9-Day Private Tour by Angels Vacations in Turkey
Seven Churches of Revelation: A Sacred Pilgrimage Across Ancient Asia Minor
Embark on a soul-enriching journey through ancient Asia Minor with this 9-day pilgrimage following the path of the Seven Churches of Revelation. Beginning and ending in majestic Istanbul, this thoughtfully curated tour invites you to explore the timeless ruins, sacred sanctuaries, and spiritual legacies of the early Christian world. From the domes of Hagia Sophia to the echoes of Ephesus, you'll witness the faith and perseverance of the earliest believers across sites like Pergamum, Smyrna, Laodicea, and beyond.
Whether you come in search of history, faith, or personal reflection, Angels Vacations offers a profound connection to the roots of Christianity, set amid the breathtaking landscapes of modern-day Turkey.
Extension options: You may add the following must-sees to this journey:
-
The WWI memorials of Gallipoli and the ancient city of Troy,
-
The natural wonders of Cappadocia,
-
The Mediterranean beauty of Antalya.
(We Only Offer Private Tours – NO Mixed Groups!)
✔ Welcome Dinner!
✔ Up to 60% discount for children!
✔ Flexible Start Dates – Depart Any Day!
✔ Special discount for (5+ people) private groups!
Overview
Start City End City Duration Domestic Flights VIP Transport Availability Age Range
Istanbul Istanbul 9 Days 2 (up to1h 20m) Yes Flexible dates-Choose yours! 1 - 80
.png){kind=small}
Tour Type
Private fully guided (Min. 2P) NO MIXED GROUPS - ONLY YOURS!
Highlights
✔ The Seven Churches:
-
Ephesus: Walk through Ephesus, the most glorious of the Seven Churches, where Saint John once preached love and faith.
-
Smyrna (İzmir): Explore ancient Smyrna, city of endurance and renewal, honoring the early Christians’ unwavering devotion to faith.
-
Pergamum (Bergama): Stand at Pergamum’s sacred acropolis and the Asklepion, where faith and healing once intertwined.
-
Thyatira (Akhisar): Discover Thyatira’s humble ruins, once praised for steadfast charity, and still echoing the strength of true believers.
-
Sardis (Sart): Visit Sardis, once a city of wealth and glory, reminded to awaken its sleeping spirit.
-
Philadelphia (Alaşehir): Step into Philadelphia, the church of brotherly love, praised for its faithfulness and open door of truth.
-
Laodicea (Pamukkale): Reflect in Laodicea, where warm devotion was tested, and the call for spiritual renewal still endures.
✔ Fully private and escorted road journeys, accompanied by professional tour guide
✔ Istanbul’s mosques, palaces, Bosphorus cruise, and Grand Bazaar
✔ Enjoy the scenic road journeys with photo stops all along - given free time for prayers
✔ All domestic flights include 25kg of checked luggage + 8kg cabin per person
Itinerary
Day 1: Istanbul (Arrival) - Transfer to your hotel - Overnight in Istanbul (5*)
(Meals: Welcome Dinner)
"Welcome to the Land of Wonders, Turkiye!" Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST or SAW), your Angels Vacations representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and get ready for tomorrow's adventures! . . . Overnight: Istanbul (5*) Meals: Welcome Dinner at hotel restaurant (Pre-paid fixed night, non-transferable to other nights) Included Activities: Airport Transfer Optional Activities: N/A
Day 2: Walking Tour in Old Istanbul - Overnight in Istanbul (5*)
(Meals: Breakfast)
“Beneath domes and minarets, let thy steps trace tales carved in marble and gold.” After breakfast, set forth on a guided journey through Istanbul’s Old City, where Byzantine glory and Ottoman elegance meet. Highlights include: • Topkapi Palace: Home of sultans, filled with jewels, relics, and sweeping Bosphorus views. • Hagia Sophia: A marvel of divine architecture adorned with mosaics and domes of faith. • Blue Mosque: Drenched in blue Iznik tiles and spiritual serenity. • Hippodrome of Constantinople: Once roared with chariots and emperors’ decree. • Grand Bazaar: Endless labyrinth of shops and treasures. Note: Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, and the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. After your tour, return to your hotel for a rest or enjoy optional evening activities. . . . Overnight: Istanbul Meals: Breakfast Included Activities: Full-day guided tour of Old City Optional Activities: Bosphorus evening cruise with dinner and show
Day 3: Flight from Istanbul to Izmir –Pergamum, Thyatira & Smyrna– Overnight in Izmir (5*)
(Meals: Breakfast)
“Let thy steps follow the letters of Revelation, from the hilltop altars of Pergamum to the faithful echoes of Smyrna.” After breakfast, you will check out and be transferred to the airport for a short domestic flight to Izmir, ancient Smyrna, one of the Seven Churches praised for its unwavering faith. From there, your sacred journey unfolds with guided visits to three of the Seven Churches of Revelation: Highlights include: • Pergamum (Bergama): Once home to a great library and temple to Zeus, this city was referred to as “where Satan's throne is.” Explore the dramatic Acropolis, the Altar of Zeus, and the Red Basilica, once a temple to Serapis. • Thyatira (Akhisar): Known for its strong guilds and early Christian community. Visit the remains of the ancient church, nestled in the heart of a living modern city. • Smyrna (Izmir): A city that suffered persecution yet remained faithful. Visit the ruins of Agora, and reflect upon the words addressed to this steadfast church. Take moments at each site for personal prayer and reflection where the early believers once gathered. . . . Overnight: Izmir Meals: Breakfast Included Activities: Flight to Izmir, guided visits to Pergamum, Thyatira, and Smyrna Optional Activities: Prayer time & spiritual reading at each church site
Day 4: Visit Sardis & Philadelphia – Overnight in Pamukkale (5*)
(Meals: Breakfast, Dinner)
