Greece: In the Footsteps of Paul the Apostle featuring a 3-night Greek Islands & Turkey cruise
Greece: In the Footsteps of Paul the Apostle featuring a 3-night Greek Islands & Turkey cruise
Greece: In the Footsteps of Paul the Apostle featuring a 3-night Greek Islands & Turkey cruise
11 Days Starting and ending in Athens, Greece
Visiting: Athens, Mykonos, Kusadasi, Heraklion, Kalambaka, Meteora, Thessaloniki
Tour operator:
Tour code:
15323
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, History, Religion and Spiritual
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Greece and Turkey, tracing the footsteps of Paul the Apostle. This tour offers a blend of historical exploration and scenic beauty, beginning in Athens with visits to the Acropolis and ancient Corinth. Experience the vibrant culture of Greece with a traditional taverna dinner in the historic Plaka district. Sail on a 3-night cruise to the enchanting Greek Islands and Turkey, stopping at Mykonos, Kusadasi, and Patmos, where you'll explore the ruins of Ephesus and the Monastery of John. Marvel at the breathtaking monasteries of Meteora and the stunning views of Santorini's volcanic caldera. Conclude your spiritual journey in Thessaloniki, visiting significant biblical sites in Kavala and Philippi. This tour promises a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering an unforgettable experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Overnight Flight
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Athens City Center
Paul the Apostle, the prolific writer of the New Testament letters, was one of the first Christian missionaries. Trace his journey through the ancient cities and pastoral countrysides of Greece and Turkey.
Day 2 : Athens, Greece
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Arrive in Athens, Greece’s lively capital. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner in the Plaka, Athens’ historic district nestled at the foot of the Acropolis. Celebrate the beginning of a marvelous trip while feasting on local cuisine and fine wine in a traditional taverna while Greek entertainment creates a wonderful ambiance around you.
Day 3 : Athens - Corinth - Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Discovery, Celestyal Cruises
Meals Included: Dinner
This morning, travel to Corinth where Paul lived and preached for two years and also wrote 2 epistles. Explore ancient Corinth on a guided tour featuring the Agora, where Paul’s trial by Gallio took place, and the Bema, where Paul was brought before the tribunal, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. Back in Athens, see the hill of Areopagus (Mars Hill) – where Paul delivered his famous “Men of Athens” speech – and visit the incomparable Acropolis. The evening is yours to explore Greece's vibrant capital city.
Day 4 : Athens - Piraeus* (Embarkation) - Mykonos
Location: Mykonos
Accommodation Name: Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Embark on a 3-night cruise to the Greek Islands and Turkey. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served daily while on board. The island of Mykonos is your first stop. This charming, mountainous island is known for the hundreds of tiny chapels, whitewashed buildings, and beautiful windmills that dot its landscape. Don’t miss Mykonos Town, following the mazes of narrow streets full of bustling activity. Enjoy free time to explore this island paradise.
Day 5 : Kusadasi, Turkey - Patmos, Greece
Location: Kusadasi
Accommodation Name: Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit the Turkish port of Kusadasi for an excursion to the ruins of Ephesus (UNESCO), where Paul the Apostle lived 3 years during his ministry. You’ll also visit the Agora, the great theater, and the stadium where chariot races and gladiatorial combats took place. Legend claims that Paul fought here against wild beasts. Visit the House of Mary, where the Virgin Mother spent her last days. Continue your cruise to Patmos. Visit the Monastery of John and the Cave of the Apocalypse where John the Evangelist wrote the Book of Revelation during his exile.
Day 6 : Heraklion (Crete)** - Santorini
Location: Heraklion
Accommodation Name: Famissi Eden Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy an excursion to the incredible open-air museum of the Minoan Palace of Knossos. Then, during free time in Crete’s largest city, enjoy a variety of museums, shopping, or visit a nearby winery to sample traditional Greek wine. Later, arrive on the fabled island of Santorini, known as the “Black Pearl of the Aegean.” Enjoy time at leisure to independently explore this lovely port or purchase a ship excursion from the cruise line.
Day 7 : Piraeus* - Disembark Cruise Ship - Kalambaka
Location: Kalambaka
Accommodation Name: Capsis Hotel
After an early morning disembarkation, travel north. Pause at Thermopylae, famous for its heroic defense by Leonidas against the Persian army. This afternoon, visit an icon-painting workshop and discover the ancient traditions behind the sacred images used in Orthodox Byzantine devotional tradition. Overnight in Kalambaka.
Day 8 : Kalambaka - Meteora - Thessaloniki
Location: Meteora
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Marvel at the hanging monasteries of Meteora (UNESCO). These dark, sandstone pinnacles rise abruptly from the plain of Thessaly, with 6 historic monasteries perched upon their peaks. Beginning in the 10th century, hermits, monks, and ascetics sought solitude and spiritual solace in these dramatic crags. Visit two amazing Meteora monasteries*** which are renowned for their intricate construction and exquisite Byzantine art. Your day ends in Thessaloniki, Greece’s second largest city. Founded in 315 B.C., Thessaloniki was an early center for Christianity. Paul visited and preached here during the winters of A.D. 49-50 and wrote 2 epistles to the ancient Thessalonians.
