7 Churches of Revelation – Costa Cruise
Duration: 14 Days
Program only valid for private groups of 20 or more people
2025 AVAILABLE ARRIVAL DATES IN IZMIR | |
|---|---|
JUNE | 09, 16, 23, 30 |
JULY | 07, 14, 21, 28 |
AUGUST | 04, 11, 18, 25 |
SEPTEMBER | 01, 08, 15 |
DAY 1:MONDAY / ARRIVAL IN IZMIR
Welcome to Turkey. Upon arrival at Izmir Airport, our representative will meet you for your transfer to your hotel. Enjoy your first night in Izmir.
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DAY 2: TUESDAY / SMYRNA - EPHESUS
This morning, take a panoramic drive through the city of Smyrna (Rev. 2:12-17) before heading to Ephesus (Rev. 2:1-7), a major port city on the Aegean Sea and a significant commercial, political, and religious center of Asia Minor.
Apostle Paul visited Ephesus briefly during his second missionary tour (Acts 18:19-21) and stayed for about three years on his third missionary tour (Acts 19:1 to 20:31). Paul wrote the book to the Ephesians.
Despite the Temple of Diana (Artemis) being burned down on the night Alexander the Great was born in 356 B.C., the Ephesians reconstructed the temple over 120 years, making it one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. As part of the Roman Empire from the second century B.C., Ephesus boasted a population nearing 250,000 people.
Visit key landmarks like the Great Theatre, Fountain of Trojan, and Library of Celsius. You will also explore St. John’s Basilica and the Temple of Diana ruins. Overnight in Kusadasi.
Apostle Paul visited Ephesus briefly during his second missionary tour (Acts 18:19-21) and stayed for about three years on his third missionary tour (Acts 19:1 to 20:31). Paul wrote the book to the Ephesians.
Despite the Temple of Diana (Artemis) being burned down on the night Alexander the Great was born in 356 B.C., the Ephesians reconstructed the temple over 120 years, making it one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. As part of the Roman Empire from the second century B.C., Ephesus boasted a population nearing 250,000 people.
Visit key landmarks like the Great Theatre, Fountain of Trojan, and Library of Celsius. You will also explore St. John’s Basilica and the Temple of Diana ruins. Overnight in Kusadasi.
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DAY 3: WEDNESDAY / LAODICEA – HIERAPOLIS - PAMUKKALE
Proceed to Laodicea (Rev. 1:11; 3:14-22), visiting the ancient theater, the Gate of Domitian, and the Arcadian Way among other monuments. The day ends with a visit to Hierapolis (Col. 4:13), known for its ancient hot springs cascading over cliffs, forming unique stalactites and pools. Overnight in Pamukkale.
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DAY 4: THURSDAY / PHILADELPHIA – SARDIS – THYATIRA - PERGAMUM
Start early with a visit in Philadelphia (Rev. 1:11; 3:7), explore the remains of the Byzantine Basilica and 11th-century frescoes. Continue to Sardis (Rev. 1:11; 3:1-4), one of the most picturesque sites among the Seven Churches of Asia. Here, you will visit the great Temple of Artemis and the Temple of Cybele. In Thyatira (Rev.2:18-28), you will see ruins of an ancient commercial center. Continue to Pergamum for an overnight stay.
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DAY 5: FRIDAY / PERGAMUM - ALEXANDRIA TROAS – ASSOS
After breakfast, explore Pergamum with its Acropolis and Great Theatre, known as “Satan’s seat” in Revelation 2:12-16. Visit the Red Basilica, once a pagan temple, and the Pergamum Asklepion, a famous ancient medical center. Head north to Troas, where the Apostle Paul received the "Macedonian call" to Europe (Acts 15:33 – 18:22) during his second missionary journey. Continue to Assos for an overnight stay.
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DAY 6: SATURDAY / ISTANBUL TOUR
Drive to Istanbul, the only city located on two continents.
Original named Byzantium then Constantinople, a most fascinating city, which actually crosses two continents Europe and Asia. It is a city of amalgamation of bazaars, minarets, mosques, churches, palaces, and restaurants catering to every one’s taste, museums, customs and twelve million people. Visit the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the majestic Hagia Sophia. Overnight in Istanbul.
