2 Day Footsteps of the Apostles in Ephesus Smyrna Pergamon Tour

Day 1: Biblical Ephesus Tour

1. Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport
   Pass by
   We will meet you at Izmir airport or at you hotel in the morning and drive to Selcuk for Ephesus Tour.
2. Virgin Mary's House
   45m · Admission ticket included
   Our biblical tour starts with a profound stop at the Holy Shrine of Mother Mary. This humble stone house, nestled on Bulbul Mountain near Ephesus, is traditionally believed to be the final home of Mary, Mother of Jesus, who was brought here by St. John the Apostle. We will explore this revered pilgrimage site, the serene chapel, the tranquil gardens, and the famous wishing wall, reflecting on Mary's profound role in the New Testament and the early spread of Christianity in this region.
3. Ephesus Ancient City
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Our tour takes us to Ephesus, one of the most significant sites in early Christianity and one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. We will walk the vast marble streets of this well-preserved Roman city, marveling at the iconic Library of Celsus and standing inside the Great Theatre, where St. Paul preached to the Ephesians and faced the riot stirred by the silversmith Demetrius. Your guide will highlight the biblical and historical connections throughout the city, providing a profound understanding of the challenges and triumphs of the early Christian community that thrived here.
4. Ephesus Terrace Houses
   30m · Admission ticket not included
   Our tour will explore the luxury of Roman life by visiting the incredibly preserved Ephesus Terrace Houses. These elite residences feature detailed frescoes, stunning mosaics, and early heating systems, giving a unique glimpse into the wealth and private lives of the city's richest citizens. This stop is a highly recommended addition to your tour to appreciate the finest examples of domestic Roman architecture.
5. 45m
   For a truly immersive experience, we will visit the Ephesus Experience Museum. Step into the past with cutting-edge technology that brings the ancient city to life! Through incredible projections and interactive exhibits, we will understand what it was really like to live in Ephesus during its prime—a perfect way to put the marble ruins you just saw into stunning historical context.
6. Basilica of St. John
   45m · Admission ticket included
   Our pilgrimage takes us to the spectacular ruins of the Basilica of St. John, which tradition holds is the final resting place of the Apostle John. Built by the Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, this massive structure was once one of the largest churches in the world. We will explore the impressive courtyard, the monumental arches, and the remaining foundations, gaining insight into the profound early Christian history of the area and the significant role of St. John in the spreading of the Gospel.
7. Kusadasi
   Pass by
   At the end of the tour, we will drive you to Kusadasi. Overnight at a 4 star hotel.

Day 2: Pergamon Tour

1. 45m · Admission ticket included
   Our second day of the Biblical tour begins at the ancient Izmir Agora, the vibrant heart of the city known in the Bible as Smyrna. This site is a critical stop on our journey, representing one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. We will explore this beautifully preserved Roman marketplace and discuss the historical and social context of the letter delivered to the early Christian community here, highlighting the message of resilience and faithfulness mentioned in the Book of Revelation.
2. Pergamon Ancient City
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Following our visit to Smyrna, our biblical journey continues to the magnificent hilltop city of Pergamon, once the capital of the Hellenistic Attalid dynasty and the site of the Church of Pergamon. We will explore the stunning Acropolis, home to one of the ancient world's largest libraries and the steepest ancient theatre. Your guide will highlight the monumental ruins, connecting the site's immense political and cultural power with its mention as one of the Seven Churches of Revelation.
3. The Asklepion
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Our tour will visit the famous Asklepion, the ancient Roman medical center and sanctuary of the healing god Asclepius. Once a rival to the Acropolis itself, this site was renowned throughout the ancient world for its advanced treatments, including hydrotherapy, psychotherapy, and dream analysis. We will walk the Sacred Way that connects the Acropolis to the Asklepion, exploring the ruins of the temple, the theatre, and the healing tunnels, understanding the vast influence this non-Christian healing cult had on the region.
4. Pass by
   At the end of the tour, we will drive you to Izmir Airport for your flight back to Istanbul or to your hotel.
   Please get in touch with us if you want us to drop you off to a different location.

Pickup details

We will reach out to you prior to your tour to confirm the pick-up time and provide the contact details of the team member meeting you there. Please ensure you give us a phone number.
Please get in touch with us before you book your domestic flight tickets. We can either help you choose the best flights according to the tour schedule or book them for you.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness