footsteps of faith: “exploring new testament archaeology in greece.”
may 18-27, 2025
tour itinerary
Sunday, May 18: Departure USA
Today we embark on our Journey to the lands of ancient treasures and Christian history with an overnight flight to Greece. Prepare yourself for a life-changing experience. Get some rest on the flight…Tomorrow you will be walking where the apostles walked!
Monday, May 19: Arrival Thessaloniki
We arrive in Thessalonica, Greece and are welcomed by our Greek guide. We’ll transfer to our hotel and upon check in enjoy the remainder of our afternoon at leisure. This evening our group will enjoy the first of many delectable European style dinners.
Tuesday, May 20: Philippi-Kavala-Thessaloniki
The New Testament books of I & II Thessalonians will come alive to us today as we visit 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. 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 for our dinner and overnight.
Wednesday, May 21: Thessalonica, Berea, Meteora Monastery
This morning we leave Thessalonica and travel to Berea where we’ll make a short stop to view the synagogue where Paul preached. We stop at the Bema surrounded by mosaics of Paul and the plaque of scripture regarding the "more noble" church. We pass by the area of King Phillip's (Alexander's father) tomb in Vergina, with travel commentary on the Apostle Paul's teaching. This afternoon 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 is in Thessalonica
Thursday, May 22: Kalambaka-Delphi
Today we travel 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 evening we stay in Delphi and tomorrow we continue south past Thermopylae to Athens which will be our home for the next three nights.
Friday, May 23: Delphi -Athens
Today we arrive in Athens where over the next 2 days we will visit the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and Erectheum before viewing Athens atop Mars Hill where Paul stood and preached the truth to the Gentile nation. Additional sites include the Agora (ancient market place and center of Athenian public life), the House of Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Olympic Stadium, and Presidential Palace. An option later this afternoon is a visit to the famous Plaka with a multitude of shops and cafes.
Saturday, May 24: Athens Tour
Today we will explore Athens with additional stops to include the Agora (ancient market place and center of Athenian public life), the House of Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Olympic Stadium, and Presidential Palace. An option later this afternoon is a visit to the famous Plaka with a multitude of shops and cafes.
Sunday, May 25: Corinth Tour
Departing Athens, we stop for a rest stop and photos at the Corinth Canal and then travel to the ancient city of Corinth, another treat for the New Testament scholar. Corinth is the city that inspired many of Paul's most familiar letters. 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 of I & II Corinthians. 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. Next, we travel to the top of the nearby Acropolis where our guide will speak on the worship practices and point out the bird’s eye view of what was a bustling city of around 800,000 during Paul’s stay. Before ending our day we pass by Cenchreae, the ancient port region of Corinth. Acts 18:18, states the Apostle Paul stopped at Cenchreae during his second missionary journey, where he had his hair cut to fulfill a vow. We return to Athens for the evening.
Monday, May 26: Free Day in Aegina
Today we take a ferry to the gorgeous island of Aegina where we’ll experience a delightful mix of history, relaxation, and adventure. Begin by exploring the impressive Temple of Aphaia, an ancient sanctuary perched on a hill with stunning views of the island and the sea. We will stroll through the charming streets of Aegina town, visiting the bustling harbor and savoring local pistachio treats. Be prepared also to join us for a refreshing swim at one of the island’s pristine beaches, such as Marathonas or Agia Marina, where crystal-clear waters invite you to unwind
Tuesday, May 27: Departure
Board your Flight Back to the US
pricing
Total Price: $1,950 pp (before March 1, 2025)
$2,200 (after March 1, 2025)
NOT including international flight
$500 DEPOSIT DUE March 1, 2025
INCLUDING:
8 nights in 4* hotels on HB basis
Bus, guide, entrances, residency tax and whisper on guiding days
Round trip ferry tickets Aegina and Athens port transfers
Assistant for transfers
EXCLUDING:
Tips
Lunches and drinks
