Christian Heritage: Turkey 10-Day / 9-Night
- Istanbul - Izmir - Pergamon - Sardis - Pamukkale - Ephesus - Priene and more
- 9 Nights
- Christian Heritage
We will explore the remarkable sites of Turkey’s Christian Heritage – 7 Churches Tour.
Itinerary
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Day 1 • Arrival to Istanbul & Bosphorus Breeze - Arrival at Istanbul Airport and meet-and-greet with Rituals Travel & Events. Private transfer to the hotel and time to rest. In the late afternoon enjoy an optional Bosphorus cruise or seaside stroll followed by a welcome briefing.
Overnight in Istanbul -
Day 2 • Christian Heritage of Istanbul & Historic Peninsula - After breakfast explore the historic peninsula with an emphasis on the city's Christian heritage: exterior views and historical context of Hagia Sophia (subject to current access rules), the Hippodrome (Obelisk and Serpent Column), Blue Mosque, and the underground Basilica Cistern. Afternoon will include walking around Byzantine-Christian sites and Grand Bazaar Market visits.
Overnight in Istanbul -
Day 3 • Flight to Izmir (Smyrna) & Smyrna Traces - Transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, visit the Agora of Smyrna and enjoy panoramic views from Kadifekale. Learn about Smyrna's early Christian community and Paul's journeys in the region. Optional visit to St. Polycarp Church (by arrangement). Evening at leisure along the Kordon promenade.
Overnight in Izmir or Kusadasi -
Day 4 • Pergamon (Bergama): Acropolis, Asklepion & Red Basilica - Drive to Pergamon (approx. 1.5–2 hours). Explore the Acropolis (Trajan Temple, Athena sanctuary, terraced theatre), and the Asklepion healing center, which played a major role in antiquity. View the Red Basilica (Serapis Temple) from outside.
Overnight Izmir or Kusadasi -
Day 5 • Thyatira (Akhisar), Sardis (Sart) & Philadelphia (Alasehir) – to Pamukkale - Early departure to visit Thyatira in Akhisar, then continue to Sardis to see the gymnasium, synagogue area and Temple of Artemis. Travel to Philadelphia (Alasehir) to observe columns and remains of early Christian life. Continue to Pamukkale/Hierapolis.
Overnight in Pamukkale -
Day 6 • Laodicea & Hierapolis (Pamukkale) – Transfer to Kusadasi - Visit Laodicea's archaeological site including theatre and church remains, and discuss the symbolic message in Revelation. Continue to Hierapolis to explore the necropolis, ancient theatre and natural travertines. In the afternoon transfer to Selçuk/Kusadasi near Ephesus.
Overnight in Selçuk/Kusadasi -
Day 7 • Ephesus, House of the Virgin Mary & St. John Basilica - Spend the day at Ephesus: Library of Celsus, Marble Street, Great Theatre, and optional Terrace Houses. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary for prayer and reflection. Then visit Ayasuluk Hill and the Basilica of St. John. Short evening visit to irince village.
Overnight in Kusadasi -
Day 8 • In-depth Ephesus Area / Optional Priene-Miletus-Didyma Tour & Flight to Istanbul - Morning at leisure. Optional full-day excursion to Priene–Miletus–Didyma (extra). Transfer to Izmir Airport in the evening for the flight back to Istanbul.
Overnight in Istanbul -
Day 9 • Fener–Balat, Ecumenical Patriarchate & Golden Horn Views - Visit the Ecumenical Patriarchate area in Fener and the Church of St. George (subject to local access). Walk through Balat's historic multicultural streets, seeing churches, synagogues and mosques that reflect Istanbul's layered heritage. Farewell dinner in the evening.
Overnight in Istanbul -
Day 10 • Departures - Transfer to the airport according to flight times. Rituals Travel & Events provides assistance with departures and farewells.
End of tour.
Reservation Form
What’s Included
-Luxury vehicle for all transfers and tour
-Professional Licensed Guide
-9 nights accommodation 5* and Cave Hotels
-Museum Entrances
-9 Days Lunches
-Domestic Flights
Not Included
-International Flights
-Dinner
-Optional Tours and Activities
-Beverages
-Personal Expenses
© Rituals Travel & Events
Private Turkey Tours
- +90 506 878 80 96
- info@ritualstravel.com
- Adress: Duayeri distcrit, Lozan 1 street no:4/A Urgup/Nevsehir/Turkey