Embark on your journey with an overnight flight to Athens. Prepare for a life-changing experience and take the opportunity to rest during the flight. Tomorrow, you will follow in the footsteps of the apostle Paul, immersing yourself in the ancient world where his ministry profoundly influenced early Christianity.

We arrive in Athens mid-afternoon and meet our representative who will provide us with tickets for our flight to Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki is where Paul was received by Jason and preached until he was rushed out the city (Acts 17:1-9). We transfer to our hotel for dinner and overnight.

In the morning, we explore the city’s landmarks: the White Tower, the Walls of the Byzantine Acropolis, the Roman Arch of Galerius, and the Rotonda. We visit two of the city’s oldest Christian churches, the Basilicas of St. Demetrius and St. Sophia. Following the Via Egnatia, we visit the area of Amphipolis, where we see the famous funerary Lion of Amphipolis, just as Paul and his companions did. We continue to Philippi, visiting the Baptistery of Lydia near the river where Paul baptized her (Acts 16:11-15). Lydia was Paul’s first European convert, followed by the jailer. We also explore the ruins of the Forum of Philippi, the Christian Basilicas, the “Prison of Paul,” and the Theater. Later, we drive to Kavala (Neapolis), Paul’s first stop in Europe, where we see the Byzantine Castle and the Roman Aqueduct. We return to Thessaloniki for dinner and overnight.

Today, we embark on a journey to the mystical region of Meteora, renowned for its Byzantine monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. Dating back to the 14th century, these monasteries offer a glimpse into a history of spiritual refuge and survival against the backdrop of stunning natural landscapes. Following our exploration, we continue our return journey to Athens, where we enjoy dinner and prepare for the next phase of our adventure.

Today, we sail from Athens to the charming island of Mykonos, known for its windmills. Upon arrival, we disembark to explore the waterfront lined with shops and cafes. We wander through the charming white-washed buildings before returning to the ship for dinner and evening activities. Today is free for personal exploration on the island. (Mykonos excursion not included)

This morning, we arrive in Kusadasi, Turkey. An included excursion takes us to Ephesus, where Paul spent three years during his ministry. Ephesus boasts impressive remains such as the Agora, the Theater, the Stadium, the Library of Celsus, and the ruins of the Temple of Diana, one of the “Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.” Later, we sail to Patmos where we visit the Monastery of St. John and the Grotto of the Apocalypse, where St. John wrote the Revelations.

In the morning, we disembark at Heraklion, Crete. An included excursion takes us to the Knossos excavations, revealing a civilization dating back to 4000 B.C. Here, Paul left Titus to appoint church leaders in the towns (Titus1:5 & Tim. 3:1). In the afternoon, we cruise to Santorini, known for its breathtaking villages clinging to volcanic cliffs. Personal exploration is recommended. (Santorini excursion not included)

Concluding our cruise, we disembark in Piraeus and journey to Ancient Corinth, where Paul engaged in his missionary work for eighteen months, making significant contributions to early Christian communities (Acts 18:1- 18). Our exploration includes visits to the Archaeological Museum, the Forum, the Temples, and the renowned Bema, where Paul stood trial before Gallio. Continuing to Cenchreae, where Paul departed for Asia, we return to Athens for a comprehensive sightseeing tour encompassing the Acropolis, Mars Hill, the Agora, and other historical landmarks. Enjoy an afternoon of personal exploration before our farewell dinner and overnight stay in Athens.

Today, we embark on a journey to Delphi, revered in ancient times as the “omphalos” or navel of the earth, renowned for the Temple of Apollo and the influential Delphic oracle. Delphi also hosted the Pythian Games, drawing athletes from across Greece in a tradition that preceded the modern Olympics. En route, enjoy scenic vistas of mountain villages, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Greece. Conclude the day with dinner and overnight in Athens.

In the morning, we transfer to Athens Airport for our return flight to the U.S.A.