USA - Istanbul, Turkey

We'll depart from our homes in the USA on Saturday 26th, arriving in Istanbul, Turkey the following morning Sunday April 27th.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is a city much like Rome, sitting atop seven hills. Originally established by the Greeks in the eighth century BC, it was then known as Byzantium. In AD 330, Emperor Constantine of Rome designated it as his capital, renaming it Constantinople. For a millennium thereafter, Constantinople served as the capital of the Byzantine Empire until 1453, when it fell to the Ottoman Turks. They renamed the city Istanbul. We check into our hotel and dinner awaits us tonight in this historic city.

Istanbul - Topkapi Palace - Hippodrome - Blue Mosque - Hagia Sophia

Today we will embark on a captivating city tour of Istanbul, beginning with a visit to the magnificent Topkapi Palace. This historic palace was once the residence of Ottoman sultans and showcases stunning architecture and lavish interiors. Next, we will marvel at the architectural splendor of the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece constructed by Emperor Justinian in AD 527. Adjacent to it stands the Blue Mosque, a breathtaking example of Islamic architecture commissioned by Sultan Ahmet I. We will enjoy some free time and then we'll be escorted to our hotel for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay in Istanbul.

Istanbul - Basilica Cistern - Grand Bazaar -Bosphorus Cruise 

After breakfast we enjoy a day filled with excitement and exploration in Istanbul. Our first stop will be the mesmerizing Basilica Cistern, where we'll descend into the depths of history and marvel at the ancient underground reservoir adorned with magnificent columns and mystical atmosphere. Afterward, we'll dive into the vibrant ambiance of the Grand Bazaar, immersing ourselves in its labyrinthine alleys filled with colorful stalls offering everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and ceramics. Bargaining and browsing, we'll soak in the bustling energy of this iconic marketplace. Next we embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, gliding along the picturesque strait that divides Europe and Asia. As we sail past historic landmarks and charming waterfront neighborhoods, we'll witness the enchanting beauty of Istanbul from a unique perspective. After a day of unforgettable experiences, we'll have dinner, savoring the flavors of Turkish cuisine. We will overnight again in Istanbul.

Izmir - Pergamon Acropolis - Asclepius - Red Basilica 

We'll start our morning with a transfer to Istanbul airport for our flight to Izmir. Landing in Izmir, our journey continues with a scenic drive to the ancient city of Pergamon. En route, we'll soak in the picturesque landscapes of the Turkish countryside. Our first stop in Pergamon will be the legendary Acropolis, where history comes alive amidst the remnants of ancient temples, theaters, and libraries. We'll wander through the ruins, imagining the grandeur of this once-mighty city. Next, we'll visit the sacred Asclepius, a sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god of healing. We visit the striking Red Basilica, a monumental structure that stands as a testament to Pergamon's architectural prowess. Amidst its crimson walls, we'll uncover tales of bygone eras and marvel at the craftsmanship of antiquity.Tonight we'll have dinner and retire in our hotel in Pergamon.

Sardis - Thyateria - Hieropolis - Pamukkale

This day begins with a scenic drive to Sardis, passing through the charming ancient city of Thyatira along the way. Upon arriving in Sardis we explore the remnants of this once-thriving city. Next we visit Pamukkale, passing by Philadelpha. Arriving in Pamukkale, we'll be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of Hierapolis, an ancient city famed for its mesmerizing travertine terraces and rejuvenating hot springs. We'll traverse this UNESCO World Heritage Site, marveling at the natural wonders that adorn its landscape. Tonight we have dinner and retire to our hotel in Pamukkale.

Laodecia - Priene - Miletus

We'll kick off the day with a morning visit to Laodicea, where ancient ruins and fascinating history await us. After soaking up the history of Laodicea, our journey continues as we take a scenic drive to the ancient cities of Priene and Miletus. These archaeological sites are steeped in history with well-preserved ruins waiting to be discovered. we'll make our way to Kusadasi, where dinner awaits us after checking into our hotel in Kusdasi.

Ephesus - Basilica of John -Kusadasi

After breakfast we will set off with a visit to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. As we wander through its majestic ruins we'll be awed by the grandeur of structures like the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater, which once hosted performances for thousands of spectators. Fun fact: Ephesus was once home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis. Next, we'll explore the Basilica of St. John, a sacred site believed to be the final resting place of the apostle John. We'll learn about its significance in early Christianity and its role as a pilgrimage site throughout the ages. We will have dinner and over night at our hotel in Kusdasi.

