Overnight in Pergamon
After a short domestic flight from Istanbul, meet your guide upon arrival in Izmir and begin your journey through the Seven Churches of Revelation.
Your first visit is Smyrna, today’s Izmir, one of the most vibrant cities of the ancient world and the only church among the seven that received praise without rebuke in the Book of Revelation. Walking through the Smyrna Archaeological Park, you will explore remains of Roman streets, agora structures, and early Christian traces that reflect the city’s importance as a center of faith, trade, and endurance during times of persecution.
In the afternoon, continue north to Pergamon (Bergama). Before checking in, visit the Asclepieion, one of the most renowned healing centers of the ancient world, where medicine, faith, and early therapeutic practices came together.
Overnight in Pergamon.
Overnight in Pergamon
This morning is dedicated to Pergamon, home to the Church of Pergamon, described in Revelation as the place “where Satan’s throne is.” The city was a major religious and political center of the Roman world, deeply associated with emperor worship.
You will ascend to the Acropolis of Pergamon, dramatically positioned high above the modern city. As you walk among palaces, temples, theaters, and fortifications, sweeping views of the fertile Bakırçay plains unfold below.
Under the shade of pine trees, you will visit the site traditionally associated with the Temple of Zeus, a structure referenced symbolically in biblical texts.
After lunch in the old town, return to the Asclepieion to explore its role as a spiritual and medical sanctuary, offering deeper insight into how healing and belief intersected in antiquity.
Overnight in Pergamon.
Overnight in Pamukkale
Depart Pergamon and travel eastward, visiting three churches in one meaningful day.
Your first stop is Thyatira, a city known for trade guilds and craftsmanship. The Church of Thyatira is addressed in Revelation with strong symbolic language, reflecting both spiritual devotion and internal struggle.
Continue to Sardis, once the wealthy capital of the Lydian Kingdom and a city warned in Revelation for its spiritual complacency. Walking through the ancient ruins, including the synagogue and gymnasium complex, you gain insight into a city that appeared alive but was called to awaken.
In the afternoon, arrive in Philadelphia (modern Alaşehir), the church praised for its steadfast faith and perseverance.
Continue to Pamukkale for overnight.
Overnight in Pamukkale
This morning you explore Laodicea, the church famously described as “lukewarm” in the Book of Revelation. The ruins reveal a wealthy city with advanced infrastructure, reminding visitors how material comfort sometimes overshadowed spiritual commitment.
After lunch with views of the white travertines of Pamukkale, continue to Hierapolis, an ancient spa city built around thermal waters. Here, you visit the Martyrdom of Saint Philip, believed to mark the site where the Apostle Philip was executed for his faith.
You will also have time to explore the Roman baths, ancient streets, and walk barefoot over the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, combining spiritual reflection with natural wonder.
Overnight in Pamukkale.
Overnight in Kuşadası
After breakfast, drive toward Ephesus, one of the most important cities of early Christianity. Begin with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be her final residence and a revered pilgrimage site for Christians worldwide.
After lunch in Selçuk, explore Ephesus, home to the Church of Ephesus, the first and most prominent of the Seven Churches. Walking through its grand avenues, Library of Celsus, and Great Theatre, you will understand why Ephesus played such a central role in early Christian history.
Your final stop is the Basilica of Saint John, built near what is believed to be the burial site of the Apostle John, offering a profound conclusion to your biblical journey.
Overnight in Kuşadası.
Private transfer from your hotel in Kuşadası to Izmir Airport for your flight to Istanbul. End of our services.
This journey follows the spiritual and historical path of the Seven Churches of Revelation, offering a meaningful exploration of early Christianity within its original Anatolian landscape.
