- 14 Days , 7 Cities
Follow “In the Steps of St. Paul” for an Epic Journey Through History. Discover Hidden Gems and Sacred Sites. Start Your Adventure Now!
Exploring the Trip in the Footsteps of St. Paul: A Journey Through Ancient Sites
Discover the rich history of St. Paul’s travels with our immersive tour, “In the Steps of St. Paul.” Unearth the fascinating destinations that played a pivotal role in his journey and gain profound insights into the early days of Christianity.
Embark on an adventure through ancient sites that shaped St. Paul’s legacy. Furthermore, he traces his path through iconic landmarks, each holding a unique piece of history. From the vibrant streets of bustling cities to the serene landscapes where Paul shared his teachings, our tour unveils the essence of his transformative journey.
Explore the archaeological wonders that stand as testaments to the enduring impact of St. Paul’s mission. Walk the same paths where he once treads, connecting with the past in a way that words alone cannot convey. Immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of these storied locations, and witness the fusion of history and spirituality.
Our ‘In the Steps of St. Paul‘ tour is meticulously crafted to provide an authentic experience. Moreover, it uncovers hidden gems and lesser-known sites that offer a deeper understanding of St. Paul’s significance. Additionally, engage with expert guides who bring history to life with vivid narratives, ensuring you gain a comprehensive perspective on this influential figure and the early Christian communities.
Join us on this captivating journey, where each step resonates with the echoes of a bygone era. Immerse yourself in the world of St. Paul, and let the layers of history unfold before your eyes. Book your adventure now and embrace the spirit of discovery on this enlightening exploration through time.
ITINERARY
- DAY 1
Athens, GreeceWelcome to Athens, Greece!
Arrive at Athens airport, where you’ll receive a warm welcome, assistance, and transfer to the hotel. Afterward, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
What's included?
-
Dinner -
Accommodation -
Transfer
-
- DAY 2
Acropolis of Athens, GreeceExplore Athens
Our “In The Steps of St. Paul” begins with a reverent immersion in the city’s rich tapestry, starting with a guided Byzantine and Christian Museum tour. Furthermore, this treasure trove, a glittering portal to the past, boasts over 25,000 artifacts spanning early Christian, Byzantine, Medieval, and post-Byzantine periods.
Acropolis
“Next, we’ll journey to the sacred rock of the Acropolis, taking in iconic sites such as the Propylaea, the Parthenon ruins, the Erechtheion, and the temple of Athena Nike. Additionally, a brief stop at Mars Hill, where Paul delivered his renowned sermon, adds historical depth to our exploration.
Continuing on foot along Apostolou Pavlou Street and Adrianou Street, we’ll reach the ancient Agora, the market where Paul once addressed the Athenians. We’ll absorb the rich history by strolling through Monastiraki Square, home to a vibrant flea market and the 10th-century church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.
Church of Kapnikarea
Our walk extends to Ermou Street and the charming church of Kapnikarea, an 11th-century gem dedicated to the Presentation of the Virgin Mary. Additionally, built atop a 5th-century Christian temple, which itself sits on the foundations of an ancient temple, it’s a testament to Athens’ layered history.
Continuing through Plaka and Anafiotika, we’ll approach Syntagma Square. Subsequently, here, we’ll board our coach for a panoramic tour, capturing the essence of Athens. Highlights include the Panathinaikon stadium, Zappeion, the temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, Syntagma Square, the Parliament, the tomb of the unknown soldier, Schliemann’s house, the Academy, the University, and the National Library.
Our journey concludes as we return to our hotel, enriched by a day immersed in Athens’ cultural tapestry.
What's included?
-
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner -
Accommodation -
Tour
-
- DAY 3
Ruins of Doric Temple of Apollo in Ancient Corinth, GreeceVisit Ancient Corinth, Cenchreae, Flight to Thessaloniki
Following breakfast, we embark on the coastal road along the Saronic Gulf toward the Corinth Canal. A brief stop allows us to marvel at the Corinth Canal’s grandeur before proceeding to the Ancient Corinth site. This locale, where St. Paul resided for 18 months and authored Corinthians I and II, beckons exploration.
