Following Apostle Paul’s Journey to Greece (Meteora Rocks - Overnight)

Battlefield of Thermopylae - Thermopylae is renowned worldwide for the historic battle between Greek forces, notably the Spartans, and the invading Persian forces. This battle is immortalized by Simonides in the famous epitaph, “Go tell the Spartans, stranger passing by, That here obedient to their laws we lie.” This passage along the east coast of the Greek peninsula has been the site of several battles due to its strategic location. Adjacent to the monument of Leonidas in historic Thermopylae is an interactive museum dedicated to the pivotal 480 BC battle that altered Greek history. Ticket: 3€ / 1€

Old City of Trikala - Situated in central Greece, 330 km north of Athens.

Trikala is built on the ancient city of Trikka, founded around the 3rd millennium BC, named after the nymph Trikke, daughter of Penaeus, or according to others, daughter of the river god Asopus. The ancient city was strategically located between a local hill and the river Lithaios. Ten bridges cross the river, with the central one, made of metal, constructed by the French in 1886.

The city was a significant center in antiquity and is considered the birthplace and main residence of the healing god Asclepius. It housed one of the most important and ancient healing temples of Asclepius, known as asclepieia. Trikala is mentioned in Homer’s Iliad as having participated in the Trojan War with thirty ships under Asclepius’ sons Machaon and Podalirius.

In 352 BC, it was united with Macedonia under Philip II.

Great Meteoron Monastery - Meteora is a rock formation in central Greece, hosting one of the largest and most dramatically built complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries, second in importance only to Mount Athos. Six of the original twenty-four monasteries are built on immense natural pillars and rounded boulders that dominate the area. It is located near Kalambaka at the northwestern edge of the Plain of Thessaly near the Pineios river and Pindus Mountains.

Meteora is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under criteria I, II, IV, V, and VII. The name means “lofty,” “elevated,” and is etymologically related to meteor. Drive around Meteora Rocks and visit at least two of the Orthodox monasteries. General ticket: 3€ per monastery.

Meteora - Overnight in Kastraki, a small, tranquil village resembling an eagle’s nest at the base of two gigantic rocks. Enjoy a sunset/photography tour. Our drivers will take you to the best and hidden spots of these unique rocks. Overnight at additional cost (depending on the period).

Following Apostle Paul’s Journey to Greece (Aegae & Macedonia Royal Tombs- Veria / Apostle Paul Vema - Overnight)

Meteora - Meteora is a rock formation in central Greece, hosting one of the largest and most dramatically built complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries, second in importance only to Mount Athos. Six of the original twenty-four monasteries are built on immense natural pillars and rounded boulders that dominate the area. It is located near Kalambaka at the northwestern edge of the Plain of Thessaly near the Pineios river and Pindus Mountains.

Meteora is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under criteria I, II, IV, V, and VII. The name means “lofty,” “elevated,” and is etymologically related to meteor. Drive around Meteora Rocks early in the morning with different light and fewer crowds.

Museum of the Royal Tombs of Aigai (Vergina) - Vergina is renowned as the site of ancient Aigai (Aegae), the first capital of Macedon. In 336 BC, Philip II was assassinated in Aigai’s theatre, and his son, Alexander the Great, was proclaimed king.

Significant discoveries were made in 1977 when the burial sites of several Macedonian kings were found, including the undisturbed tomb of Philip II, unlike many other tombs there.

It is also the site of an extensive royal palace. The archaeological museum of Vergina was built to house all the artifacts found at the site and is one of Greece’s most important museums.

Aigai has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status as “an exceptional testimony to a significant development in European civilization, at the transition from classical city-state to the imperial structure of the Hellenistic and Roman periods.”

Winter: 6€ / Summer: 12€

Vima Apostolou Pavlou - Apostle Paul, after leaving Thessaloniki, and his companion Silas preached to the Jewish and Greek communities of the city Veroia/Berea in AD 50/51 or 54/55. The Bible records:

Loutra Pozar - Overnight on the slopes of Mount Kaimaktsalan

The Pozar Baths, meaning fire or heat, are thermal baths located near Loutraki, in the prefecture of Pella, 13 km west of Aridea. These are mineral springs, which gush at a temperature of 37°C, with a remarkable chemical composition. The hot water has a healing effect and is drinkable.