Day 9 : Thessaloniki - Kavala - Philippi - Thessaloniki
Location: Thessaloniki
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Attica
Travel to the coastal town of Kavala where Paul, accompanied by Silas, Luke and Timothy, first set foot on European soil. In nearby Philippi, Paul delivered his first sermon in Europe, planting the seeds of Christianity. Join a local expert for a guided tour of this historic town featuring the archaeological site and monuments spanning the Ancient Roman and Byzantine eras. See the dungeon where Paul was held prisoner and the site where he baptized Lydia, the first Christian in Europe.
Day 10 : Thessaloniki - Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Proceed through the fertile Thessalian Valley and the plains of Central Greece to Athens, arriving in the late afternoon. This evening, celebrate the end of your spiritual journey during a farewell dinner at your hotel located close to the airport.
Day 11 : Athens - Tour Ends
Location: Athens
Return home inspired by the incredible, soothing landscapes and the words and deeds of Paul the Apostle.
What's Included
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Guided Tour of Ancient Corinth
Explore ancient Corinth on a guided tour featuring the Agora, where Paul's trial by Gallio took place, and the Bema, where Paul was brought before the tribunal.
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Visit to the Acropolis
Admire the view from the Acropolis, home to the legendary Parthenon.
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3-Night Greek Islands and Turkey Cruise
Embark on a 3-night cruise to the Greek Islands and Turkey with meals included on board.
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Excursion to Ephesus
Visit the Turkish port of Kusadasi for an excursion to the ruins of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Visit to Meteora Monasteries
Visit two breathtaking monasteries in Meteora and learn about the resident monks.
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Local Greek Cuisine
Feast on local Greek cuisine and fine wine in a traditional taverna.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and cruise staff are not included.
Experiences
- Visit 2 breathtaking monasteries in Meteora and learn about the resident monks.
- Take in the views of Santorini’s volcanic caldera and towering cliffs from your cruise ship.
- Feast on local Greek cuisine and fine wine in a traditional taverna.
Culinaries
Must See
- Explore ancient Corinth on a guided tour featuring the Agora.
- Admire the view from the Acropolis, home to the legendary Parthenon.
- Journey to Kavala where Paul first set foot on European soil.
Choice Highlights
Athens
A place where democracy was born and the birthplace of the Olympics; happens to be the largest city located in one of the most historic countries and is also the capital of Greece. Located in Athens is one of the 7 wonders of the modern world, Acropolis of Athens, the Holy Rock which dates back to 5 BC. Athens is recognized as a global city for its strategic location and its modernistic views in finance, commerce, media, entertainment, arts, international trade, culture, education, and tourism.
Taverna Dinner Show
Geros Tou Moria is a traditional Greek tavern, located under the Acropolis in the historic Plaka, one of the most picturesque areas of Athens. Geros Tou Moria is considered the oldest Greek tavern in the Plaka, offering traditional Greek cuisine and wines accompanied by lively Greek music and dancers.
Corinth
Known for the region’s prominent administrative, commercial, financial and cultural center, the settlement dates back to 5000 BC. It is located southwest of Athens and is the capital of Corinthia. The city is a major industrial hub at a national level. Settlement dates back to 5000 BC and is a testament to Korinthos’ habitation since the Neolithic Age. Must see attractions include Apostolos Pavlos metropolitan church, the Perivolakia square, the Historic-Folklore Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, and the Municipal lending library.
The Acropolis
One of the greatest sanctuaries of ancient Athens dedicated to the goddess Athena is located in the center of the modern city of Acropolis. The masterpieces of ancient architecture in Acropolis have influenced art and culture for many centuries. Although many of the historical sites take up a majority of space in Acropolis, many small rural communes were built around these sites.
Mars Hill
3-Night Cruise
Embark on a wonderful 3-night cruise to the Greek Islands and Turkey.
Mykonos Old Town Visit
Mykonos, also known as the island of the winds, is one of the Greek Islands, Cyclades. It is also the name of the largest town on the island. Because of the location of Mykonos, several islands relied on it and it became an important place for supplies and transit. Mykonos also holds a place in Greek mythology. It is said that Mykonos was named after its first ruler, Mykons, the son of the god Apollo. Another myth says the island is the location of a great battle between Zeus and the Titans. Today, the island relies heavily on tourism and is widely known for its incredible nightlife.
Ephesus
Ephesus is the best preserved classical city of the Eastern Mediterranean and among the best places in the world enabling one to genuinely soak in the atmosphere of Roman times. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ephesus was once historically known for being the most important commercial center of the ancient world and a religious center of early Christianity.