Corinth Acropolis
Beneath the Corinth Acropolis (Akrocorinthos), we’ll survey the ruins of the ancient city, the agora (market) where Paul underwent a trial by Gallio, and landmarks like the temple of Apollo and the Peirene fountain. Subsequently, our journey leads to Lechaion and Cenchreae, ancient ports pivotal to Paul’s departure from Corinth to Syria.
In the afternoon, we commence the return drive to Athens, directly heading to the airport for a brief flight to Thessaloniki. Upon arrival, we subsequently transferred to our hotel for the night.
What's included?
-
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner -
Accommodation -
Tour -
Transfer
-
- DAY 4
Panagia Deksia Church, Thessaloniki, GreeceThessaloniki - The Capital of the North
This morning, we delve into Thessaloniki, hailed as ‘the capital of the north’ and Greece’s second-largest city. Paul, who lived and preached here, also penned the epistle ‘To the Thessalonians.’ To begin our exploration, our day kicks off with a panoramic tour, starting in the ‘upper city’ defined by the imposing Theodosian walls, offering breathtaking vistas of the city and the Gulf of Thermaikos.
En route to the Saint Sofia church, our exploration encompasses iconic landmarks such as the renowned White Tower, the Roman market, and the Arch of Galerious. Additionally, the journey culminates at the church of Saint Sofia. Following this, we visit the Basilica of St. Dimitrios, the city’s patron Saint, featuring the famed crypt.
The afternoon grants leisure time for independent exploration. Additionally, wander through Aristotelous Square or stroll along the seafront promenade to absorb more of the city’s charm.
What's included?
-
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner -
Accommodation -
Tour
-
- DAY 5
Ascencion Jesus Christ, Thessaloniki, GreeceThessaloniki - Amphipolis, Kavala (Neapolis), Philippi
Post breakfast, we commence our journey towards Philippi. En route, we also pass Amphipolis, a place Paul visited on his way from Philippi to Thessaloniki. A brief stop allows us to appreciate the impressive Lion statue. We explore the site upon reaching Philippi, where Paul delivered his inaugural European sermon.” Highlights include the location of Paul and Sylas’ imprisonment, the ruins of one of the largest-ever constructed churches, a stroll along Egnatia Road, and a visit to the ancient Agora. Furthermore, a short walk takes us to the creek where Lydia received her first baptism in Europe.
Our excursion proceeds to Kavala, known biblically as Neapolis and later renamed Christoupolis, the first European city to embrace Christianity. Additionally, following this historical exploration, a brief panoramic tour showcases the city, featuring the Roman aqueduct and a leisurely stroll at the charming fishing port. Afterward, we then return to Thessaloniki, arriving in the late afternoon.
What's included?
-
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner -
Accommodation -
Tour
-
- DAY 6
Meteora, Kalambaka, GreeceKalambaka - Veria, Vergina
Departing Thessaloniki, our journey takes us southward. In the Footsteps of St. Paul, our initial destination is the captivating town of Veria, identified biblically as Berea. Notably, this town held significance for Paul, where he engaged with the ‘noble Jewish community’ and established a pivotal church. As we explore, our journey encompasses the ancient synagogue and a contemporary shrine featuring a Byzantine mosaic commemorating Paul’s preaching.
Subsequently, we proceed to Vergina, a key site in northern Greece. Here, we delve into the Royal Macedonian tombs, including the resting place of King Philip II, father to Alexander the Great. Following this historical exploration, in the afternoon, our route unfolds beneath the shadows of Mount Olympus, traversing the Tempi Valley en route to Kalambaka for our overnight stay.
What's included?
