Greece: In the Footsteps of Paul the Apostle featuring a 3-night Greek Islands & Turkiye cruise

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 Turkiye.

Arrive in Athens. As there are no included features, today is yours to explore Greece's vibrant capital city.

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. 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.

Embark on a 3-night cruise to the Greek Islands and Turkiye. 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.

Visit the Turkish port of Kusadasi for an excursion to the ruins of Ephesus (UNESCO), where Paul the Apostle lived for 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.

This morning, enjoy free time in the historic center of Heraklion, Crete’s largest city. Choose from a variety of museums, shopping, or sit back at a local cafe for some people watching. Later, arrive on the island of Santorini, known as the “Black Pearl of the Aegean.” Today’s included ship excursion begins with a visit to Megalochori, an authentic village preserving the character of Santorini. Continue your drive through small island communities before arriving in Oia for an incredible caldera view and time to stroll the alleyways of small shops and cafes before returning to the ship.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Return home inspired by the incredible, soothing landscapes and the words and deeds of Paul the Apostle.