greece bible study tour
greece bible study tour
$4,619
USD
$4,619 USD | 14 days
Tab 1
Day
Location
Details
October20
Depart the USA
Day 1 ~ Monday
Depart on Turkish Airlines from JFK (New York) at 7:50pm to Thessaloniki via Istanbul
Depart on Turkish Airlines from JFK (New York) at 7:50pm to Thessaloniki via Istanbul
October21
Arrive Thessalonica
Day 2 ~ Tuesday
We arrive in Thessalonica at 8:25pm. Meet our guide and we are transferred to our hotel for dinner and overnight.
We arrive in Thessalonica at 8:25pm. Meet our guide and we are transferred to our hotel for dinner and overnight.
October22
Philippi - Kavala
Day 3 ~ Wednesday
We begin the day by following the massive battlement Byzantine wall to the citadel for a panoramic view of the city. Next, we will visit Philippi and Kavala. Kavala is Greece's prettiest mainland port with a most elegant harbor. Paul landed here with his disciples, Timothy and Silas. Luke, the Evangelist, also came here from Troas. This ancient city of Neapolis was later renamed Christoupolis because it was the first European city to accept Christianity. Imagine walking on the same sod as these men of the Bible! We will see the Roman Aqueduct and the ruins of the Acropolis in this beautifully located city, known since the 5th century as Kavala. Continue on to Philippi where Paul preached his first evangelical sermon and baptized the first
Christians on European soil. We will view the baptismal site where Lydia surrendered her life to Christ and visit a crypt dating from the Roman period that is thought to have served as a prison for Paul. See the famous Acropolis, the Market Place, Basilica, and the Theatre. We return to Thessalonica and visit St. Demetrius Basilica, dedicated to a distinguished member of the Roman army and a martyred Christian convert, before returning to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
We begin the day by following the massive battlement Byzantine wall to the citadel for a panoramic view of the city. Next, we will visit Philippi and Kavala. Kavala is Greece's prettiest mainland port with a most elegant harbor. Paul landed here with his disciples, Timothy and Silas. Luke, the Evangelist, also came here from Troas. This ancient city of Neapolis was later renamed Christoupolis because it was the first European city to accept Christianity. Imagine walking on the same sod as these men of the Bible! We will see the Roman Aqueduct and the ruins of the Acropolis in this beautifully located city, known since the 5th century as Kavala. Continue on to Philippi where Paul preached his first evangelical sermon and baptized the first
Christians on European soil. We will view the baptismal site where Lydia surrendered her life to Christ and visit a crypt dating from the Roman period that is thought to have served as a prison for Paul. See the famous Acropolis, the Market Place, Basilica, and the Theatre. We return to Thessalonica and visit St. Demetrius Basilica, dedicated to a distinguished member of the Roman army and a martyred Christian convert, before returning to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
October23
Thessalonica - Pella
Day 4 ~ Thursday
The New Testament books of I & II Thessalonians will come alive to us today as we arrive in the delightful harbor city of Thessalonica. We will view the old city ramparts; the newly excavated Forum, St. George Church, an ancient Roman monument which was transformed into a church and the Galerius Arch which rises over the famous Via Egnatia. The we continue to Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great. Roam the nearly 10,000 acres of ruins at this archaeological site. Return to Thessalonica for dinner and your overnight stay.
The New Testament books of I & II Thessalonians will come alive to us today as we arrive in the delightful harbor city of Thessalonica. We will view the old city ramparts; the newly excavated Forum, St. George Church, an ancient Roman monument which was transformed into a church and the Galerius Arch which rises over the famous Via Egnatia. The we continue to Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great. Roam the nearly 10,000 acres of ruins at this archaeological site. Return to Thessalonica for dinner and your overnight stay.