Original named Byzantium then Constantinople, a most fascinating city, which actually crosses two continents Europe and Asia. It is a city of amalgamation of bazaars, minarets, mosques, churches, palaces, and restaurants catering to every one’s taste, museums, customs and twelve million people. Visit the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the majestic Hagia Sophia. Overnight in Istanbul.
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DAY 7: SUNDAY / ISTANBUL – EMBARK 5 NIGHTS CRUISE
Continue your city tour of Istanbul before embarking on your 5 nights cruise.
Enjoy the facilities of the cruise ship and the many attractions that you will enjoy. Immerse yourself in life on board: everything is designed to keep you entertained, relaxing, and trying new things from morning to evening.
Outdoor Jogging Track - Gelateria Amarillo - Beauty Salon Solemio - Costa Shop - Area Gym
Overnight on board.
Enjoy the facilities of the cruise ship and the many attractions that you will enjoy. Immerse yourself in life on board: everything is designed to keep you entertained, relaxing, and trying new things from morning to evening.
Outdoor Jogging Track - Gelateria Amarillo - Beauty Salon Solemio - Costa Shop - Area Gym
Overnight on board.
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DAY 8: MONDAY / MYKONOS
Enjoy an evening stroll through the old town. Mykonos is one of Greece's most famous islands, captivating visitors with its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, vibrant nightlife, and exquisite cuisine. The island enjoys a mild climate with plenty of sunshine throughout the year.
While summer is peak season for beachgoers, the island's charm extends into the off-season when visitors can explore its historical sites and enjoy quieter surroundings. Mykonos Town showcases traditional Cycladic architecture with its iconic whitewashed buildings and colorful accents. The town is also home to famous landmarks like the windmills and Little Venice, providing a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Overnight on board.
While summer is peak season for beachgoers, the island's charm extends into the off-season when visitors can explore its historical sites and enjoy quieter surroundings. Mykonos Town showcases traditional Cycladic architecture with its iconic whitewashed buildings and colorful accents. The town is also home to famous landmarks like the windmills and Little Venice, providing a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Overnight on board.
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DAY 9: TUESDAY / THE ISLAND OF CRETE
The Apostle Paul sent Titus to preach and to appoint elders at the church in Crete. Titus 1:15. He wrote Titus one of the books of the New Testament and sent it to him.
Explore Heraklion on your own or take an optional tour to the Palace of Knossos and Heraklion city center. Heraklion is home to the Palace of Knossos, the largest and most significant archaeological site of the Minoan civilization, which dates back to around 2000 BC. The city boasts impressive Venetian architecture, including the Koules Fortress, which guards the harbor and offers stunning views of the sea.
The Morosini Fountain, built in 1628, serves as a central gathering place and a symbol of Heraklion's historical richness. The pedestrian-friendly old town is filled with charming streets, shops, and cafes. Key sites include Agios Titos Basilica and the Venetian Loggia, which reflect the city's diverse cultural heritage. Overnight on board.
Explore Heraklion on your own or take an optional tour to the Palace of Knossos and Heraklion city center. Heraklion is home to the Palace of Knossos, the largest and most significant archaeological site of the Minoan civilization, which dates back to around 2000 BC. The city boasts impressive Venetian architecture, including the Koules Fortress, which guards the harbor and offers stunning views of the sea.
The Morosini Fountain, built in 1628, serves as a central gathering place and a symbol of Heraklion's historical richness. The pedestrian-friendly old town is filled with charming streets, shops, and cafes. Key sites include Agios Titos Basilica and the Venetian Loggia, which reflect the city's diverse cultural heritage. Overnight on board.
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DAY 10: WEDNESDAY / THE ISLAND OF RHODES
Apostle Paul came to this island during his third missionary journey, as recorded in Acts 21:1.
Wander around Rhodes or join an optional tour to Ancient Lindos. Rhodes is a prominent island in the Dodecanese group of Greece, renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.
The island has a storied past that dates back to the Minoans and Mycenaeans, with significant developments occurring in the 8th century BC when the first Doric city-states were established.