According to ancient tradition, the baths were considered a place of relaxation and restoration for the Macedonian kings after battles and many years of war. There are indications that they operated during the times of Alexander the Great, as well as in Roman and Byzantine times. It is also rumored that the saris (spears) of the Macedonian Phalanx were “boiled” in warm waters to become more durable and increase their hardness and endurance.

Overnight at additional charge (cost depends on the period)

Following Apostle Paul’s Journey to Greece (Pella/ Alexander’s Birth City - Thessaloniki / Catacombs- Overnight)

Archaeological Museum of Pella - Pella: The capital of ancient Macedonia and birthplace of Alexander the Great. Numerous archaeological findings are housed in the Palace and the New Museum.

Archaeological Museum: It is situated near the archaeological site under the ancient Macedonian palace. The building has a rectangular atrium, referencing the central peristyle courtyard of ancient houses in Pella.

The information section provides texts, photographs, maps, drawings, a model of the archaeological site, and a short video about Pella. At the entrance, there are two important exhibits: A head considered a portrait of Alexander the Great and a statue with the characteristic attributes of the god Pan.

Museum & Site: Entrance fees 8€ Reduced 4€

Church of Saint Dimitrios - Patron of Thessaloniki - The Church of Saint Demetrius is dedicated to Saint Demetrius, the patron saint of Thessaloniki. It’s on the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO since 1988.

Underneath the Church of St Demetrios is the place where St Demetrios, Thessaloniki’s patron saint, along with other Christians of the early Roman period, were martyred.

As the ground level gradually rose over the centuries, this area acquired the form of a crypt. According to both tradition and archaeological findings, it was an old bathhouse where Demetrios was imprisoned and eventually martyred in 303 AD. In the 5th century, when the first Church of St Demetrios was built, the site of his martyrdom was incorporated into the church, and the fountain was converted into a source of holy water. In the years that followed, the fountain acquired basins from which the faithful could collect myron, the sweet-smelling oil produced by the saint’s relics. The crypt was not rediscovered until after the fire of 1917.

White Tower of Thessaloniki - The White Tower of Thessaloniki is a monument and museum on the waterfront. The present tower replaced an old Byzantine fortification, known to have been mentioned around the 12th century, that the Ottoman Empire reconstructed to fortify the city’s fortress after Sultan Murad II captured Thessaloniki in 1430.
During the period of Ottoman rule, the White Tower became a notorious prison and scene of mass executions.

In 1912, Greece regained control of Thessaloniki, and the White Tower was substantially remodeled and its exterior was whitewashed. The White Tower has been adopted as the symbol of the city.
From the top, you will have a 360-degree panoramic view of the city.

Entrance fee: 6€

INSPOT Rotonda - The Rotunda is a 4th AD vaulted circular building in Thessaloniki, similar to the Pantheon in Rome.

It was built during the years of Emperor Galerius around 304, intended as the Mausoleum of Galerius. However, due to Galerius’ death in 311, the Rotunda was left unused.

At the end of the 4th century, during the reign of Theodosius I and after Christianity had prevailed in Thessaloniki, the Rotunda was converted into a Christian church, and some alterations were made to the monument, necessary for the new worship. Thus, the eastern niche was opened, and the sanctuary was added, while the corresponding western niche was opened, and a new entrance was created. Finally, the famous mosaics of the monument were made, adorning the arches of niches, arched openings of skylights, and the large dome. It is considered that the original purpose was to use it as a baptistery for the faithful Christians of Thessaloniki.

Overnight at additional cost (depends on the period)

Following Apostle Paul’s Journey to Greece (Philippi / Lydia - Kavala/ Neapolis - Overnight)

The Archaeological Museum of Philippi - In Roman times, Philippi was the most important city in eastern Macedonia, built in a very strategic position and in the middle of a region rich in goods. After the battle of Philippi (42 BC), it was transformed into a Roman colony and colonized by Roman veteran soldiers, twice. The first colonization took place immediately after the battle, by order of Antonios, and was taken by veterans of the Roman army. The second colonization, in which Italian citizens also participated, took place after the naval battle of Aktio (31 BC) by order of Octavian Augustus, who was considered the second inhabitant of the city, after Philip II, and for this reason, the colony henceforth bore his genus name: colonia Iulia Augusta Philippensis.

