Steps of St. Paul

This morning, we set off on our drive to Thessaloniki in northern Greece. Tonight dinner is offered at the hotel.

After breakfast, we enjoy a full-day excursion of Kavala, which occupies the ancient site of Philippi and Neapolis, a major archaeological site near Krinides, where St. Paul and St. Silas were imprisoned after St. Paul's first sermon in what we today call Europe. We visit the Theatre, Forum, Acropolis and market square before returning to Thessaloniki. Dinner this evening will be at a local restaurant.

Our sightseeing today takes us to St. George's Church, the Galerius Church, built to commemorate Galerius's victory over the Persians. We then visit St. Demitrius Basilica, often referred to as the most beautiful basilica in the city. It was here that the saint was imprisoned, tortured and buried. A visit to the Church of the Holy Apostles is also included. Later we continue to Berea where St. Paul and St. Silas departed after the accusations from the Jewish community. Dinner this evening will be at the hotel.

An early morning departure today as we drive along the beautiful Greek coastline and through valleys to Kalambaka and Meteora. We visit two of the incredible monasteries at Meteora, perched on giant rocks above the town to admire the beautiful Byzantine frescoes and the views.

Our destination today is Delphi – located on the slope of the Holy Mountain of Parnassos, and surrounded by a forest of pine trees. Here lies the shrine of the god Apollo. We will visit the Temple of Apollo, the Museum and the Theatre. Tonight we dine at a local restaurant.

We begin today with a brief visit to the medieval monastery of Osios Loukas and the Chapel of St. Barbara. Travelling via Corinth, where we visit the market place, the Temple of Apollo and the Corinth Museum. It was in Corinth that the Apostle Paul preached to the Corinthians. Crossing the Corinth Canal we continue to Athens.

Today's morning sightseeing tour takes us to the Acropolis and the Parthenon. We will see the Agora, Acropolis Museum, Royal Palace, the Temple of Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, and the stadium built for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 before free time at leisure.

Transfer to the port and cruise to stunning Mykonos. Spend time discovering this island paradise with its distinctive whitewashed houses and maze of narrow cobbled streets.

An early arrival this morning brings us to Kusadasi, Turkey. We take an excursion to Ephesus And The House Of The Virgin Mary. Visit the valley-side chapel said to be where the Virgin Mary spent her last days – officially sanctioned for pilgrimage by the Vatican. After, you'll see the excavation site of Ancient Ephesus, including where Mark Anthony and Cleopatra once rode. Then enjoy free time in Kusadasi. Continue your cruise to the island of Patmos. Here we visit Chora village and the monastery of St. John, where you'll view the monks' dining room and main church. We'll show you the museum and the Grotto and Monastery of the Apocalypse before driving back to Scala port, where you'll enjoy free time.

Wake this morning in Heraklion on the island of Crete. A possible visit to the Mionoan Palace of Knossos. Continue to spectacular volcanic island of Santorini, explore the town or consider joining an Optional Experience to Oia and Fira.

This morning, disembark from your cruise ship before bidding farewell to your companions after a memorable pilgrimage. Airport transfers are available. Conditions apply. Please ensure onward flights from Athens airport are scheduled after 11:30am on day of departure.