Athens 

Today the morning is free time for you to explore and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Kusadasi. In the afternoon we transfer to the airport for our flight to Athens. Did you know that Athens, the capital of Greece, is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a recorded history spanning over 3,400 years. As we arrive in Athens and transfer to our hotel, we'll be greeted by the rich cultural heritage and ancient landmarks that define this historic city. After settling into our hotel, we'll gather for a dinner, savoring the flavors of Greek cuisine while enjoying the company of fellow travelers.

Corinth - Acropolis - Mars Hill - Agora

We'll start our adventure with a morning drive to Corinth, an ancient city with a rich history dating back thousands of years. Corinth was not only a powerful city-state in ancient Greece but also played a significant role in early Christianity. It's also famous for its innovative engineering, including the construction of the Corinth Canal, which connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf. After immersing ourselves in the wonders of Corinth, we'll return to Athens. Our first stop will be the iconic Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of ancient Greek civilization. Fun fact: The Parthenon, the most famous structure on the Acropolis, was built in the 5th century BC as a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, the patron deity of Athens. Next, we'll ascend Mars Hill for stunning panoramic views of ancient Athens. Our final stop of the day will be the bustling Agora, the ancient marketplace and civic center of Athens. Here, we'll wander among the ruins of temples, stoas, and government buildings, gaining insight into the daily life of ancient Athenians. Tonight we will have dinner and relax at our hotel in Athens.

Rome

We will start our day with a flight to Rome. Our arrival is in the morning. We transfer to the city center to visit St. Paul’s Outside the Walls, one of Rome's four major basilicas dedicated to the apostle St. Paul. This basilica is renowned for its stunning 5th-century mosaics that depict scenes from the life of St. Paul and other biblical figures.

Next, we will visit St. John Lateran Basilica, the oldest and highest-ranking of the four major basilicas in Rome. It is the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome, the Pope, and is considered the "Mother of all Churches." One of its unique features is the Scala Sancta, or Holy Stairs, which are believed to be the steps that Jesus Christ climbed on his way to trial before Pontius Pilate. Another highlight is the beautiful 13th-century cloister, which is known for its elegant, twisted columns and peaceful atmosphere. Hotel dinner and overnight in Rome.

Rome - Colosseum - Basilica of Saint Clemente - Rome LDS Temple - Vatican City

This morning we visit One of the most iconic symbols of ancient Rome, the Colosseum. It was used for a variety of events, including gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, mock sea battles, and even executions. Next we visit The Basilica of Saint Clemente. The present basilica was built in the 12th century, but beneath it lies a 4th-century basilica, and even further down, a 1st-century Roman house with a Mithraic temple. After lunch in the afternoon we enjoy The Rome Italy Temple, located just a few kilometers northeast of the Vatican City,it is the first temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Italy and the 13th in Europe. For those who would like to book a session you are welcome to. Then on to dinner and relaxing at our hotel.

Florence - Uffizi Gallery - Accademia Gallery 

We take a early morning high-speed train to Florence 1.5 hour train journey. We explore Florence starting with a morning guided tour of Florence including the Academy of Fine Arts. The guided tour will include an exterior visit to the Duomo monumental complex. This afternoon a guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery one of the oldest and most famous art museums in the world. Visitors can admire masterpieces by renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Raphael among others. We take a Late afternoon, high-speed train to back to Rome. (a 1.5 hour ride) Dinner and overnight at the Rome hotel.

Rome - Sistine Chapel - St. Peter's Basilica

This day begins with a visit to the Vatican Museums. The museums contain over 70,000 works of art, including masterpieces by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo. Next, we visit the Sistine Chapel located within the Vatican Museums famous for its breathtaking ceiling painted by Michelangelo. The ceiling depicts scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the iconic "Creation of Adam" where the hands of God and Adam nearly touch. After exploring the Vatican Museums, we will visit St. Peter's Basilica one of the largest churches in the world and one of the holiest sites in Christianity. The basilica stands on the traditional burial site of St. Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, making it a place of immense religious significance worldwide. For those who would like we have an optional Afternoon visit of the Borghese Gallery. This is on an individual basis including admissions, no group tour with guide. Tonight, we have dinner at our hotel in Rome.

Rome - USA

Today, we will take our flights home to the US, carrying with us lifelong memories. Having been deeply touched by the rich history and mesmerizing artistry woven into the cities and sacred sites we had the privilege to explore together.