Istanbul, Izmir, Pamukkale, Pergamon, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Ancient Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, Church of Laodicea, St. John, Hierapolis, Pamukkale, Thyatira, Philadelphia, Sardis, Smyrna

Day 1 – Istanbul Arrival:
Welcome to Istanbul! Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax or explore the city on your own.
Overnight: Istanbul

Day 2 – Full-Day Historical Istanbul Tour:
Begin your day with a visit to Topkapi Palace, the heart of the Ottoman Empire for centuries, and explore its royal chambers and impressive treasury. After lunch, marvel at the Hagia Sophia, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. Continue to the iconic Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and intricate tile work. Visit the Hippodrome, once the center of Roman chariot races, and end the day at the vibrant Grand Bazaar, where thousands of shops await.
Overnight: Istanbul

Day 3 – Bosphorus Cruise & Spice Market:
Start the morning with a visit to the colorful Spice Market, brimming with exotic spices and Turkish delights. Stop by the Rustem Pasha Mosque, renowned for its exquisite blue tiles. Then embark on a serene Bosphorus cruise, where you’ll glide past historical palaces, Ottoman mansions, and iconic landmarks like the Rumeli Fortress and Bosphorus Bridge. Spend the afternoon at leisure.
Overnight: Istanbul

Day 4 – Izmir & Pamukkale: Ephesus and Laodicea:
Fly to Izmir in the morning and drive to Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved ancient cities and a key site among the Seven Churches of Revelation. Visit the Library of Celsus, the Great Theater, and other highlights of this remarkable city. See the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be where she spent her final years, and explore St. John’s Basilica. After lunch, proceed to Laodicea, another of the Seven Churches, and learn about its rich history.
Overnight: Pamukkale

Day 5 – Pamukkale & Seven Churches: Hierapolis, Sardis, Philadelphia, Thyatira:
Visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you’ll see the Necropolis and St. Philip’s Martyrium. Experience the dazzling white terraces of Pamukkale, known as the "Cotton Castle," and enjoy a dip in its thermal pools. Continue to Philadelphia (Alasehir), home to one of the youngest churches in the Book of Revelation. After lunch, visit Sardis, the ancient capital of Lydia, to see its synagogue, gymnasium, and the Church of Sardis. End the day with a visit to Thyatira (Akhisar), an important commercial city during the Roman era.
Overnight: Bergama

Day 6 – Pergamon & Smyrna:
Begin the day with a visit to Pergamon, home to the famed Acropolis, the Temple of Athena, and the Asclepion, an ancient medical center. Explore the Red Basilica, once a pagan temple, and learn about Pergamon’s connection to the Seven Churches. After lunch, drive to Smyrna (modern-day Izmir), where early Christians thrived. Visit the Church of St. Polycarp and enjoy a short panoramic tour of Izmir before transferring to the airport for your flight to Istanbul.
Overnight: Istanbul

Day 7 – Departure from Istanbul:
Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!