-
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner -
Accommodation -
Tour
-
- DAY 7
Exploring the great Zeus Triangle in Athens, GreeceAthens - Explore Meteora where awe-inspiring rock formations
This morning, our destination is Meteora, where awe-inspiring rock formations resembling sandstone towers have served as timeless sanctuaries for monks through the ages. Moreover, several concealed monasteries, like tiny aeries nestled atop Meteora, offer a breathtaking view over the plain. Furthermore, Meteora is renowned as one of mainland Greece’s most stunning regions and holds a place on UNESCO’s list of world heritage monuments. Following our exploration, we embark on the journey back to Athens, making a brief stop at Thermopylae to marvel at the statue of Leonidas, the king of Sparta, en route.
What's included?
-
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner -
Accommodation -
Tour
-
- DAY 8
Sunset in Mykonos Island, Mykonos, GreeceMykonos - Starting to the Cruise Ship Voyage on the Aegean Sea
Transfer to Piraeus port today to board our cruise ship for an exhilarating voyage through the Aegean waters and Turkey. Subsequently, our initial destination is the captivating island of Mykonos. Utilize the complimentary shuttle service to Chora (Mykonos town), wander through its charming, whitewashed streets, and engage with a diverse mix of people against the backdrop of stunning scenery, a breathtaking sunset, and picturesque Cycladic colors. Finally, overnight on board, savoring this cruise’s unique experiences.
What's included?
-
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner -
Transfer -
Cruise/Boat
-
- DAY 9
Ancient City of Ephesus Ruins, TurkiyeVisit Ephesus, Turkiye / on Cruise
This morning, you dock at the port of Kusadasi, the entry point to one of the significant biblical locales mentioned in the book of Revelation – Ephesus.
“In the Footsteps of St. Paul,” you’ll explore this historic city where the apostle spent three years collaborating with the congregation and strategizing his missionary endeavors. Furthermore, stroll through the ancient streets and absorb the rich history as you follow the path St. Paul once trodden in Ephesus. Additionally, our visit to Ephesus includes Diana’s temple with the baths of Scholastica, the Odeon, the arch of Hercules, the library of Celsus, the temple of Hadrian, the Agora, and the Greco-Roman theater. Subsequently, we proceed to the house of the Virgin Mary, where she resided with John.
Returning to the ship around midday, you continue your journey, reaching the quaint and scenic island of Patmos in the afternoon. Additionally, this island served as the place of exile for St. John the Theologian. Our first stop is the monastery of St. John, a UNESCO-listed world heritage monument. Following this, we proceed with a visit to the Grotto of the Revelation. This cave, where St. John lived during his exile, is where he received oracular messages through a small hole in the rock, subsequently penning the book of Revelation.
You reboard our cruise ship late in the afternoon, setting sail for Rhodes. Furthermore, immerse yourself in these sites’ historical and spiritual significance, making this cruise an enriching and unforgettable experience.
What's included?
-
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner -
Tour -
Cruise/Boat
-
- DAY 10
In the Steps of St. Paul, Lindos, RhodesRhodes Island, Greece / on Cruise
Arriving in the morning at the island of Rhodes, you have the entire day to discover the island. Furthermore, explore the charming medieval town of Rhodes independently, featuring the Grand Masters’ palace and the historic Street of the Knights.
Alternatively, opt for an excursion that starts with a visit to Lindos, boasting a stunning Acropolis atop a hill with panoramic views of the picturesque St. Paul’s port, where the Apostle first set foot in Rhodes. Subsequently, the tour then proceeds to the medieval town of Rhodes before returning to the cruise ship. Enjoy the flexibility to tailor your experience and immerse yourself in Rhodes’s rich history and beauty.
What's included?
-
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner -
Cruise/Boat
-
- DAY 11
Overlooking the famous blue church domes in the town of Oia, Santorini, Greece.Arrival at Heraklion(Crete), then Santorini Island
In the early morning, dock at the island of Crete and the port of Heraklion, a notable stop in Paul’s journey toward Rome. After exploring Heraklion independently or opting for an excursion to the Minoan Palace of Knossos, return to the ship and sail to the enchanting island of Santorini, renowned for its beauty and romance.
Upon arriving in the early afternoon, use the funicular to reach Fira town or choose an optional excursion to explore the villages of Santorini, including the famous Oia. Furthermore, the breathtaking views of the Caldera and the island’s volcano provide a captivating conclusion to this remarkable journey. Finally, overnight on board, relishing the memories of this beautiful voyage.
