Biblical Seven Churches of Revelation Tour

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Ephesus and Laodicea

Upon arrival at Izmir Airport (arrival time around 08:30), meet your guide and begin your Biblical journey. Start with a visit to Ephesus, one of the most important sites among the “Seven Churches of Revelation.”

Explore the ancient Greco-Roman city, including the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, the Great Theater, and walk along its beautifully preserved marble streets. Visit the Basilica of St. John, believed to be built over the burial site of St. John the Apostle.

Then continue to the House of the Virgin Mary on Mount Solmissos, where Mary is thought to have spent her final years under the care of St. John.

After lunch, drive to Laodicea, a crossroads of the ancient world and another of the Seven Churches. Explore the ruins, including the ancient stadium, gymnasium, churches, and theaters. Overnight stay in Pamukkale. Meals: Lunch included.

Day 2: Pamukkale, Philadelphia, Sardis, and Thyatira

After breakfast, visit Hierapolis, the ancient spa city mentioned in the Bible and the home of Philip the Evangelist. Explore its grand theater, ancient streets, and the extensive Necropolis.

Enjoy a short break at the stunning calcium terraces of Pamukkale, famous for their mineral-rich thermal waters and dazzling white formations. Continue to Philadelphia (modern-day Alasehir), the youngest of the Seven Churches of Revelation.

Visit the surviving remains of one of the early churches and city walls. After lunch, visit Sardis, the ancient capital of Lydia. Explore the ruins of the famous Gymnasium, Synagogue, and the Church of Sardis, reflecting Sardis’ wealth and early Christian significance.

Later in the afternoon, visit the ancient city of Thyatira, known for its artisans and textile workers. Although fewer remains exist today, it holds significant historical and Biblical relevance. Drive to Pergamon (Bergama) for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Pergamon and Smyrna

After breakfast, explore Pergamon, one of the most influential cities of the ancient world. St. John referred to it as the place “where Satan’s throne is,” highlighting its pagan influence.

Visit the ruins of the Church of Pergamon, the Red Basilica (Red Court), and the dramatic Acropolis, where the remains of temples, palaces, and the steepest ancient theater of the world are found. After lunch, visit a local carpet cooperative to learn about the art of Turkish carpet weaving, an enduring tradition passed down for generations.

Conclude the tour with a visit to Smyrna (modern-day Izmir), another of the Seven Churches, praised for its early Christian faithfulness. View the remains of ancient Smyrna and the modern city that grew atop its historic roots. At the end of the tour, transfer to Izmir Airport for your onward journey.

Biblical References Related to the Tour Ephesus (Acts 19; Revelation 2:1-7), Laodicea (Colossians 2:1; Revelation 3:14-22), Hierapolis (Colossians 4:13), Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13), Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6), Thyatira (Revelation 2:18-29), Pergamon (Revelation 2:12-17), Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11).