Turkey: A Spiritual Journey to the Ancient Congregations (11 Days)

Did you know that more than 60% of the places mentioned in the Bible are located in modern-day Turkey?

Come with us on a great journey through time—from the Garden of Eden, Queen Esther, Alexander the Great, and the prophet Daniel, to Peter, Paul, and John. From Genesis to Revelation.

Walk in the footsteps of the greatest empires in history: Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and the Ottoman Empire. Stand on the very rooftop of history and witness the legacy of these remarkable people, cultures, and civilizations.

Did you know that the apostle Paul mentioned over 100 fellow workers in the Bible? 

On this journey, you'll visit the very places where Paul preached the good news, relive his adventures with Barnabas, Apollos, Aquila and Priscilla, Timothy, Silas, Luke, Mark, Epaphras, and many more. From the early days of his ministry in Asia to the cities where he faced trials and triumphs, you’ll walk where history was made.

7 Congregations of Revelation

You’ll also explore the seven congregations of Revelation, yes every on of them! learning about the Apostle John, Antipas, and other early Christians who received these prophetic messages.

Biblical Insights:  You’ll explore other ancient congregations and remarkable locations where the apostles Peter, John, and Paul worked and preached—alongside many of the more than 100 fellow workers mentioned throughout the Bible. Comprehensive Itinerary: Enjoy a well-rounded itinerary that includes historical tours, spiritual sites, and leisure time.

• Comfort and Convenience: Stay in 4 and 5-star hotels.

• Affordable Pricing: Starting from $2,750 per person (double occupancy), our trip offers excellent value with many inclusions. 

• Sightseeing: in modern air-conditioned motor coach. 

• Services of English-speaking JW brother tour guides throughout the trip

• Entrance fees per itinerary

• Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring

• A Journey Through Ancient  Congregations including the  7 Congregations of Revelation
  You will actually visit all 7 (seven) sites of the congregations in the Revelation, along with other ancient congregations. 

Join us as we follow early Christians' footsteps and explore Turkey's rich history and stunning landscapes. We look forward to sharing this unforgettable experience with you! 

Booking: A non-refundable and non-transferable deposit of $500 per person is required to reserve a space on the tour. The deposit is due immediately to ensure your space/reservation. The final payment is due on or before  May 10, 2027.

A non-refundable deposit per person to reserve is required for international travel. Final payment before departure must be received 120 days before the tour date. If final payment is not received by the deadline, the reservation is subject to cancellation, and payments and/or deposits will not be refunded. Cancellation requests must be in writing.

Because we always experience unforeseen events, Travel Insurance is mandatory to protect your investment.  

Cancellation Policy and Refund Policy

Cancellation prior to the departure date, after payment has been made, will be subject to the following terms:

• 365 days or more before departure:
  The traveler will forfeit the non-refundable deposit.

• On and after 180 days before departure:
  The traveler will forfeit the non-refundable deposit plus 25% of all payments received.

• On and after 90 days before departure:
  The traveler will forfeit the non-refundable deposit plus 50% of all payments received.

• On and after 60 days before departure:
  The traveler will forfeit the non-refundable deposit plus 100% of all payments received.

• All itinerary descriptions, schedules, accommodations, tour details, prices, and policies, including the booking and cancellation policy, are subject to change without prior notice due to operational requirements, supplier changes, or unforeseen circumstances. The Terms and Conditions, including the applicable booking and cancellation policy in effect at the time of purchase and accepted by the traveler, shall govern the reservation and constitute the binding agreement between the traveler and the company.

If you do not have a companion and want us to find you a roommate, please click here to complete a form.

THIS IS A PRE-REGISTRATION TRIP— DATES, PRICING, AND ITINERARY ARE NOT FINAL. PLEASE SIGN UP (FREE OF CHARGE) TO BE AMONG THE FIRST TO BE INFORMED WHEN NEW INFORMATION BECOMES AVAILABLE.

Early Mornings: Some days will require early wake-up calls to accommodate travel and activities.

• Underground Cities (Cappadocia):
  Visitors with claustrophobia or preexisting knee or back conditions may wish to skip this activity. The passageways are narrow, and some sections require crouching or bending.
   
• Transportation:
  Be prepared for long drives on certain days, ranging from 5 to 8 hours.
   
• Pace & Terrain:
  Expect 3–4 hours of walking daily, in addition to periods of standing. Terrain includes uneven paths, cobblestone streets, steep steps, and sloped surfaces.

🏨 Planned Hotels for Turkey 2027

(Hotels listed below are currently planned and are subject to availability.)