What's included?
-
Breakfast -
Lunch -
Dinner -
Accommodation -
Cruise/Boat
-
- DAY 12
Departure to Athens Airport
Our tour of “In The Steps of St. Paul” comes to an end.
Return to the port of Piraeus early in the morning. Following breakfast, disembark and proceed to the airport for your return flight home.
What's included?
-
Breakfast -
Transfer -
Cruise/Boat
-
PRICES
Starting from $ per person
Please get in touch with info@zitango.com to get a quote!
This trip is customizable for your group travel.
Request a quote for a trip fully customized to your preferences.
HIGHLIGHT
What’s Included?
- 7 nights 4-star hotel accommodation
2 nights in Athens
3 nights in Thessaloniki
1 night in Kalambaka
1 night in Athens - 4 Nights Cruise Accommodation
1 night Mykonos
1 night Kusadasi
1 night Rhodes
1 night Santorini - Full-board basis during the tour (breakfasts & dinners in hotels/lunches in restaurants)
- Transfers & transportation with a private luxury vehicle
- The complimentary shuttle service to Chora (Mykonos town),
Professional English-speaking guide services throughout the tour - Entrance fees to the museums/sites (as mentioned in your program)
- Masses can be organized for your groups in private or local churches.
- Hotels: Most hotels can provide a private meeting room for prayer and private Masses, especially if your group is accompanied or led by a priest.
Sightseeing Highlights Included
Visit Byzantine and Christian Athens,
- The Byzantine and Christian Museum
- The sacred rock of the Acropolis to visit the Propylaea and the ruins of the Parthenon
- Stop at Mars Hill, where Paul delivered his well-known sermon
- Apostolou Pavlou Street towards Thisio and along Adrianou Street to the ancient Agora
- The Dormition of the Virgin Mary
- Walk through Plaka and Anafiotika streets
- Panoramic tour of the Panathinaikon stadium, the Zappeion, the temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, Syntagma Square, the Parliament, the tomb of the unknown soldier, Schliemann’s house, the Academy, the University, the National Library, and the old Parliament
- Visit Ancient Corinth
- Stop to admire the impressive Corinth Canal
- The site of Ancient Corinth
- Visit Cenchreae – The port where Paul sailed away from Corinth to Syria
- Visit Thessaloniki – The capital of the north
- Panoramic tour of the upper city – Theodosian walls, the Gulf of Thermaikos, the White Tower, the Roman market, and the Arch of Galerious
- The church of Saint Sofia
- The Basilica of St. Dimitrios, the patron Saint of the city with the famous crypt
- Visit Philippi – Explore the historic site where Paul delivered his inaugural sermon in Europe
- Visit Kavala – Biblical Neapolis was the first European city to embrace Christianity
- Stop in the picturesque town of Veria, where you engaged with the “noble Jewish community”
- Explore the Royal Macedonian tombs
- Explore Meteora, a site of astonishing rock formations where the monk’s sacred refuge
- Stop at Thermopylae to appreciate the statue of Leonidas, the king of Sparta
- Visit Ephesus in Kusadasi, Turkiye St. Paul lived for 3 years, working with the congregation and planning his missionary journeys
- Visit The house of the Virgin Mary
- Visit The Monastery of St. John, which belongs to UNESCO’s list
- Visit The Grotto of the Revelation, a cave where St. John lived
- Explore the charming medieval town of Rhodes independently or optional for an excursion to visit Lindos
- Explore Heraklion independently or optional for an excursion to the Minoan Palace of Knossos.
- Explore Fira independently or optionally explore the villages of Santorini, including the famous Oia.
Let us plan your tailor-made trip
- Tell us your needsDestination, dates and other details.
- We connect you to our local expertsCommunicate with 2 top specialists to plan your trip directly through Zitango’s secure portal
- Get customized proposalsOur specialists will work hard to win your approval
- Choose one and goBook your trip. Have a wonderful journey with in-destination support from your Zitango specialist.