Seven Churches of Asia Minor - 9 days
Seven Churches of Asia Minor - 9 days
9 Days Starting and ending in Istanbul, Turkey
Visiting: Istanbul, Canakkale, Kusadasi, Pamukkale
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 28
Age range:
16-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, History, Religion and Spiritual, Ruins-Archaeology
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 9-day journey through Turkey, exploring the Seven Churches of Asia Minor. Begin in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where you'll visit iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Pay homage at Gallipoli's ANZAC Cove, then delve into ancient history at Troy and Pergamum. Discover the well-preserved Roman city of Ephesus and the charming village of Sirince. Explore the spiritual sites of Akhisor and Laodicea, and marvel at the natural beauty of Pamukkale's terraces. Visit Philadelphia and Sardis, rich in biblical history, before returning to Istanbul. Enjoy guided sightseeing, comfortable 4-5 star accommodations, and an included flight from Izmir to Istanbul. This small group tour offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, with daily breakfasts and select dinners included.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Saturday. Welcome to the vibrant city of Istanbul, the beginning of your exciting adventure. Upon your arrival, our friendly representative will be there to greet you and accompany you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Day 2: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Following breakfast at the hotel, your day in Istanbul begins with a guided tour that will take you to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the exterior of St. Sophia, the enchanting Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
Day 3: Istanbul
Location: Canakkale
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Istanbul - Canakkale. Today, you'll embark on a journey to Gallipoli, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the legendary landmarks of ANZAC Cove, Nek, Conk Bair, Lone Pine, and the 57th Regiment Memorial.
Afterwards, you'll proceed to cross the Dardanelles, where Asia and Europe meet. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in Canakkale, where you can enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 4: Canakkale
Location: Canakkale
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Canakkale - Troy - Pergamum - Kusadasi/Izmir. Following breakfast, we'll head for the legendary city of Troy, where the renowned Trojan War unfolded. You'll have the opportunity to explore the fascinating archaeological site, delving into its rich history.
Continuing on, we'll cross the picturesque Ida mountain range and arrive in Pergamum. Here, you'll visit the ancient Acropolis. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in the charming town of Kusadasi, where you can relax and prepare for tomorrow's adventures.
Day 5: Kusadasi
Location: Kusadasi
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kusadasi/Izmir - Ephesus - Sirince - Kusadasi/Izmir. Today, a brief drive will take you to the ancient city of Ephesus. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the magnificent library, theater, and temples. The day's journey also includes a chance to discover the local craftsmanship of hand-made carpets and leather products.
Continuing on, you'll reach the charming village of Sirince, celebrated as one of Turkey's most beautiful villages. While in Sirince, you can shop unique local crafts and taste the delightful wines produced in the village. We'll end the night in Kusadasi.
Day 6: Kusadasi
Location: Kusadasi
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kusadasi/Izmir - Smirne - Thyateria - Kusadasi/Izmir. Delve into the Christian history of Akhisor, a modern town built upon the ancient foundations of Thyateira, which holds significance as one of the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse where early Christianity rapidly spread.
You'll spend some time exploring the historical and spiritual significance of this site before returning to Kusadasi for the night.
Day 7: Kusadasi
Location: Pamukkale
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kusadasi/Izmir - Pamukkale - Hierapolis - Laodicea - Pamukkale. Set off in the morning for a picturesque drive to Pamukkale, passing through the fertile Meander plain, known for its natural beauty.
Your first stop is the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you'll have the opportunity to explore its fascinating ruins and the captivating terraces.
In the afternoon, your journey continues with a visit to Laodicea, an ancient city located just seven kilometers from Pamukkale. Laodicea holds historical significance as one of the seven churches of Asia Minor, providing insights into early Christianity.
Day 8: Pamukkale
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pamukkale - Philadelphia - Sardis - Istanbul. Begin your day with a drive to Philadelphia, one of the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse, where you can explore its historical and religious significance mentioned in Revelation (3: 7-13).
Your journey continues to the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Lydia, Sardis, referred to in the New Testament (Rev 2; 18-29). During your visit to Sardis, you will encounter a Roman-era synagogue, a remarkably well-preserved gymnasium, and various other ancient ruins mentioned in Revelation (3: - 6).
Afterwards, head to Izmir airport for your included flight back to Istanbul.
Day 9: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Sunday. Today marks the end of your adventure. Departure transfer to your onward flight is included.
What's Included
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Accommodation
4-5 star -
Daily breakfasts & 5 dinners
Enjoy daily breakfasts and five dinners during your tour.
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8 nights 4-5 star hotels
Stay in 4-5 star hotels for 8 nights.
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Airport arrival transfer on day 1 and departure transfer on day 9
Airport transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour.
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Guided sightseeing - Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, Sirince, Pamukkale Hierapolis & Sardis
Experience guided sightseeing tours in various historic locations.
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English-speaking, degree qualified Turkish tour guide for all included sightseeing
A qualified English-speaking Turkish tour guide will accompany you for all included sightseeing.
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Transportation for sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned touring vehicle/coach
Travel in comfort with modern air-conditioned transportation for sightseeing.
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Entrance fees for all included sightseeing
Entrance fees for all included sightseeing activities are covered.
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Economy class flight from Izmir to Istanbul
An economy class flight from Izmir to Istanbul is included.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visa costs are not included.
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Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Tipping is not included and is at your discretion.
Age Policy
16 years with an accompanying adult
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with modern air-conditioned touring vehicles and coaches for sightseeing, along with an included economy class flight from Izmir to Istanbul. Airport transfers on arrival and departure days ensure a seamless travel experience.
Accommodation
Enjoy 8 nights in 4-5 star hotels, providing comfort and luxury throughout your journey across Turkey. Experience the blend of modern amenities and traditional Turkish hospitality in each location.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 8 nights in 4-5 star hotels.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes an airport arrival transfer on day 1 and a departure transfer on day 9.
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Is there a tour guide provided during the sightseeing?
Yes, an English-speaking, degree-qualified Turkish tour guide is provided for all included sightseeing.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes daily breakfasts and 5 dinners.
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What kind of transportation is used for sightseeing during the tour?
Sightseeing transportation is provided in a modern air-conditioned touring vehicle or coach.
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Are entrance fees for attractions included in the tour?
Yes, entrance fees for all included sightseeing are covered in the tour package.
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Is there a flight included in the tour itinerary?
Yes, an economy class flight from Izmir to Istanbul is included in the tour.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.