Book our Christian Tour Package in Greece to follow the footsteps of Apostle Paul, exploring the most important monasteries, churches, and ancient sites throughout the country. Start your adventure at ‘Mars Hill’ in Athens, then visit Ancient Corinth and ‘Kechries Port’. As a key figure of the Apostolic Age, Apostle Paul played a vital role in spreading Christianity. Discover significant Christian locations in Northern Greece, such as Veroia with its marble “Vima of Apostle Paul.” Continue along St. Paul’s journey to the ‘Agiasma of St. Paul’ at Nea Fokea, and visit Filippoi, where Europe’s first Christians were baptized and Paul was imprisoned in a hidden crypt. Finally, explore ‘ancient Neapolis’ in Kavala, where Paul began his missionary work in Europe, and complete your experience with an extensive tour of the churches and cathedrals in Thessaloniki.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Athens airport, you will be welcomed and taken to your hotel. If you’d like, you can choose to participate in an 'Athens By Night' experience, where you can immerse yourself in Greek culture through a traditional dinner accompanied by folk dance performances and live music. Overnight in Athens.
Our first destination will be Thermopylae, where we will admire the statue of Leonidas, commemorating the legendary Battle of the 300. After this, we will continue on to Thessaloniki. Upon our arrival, you will check in to your accommodation and have some time to relax before visiting the Vlatades Monastery. This site is noted for its association with Apostle Paul, who is believed to have stopped there for a drink, giving it the name 'Apostle Paul’s Holy Water.' Many devotees from around the world come to worship at this holy site and take in the stunning panoramic views of the Thermaic Gulf. In the vicinity, you will also find the Orthodox Church of St. Paul. Afterward, we recommend indulging in some delicious Greek cuisine or taking a leisurely stroll along the city's coastline, as Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece. Overnight in Thessaloniki.
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will depart Thessaloniki for the charming town of Nea Fokea, where we will visit the 'Agiasma of St. Paul,' an underground passage where the Apostle Paul sought refuge from the people of Thessaloniki who were pursuing him. This sacred site resonates with echoes of Paul's trials and his unwavering faith, and we will also see the crypt where he endured imprisonment for his beliefs. Next, we'll arrive in Kavala (Neapolis), the port of Philippi, which Paul passed through with Silas on their journey from Asia Minor to Philippi. It is believed that Paul founded the early Christian community here, as indicated in the Acts of the Apostles and his letter to the Philippians. We will explore the ancient ruins, including the forum, market, basilica, and theatre, where Paul delivered his first evangelical sermon and baptized the first Christians in Europe. Our pilgrimage will continue to Philippi, where we will stand at the 'Baptismal' site, commemorating Lydia, the first European convert to Christianity. Overnight in Thessaloniki.
Begin your day with a private tour of Thessaloniki, a city steeped in Christian heritage that dates back to the Roman Empire. We'll explore several churches and significant Christian sites, including the Rotonda, the Basilica of St. Demetrius, Acheiropoietos, and the ancient city wall. Marvel at iconic landmarks such as the White Tower and the Triumph of Galerius as we stroll along the historic Via Egnatia. Next, we will head to Veria, also known as Berea, where you can visit the church dedicated to Apostle Paul, believed to be the location where he preached after departing Thessaloniki. This vibrant city, which features a thriving synagogue, played an important role in Paul's journey. Discover Veria's rich history and the influence of Paul's teachings as you delve into its cultural heritage, and be sure to see the "Apostle Paul's Podium," a significant monument honoring his presence in the city. Overnight in Meteora.
Explore the Byzantine Monasteries of Meteora, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our first stop will be at the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoro, the largest and oldest of the monasteries, famously referred to as the "monastery suspended in the air" (meteoro) due to the massive rock formation it sits atop. Next, we will visit the Monastery of St. Stephen, a small church constructed in the 16th century and adorned in 1545, which is situated on the plains rather than perched on a cliff. This delightful tour will conclude in the charming village of Kalambaka, where you can enjoy a traditional Greek lunch before we head back to Athens. Overnight in Athens
Embark on a Christian tour of Athens and Corinth, following in the footsteps of Apostle Paul and exploring the city's spiritual heritage. The journey begins at the Ancient Agora, where Paul engaged with locals regarding Jesus’ resurrection, reflecting on the early Christian discussions that influenced beliefs. Next, ascend the Acropolis to admire the Parthenon and Erechtheion, iconic symbols of ancient Athens and the birthplace of democracy. Pay your respects at Mars Hill (Areopagus), where Paul preached to the Athenians, challenging their beliefs. Afterward, take in the stunning views of the Corinth Canal before arriving in Corinth, where you'll delve into the biblical stories of Paul’s experiences, including his trials and friendships. Learn about Aquila and Priscilla, the tent-makers who shared Paul's faith, and visit significant sites like the synagogue and the home of Titus Justus to understand Paul's interactions and the thriving Christian community there. Reflect on the opposition he faced from Corinthian Jews and his eventual departure to Ephesus. Finally, discover Paul’s lasting influence as Corinth’s patron saint, commemorated by a magnificent church, before concluding the day at 'Kechrias Port', an ancient entryway to the East. Overnight in Athens
On this day, you have the option to enjoy free time for shopping or take a final stroll through Athens. Depending on your flight schedule, you will meet your driver at your hotel for your transfer to Athens airport to catch your flight home. This concludes your trip.
