Steps of Paul in Greece – Costa Cruise
Duration: 13 Days
Program only valid for private groups of 20 or more people
2025 AVAILABLE ARRIVAL DATES IN THESSALONICA | |
|---|---|
JUNE | 08, 15, 22, 29 |
JULY | 06, 13, 20, 27 |
AUGUST | 03, 10, 17, 24, 31 |
SEPTEMBER | 07, 14 |
DAY 1: SUNDAY / ARRIVAL IN THESSALONICA, GREECE
Welcome to Thessaloniki, Greece! Your journey in the biblical land of Greece and a 7day cruise has begun. Upon arrival in Thessalonica, embark on a panoramic tour of the city, starting with the upper part of the Old City Walls.
Continue with a sightseeing drive, viewing the White Tower, the Triumphal Arch of Galerius on the Egnatian Way, and the Rotunda. Visit St. Demetrius' Church, known for its early Byzantine mosaics.
In Thessalonica (Acts 17:1), Paul went immediately to the synagogue, where, for three Saturdays, he explained the Old Testament prophecies to Jews and Greeks. Many Greeks believed, and even many prominent women (Acts 17:1-4). After the tour, check into your hotel for an overnight stay.
Continue with a sightseeing drive, viewing the White Tower, the Triumphal Arch of Galerius on the Egnatian Way, and the Rotunda. Visit St. Demetrius' Church, known for its early Byzantine mosaics.
In Thessalonica (Acts 17:1), Paul went immediately to the synagogue, where, for three Saturdays, he explained the Old Testament prophecies to Jews and Greeks. Many Greeks believed, and even many prominent women (Acts 17:1-4). After the tour, check into your hotel for an overnight stay.
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DAY 2: MONDAY / AMPHIPOLIS - PHILIPPI – KAVALA / NEAPOLIS - THESSALONICA
Today, depart for Philippi, where the Apostle Paul established a strong church and later sent his Philippian letter. Of all the churches Paul founded, probably none was as dear to him as the church at Philippi (Acts 16:9-33).
Visit the river where Lydia was baptized, the ruins of the prison where Paul and Silas were kept, the Agora, and the 5th and 6th-century Basilica and the ancient theater.
Continue to Kavala, the ancient port of Neapolis (Acts 16:11), for a panoramic tour before returning to Thessalonica for the night.
On the way, stop by the Lion statue of Amphipolis on the Via Egnatia, the route used by Paul (Acts 17:1).Overnight in Thessalonica.
Visit the river where Lydia was baptized, the ruins of the prison where Paul and Silas were kept, the Agora, and the 5th and 6th-century Basilica and the ancient theater.
Continue to Kavala, the ancient port of Neapolis (Acts 16:11), for a panoramic tour before returning to Thessalonica for the night.
On the way, stop by the Lion statue of Amphipolis on the Via Egnatia, the route used by Paul (Acts 17:1).Overnight in Thessalonica.
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DAY 3: TUESDAY / VERGINA - BEREA
Begin your morning tour in Vergina, the first capital of Macedonia. Visit the tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, and see the incredible findings by archaeologist Manolis Andronikos, including jewelry and armor.
Continue to Berea, where Paul spoke to a group of Jews who were “searching the scriptures” at the synagogue (Acts 17:10-11). See the mosaic at the monument commemorating his preaching.Drive to Meteora for an overnight stay.
Continue to Berea, where Paul spoke to a group of Jews who were “searching the scriptures” at the synagogue (Acts 17:10-11). See the mosaic at the monument commemorating his preaching.Drive to Meteora for an overnight stay.
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DAY 4: WEDNESDAY / METEORA / ATHENS
After breakfast, visit the breathtaking Meteora monasteries perched atop towering vertical rocks. These historic monasteries, some built by hermits who lived in individual caves, are listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage sites.
After touring two monasteries and before driving to Athens we will stop at Thermopylae to see the statue of Leonidas, commemorating the historic battle between the 300 Spartans and the Persian army of Xerxes in 480 BC. Arrive in Athens in the evening. Overnight in Athens.
After touring two monasteries and before driving to Athens we will stop at Thermopylae to see the statue of Leonidas, commemorating the historic battle between the 300 Spartans and the Persian army of Xerxes in 480 BC. Arrive in Athens in the evening. Overnight in Athens.
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DAY 5: THURSDAY / ATHENS CITY 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. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
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. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
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DAY 6: FRIDAY / BIBLICAL CORINTH TOUR – EMBARKATION CRUISE
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). Continue to Piraeus port for embarking our 7-night Costa cruise. Overnight on board.
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). Continue to Piraeus port for embarking our 7-night Costa cruise. Overnight on board.
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DAY 7: SATURDAY / AT SEA
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
Outdoor Jogging Track - Gelateria Amarillo - Beauty Salon Solemio - Costa Shop - Area Gym
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DAY 8: SUNDAY / ISTANBUL
Explore Istanbul on your own or join an optional tour “Istanbul Masterpieces in Half a Day.” 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. You may visit the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the majestic Hagia Sophia. Overnight on board.
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DAY 9: 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 10: 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 11: 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 12: 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 13: FRIDAY / PIRAEUS DISEMBARKATION - DEPARTURE
Arrive early morning at Piraeus port. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Athens International Airport for your departure flight home.
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