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Price Per person double occupancy
| Dates | Land Only No Transfers |
|---|---|
| Main Tour: October 10-21, 2025 |
$4,299 |
| Extension: October 8-11, 2025 |
$495 |
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Single Supplement: |
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Click here for "Frequently Asked Questions"
Price Includes - Main Tour: Teachings on tour led by Dr. James Ayers, First Class (4 Star) Lodging, Breakfast & Dinner Daily, Modern Transportation, Sightseeing as Listed, Gratuities, and flight between Izmir & Athens.
Not Included - Main Tour: Travel Insurance, Turkey Visa if required, International Airfare, Airport Transfers unless Airfare is purchased through Pilgrim Tours.
Price Includes - Extension: Teachings on tour led by Dr. James Ayers, First Class (4 Star) Lodging, Breakfast & Dinner Daily, Modern Transportation, Sightseeing as Listed, and Gratuities.
Not Included - Extension: Travel Insurance, Turkey Visa if required, International Airfare, Airfare to/from Kayseri, Airport Transfers unless Airfare is purchased through Pilgrim Tours. Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride at an estimated cost of $280 (subject to change).
Please Note: As of December 23, 2023, US Passport holders are no longer required to obtain a Turkey E-Visa for entry. If traveling from another country, please review entry requirements as Turkey Entry Visas must be completed prior to arrival. Visas can be obtained in advance online using this link: Click Here
Airport transfers are included only when airfare is purchased from Pilgrim Tours. Taxi service is available for those purchasing their airfare elsewhere.
If we have never met personally, allow me to take a moment to introduce myself. In 2024, I am celebrating 48 years of vocational ministry as a youth, assistant, and senior pastor as well as an interim pastor in seven different churches. Nearly 35 years of my life have been invested in academia as a department chair and professor at two different institutions, teaching undergraduate, masters, and doctoral classes. I have earned four degrees in higher education including studies at Oxford University in England. One of my greatest passions is taking people to Middle Eastern countries i.e. Israel/Palestine, Jordan, Turkey, Greece, and Egypt to enrich their understanding of the Bible. To date, I’ve been to these countries more than 30 times!
I am a husband to Betsy, father of three married sons and grandpa to six grandchildren- and four “grand-dogs!” Thousands of former students know me as “Doc.” Many others remember me as their pastor, mentor, counselor, consultant, friend- or best of all- a brother in Christ! Perhaps our paths crossed at a Bible Conference or weekend retreat with your church group. If I could summarize my life in ministry, I would paraphrase the popular tag line from Farmers Insurance commercials, I know a thing or two because I’ve seen a thing or two. As an avid reader and student of culture, my experiences and perspectives are broad!
Over a life span of seven decades, I have watched our world morph dramatically. I enjoy the challenge of helping Christians become well-versed in understanding the Word of God in its ancient context and culture via travel to the lands to the Bible. These experiences become spiritually transforming as we see the Bible come to life in fresh ways. You will never read the Bible the same way again!
Optional Pre Tour-Extension to Cappadocia
Day 1 - Tuesday, Oct. 8 - Departure from US
Today we embark on our journey to the lands of ancient treasures and Christian history with an overnight flight to Turkey. Prepare yourself for a life-changing experience. Get some rest on the flight…Tomorrow you will begin walking where the apostles walked!
Day 2 – Wed. Oct. 9 - Arrive Turkey, Cappadocia
Arriving in Kayseri, we transfer to our lodging for the next two evenings, where the remainder of the day is free for you to relax and enjoy a leisurely dinner.
Day 3 – Thursday, Oct. 10 – Goreme Valley, Kaymalki, Uchisar Castle
We will explore the history and scenery of Cappadocia. First off, we’ll visit the gently folding volcanic rock formations and “fairy chimneys” of Goreme Open Air Museum. These rock formations are not only beautiful, but functional as well. Many early Christian communities lived and worshipped deep in the rocks and crags, leaving their frescoes and paintings to be marveled at centuries later. Other communities lived underground, and we’ll visit these dwellings too. To protect themselves from Roman persecution and marauding bandits, local people began to live in underground caves forming “cities” that reach a depth of up to 7 stories below the surface. Other sites include the Natural Citadel of Uchisar, which has been called one of the largest and multi-storied natural skyscrapers in the world.