October24
Vergina - Meteora - Kalambaka
Day 5 ~ Friday
Traveling into Macedonia we visit King Phillip's (Alexander's father) tomb in Vergina, one of the most outstanding finds in all of Greece. A stop will be made in Berea to view the
ancient synagogue where Paul spoke and the Bema surrounded by mosaics of Paul and the plaque of scripture regarding the more noble church. Driving through town we see remnants of the original Roman road that spanned the nation during Paul’s time. We continue through the mountains to Meteora. Here we see the world famous Byzantine monasteries that are perched precariously on summits of gray rock pinnacles of varied and beautiful shapes. Their history goes back to the 14th century when the monks sought refuge in the cliffside caves then fled higher to build the original wooden shelters, later transformed into monasteries. Our lodging this evening will be in Kalambaka.
Traveling into Macedonia we visit King Phillip's (Alexander's father) tomb in Vergina, one of the most outstanding finds in all of Greece. A stop will be made in Berea to view the
ancient synagogue where Paul spoke and the Bema surrounded by mosaics of Paul and the plaque of scripture regarding the more noble church. Driving through town we see remnants of the original Roman road that spanned the nation during Paul’s time. We continue through the mountains to Meteora. Here we see the world famous Byzantine monasteries that are perched precariously on summits of gray rock pinnacles of varied and beautiful shapes. Their history goes back to the 14th century when the monks sought refuge in the cliffside caves then fled higher to build the original wooden shelters, later transformed into monasteries. Our lodging this evening will be in Kalambaka.
October25
Delphi - Athens
Day 6 ~ Saturday
From Meteora, our tour travels south to the lovely mountain region of Delphi - the ancient sanctuary of Apollo. Here you will gain a greater understanding of the Greek religious heritage and their influence on the early Christian church. We also visit the museum where we will marvel at the site of the Charioteer, a bronze statue so delicate we will see his eyelashes. This afternoon we continue south past Thermopylae to Athens which will be our home for the next two nights.
From Meteora, our tour travels south to the lovely mountain region of Delphi - the ancient sanctuary of Apollo. Here you will gain a greater understanding of the Greek religious heritage and their influence on the early Christian church. We also visit the museum where we will marvel at the site of the Charioteer, a bronze statue so delicate we will see his eyelashes. This afternoon we continue south past Thermopylae to Athens which will be our home for the next two nights.
October26
Athens
Day 7 ~ Sunday
Today, we tour Athens, the foundation of democracy. We visit the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and Erectheum before viewing Athens atop Mars Hill where Paul stood and preached the truth to the Gentile nation. Then we visit the Agora below, the ancient marketplace and center of Athenian public life. Additional sites viewed during our panoramic bus tour are, the House of Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Olympic Stadium, and Presidential Palace. We also visit the famous Acropolis Museum. Dinner and overnight are in Athens.
Today, we tour Athens, the foundation of democracy. We visit the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and Erectheum before viewing Athens atop Mars Hill where Paul stood and preached the truth to the Gentile nation. Then we visit the Agora below, the ancient marketplace and center of Athenian public life. Additional sites viewed during our panoramic bus tour are, the House of Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Olympic Stadium, and Presidential Palace. We also visit the famous Acropolis Museum. Dinner and overnight are in Athens.
October27
Cruising Mykonos
Day 8 ~ Monday
We sail this morning from Athens to the quaint isle of Mykonos, called the island of windmills. Experience the waterfront lined with shops and cafes and then stroll the charming walkways
through a maze of whitewashed buildings before returning to the ship for dinner and evening entertainment.
We sail this morning from Athens to the quaint isle of Mykonos, called the island of windmills. Experience the waterfront lined with shops and cafes and then stroll the charming walkways
through a maze of whitewashed buildings before returning to the ship for dinner and evening entertainment.