Istanbul

🏨 Ramada by Wyndham Istanbul Old City
Molla Gürani, Turgut Özal Millet Cd. No: 82, Fatih, Istanbul, Türkiye
Phone: +90 212 631 2020
Ramada by Wyndham Istanbul Old City

Cappadocia

🏨 Mustafa Cappadocia Resort
Fatih Mah., Mehmet Dinler Blvd. No: 20, Ürgüp, Nevşehir, Türkiye
Phone: +90 384 341 3970
Mustafa Cappadocia Resort

Pamukkale

🏨 Hierapark Thermal & Spa Hotel Deluxe
Karahayıt Mahallesi, 127 Kızılseki Sokak No: 15, Pamukkale, Denizli, Türkiye
Phone: +90 532 461 8006
Hierapark Thermal & Spa Hotel Deluxe

Kuşadası

🏨 Le Bleu Hotel & Resort
Kadınlar Denizi, Kuşadası, Aydın, Türkiye
Phone: +90 256 645 0744
Le Bleu Hotel & Resort

and/or

🏨 Tusan Beach Resort Hotel
Bayraklıdede Mah., Kuştur Önü Yolu Cd. No: 19, Kuşadası, Aydın, Türkiye
Phone: +90 256 618 1515
Tusan Beach Resort Hotel

All hotel are 4, 4 Superior and/or 5 Star.

The hotels listed above are the hotels currently planned for this tour. However, due to availability, operational requirements, or circumstances beyond our control, the hotels may be changed and replaced with other hotels of a similar category, quality, and standard. Any substitute hotel will provide a comparable level of comfort, amenities, and service. 😊🇹🇷

✈️ Domestic Flight Baggage Allowance

🧳 Checked Baggage
✔️ 15 kg (33 lbs) per person

🎒 Carry-On Baggage
✔️ 1 cabin bag up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs)

⚠️ Baggage allowances are subject to change by the airline. Travelers are responsible for verifying current baggage policies before departure.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is mandatory for all travelers. You can use this link to obtain a travel insurance quote and purchase coverage: Travel Insurance

Or you may purchase a policy from a provider of your choice. Proof of valid travel insurance must be provided before departure.

Welcome to Istanbul! The crossroads of Europe and Asia. 

We suggest that you book flights that arrive before 5 pm. 

Rest of the day at leisure. The tour will start with an orientation meeting with your guides around 7:30 pm.  

Transportation from the airport to the hotel will be provided only for those arriving on the official tour arrival day. 

If you choose to arrive before or arrive after the scheduled date, you will need to arrange your own transportation to the hotel. We look forward to starting this unforgettable journey with you!

Overnight: Istanbul

Meals: On your own

Istanbul is one of the most fascinating cities in the world!

We will begin our day with a tour of Ottoman Istanbul, including a visit to the magnificent Suleymani  Mosque—one of the most impressive in the city, second only to Hagia Sophia in beauty. It is considered the most important Ottoman structure in Istanbul. As we explore the mosque and its surroundings, we’ll learn about its rich history and architectural significance.

Next, we’ll continue to the historic district of Balat, known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and vibrant cultural mix.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll take part in one of Istanbul’s most iconic experiences: a boat trip along the Bosphorus, the famous strait that separates Europe and Asia. As we cruise, we’ll enjoy views of the Sultans’ palaces, traditional Ottoman wooden mansions, and historic landmarks—experiencing history from a unique perspective.

We’ll conclude our day with a visit to the Spice Bazaar, established by the Ottomans five centuries ago and still bustling today. Enjoy some free time to explore, shop, and soak in the scents and colors of this historic market.

Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Flight to Cappadocia in the morning. 

Arrive in Cappadocia, an extraordinary region in Turkey known for its unique and breathtaking volcanic landscape, featuring the famous Fairy Chimneys.

During your visit, you'll explore the powerful impact of the Apostle Peter's ministry in this area. We will reflect on his effectiveness in strengthening early Christian communities and his enduring spiritual influence across the region.

Upon arrival, visit one of Cappadocia’s remarkable underground cities, historically used by various communities—including early Christians—for refuge and protection.

Enjoy panoramic views of Cappadocia’s stunning landscape with its unique rock formations. 

Check in at the hotel and rest for the evening.

Overnight: Cappadocia   

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Explore the fascinating region of Cappadocia, known for its otherworldly landscape shaped by volcanic eruptions from Mount Erciyes and Mount Hasan over 3 million years ago.
Visit Uchisar Castle, offering panoramic views of the surrounding terrain, followed by stops at the Avcilar and Güvercinlik Valleys, famous for their spectacular vistas and the iconic Fairy Chimneys.

Overnight: Cappadocia

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Optional:  Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia from above with a sunrise hot air balloon ride.

Wake-up call: Approximately 4:00 AM 

• Cost: Between $350 – $400 per person (subject to change and availability) 
• Important Note: Balloon rides are weather-dependent and may be canceled due to safety concerns. 

Early booking is highly recommended due to limited availability.

Depart Cappadocia in the morning and travel southwest. Along the way, stop to visit Antioch of Pisidia, an important site in early Christian history where the Apostle Paul preached during his missionary journeys (Acts 13). This rarely visited ancient city holds deep biblical significance and offers a unique glimpse into First Century Christian life.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in route.