Day 4 – Fri., Oct. 11 – Hot Air Balloon (optional), Zelvey Valley, Flight to Istanbul
An optional hot air balloon ride provides a breathtaking view of the volcanic stone formations and stark ravines from above. The group will then visit Ihlara Valley, a canyon which is 15 kilometers long and up to 150 meters deep in the southwest of Cappadocia. The valley contains around 50 rock-hewn Christian churches and numerous rock-cut buildings some of which date back to the 10th century AD. After the tour we transfer to the Kayseri Airport for a late afternoon flight to Istanbul where dinner and lodging await.
Main Tour
Day 1 – Thursday Oct. 10 – Departure from US
Today we embark on our journey to the lands of ancient treasures and Christian history with an overnight flight to Turkey. Prepare yourself for a life-changing experience. Get some rest on the flight…Tomorrow you will begin walking where the apostles walked!
Day 2 – Fri., Oct. 11 - Arrive in Istanbul
Upon arrival in Istanbul, we will transfer to our hotel for the next two evenings.
Day 3 – Sat. Oct 12 - Hagai Sophia, Blue Mosque, Archaeological Museum
Our time in Istanbul will provide an unusual combination of Greek Orthodox, Roman, Ottman and modern-day Islam including entrance into the famed Blue Mosque and St. Sophia Church. In the afternoon our guide will walk us through the wonderful exhibits of the Archaeological Museum. Treasures include the sarcophagus of Alexander the Great, a mosaic remnant depicting the times of Nebuchadnezzar, tablets of the Treaty of Kadesh known to be between Ramses II and the Hittites during the 13th century BC, the inscription found in Hezekiah’s tunnel, and many other wonderful items. Time may allow for some shopping in the Grand Bazaar before returning to our hotel for dinner and rest.
Day 4 – Sun., Oct 13 - Pergamum, Asklepion
Following an early departure our travels take us to 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. We'll 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). Pergamum’s Asklepion was built in the 2nd century BCE and served as the world’s best and most versatile ancient hospital in the Hellenistic and Roman Empire periods. It was here that Claudius Galenos (Galen) practiced medicine and became a world-famous physician in the early 2nd century. When we depart Pergamum we will travel south to Izmir, which is the third largest city in Turkey and a long-time center for Jews and Christians. Our lodging this evening will be in Izmir.
Day 5 – Monday, Oct. 14 - Smyrna, Thyatira, Sardis, & Philadelphia
In Paul's day, Izmir was known as Smyrna and was one of the Seven Churches (Rev. 2:8-11). Next, we travel to Thyatira viewing the ancient roadway and period columns. Thyatira was once a busy trading center and famous as a "seller of purple," the most favored of the Seven Churches. Sardis, the next stop, was berated by John for its façade of strength when in reality it was weak (Rev. 3:7-13). Here coins were minted and the dyeing of wool originated. We'll visit the gymnasium and synagogue. Our next stop is nearby Philadelphia from where we are challenged to “hold fast” and look forward to the coming of the "new Jerusalem" in the Book of Revelation (Rev. 3:7-13). Not much is left of the city except for the ancient wall and the remains of a Byzantine Basilica in the modern city of Alasehir. Our lodging this evening will be in Pamukkale.
Day 6 – Tuesday, Oct. 15 - Colossae, Laodicea, Hierapolis, Aphrodisias
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 contains many acres of ruins to visit including a stadium and remnants of a sophisticated water system. Nearby Colossae is 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. Before arriving in the port city of Kusadasi where we spend the night, we will make a stop at Aphrodisias, which offers a view of Turkey’s best-preserved stadium that at one time featured seating for 30,000 spectators.
Day 7 – Wed. Oct. 16 - Ephesus, Basilica of St John – evening flight to Athens
We travel to the nearby town of Selcuk for a visit of ancient Ephesus. Ephesus was once a thriving port town of 250,000 people. Today you can still see the spectacular excavations of the major streets in this ancient city. We view 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). Then we continue with a visit to the Basilica Church of St. John, which houses an immersion baptismal and is believed to be resting place of John. From here we 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. This evening, we will board a flight from Izmir to Athens, where our lodging will be for the next two nights.