October28
Ephesus - Patmos
Day 9 ~ Tuesday
Docking in Turkey, enjoy a tour of Ephesus, the city of the Bible and one of the largest restorations still in progress with miles of ancient treasures. Ephesus was once a thriving port town of 250,000 people. Today you can still see the spectacular excavations of the major streets in this ancient city including the Agora, the Odeon, the Library, the marble-paved main Street, the Baths, Trajan’s Fountain, the Residences of the Patricians, the Prytaneum, and Temple of Hadrian. The Great Theatre, built in the 4th century B.C. could accommodate 24,000 spectators and it is famous even nowadays for its acoustics. This afternoon we visit the Isle of Patmos, under statutory protection as a historic monument. Here we have a tour to see the fortified monastery of St. John and the cave claimed to be where John received the Revelation. Back on the ship, enjoy the Captain's dinner before settling in to your cabin for the night.
Docking in Turkey, enjoy a tour of Ephesus, the city of the Bible and one of the largest restorations still in progress with miles of ancient treasures. Ephesus was once a thriving port town of 250,000 people. Today you can still see the spectacular excavations of the major streets in this ancient city including the Agora, the Odeon, the Library, the marble-paved main Street, the Baths, Trajan’s Fountain, the Residences of the Patricians, the Prytaneum, and Temple of Hadrian. The Great Theatre, built in the 4th century B.C. could accommodate 24,000 spectators and it is famous even nowadays for its acoustics. This afternoon we visit the Isle of Patmos, under statutory protection as a historic monument. Here we have a tour to see the fortified monastery of St. John and the cave claimed to be where John received the Revelation. Back on the ship, enjoy the Captain's dinner before settling in to your cabin for the night.
October29
Rhodes
Day 10 ~ Wednesday
Today, we will visit the Island of Rhodes. The ship enters the port, which was once dominated by the Colossus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. OPTIONAL SHORE EXCURSION. Shore excursion to Lindos which is located on the other side of the island. The impressive Acropolis of Lindos and the St. Paul Bay is certainly a site worth seeing! Return to the ship for lunch. Free afternoon in Rhodes.
Today, we will visit the Island of Rhodes. The ship enters the port, which was once dominated by the Colossus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. OPTIONAL SHORE EXCURSION. Shore excursion to Lindos which is located on the other side of the island. The impressive Acropolis of Lindos and the St. Paul Bay is certainly a site worth seeing! Return to the ship for lunch. Free afternoon in Rhodes.
October30
Crete - Santorini
Day 11 ~ Thursday
Crete is the largest and the most rugged of the Greek islands. OPTIONAL tour to Heraklion and the fantastic ruins of the Palace of Knossos. Discovered in 1899 and partially reconstructed, the elaborate Palace is believed to be the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos and the seat of ancient Minoan culture. This afternoon visit the island of Santorini which is perhaps the most
breathtaking of all the Greek Islands. You may choose to take an OPTIONAL panoramic bus tour viewing some of the most spectacular scenery of the Aegean. Travel through countless villages and settlements with delicate architecture and beauties eventually arriving in Oia. During your time in Oia, visit the many narrow streets, open-air cafes and glittering boutiques. Upon returning to the ship, we view the lace-like caldera, the little islands of Thirasia, Palea, & Nea Kameni. We arrive at the ship for dinner and evening entertainment.
Crete is the largest and the most rugged of the Greek islands. OPTIONAL tour to Heraklion and the fantastic ruins of the Palace of Knossos. Discovered in 1899 and partially reconstructed, the elaborate Palace is believed to be the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos and the seat of ancient Minoan culture. This afternoon visit the island of Santorini which is perhaps the most
breathtaking of all the Greek Islands. You may choose to take an OPTIONAL panoramic bus tour viewing some of the most spectacular scenery of the Aegean. Travel through countless villages and settlements with delicate architecture and beauties eventually arriving in Oia. During your time in Oia, visit the many narrow streets, open-air cafes and glittering boutiques. Upon returning to the ship, we view the lace-like caldera, the little islands of Thirasia, Palea, & Nea Kameni. We arrive at the ship for dinner and evening entertainment.