In the afternoon, arrive in Pamukkale, famous for its dazzling white travertine terraces formed by the area's rich limestone waters. Visit the breathtaking “Cotton Castle” and explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, known for its well-preserved theater, Roman baths, and early Christian sites and more regarding Paul’s fellow workers spreading the good news. 

Overnight: Pamukkale

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Travel through the heart of the ancient congregations mentioned in the book of Revelation. Visit Laodicea, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Thyatira, four of the seven congregations that received messages from the glorified Jesus Christ. As you explore these remarkable sites, reflect on the counsel and encouragement recorded in the Scriptures.

📖 Laodicea — “Because you are lukewarm and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit you out of my mouth.” — Revelation 3:16

📖 Sardis — “Wake up, and strengthen the things remaining.” — Revelation 3:2

📖 Philadelphia — “Look! I have put before you an opened door, which no one can shut.” — Revelation 3:8

📖 Thyatira — “Hold firmly to what you have until I come.” — Revelation 2:25

After visiting these historic locations and reflecting on their Bible significance, continue to the beautiful coastal city of Kuşadası for dinner and overnight.

Overnight: Kusadasi 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Walk through its impressive streets and monuments, including the Temple of Hadrian, Roman Baths, Library of Celsus, Odeon, and the Great Theater, where the Apostle Paul faced opposition during his ministry in Ephesus (Acts 19). Learn about Paul's work in the city and the faithful service of his fellow workers, including Aquila, Priscilla, Timothy, and others who helped strengthen the congregation.

📖 “In this way the word of Jehovah kept growing and prevailing in a mighty way.” — Acts 19:20

Ephesus is also closely connected to the Apostle John, who lived here during the later years of his ministry and is believed to have written his Gospel account and three letters while in this region. Ephesus is the first of the Seven Congregations of Revelation that we will visit on this journey.

📖 “I know your deeds, and your labor and endurance.” — Revelation 2:2

As you walk through these remarkable ruins, the Bible record comes alive, providing a deeper appreciation for the faith, endurance, and zeal of the first-century Christians. 🏛️

Enjoy a relaxing day at your beautiful seaside hotel in Kusadasi. 

Take time to unwind, enjoy the hotel’s amenities, or join one of our exciting optional excursions.

Overnight: Kusadasi 

Meals: Breakfast, and Dinner (at the hotel)  

Optional Excursions (additional cost applies)

Optional excursions for the free day in Kuşadası will be announced and available for booking several months prior to the tour.

Overnight: Kusadasi
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

 Today, we will visit the final two of the Seven Congregations mentioned in the book of Revelation: Smyrna and Pergamum, completing the circuit of all the messages sent by Jesus. By the end of this day, you will have visited all seven congregations of Revelation!

• Pergamum:   3 ‘I know where you are dwelling, that is, where the throne of Satan is; and yet you keep holding fast to my name...(Revelation 2:13)  You will learn about a spiritually rich congregation and about Antipas, the faithful witness.
• Smyrna:  "I know your tribulation and poverty—but you are rich." (Revelation 2:9) 

Again, this day offers profound historical and spiritual insights as we walk through the very locations highlighted in the Bible.

After our visits, we will travel to our final destination—the great city of Istanbul.

Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Visit to the Ancient Hippodrome
We will begin with a visit to the ancient Hippodrome, dating back to the Byzantine era. Once the center of civil life in Constantinople, the Hippodrome hosted chariot races, gladiator fights, and imperial celebrations. Today, it preserves key monuments such as the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the Fountain of Emperor Wilhelm II.

Blue Mosque

Next, we’ll visit the Blue Mosque, constructed in 1609 during the reign of Sultan Ahmet I. With its six minarets and majestic design, it was built to rival the grandeur of Hagia Sophia.

Topkapi Palace
We will then continue to the Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans until the 19th century. It houses many of the empire’s most treasured artifacts and offers a glimpse into royal life during the Ottoman era.

Hagia Sophia (Panoramic View)

Our tour includes a panoramic view of Hagia Sophia, widely regarded as the finest example of Byzantine architecture and one of humanity’s greatest artistic and architectural achievements. (Entrance is not included in the tour, but you may choose to visit it independently for an additional fee.)

Grand Bazaar
Finally, we will visit the world-renowned Grand Bazaar, built in 1660. This covered market is like a city within a city, featuring 4,000 shops, narrow streets, bustling squares, and 18 grand entrances. It's the perfect place to experience local culture, shop for souvenirs, and take in the vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Transfer to the Airport
At the end of your unforgettable journey, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.
We hope you leave with lasting memories, renewed faith, and a deeper appreciation for the rich history of first-century Christians—as well as the vibrant cultures you experienced throughout Turkey. 

Meals: Breakfast