A very important date was the year 49 or 50 AD when Apostle Paul visited Philippi and founded the first Christian Church in Europe. This event made the city a metropolis of Christianity.

Saint Lydia’s Baptistery - Lydia of Thyatira is a woman mentioned in the New Testament who is regarded as the first documented convert to Christianity in Europe. Several Christian denominations have designated her a saint.
Lydia insisted on giving hospitality to Apostle Paul and his companions in Philippi. They stayed with her until their departure, through Amphipolis and Apollonia, to Thessalonica (Acts 16:40–17:1).

Paul, Silas, and Timothy were traveling through the region of Philippi when they encountered “a reputable businesswoman and possibly a widow… [who] was a righteous Gentile or ‘God-fearer’ attracted to Judaism”. “She was one of a large group [considered]…sympathizers with Judaism, believers in the one God, but who had not yet become ‘proselytes’ or taken the final step to conversion to Judaism”.

Because these encounters and events take place “in what is now Europe,” Lydia is considered “the first ‘European’ Christian convert.”

Palea Kavala - The history of the city dates back to prehistoric times and extends to the present day. References to it are lost in the Homeric narratives and recorded in the archives of the Athenian Alliance. On one hand, the city became world-famous for the arrival of the democratic troops of the Roman Empire in view of the historic battle of Philippi, and on the other, for the arrival of Apostle Paul in 49 AD, making Neapolis (today’s Kavala) the first European city to accept Christianity.

Today, there is a monument of Apostle Paul outside the Church of Agios Nikolaos in the center of Kavala, in memory of Apostle Paul’s arrival.
It is famous for the majestic works of the Byzantines and Turks (such as the Castle, Kamares) as well as for being the birthplace of Mehmet Ali, regent of Egypt.

Accommodation for you in selected Boutique Hotels A’class or 3/4* Hotels with breakfast (additional cost 120€ per double room / weekend-holidays 150€)

Following Apostle Paul’s Journey to Greece (Amfipolis - Mount Olympus- Dion/ Overnight)

Dion Archaeological Park - It is best known for its great ancient Macedonian sanctuary of Zeus and the ancient city, much of which is visible in the Archaeological Park of Dion and the Archaeological Museum of Dion.

Philip II and Alexander the Great celebrated victories here, and Alexander assembled his armies and performed magnificent sacrifices here on the eve of his campaign to Asia in 334 BC.

Entrance fees to site & Museum/ Winter: 6€ / Summer: 12€

Mount Olympus - Overnight on the slopes of Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece. It has 52 peaks and deep gorges. The highest peak, Mytikas (Μύτικας Mýtikas), meaning “nose,” rises to 2,917 meters (9,570 ft). It is one of the highest peaks in Europe in terms of topographic prominence.

Olympus is notable in Greek mythology as the home of the Greek gods, on Mytikas peak. It is also noted for its exceptional biodiversity and rich flora. It has been a National Park, the first in Greece, since 1938. It is also a World Biosphere Reserve.

We can arrange accommodation for you in selected Boutique Hotels A’class or 3/4* Hotels with breakfast (additional cost 100€ per double room / weekend-holidays 140€ per double room - if more than 2 rooms 10% less. Driver’s room complimentary). If you wish to make your own hotel reservation, you need to reserve an extra room for your driver.

Overnight at additional cost (depends on the period)

Following Apostle Paul’s Journey to Greece (Delphi/ Apollo Oracle - Mount Parnassus/ Overnight)

Temple of Apollo - Delphi is the ancient sanctuary that grew rich as the seat of Pythia, the oracle who was consulted about important decisions throughout the ancient classical world. The ancient Greeks considered the center of the world to be in Delphi, marked by the stone monument known as the omphalos (navel).