October31
Corinth - Athens
Day 12 ~ Friday
Today after our disembarkation, we visit ancient Corinth, the city that inspired many of Paul's most familiar letters and is a highlight for the New Testament scholar. See the Archaeological Museum, the Market Place, the Bema, and the Temples. To enjoy a devotional in the midst of the ruins of the church of Corinth and see the pillars, steps, and public worship place where Paul preached will enhance your understanding and love for the Bible. The ruins of this important cultural center are fascinating as we walk along the stone path that the Apostle Paul walked. The engineering skill and intellect of these people are evident in the water systems that still flow from ancient to modern day. Our guide will be sure to show you the room dedicated to the medical care of that period. Then we return to Athens for dinner and overnight.
Today after our disembarkation, we visit ancient Corinth, the city that inspired many of Paul's most familiar letters and is a highlight for the New Testament scholar. See the Archaeological Museum, the Market Place, the Bema, and the Temples. To enjoy a devotional in the midst of the ruins of the church of Corinth and see the pillars, steps, and public worship place where Paul preached will enhance your understanding and love for the Bible. The ruins of this important cultural center are fascinating as we walk along the stone path that the Apostle Paul walked. The engineering skill and intellect of these people are evident in the water systems that still flow from ancient to modern day. Our guide will be sure to show you the room dedicated to the medical care of that period. Then we return to Athens for dinner and overnight.
November1
Athens Free Day
Day 13 ~ Saturday
Today is a free day for own activities. Farewell dinner at the hotel and overnight.
Today is a free day for own activities. Farewell dinner at the hotel and overnight.
November2
Return to USA
Day 14 ~ Sunday
Depart from Athens to JFK via Istanbul on Turkish Airlines departing at 10:00am, arriving in JFK at 5:50pm.
Depart from Athens to JFK via Istanbul on Turkish Airlines departing at 10:00am, arriving in JFK at 5:50pm.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
All participants must review the Full Terms of Service here https://www.ihtours.com/terms-of-service/. These full terms of service will govern on all matters not specifically mentioned below.
TOUR PRICE: $4,619 USD per person based on double occupancy.
PAYMENT TERMS:
A $400 deposit is required at the time of reservation. At 120 days before departure 50% of the final trip cost is required. Final payment is required 90 days before departure. All payments are 50% refundable up to 90 days before departure. Less than 90 days before departure no refunds are given.
You may also pay by personal cheque or credit card made payable to:
International Heritage Tours
7117 Bathurst Street, Suite 200
Thornhill, ON, CANADA
L4J 2J6
ATTN: DK5035
INCLUDED:
The rates include the following hotels or similar
* 13 nights hotel accommodations in the following cities
- 3-nights Capsis Hotel, Thessaloniki
- 1-night Hotel Meteora, Kalambaka
- 4 nights (2 & 2) Wyndham Grand Athens Hotel, Athens
- 4-nights Celestyal Cruise in Inside Cabins
* Roundtrip air fare on Turkish Airlines flying from JFK to Thessaloniki returning to JFK from Athens
* Arrival and departure transfers from/to the airport
* Breakfasts and dinners in the hotels daily
* Breakfast, lunch and dinners on the cruise + Unlimited drinks (coffee, tea, sodas, beer, wine) on board the cruise ship during the meals only.
* Full days of sightseeing as per your itinerary in Greece
* Shore excursions to Ancient Ephesus and Patmos
* Entrance fees to all places of interest
* Licensed English speaking tour guide in Greece and tour escort on the cruise
* Modern Air Conditioned motor coach
* Porterage of 1 piece of luggage per person for the airport and hotel
* Port taxes and Cruise Tips and Cruise fuel supplement
* Overnight Hotel Stay taxes in Greece
NOT INCLUDED:
* Single Supplement $1,080.00 USD
* Upgrade to Superior Outside cabin $250 USD per person (based on double occupancy). Upgrade to Superior Outside cabin for single is $350 USD.