“Where pillars lie broken and lamps once burned, walk the path of faith and remembrance.” After breakfast and check out from your hotel, your spiritual journey continues toward two more of the Seven Churches of Revelation: Sardis and Philadelphia, both rich in biblical meaning and architectural legacy. Highlights include: • Sardis: Once the capital of ancient Lydia, Sardis was rebuked for appearing alive but being spiritually dead. Explore the stunning Gymnasium, Synagogue, and remnants of the early church, where faded grandeur meets prophetic warnings. • Philadelphia (Alaşehir): Known as the “faithful church,” praised for keeping the word. Walk among its few remaining columns and stones—a quiet and powerful place for reflection. In the late afternoon, continue your journey toward Pamukkale, where warm springs and ancient ruins await. Check in to your 5-star thermal hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening at leisure or soaking in the healing waters. . . . Overnight: Pamukkale Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Included Activities: Guided visits to Sardis and Philadelphia, road transfer Optional Activities: Prayer journaling at Sardis – Thermal spa soak at the hotel
Day 5: Visit Hierapolis & Laodicea – Road Journey to Kusadasi - Overnight in Kusadasi (5*)
(Meals: Breakfast - Dinner)
“Amid healing waters and lukewarm warnings, stand where angels once wept and faith was tested.” Following breakfast and check-out, begin your guided visit to Hierapolis and Laodicea, the next profound sites in the journey of Revelation. Highlights include: • Hierapolis: A Greco-Roman spa city built atop calcium-rich terraces. Stroll through the necropolis, Roman baths, and the ancient theatre. You may also witness the martyrdom site of St. Philip, believed to be buried here. • Laodicea: Addressed in Revelation as the “lukewarm church.” Visit the impressive ruins of two early churches, colonnaded streets, and theaters—a site both grand and spiritually stirring. After time for prayer and contemplation, transfer to Kusadasi, a charming coastal town. Check in and rest before tomorrow’s grand finale: Ephesus. . . . Overnight: Kusadasi 5* Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Included Activities: Guided visits to Hierapolis and Laodicea Optional Activities: Swim in Cleopatra’s Pool – Spiritual reflection at St. Philip’s Martyrium
Day 6: Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary & Basilica of St. John – Overnight in Kusadasi (5*)
(Meals: Breakfast - Dinner)
“Here, where saints once walked and Mary found rest, let thy soul be stirred by sacred echoes.” After breakfast, prepare for a deeply moving day as you explore Ephesus and nearby holy sites, among the most revered in Christian history. Highlights include: • Ancient Ephesus: Walk along marble streets lined with history. Visit the Library of Celsus, Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders), Great Theatre, and early church sites, including where St. Paul once preached. • House of Virgin Mary: A peaceful shrine believed to be the last earthly home of Mary, mother of Jesus. A place of pilgrimage, prayer, and silence. • Basilica of St. John: Built over the supposed burial site of the Apostle John, who authored Revelation. The ruins still radiate sacred presence. You’ll return to Kusadasi by evening to rest or enjoy optional seaside moments. . . . Overnight: Kusadasi 5* Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Included Activities: Guided visits to Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, and Basilica of St. John Optional Activities: Prayer service at Virgin Mary’s House – Sunset coastal walk
Day 7: Flight from Izmir to Istanbul – Overnight in Istanbul (Taksim Area) (5*)
(Meals: Breakfast)
“From Aegean shores to Istanbul’s heart, ascend once more to the city where East and West entwine.” Following breakfast, you will check out from your hotel and transfer to Izmir airport to fly to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel in the vibrant Taksim Square area, where the energy of Istanbul’s legendary nightlife and bustling Istiklal Street awaits. As dusk falls, consider quiet prayer at the historic Church of St. Anthony of Padua, tucked amid Istanbul’s bustling heart. (Upon request, we can add Cappadocia, Troy and Gallipoli, or Antalya to this trip ) . . . Overnight: Istanbul (Taksim Area) Meals: Breakfast Included Activities: Airport transfers, flight Optional Activities: Evening walk through Galata – Visit St. Anthony Church for reflection
Day 8: Free Day in Istanbul – Optional Private Tour – Overnight in Istanbul (Taksim Area) (5*)
(Meals: Breakfast)
“Let thy final day be thine own, wander, reflect, and embrace the spirit of the city eternal.” Today is yours to spend as you wish in Istanbul, a city where every street corner holds centuries of stories. You may choose to explore independently or join an optional private guided tour through the treasures you may have missed, such as the Grand Bazaar, Chora Church, or Pierre Loti Hill with its panoramic views. Alternatively, take this day to simply reflect on the journey, perhaps lighting a candle at a neighborhood chapel, sipping Turkish tea near the Bosphorus, or writing a final prayer in your travel journal. . . . Overnight: Istanbul (Taksim Area) Meals: Breakfast Included Activities: None Optional Activities: Private guided tour – Grand Bazaar visit – Quiet prayer at historic churches
Day 9: Farewell to Turkey – Departure from Istanbul
(Meals: Breakfast)
“With souls enriched and memories bright, part ways with Angels Vacations, until destiny calls thee back!”😇 Following breakfast at the hotel, you will proceed to check out and be transported to the airport for your departure flight. We sincerely hope you’ve cherished every moment of your vacation and are leaving with a treasure trove of unforgettable memories and photos! We can’t wait to welcome you back for another adventure. Safe travels! . . . Overnight: N/A Meals: Breakfast Included Activities: Airport transfer Optional Activities: N/A
Accommodation
Accommodations are in premium 4-star and 5-star hotels.
