10-Day Footsteps of St. Paul Tour from Istanbul by Flight | Biblical Turkey Journey
Following the Footsteps of the Apostle Paul Across Anatolia
Experience one of Christianity's most inspiring journeys by following the missionary routes of Saint Paul, who traveled extensively throughout Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) during the 1st century AD. This carefully designed itinerary combines biblical history, archaeology, and the rich cultural heritage of Anatolia.
Tour highlights:
- Follow the actual route of Saint Paul
- Visit some of the earliest Christian communities
- Explore UNESCO-recognized archaeological heritage
- Walk ancient Roman roads
- Discover Roman theaters, temples, churches, and marketplaces
- Experience authentic Anatolian culture
ITINERARY
Day 1
Pick up from your hotel in Istanbul and transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to Antalya. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel for check in. During the day, will visit the historic Old Town Kaleici and in the evening dinner for welcome and overnight stay in a 3 or 4 stars hotel in Antalya.
Day 2
After breakfast, full day tour to Perge, Aspendos and Antalya. We will visit Ancient Perge, Roman streets, Early Christian church remains and Aspendos Theater.
Biblical importance: Paul and Barnabas visited Perge during both the First Missionary Journey (Acts 13-14). It served as one of the earliest Christian preaching centers in southern Anatolia.
At the end of the tour, return to the hotel and overnight in Antalya.
Day 3 - Antioch of Pisidia (Yalvac)
After breakfast, will drive through the Taurus Mountains. We will visit Ancient Antioch of Pisidia, Church of St. Paul, Roman Cardo, Temple of Augustus and the Ancient theater.
Biblical importance: This was one of Paul's most significant preaching locations where he delivered one of his earliest recorded sermons (Acts 13).
At the end of the tour, return to the hotel and overnight at Yalvac.
Day 4 – Iconium (Konya)
After breakfast ,we will visit the Ancient Iconium, Alaeddin Hill, Archaeological Museum and early Christian sites.
Biblical Importance: Paul and Barnabas preached here before being forced to leave because of opposition (Acts 14).
At the end of the tour, return to the hotel and overnight stay at Konya.
Day 5 – Lystra – Derbe
After breakfast, we will visit Ancient Lystra, Derbe region, local villages preserving the landscape of ancient Lycaonia.
Biblical Importance: Lystra is where Paul healed a crippled man and where he was later stoned by a hostile crowd but survived (Acts 14). It was also the hometown of Timothy, one of Paul's closest companions.
Overnight stay at Konya or Karaman.
Day 6 – Tarsus
After breakfast, we will drive to to Tarsus. Tour includes visit to St. Paul's Well, ancient roman road, St. Paul's Church, Cleopatra Gate and historic city center.
Biblical Importance: Tarsus was Paul's birthplace and one of the most important intellectual cities of the Roman Empire.
Overnight stay at Tarsus.
Day 7 – Mersin – Seleucia Pieria
After breakfast, we will visit the ancient harbor areas, coastal biblical landscapes and Mediterranean panorama.
Overnight stay at Adana.
Day 8 – Free Day / Biblical Reflection
After breakfast ,free day or join the optional tour which includes visit of the Adana Archaeology Museum, local markets.
Overnight in Adana.
Day 9 – Return to Antalya or Additional Biblical Sites
After breakfast and depending on flight schedules optional visit of Side, ancient Roman roads and archaeological museum.
Overnight in Antalya.
Day 10 – Flight to Istanbul
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight back to Istanbul. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel.
- This tour involves moderate to extensive walking on uneven archaeological terrain.
- Some ancient sites have limited shade, especially during summer months.
- The itinerary covers long driving distances across central and southern Turkey.
- Modest clothing is recommended when visiting churches and religious sites.
- Weather conditions vary between coastal and inland regions.
- Domestic flight schedules may require minor itinerary adjustments.
- Archaeological sites are protected areas; climbing on ruins or removing artifacts is strictly prohibited.
- Travel insurance covering medical expenses and trip interruptions is strongly recommended.
- This itinerary is suitable for church groups, pilgrimage travelers, universities, biblical scholars, and anyone interested in the history of early Christianity.
What's Included
- Domestic flights (Istanbul–Antalya / Adana–Istanbul)
- 9 nights hotel accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- Dinners as per the itineraru
- Professional English-speaking licensed tour guide
- Private air-conditioned vehicle
- Airport transfers
- Entrance fees to museums and archaeological sites mentioned in the itinerary
- Parking fees and road tolls
- Local taxes
Not Included
- International flights
- Lunches and meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities
- Drinks during meals
- Tips for guide and driver
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Light jacket for evenings
- Camera
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medications
- Small backpack
Optional:
Adana daily tour on the 8th day
Side daily tour on the 9th day
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes The tour is led by a licensed English speaking professional guide experienced in biblical history, archaeology and the cultural heritage of Turkey.
This pilgrimage is ideal for:
- Christian pilgrims
- Church groups
- Theology students
- Bible study groups
- Historians
- Archaeology enthusiasts
- Travelers interested in the origins and spread of early Christianity across Anatolia.
We recommend booking at least 2–4 months in advance especially for church groups and travel during spring or autumn to secure preferred flights, hotels and guide availability.
Yes. Many travelers extend their pilgrimage with visits to:
- The Seven Churches of Revelation
- Cappadocia
- The Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul
- Athens and other destinations in Greece
Travel insurance is generally not included. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses and personal belongings.
Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, and other dietary requests can usually be accommodated if advised before arrival.
The standard tour is conducted in English. Other languages may be available upon request, depending on guide availability.
Yes the tour is suitable for most travelers with average mobility. Some ancient sites have uneven stone paths, steps and inclines. Guests with mobility concerns should contact us before booking so appropriate arrangements can be discussed.
The best travel seasons are:
- March–May (Spring)
- September–November (Autumn)
These months usually provide comfortable weather for sightseeing.
This is a 10-day / 9-night tour starting in Istanbul with a domestic flight to the Mediterranean region, tracing the path of St. Paul the Apostle through some of the most significant early Christian sites in Turkey.
If selected during booking, entrance fees to museums and archaeological sites are included. Please check your package details before confirming your reservation.
Yes. All transportation during the tour is provided in modern, air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers.
Guests stay in carefully selected 4-star or 5-star hotels depending on package selection, with daily breakfast. Hotel upgrades may be available upon request.
Indeed the package covers domestic flights from Istanbul as outlined in the itinerary.
- This itinerary can be arranged as: Private tour and Small group tour
Some churches stay active places of worship, while others are archaeological sites or museums. Visitors are expected to dress respectfully.
The tour includes moderate walking through archaeological sites, museums, churches, and ancient cities. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
Yes. This tour is specially designed for:
- Christian pilgrimage groups
- Church organizations
- Bible study groups
- Religious associations
- Individual travelers interested in the life of St. Paul
- History and archaeology enthusiasts
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