregularities due to weather conditions, strikes, war, quarantine and any other cause whatsoever and all such loss or expense must be borne by the passengers. Insurance policies must be carried while on tour.
- The right to claim any additional expenses incurred due to delay or changes in schedules of train, airplane, bus, ship or other services is reserved by the management of the company.
- The Tour Manager, guide and the driver will provide the best service during the tour to enjoy the sites as per itinerary within the jurisdiction of each of the sites of visit.
- The Management reserve the right to change a hotel of similar class if it is deemed advisable or necessary. Tour Manager / Guide reserves the right to amend the itinerary.in the interest of the Tour.
- The Management reserve the right to amend, alter, vary or withdraw any departure, excursion advertised.
- Refunds will not be provided for the unutilized part of the any services like meals, sightseeing, transfers, etc mentioned in the tour.
- For Detailed “Terms and Condition” please refer the Booking form.