(4-star hotels can be upgraded to 5-star upon request.)
🛏️ Istanbul (arrival) (2 nights): Elite World Istanbul Taksim (5*)
🛏️ Izmir (1 night): Park Inn by Radisson (4*)
🛏️ Pamukkale (1 night): Pam Thermal Hotel (5*)
🛏️ Kusadasi (2 nights): Seven For Life Thermal Hotel (5*)
🛏️ Istanbul (departure) (2 nights): Elite World Istanbul Taksim (5*)
** In case of unavailability, equivalent hotels will be arranged.
Inclusions & Exclusions
INCLUSIONS:
✔ All Accommodations
✔ All entrance tickets to sites in the itinerary (valued at $190 pp)
✔ All Breakfasts
✔ 1 "Welcome Dinner" - at Hotel (pre-paid, non-transferable)
✔ 3 Dinners During Tour - at Hotel (pre-paid, non-transferable)
✔ All Domestic Flights (25kg checked + 8kg cabin Allowance - pp)
✔ All Transportations by High-class Van/Bus
✔ Professional Licensed Tour Guide
✔ Tips at Hotels & Restaurants
✔ Water with Meals
✔ All Taxes
EXCLUSIONS:
X International Flights
X Travel Insurance
X Tips to Tour Guides and Drivers (Not Mandatory)
X Optional Activities
FAQ
Can I customize this tour?
Absolutely, every tour is fully customizable: hotels, activities, and itinerary details can be adjusted to suit your specific wishes and preferences.
Is this tour really private?
Yes, all of our tours are completely private, and designed exclusively for you and your companions, with no mixed groups ever included. There will be a driver, your professional licensed tour guide, and you, all along the journey!
Can I choose my travel dates freely?
Yes, with daily departures year-round, you enjoy complete flexibility to select the perfect travel dates according to your personal schedule.
Is hot-air balloon ride guaranteed?
Balloon rides depend on weather conditions, but we arrange priority reservations so you enjoy the best chance to experience this wonder.
What do you mean by Optional Activities?
Optional activities are additional experiences offered in each city or region, such as hot-air balloon rides, cultural shows, boat trips, or special evening programs. These are not included in the standard package price, because every traveler has different preferences. Since this is a private tour, you may decide freely whether or not to join them when you are here. Optional Activities are listed at the end of each day on the itinerary for easy reference. The only exception we strongly recommend booking in advance is the hot-air balloon ride in Cappadocia, as availability is limited and demand is extremely high.
What makes Angels Vacations different from other agencies?
At Angels Vacations, we design fully private journeys where you will never share your adventure with strangers. We carefully handpick only premium-class hotels, including authentic cave stays in Cappadocia, to guarantee comfort and unforgettable charm. Every transfer is arranged with luxury private vehicles, ensuring seamless travel between cities, mountains, and coastlines. Your trip is guided by professional, licensed guides who bring history, culture, and local secrets to life with passion. And most importantly, we believe that Angels choose our guests, we welcome warm-hearted travelers seeking honesty, quality, and truly special experiences.
Reviews
Angels Vacations Travel Agency
(Angels Gesture Turizm)
A fully licensed travel agency and an accredited
member of TURSAB (representative of the
Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Turkey)
with license number: 16603
Head Office:
Merkez Mah. Şamlı Sk. Ergül Çakıcı İş Merkezi Sitesi,
No: 27, Kat: 5, Daire: 90 Postal Code: 34310
Avcilar, ISTANBUL, TURKEY.
Email: info@angelsvacations.com
Tel/WhatsApp: +90 535 970 9293
Click on logo to verify our agency with
Turkish Government