It became a crucial commercial hub, establishing trade routes with various ancient civilizations, including Crete, Egypt, and Phoenicia. From 1309 to 1522, Rhodes was ruled by the Knights, who fortified the city and left behind remarkable Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
The Palace of the Grand Master is a prime example of this period and remains a popular attraction today. The Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved in Europe.
Its narrow cobblestone streets are lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafes that reflect centuries of diverse cultural influences. Overnight on board.
Wander around Rhodes or join an optional tour to Ancient Lindos. Rhodes is a prominent island in the Dodecanese group of Greece, renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.
The island has a storied past that dates back to the Minoans and Mycenaeans, with significant developments occurring in the 8th century BC when the first Doric city-states were established.
It became a crucial commercial hub, establishing trade routes with various ancient civilizations, including Crete, Egypt, and Phoenicia. From 1309 to 1522, Rhodes was ruled by the Knights, who fortified the city and left behind remarkable Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
The Palace of the Grand Master is a prime example of this period and remains a popular attraction today. The Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved in Europe.
Its narrow cobblestone streets are lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafes that reflect centuries of diverse cultural influences. Overnight on board.
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DAY 11: THURSDAY / SANTORINI
Discover Santorini on your own or join an optional island tour. Santorini, one of the most famous islands in Greece, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences.
The island's caldera, formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, offers some of the most breathtaking views in the world. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding islands from various viewpoints, especially in towns like Oia and Fira.
Santorini is famous for its sunsets, particularly from Oia, where the sun dips below the horizon in a spectacular display of colors. This natural phenomenon attracts couples and photographers alike, making it a highlight of any visit. Overnight on board.
The island's caldera, formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, offers some of the most breathtaking views in the world. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding islands from various viewpoints, especially in towns like Oia and Fira.
Santorini is famous for its sunsets, particularly from Oia, where the sun dips below the horizon in a spectacular display of colors. This natural phenomenon attracts couples and photographers alike, making it a highlight of any visit. Overnight on board.
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DAY 12: FRIDAY / ATHENS DISEMBARKATION – ATHENS TOUR
Enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour of Athens (Acts 17:15). Visit Mars' Hill (or Areopagus) (Acts 17:22), where Paul delivered his famous sermon to the Greek philosophers. Climb to the marble-capped Acropolis to see the Parthenon and the Erechtheion.
Continue the tour with highlights of modern Athens: the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Parliament House, Presidential Palace, Panathenaic Stadium, Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Academy, the University, and the National Library. Continue to your hotel.
Overnight in Athens.
Continue the tour with highlights of modern Athens: the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Parliament House, Presidential Palace, Panathenaic Stadium, Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Academy, the University, and the National Library. Continue to your hotel.
Overnight in Athens.
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DAY 13: SATURDAY / BIBLICAL CORINTH TOUR – ATHENS
Our excursion out of Athens takes us by the historic Corinthian Canal (quick photo stop) to the ancient and biblical city of Corinth (Acts 18:1-18).
It was to this megalopolis where the Apostle Paul came and worked, establishing a thriving church, subsequently sending two of his epistles (now part of the New Testament).
Here, we see all of the sites associated with his ministry: the Agora, the Temple of Apollo, the Roman Odeon, the Bema and Gallio’s Seat. The small archaeological museum here is an absolute must!
After a lunch stop, we start our drive back to Athens via Cenchrea, where Paul departed for Ephesus. (Acts 18:18-19). Paul mentioned Phoebe, a servant in the church at Cenchrea (Romans 16:1-2). Return to Athens for overnight.
It was to this megalopolis where the Apostle Paul came and worked, establishing a thriving church, subsequently sending two of his epistles (now part of the New Testament).
Here, we see all of the sites associated with his ministry: the Agora, the Temple of Apollo, the Roman Odeon, the Bema and Gallio’s Seat. The small archaeological museum here is an absolute must!
After a lunch stop, we start our drive back to Athens via Cenchrea, where Paul departed for Ephesus. (Acts 18:18-19). Paul mentioned Phoebe, a servant in the church at Cenchrea (Romans 16:1-2). Return to Athens for overnight.
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DAY 14: SUNDAY / DEPARTURE
Reflect on your journey filled with history and spiritual inspiration as you transfer to Athens International Airport for your flight home.
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