Day 8 – Thurs. Oct. 17 – Corinth & Athens
Today we focus on ancient Corinth, the city that inspired many of Paul's most familiar letters and is a highlight for the New Testament scholar where we will see the Archaeological Museum, the Market Place, the Bema, and the Temples. A devotional amid the ruins of the church of Corinth not only provides views of the pillars, steps, and the public worship place where Paul preached but will enhance your understanding and love for the Bible. The ruins of this important cultural center are fascinating as we walk along the stone path where the Apostle Paul walked. The engineering skill and intellect of these people are evident in the water systems that still flow from ancient to modern day. Our guide will be sure to show you the room dedicated to the medical care of that period. We travel on to the top of the nearby Acropolis where our guide will speak on the worship practices and point out the bird’s eye view of what was a bustling city of around 800,000 during Paul’s stay. Another important stop is a visit to Diolkos where we view the paved trackway which enabled boats to move overland across the Isthmus of Corinth and served as a lifeline for Corinth. This shortcut allowed ancient vessels to avoid the long and dangerous circumnavigation of the Peloponnese peninsula. Before returning to Athens, we will visit Cenchreae, the ancient port region of Corinth. Acts 18:18 states the Apostle Paul stopped at Cenchreae during his second missionary journey, where he had his hair cut to fulfill a vow. Our day concludes in Athens, the foundation of democracy. Visits to the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and Erectheum occur before viewing Athens atop Mars Hill where Paul stood and preached the truth to the Gentile nation. From atop Mars Hill we view the Agora below, the ancient marketplace and center of Athenian public life. Additional sites viewed during our panoramic bus tour are the House of Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Olympic Stadium, and Presidential Palace.
Day 9 – Fri. Oct. 18 - Delphi
Following breakfast we will depart for Delphi. Delphi was the spiritual focal point for all Greeks and is a place with a long history and beautiful natural surroundings. As we travel north and cross the Rion-Antirion Bridge we will enter the lovely mountain region of Delphi, the ancient sanctuary of Apollo and the famous Oracle of Delphi. Here you will gain a greater understanding of the Greek religious heritage. We will also see the Gallio Inscription which has given scholars the one and only historical anchor point for all New Testament chronology. Lodging for the evening will be in Kalambaka.
Day 10 – Sat. Oct. 19 - Meteora Monastery, Berea, Thessaloniki
Today we will enter one of the world-famous Byzantine monasteries perched precariously on summits of gray rock pinnacles of varied and beautiful shapes in the mountains near Meteora. Their history goes back to the 14th century when the monks sought refuge in the cliffside caves, then fled higher to build the original wooden shelters, later transformed into monasteries. Please dress appropriately as women are required to wear skirts below the knee and pants for men. We then make the trip to Berea to view the site of the synagogue. The Bereans were noted as being “more noble than those in Thessalonica” because they were willing to examine Scripture to see if what Paul was preaching was, in fact, true (Acts 17:11). We also stop at the Bema surrounded by mosaics of Paul commemorating the church. We then travel on to the harbor city of Thessalonica, where Paul wrote two letters to the believers in the church. We spend two nights here.
Day 11 – Sun. Oct. 20 - Philippi, Kavala, Via Egnatia, Thessalonica
This morning, we will make a brief stop in Amphipolis to view the famous lion statue, a tomb monument from the 4th century BC that Paul would have likely walked past on his way to Amphipolis. Next, we visit Philippi, where Paul preached his first evangelical sermon and baptized the first Christians on European soil. We will view the traditional baptismal site along the river, where Lydia surrendered her life to Christ, and we will visit a crypt dating from the Roman period that is thought to have possibly served as a prison for Paul when he was there. Next, we observe the famous Acropolis, the Market Place, Basilica, and the Theatre. On the way back, we stop for a brief overlook of the city of Kavala, which is the ancient city of Neapolis where Paul landed after sailing across the Aegean Sea with his disciples, Timothy and Silas, to Macedonia after receiving the vision in Alexandria Troas. Neopolis was later renamed Christoupolis because it was the first European city to accept Christianity, but then in the 5th century AD it was renamed Kavala. Kavala is Greece's prettiest mainland port with a most elegant harbor. Just outside Kavala, we will walk along the ancient Via Egnatia, which is the actual path that Paul walked when he arrived in Macedonia. We will be walking the very same steps as the apostle Paul over two thousand years ago! We return to Thessalonica and head to the Roman Forum, followed by the Arch of Galerius. From here we head to the Heptaprygion (citadel) on the city Acropolis to get a look at the massive Byzantine walls before returning to the hotel for the night.
Day 12 – Mon. Oct. 21 - Flight Home from Thessalonica
We transfer to the airport at Thessalonica for our flight home.
*The tour itinerary is subject to change or be slightly modified in order to best meet the interests of the group.
