9-Day Private Angels Vacations in Turkey| Seven Churches of Revelation: A Sacred Pilgrimage Across Ancient Asia Minor (Escorted Private Tour)
Laodicea
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, this journey offers a profound connection to the roots of Christianity, set amid the breathtaking landscapes of modern-day Turkey.
Extension offer: You may add any of the following must-sees to this journey.
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The WWI memorials of Gallipoli and the ancient city of Troy,
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The natural wonders of Cappadocia,
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The Mediterranean beauty of Antalya.
(We Only Offer Private Tours – NO Mixed Groups!)
✔ Up to 60% discount for children!
✔Flexible Start Dates – Depart Any Day!
✔Special discount for (5+ people) private groups!
TOUR SUMMARY
9 Days Turkey Highlights
Seven Churches of Revelation
Tour Type: Private Basis Escorted (Minimum 2P)
Start City: Istanbul
End City: Istanbul
Domestic Flights: 2 (each max 1hr10m)
VIP Road Trips: Yes
Transportations: High-class Private Vans
Accommodation: 8 nights
City overnights / Hotels
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): Radisson President/ Sultanahmet (4*), or similar
🛏️Izmir (1 night): Park Inn by Radisson (4*), or similar
🛏️Pamukkale (1 night): Pam Thermal (5*), or similar
🛏️Kusadasi (2 nights): Seven For Life Thermal (5*), or similar
🛏️Istanbul-Departure (2 nights): Elite World Istanbul Taksim(5*), or similar
Itinerary Details
Day 1: Istanbul (Arrival) - Transfer to your hotel - Overnight in Istanbul
(Meals: N/A)
"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 in the historic heart of the city, old Istanbul. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and soak in the lively energy of Sultanahmet’s Old Town. Wander its charming streets, admire the centuries-old architecture, or savor Turkish delights as you prepare for the magical journey ahead. Safe travels, and let the adventure begin! 😇 . . . Overnight: Istanbul Meals: N/A Included Activities: Airport Transfer Optional Activities: Bosphorus evening cruise with dinner and show
Day 2: Walking Tour in Old Istanbul - Overnight in Istanbul
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch)
“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. Basilica Cistern: Mysterious subterranean columns with whispers of ancient waters. Note: Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, and the Grand Bazaar (optional visit) is closed on Sundays. After your tour, return to your hotel for rest or enjoy optional evening activities. . . . Overnight: Istanbul Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 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
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch)
What's included, what's not!
INCLUSIONS:
✔ All Accommodations in super-comfort 4* & 5* Hotels
✔ All Breakfasts
✔ 5 Lunch + 3 Dinner (water included with meals)
✔ All Domestic Flights (25kg+8kg Allowance Per Person)
✔ All Transportations by High-class Vans
✔ Professional Licensed Tour Guide
✔ Tips at Hotels & Restaurants
✔ Entrance Fees for Sites
EXCLUSIONS:
- International Flights(click for cheap flights)
- Travel Insurance
- Visas (documents will be provided after deposit)
- Tips to Tour Guides and Drivers
- Optional Activities
“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, Lunch 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
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - 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, Lunch, 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
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - 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 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, 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
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - 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 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, 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)
(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)
(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