* Shore Excursions; if someone wants to buy they can purchase on board for approximately $80 USD per person except the 2 shore excursions that is included in the tour above.
Ports of call are Mykonos, Kusadasi (Ephesus), Patmos, Rhodes, Crete and Santorini
* Travel Insurance
* Lunches during the land touring in Greece
* Tips to the guide, driver and dining room staff. Recommended tips are:
3-4 Euros for the guide and 2 Euros for the driver for half day shore excursions and
on the regular touring days tips should be 6-8 Euros per day for the guide and 3-4 Euros for the driver
Approximate Total of 90-100 Euros for tips; please give to the tour leader in an envelope
DOCUMENTATION:
Please ensure that you are in possession of a Canadian/USA Passport valid for at least 6 months after your arrival in Greece. If you have a passport from another country, it is your responsibility to inquire at the appropriate Consulate if a Visa is required.
All participants must review the Full Terms of Service here https://www.ihtours.com/terms-of-service/. These full terms of service will govern on all matters not specifically mentioned below.
TOUR PRICE: $4,619 USD per person based on double occupancy.
PAYMENT TERMS:
A $400 deposit is required at the time of reservation. At 120 days before departure 50% of the final trip cost is required. Final payment is required 90 days before departure. All payments are 50% refundable up to 90 days before departure. Less than 90 days before departure no refunds are given.
You may also pay by personal cheque or credit card made payable to:
International Heritage Tours
7117 Bathurst Street, Suite 200
Thornhill, ON, CANADA
L4J 2J6
ATTN: DK5035
INCLUDED:
The rates include the following hotels or similar
* 13 nights hotel accommodations in the following cities
- 3-nights Capsis Hotel, Thessaloniki
- 1-night Hotel Meteora, Kalambaka
- 4 nights (2 & 2) Wyndham Grand Athens Hotel, Athens
- 4-nights Celestyal Cruise in Inside Cabins
* Roundtrip air fare on Turkish Airlines flying from JFK to Thessaloniki returning to JFK from Athens
* Arrival and departure transfers from/to the airport
* Breakfasts and dinners in the hotels daily
* Breakfast, lunch and dinners on the cruise + Unlimited drinks (coffee, tea, sodas, beer, wine) on board the cruise ship during the meals only.
* Full days of sightseeing as per your itinerary in Greece
* Shore excursions to Ancient Ephesus and Patmos
* Entrance fees to all places of interest
* Licensed English speaking tour guide in Greece and tour escort on the cruise
* Modern Air Conditioned motor coach
* Porterage of 1 piece of luggage per person for the airport and hotel
* Port taxes and Cruise Tips and Cruise fuel supplement
* Overnight Hotel Stay taxes in Greece
NOT INCLUDED:
* Single Supplement $1,080.00 USD
* Upgrade to Superior Outside cabin $250 USD per person (based on double occupancy). Upgrade to Superior Outside cabin for single is $350 USD.
* Shore Excursions; if someone wants to buy they can purchase on board for approximately $80 USD per person except the 2 shore excursions that is included in the tour above.
Ports of call are Mykonos, Kusadasi (Ephesus), Patmos, Rhodes, Crete and Santorini
* Travel Insurance
* Lunches during the land touring in Greece
* Tips to the guide, driver and dining room staff. Recommended tips are:
3-4 Euros for the guide and 2 Euros for the driver for half day shore excursions and
on the regular touring days tips should be 6-8 Euros per day for the guide and 3-4 Euros for the driver
Approximate Total of 90-100 Euros for tips; please give to the tour leader in an envelope
DOCUMENTATION:
Please ensure that you are in possession of a Canadian/USA Passport valid for at least 6 months after your arrival in Greece. If you have a passport from another country, it is your responsibility to inquire at the appropriate Consulate if a Visa is required.
**THE ITINERARY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY VARY IN THE ORDER YOU VISIT**