+1 (800) 653-0017 hello@canterburypilgrimages.com
+1 (800) 653-0017 hello@canterburypilgrimages.com

Greece & Turkey

Tour 401

In the Footsteps of Saint Paul

Embark on a spiritual odyssey as you explore the sacred landscapes of Greece on a Catholic pilgrimage. Walk in the footsteps of St. Paul, visiting ancient Corinth, Thessaloniki, and the iconic Areopagus in Athens, where he preached the Gospel. Marvel at the breathtaking monasteries of Meteora, perched high above the cliffs, and reflect on the profound faith of those who built them. From the vibrant port of Kavala to the serene island of Patmos, where St. John received the visions of Revelation; every step is a journey through centuries of faith and tradition.

Plan your Greece Pilgrimage today!

 

11 Days

10 Nights

Day 1 - 3

Athens, Meteora Monasteries

Day 1 | Our overnight flight departs for Athens from our local airport.

Day 2 | Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, we will meet our tour manager and driver. We will be transferred to our hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

 Day 3 | This morning, we will visit the famous Meteora Monasteries. Here, we will see the world-famous Byzantine monasteries perched precariously on summits of gray rock pinnacles of varied and beautiful shapes. Their history dates back to the 14th century when the monks sought refuge in the cliffside caves, then fled higher to build the original wooden shelters, which were later transformed into monasteries.

Day 4 - 6

Berea, Thessaloniki, Phillipi, Kavala, Mykonos

Day 4 | After breakfast, we visit Berea where Saint Paul preached in the Synagogue (Acts 17:10-15). We see St. Paul’s Bema where he addressed the local Jews in 54 AD. Continuing to Thessaloniki (Acts 17:1-9), we visit the agora where Paul preached and the House of Jason, his host. We also visit St. Demetrius Basilica and the Galerius Arch. Dinner and overnight in Thessaloniki. Mass at the Bema of Saint Paul in Berea.

Day 5 | In Philippi (Acts 16:11-40), we visit “Lydia’s Baptistry” where Lydia was baptized, and the site of Paul and Silas’ imprisonment. Then, we head to Kavala (Ancient Neapolis), where Paul, Timothy, and Silas first landed. Dinner and overnight in Thessaloniki. Mass at Philippi at Lydia’s St. Paul’s Baptistry.

Day 6 | Early morning flight today from Thessaloniki to Athens. Upon arrival in Athens, we will be transferred to Lavrion Port for our cruise embarkation. First stop, the quaint isle of Mykonos, called the island of windmills. Experience the waterfront lined with shops and cafes and then stroll the charming walkways through a maze of whitewashed buildings before returning to the ship for dinner and evening entertainment. Mass at St. Barbara Catholic Church at Lavrion port.

Day 7 - 8

Ancient Ephesus, Patmos, Heraklion, Santorini

Day 7 | Docking in Turkey, we will enjoy a tour of Ephesus, the city of the Bible and one of the largest restorations still in progress with miles of ancient treasures. Ephesus was once a thriving port town of 250,000 people. Today you can still see the spectacular excavations of the major streets in this ancient city including the Agora, the Odeon, the Library, and the Great Theatre. You will continue to the House of the Virgin Mary. Celebrate Mass here. This afternoon we will visit the Isle of Patmos, under statutory protection as a historic monument. Here we will have an included tour to see the fortified monastery of St. John and the cave claimed to be where John received the Revelation. Back on the ship.

Day 8 | Crete is the largest and most rugged of the Greek islands. Take an optional tour to Heraklion and the fantastic ruins of the Palace of Knossos. Discovered in 1899 and partially reconstructed, the elaborate Palace is believed to be the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos and the seat of ancient Minoan culture. This afternoon visits the island of Santorini which is perhaps the most breathtaking of all the Greek Islands. The town of Thira where white-washed houses, narrow streets, open-air cafes and glittering boutiques cling to steep cliffs, is accessible by footpath, cable-car, or mule. Again, you will return to the ship for dinner and evening entertainment. Mass at the Catholic Church of Santorini.

Day 9 - 11

Corinth, St. Paul, Athens

Day 9 | Visit Corinth (Acts 18:1-18), exploring the Archaeological Museum, Market Place, and Temples. Stand on the Bema where St. Paul preached and visit sites associated with Aquila and Priscilla. Return to Athens for Dinner and an overnight stay. Mass at the Bema of Saint Paul in Corinth.

Day 10 | Apostle Paul traveled to Athens (Acts 17:16-34), preaching at the Aeropagus. We visit the Acropolis, Mars Hill, and the Agora where St. Paul addressed the Athenians. See the Olympic Stadium and enjoy free time in Plaka. Dinner and overnight in Athens. Mass at the Catholic Church of Athens.

Day 11 | With a renewed sense of pilgrimage and an invigorated love of our Catholic faith, we will board our plane for our flight home.

Tour Package Includes

These inclusions can be easily tailored to the individual needs of your group

  • 4-Star hotel accommodations
  • Private motorcoach transportation
  • Breakfast & dinner served daily
  • Wine served with some dinners
  • Dedicated tour manager
  • Licensed guiding & admission fees
  • Porterage service at hotels
  • Whisper headsets when touring
  • Tips for hotel & restaurant staff
  • 9 - 5 PM (EST) reservation support
  • 24/7 travel emergency support

Greece Tour Extensions

These pre or post trip extension packages can be fully customized.

Italy

Embark on a spiritual journey and explore Italy’s breathtaking beauty, from the iconic St. Peter’s Basilica to the tranquil town of Assisi, where history, art, and faith converge.

France

Experience the timeless beauty and spiritual significance of France with our Catholic pilgrimage tour, offering a unique opportunity to visit the holy sites of France and deepen your faith.

Spain

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