It is now an extensive archaeological site with a small modern town of the same name nearby. It is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for having had a great influence in the ancient world, as evidenced by the various monuments built there by most of the important ancient Greek city-states, demonstrating their fundamental Hellenic unity.
Combined ticket with Museum. Summer admission: 12 € - Reduced/ winter admission: 6 €
Up to 6 y is free / Up to 25y reduced

Delphi Archaeological Museum - The Archaeological Museum of Delphi, one of the most important in Greece, exhibits the history of the Delphic sanctuary, site of the most famous ancient Greek oracle. Its rich collections are comprised primarily of architectural sculpture, statues, and minor objects donated to the sanctuary.
These reflect its religious, political, and artistic activities from its early years in the eighth century BC to its decline in Late Antiquity.

Archaeological site & Museum Combined ticket:
Summer admission: 12 € - Reduced/ winter admission: 6 €
Up to 6 y is free / Up to 25y reduced

The Tholos of Delphi - The Tholos of Delphi is among the ancient structures of the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia in Delphi.
The circular temple, a tholos, shares the immediate site with other ancient foundations of the Temple of Athena Pronaia, all located less than a mile east of the main ruins at Delphi,

The tholos is part of the Delphi UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mount Parnassus - Drive via Mount Parnassus in central Greece that towers above Delphi, north of the Gulf of Corinth, and offers scenic views of the surrounding olive groves and countryside. According to Greek mythology, this mountain was sacred to Dionysus and the Dionysian mysteries. It was also sacred to Apollo and the Corycian nymphs, and it was the home of the Muses. Parnassus is one of the largest mountainous regions of Mainland Greece and one of the highest Greek mountains. Overnight on the slopes of this amazing mountain, in a traditional village.

We can arrange accommodation for you in selected Boutique Hotels A’class or 3/4* Hotels with breakfast (additional cost 120€ per double room / weekend-holidays 150€ per double room - if more than 2 rooms 10% less. Driver’s room complimentary). If you wish to make your own hotel reservation, you need to reserve an extra room for your driver.

Following Apostle Paul’s Journey to Greece (Levadia - Mount Kithaeron - Ancient Corinth, Nafplion/ overnight)

Livadia - Drive through the fertile plain of Boeotia, passing by the town of Thebes. Proceed to Levadia, a bustling town and an important junction in the road network. Also an industrial center where its textile mills process the cotton grown in the Copais valley. The upper town is adorned by white houses with jutting wooden balconies dating from the 18th century. We’ll stop for a drink by the beautiful river Karya over the spot where the water springs out. In ancient times, Karya was said to be the location of the Oracle of Trofonios Zeus, which included the springs of Mnemosyne (Remembrance) and the spring of Lethe (oblivion). The oracle was used as a stage before visiting the oracle of Delphi and as such, through the times, it acquired great power and riches.

Kithairon - Drive via Mount Kithaeron, Eleutherai, on the old Athens-Thebes National Road, north of the Villia junction, encompasses part of the lowland and rocky hill, where the ancient fortress, known as Gyftokastro, stands. Eleutherai was allegedly the birthplace of Dionysus, who founded the homonym city and was thus called Dionysus Eleuthereus. Originally a Boeotian city, Eleutherai went over to Athens in the sixth century BC. The cult statue of Dionysus Eleuthereus was reportedly moved from Eleutherai to Athens on Peisistratus’ orders, leading to the establishment of the homonym sanctuary on the south slope of the Acropolis. Strategically located on the borderline of the Athenian territory, with control over the narrow passage between Athens and Thebes and overlooking the plain of Oinoe, Eleutherai was part of the Athenian defense network in the fourth century BC. Next, we pass by Elefsina (seaside) and follow the coastal road to Ancient Corinth.

Ancient Corinth (Archaia Korinthos) - Here are the remains of Ancient Corinth, one of the largest cities in Ancient Greece. Walking in the ancient City of Corinth is like walking back in time.
For Christians, Corinth is well known from the two letters of Saint Paul in the New Testament, First and Second Corinthians. Corinth is also mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles as part of Apostle Paul’s missionary travels.

Highlights: Apostle Paul Vema in the middle of Ancient Agora

Combined ticket for Ancient Corinth is 8€ for summer or 4€ for winter (Ticket Includes Museum)

Nafplio - Proceed to Nafplion for Overnight

This historical town is another highlight of this tour. It was the first capital of Greece in modern times. We can arrange accommodation for you in selected Boutique Hotels A’ class or 3/4* Hotels with breakfast (additional cost 130€ per double room / weekend-holidays 180€ per double room - if more than 3 rooms 10% less. Driver’s room complimentary). If you wish to make your own hotel reservation, you need to reserve an extra room for your driver.

Following Apostle Paul’s Journey to Greece (Corinth Canal, Athens: Acropolis Hill/ Areios Pagos / Highlights)

Corinth Canal - The marvelous man-made Corinth canal connects the Aegean and Ionian seas, as well as the Peloponnese peninsula with the central part of Greece.
More than 2500 workers dug 6,400m over twelve years (from 1881 to 1893). Stop for photography, walk across on a pedestrian bridge, and admire the canal from 80 m high.

Acropolis - We continue to Athens: Visit Acropolis hill and Areios Pagos Hill. Visit the highlights of Athens.
Athens dominates and is the capital of the Attica region and is one of the world’s oldest cities, with its recorded history spanning over 3,400 years and its earliest human presence beginning somewhere between the 11th and 7th millennia BC.

Classical Athens was a powerful city-state. It was a center for the arts, learning, and philosophy, and the home of Plato’s Academy and Aristotle’s Lyceum. It is widely referred to as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy.

Around 51 AD, Apostle Paul was led to Areios Pagos, where he preached Christianity to the Athenians for the first time. From his sermon, he seems to have converted two listeners, the eminent Dionysios Areopagitis, the current patron saint of Athens, who according to tradition was also the first bishop of the city, and a woman, Damari.

Acropolis Museum - The Acropolis Museum, one of the most important museums in the world, houses the findings of only one archaeological site, the Athenian Acropolis and its …

Athens - Visit Athens highlights. Drop off at your hotel.

• Private transportation
• Accommodation for Driver (complimentary only - see additional info)
• Pick up / Drop off from/to your hotel/apartment in Athens, Piraeus, or request another location
• Professional English speaking experienced Tour driver providing audio documentary during travel
• In-vehicle air conditioning

• Entrance Fees to sites & museums (Summer approx 20€ per site/ winter half price)
• Accommodation: We corporate with some of the finest hotels. We need to know the number of the rooms.
• Gratuities

Travelers, not tourists, explore Greece with enthusiasm, sharing a love for travel, history, and religion. The itinerary is adaptable to individual preferences and lifestyles, ensuring everyone can enjoy the picturesque journey, with stops at desired locations.

Embark on a distinctive Biblical Historical tour that not only explores Classical and Early Christian periods but also delves into the landscape. With 85% of the Greek mainland being mountainous, the scenery is breathtaking.

The journey traverses Central Greece, Thessaly, and Macedonia, tracing the footsteps of Apostle Paul. Highlights include visits to the Meteora Rocks and Orthodox Monasteries, the Macedonian capitals of Aegae and Pella (birthplace of Alexander the Great), Aristotle’s school in Neapolis/Kavala, Philippi and Lydia’s church, Veroia, Thessaloniki, Corinth, and Athens.

As with all Greek vacations, savoring local cuisine is a priority, with opportunities to indulge in regional gastronomy and wines.

• Please book this tour, at least 2 weeks prior, as we need time to reserve rooms for you and your driver. Biblical tour will cost more in summer as July August or Holidays. We can arrange accommodation for you in selected Boutique Hotels A ‘class or 3/4 Hotels with breakfast (additional cost from 150€ per double room/ weekend-holidays 170€ per double room - Price varies from city to city and High season) If more than 3 rooms 10% less. Driver’s room complimentary). If you wish to do your own hotel reservation, you need to reserve an extra room for your driver
• Your tour driver is not a licensed Archaeological tour guide to accompany you on your walk to archaeological sites or museums. If you require an archaeologist guide to tour the sites with you, you need to hire one additionally (in prior time).
• Open hours for sites - Winter: From November until the the end of February 08:00 a.m. up to 15:30 p.m. From 1st to 31st of March 08:00 am to 16:00.From April 15th to 31st Aug. Extended 08:00 - 20:00. 1st to 15th September: 08:00-19:30, 16th to 30th September: 08:00-19:00, 1st to 15th October: 08:00-18:30, 16th to 31st October: 08:00-18:00. Nov 1st to Dec 31st 08.00 - 16.00. On Tuesday some of the archaeological sites/museums remains closed

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.