Patmos
An island, located in the Aegean Sea, was a site that was mentioned in the Bible Book of Revelation, which is why it is the destination for Christian pilgrimage. Patmos has evolved over several centuries but has not lost its quiet tranquility.
Santorini
High on the hill overlooking the turquoise Aegean Sea sits Santorini, the world’s only inhabited caldera (volcano cauldron). This mountainous island is an amazing sight. Its towns are filled with whitewashed houses that "spill" over the edge of the cliff toward the sea. The striking cobblestone alleyways painted in white and highlighted with blue and red are lined with colorful fabrics and artwork and filled with friendly people. Take in the atmosphere and relax as you gaze at the breathtaking sunsets and stroll along the stunning black sand beaches; then you'll truly understand why this island has been inhabited for thousands of years.
Thessaloniki
The city of Thessaloniki stands in the heart of the Balkans and takes the name of Alexander the Great’s step sister. The city was originally established by her husband Cassander in 315BC. Soon it evolved and became a popular place to reside. In 448 BC it became the capital of the Roman providence of Macedonia. Today the city hosts the international fair, the film festival, the Dimitria festivities, and all cultural activities that take place all year round.
Kavala
A city located in northern Greece, is the principal seaport of eastern Macedonia. The capital and main port of the city was strategically built on the slopes of Mt. Symvolo. The city was founded at the end of the 7th century BC by settlers from Thassos (Neapolis). Now Kavala has become both industrial and agricultural and became greatly involved in the processing and trading of tobacco. Kavala hosts a variety of attractions that combine their history and their passion and trade of tobacco. The Castle, the Acropolis, the Mohamed Ali square, the Tobacco Museum, Tokos Hall, Megali Lesxi, and City Hall are just some of the various attractions in Kavala.
Philippi
Visit Philippi, where Paul the Apostle delivered his first sermon in Europe and planted the first seeds of Christianity. Tour the historic religious sites and monuments of the town, spanning Ancient, Roman, and Byzantine eras.
Metéora
Meteora, located in Thessaly and Kalampaka, is a city under the rock of towers. The most famous attraction is the monasteries on the top of the rock towers. Today, the Orthodoxy has been continually practiced uninterrupted for over 600 years by the monasteries on top of the Meteora rocks: Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoro, the Varlaam Monastery, the Saint Stephen Monastery, the Holy Trinity Monastery, the Saint Nicolas Anapafsas Monastery, and the Roussano Monastery.
Mode of Transport
Embark on a 3-night cruise to the Greek Islands and Turkey, with daily meals on board. Travel by coach to various historic sites, including Corinth, Meteora, and Thessaloniki, ensuring a seamless exploration of Greece and Turkey.
Accommodation
Stay at the Crowne Plaza Athens City Center, Discovery, Celestyal Cruises, Famissi Eden Hotel, Capsis Hotel, and Holiday Inn Attica, offering a blend of comfort and convenience throughout your journey in Greece and Turkey.
Check out our Q&As
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What historical sites related to Paul the Apostle will we visit on this tour?
During the tour, you will visit several historical sites related to Paul the Apostle, including ancient Corinth where Paul lived and preached, the Agora where his trial by Gallio took place, and the Bema where he was brought before the tribunal. You will also visit the hill of Areopagus in Athens where Paul delivered his famous 'Men of Athens' speech, the ruins of Ephesus where Paul lived for three years, and the site in Philippi where he delivered his first sermon in Europe.
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What can I expect during the cruise portion of the tour?
The cruise portion of the tour is a 3-night journey to the Greek Islands and Turkey. You will visit Mykonos, known for its charming whitewashed buildings and windmills, Kusadasi in Turkey for an excursion to the ruins of Ephesus, and Patmos where you can visit the Monastery of John and the Cave of the Apocalypse. The cruise also includes a stop in Heraklion, Crete, and concludes with a visit to the island of Santorini.
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What unique experiences are included in the Meteora visit?
In Meteora, you will marvel at the hanging monasteries perched on sandstone pinnacles. You will visit two of these monasteries, which are renowned for their intricate construction and exquisite Byzantine art, and learn about the resident monks and the history of these spiritual sites.
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Will there be opportunities to experience local Greek culture and cuisine?
Yes, there will be opportunities to experience local Greek culture and cuisine. In Athens, you will enjoy a welcome dinner in the historic district of Plaka, feasting on local Greek cuisine and fine wine in a traditional taverna with Greek entertainment. Additionally, during your free time in Crete, you can visit a nearby winery to sample traditional Greek wine.
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What is the significance of the visit to Kavala and Philippi?
Kavala is significant as it is where Paul, accompanied by Silas, Luke, and Timothy, first set foot on European soil. In Philippi, Paul delivered his first sermon in Europe and planted the seeds of Christianity. You will have a guided tour of this historic town, visiting the archaeological site and monuments from the Ancient Roman and Byzantine eras, including the dungeon where Paul was held prisoner.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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