FOOTSTEPS OF THE APOSTLE PAUL

The Apostle Paul, originally known as Saul, experienced a life-changing conversion on the road to Damascus, transforming from a persecutor of Christians to one of the faith’s most influential leaders. After this conversion, he embarked on multiple missionary journeys throughout regions such as Greece, Italy, and Turkey, tirelessly preaching the Gospel and establishing early Christian communities.

Despite facing intense persecution, including imprisonment and beatings, Paul remained committed to his mission, spreading the message of Christ to both Jews and Gentiles. His teachings were instrumental in shaping early theology, and many of his letters to these early churches were later included in the New Testament. Paul’s legacy continues to influence and inspire believers worldwide, as his writings offer deep insights into faith, salvation, and the love of God.

Footsteps Tour Itinerary

YOUR ADVENTURE AWAITS

DAY 1: DEPART FOR ATHENS

Depart from the USA on your overnight flight to Athens, filled with anticipation and excitement as you embark on a journey through the historical and spiritual landscapes of the Apostle Paul’s missionary travels.

DAY 2: ARRIVE IN ATHENS

Arrive in Athens, the ancient cradle of Western civilization. After a smooth transfer to the Wyndham Grand Athens, check in and rest after your long journey. Spend the evening soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city, reflecting on Paul’s sermon at the Areopagus.

DAY 3: EXPLORING ATHENS

Visit the Acropolis, a site that Paul himself would have seen, where you can marvel at the Parthenon and other ancient structures. Walk through the Areopagus, also known as Mars Hill, where Paul delivered his famous sermon to the Athenians. Explore the Agora, the ancient marketplace and hub of Athenian life. Return to the Wyndham Grand Athens for the night.

DAY 4: ANCIENT CORINTH & ATHENS

Journey to Ancient Corinth, where Paul lived and preached. Explore the ruins, including the Bema, where Paul stood trial. See the Corinthian Canal and enjoy an afternoon free in Athens for personal reflection or additional exploration. Spend the night at Wyndham Grand Athens.

DAY 5: CRUISE EMBARKATION

Embark on your cruise aboard the Celestyal Discovery, departing from Athens to Mykonos. Reflect on the maritime journeys of Paul as you sail through the Aegean Sea.

DAY 6: KUSADASI AND PATMOS

Dock in Kusadasi, Turkey, and visit the ancient city of Ephesus, where Paul wrote his epistles. Then sail to Patmos, the island where John received the Revelation. Explore the Monastery of St. John and the Cave of the Apocalypse. Return to the Celestyal Discovery for an overnight journey.

DAY 7: CRETE AND SANTORINI

Visit Crete, where Paul left Titus to minister to the believers. Explore the island’s rich history before continuing to the picturesque island of Santorini, known for its stunning views. Spend the night aboard the Celestyal Discovery.

DAY 8: DISEMBARKATION & ROME

Disembark from the cruise and take an afternoon flight to Rome, the city where Paul spent his final days. Visit the Catacombs, the ancient underground burial sites of early Christians. Check in to the Metropole Rome hotel for a restful night.

DAY 9: ROME’S HISTORICAL SITES

Tour the Colosseum, where early Christians were martyred. Walk through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, exploring the heart of ancient Rome. Visit the Mamertine Prison, where Paul was traditionally held before his execution. Conclude the day at the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. Return to the Metropole Rome for the night.

DAY 10: WALKING TOUR AND LEISURE

Enjoy a walking city tour of Rome, taking in its historical and religious sites. Spend the afternoon at leisure, exploring Rome at your own pace or reflecting on your journey. Stay overnight at the Metropole Rome.

DAY 11: FREE DAY FOR OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

Spend a free day exploring Rome or take optional excursions to Pompeii or Florence. Reflect on the impact of Paul’s ministry as you explore these significant sites. Return to the Metropole Rome for your final night.

DAY 12: DEPART HOME

Depart from Rome on your morning flight home, carrying with you the memories and spiritual insights gained from walking in the footsteps of Paul.

OUR FAVORITE LOCATIONS

ATHENS «

Athens, the intellectual and cultural hub of ancient Greece, holds deep significance for Christians due to the Apostle Paul’s visit during his second missionary journey. In this city, Paul famously addressed the philosophers at the Areopagus (Mars Hill), using their altar to the “Unknown God” as a starting point to introduce the message of Christ. His bold proclamation marked a pivotal moment in the spread of Christianity into the Greek-speaking world. For visitors, Athens is not only a place of rich historical and architectural wonders but also a reminder of Paul’s efforts to bring the Gospel to the world.

MARS HILL & THE ACROPOLIS «

The Acropolis, an ancient citadel perched above Athens, is home to several iconic structures, including the Parthenon, and was the center of ancient Greek culture and religious life. It served as a backdrop to the daily lives of Athenians, embodying the city’s devotion to their gods and showcasing its architectural brilliance.

Mars Hill, also known as the Areopagus, is located near the Acropolis and holds special significance for believers. It was here that the Apostle Paul delivered his famous speech, recorded in Acts 17, addressing the Athenian philosophers about their altar to an “Unknown God.” Paul’s sermon on Mars Hill is a pivotal moment in biblical history, symbolizing his effort to connect the message of Christ with the deeply philosophical and religious culture of Athens.

PATMOS «

The island of Patmos holds profound significance for believers because it is the place where the Apostle John received the visions recorded in the Book of Revelation. Exiled to this small, rocky island by Roman authorities for his faith, John was given a divine revelation that unveiled the future of the Church and the ultimate victory of Christ. It was on Patmos that he wrote the last book of the New Testament, describing the final battle between good and evil, the return of Jesus, and the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom. For believers, Patmos stands as a powerful symbol of hope, faith, and perseverance, reminding them of God’s sovereignty and the promise of Christ’s return.

EPHESUS «

Ephesus, one of the most important cities in the ancient Roman Empire, played a central role in the Apostle Paul’s ministry. Paul spent over two years in Ephesus, longer than in any other city, preaching the Gospel and establishing a strong Christian community. It was here that Paul faced significant opposition from those who worshipped the goddess Artemis, as his teachings about Christ threatened the local economy built around idol worship. Despite this resistance, Ephesus became a thriving center for early Christianity, and Paul’s ministry there greatly influenced the spread of the faith throughout the region. His letter to the Ephesians, later included in the New Testament, continues to inspire Christians with its profound insights into unity, love, and spiritual warfare.

THE FORUM | ROME

The Roman Forum, once the political, religious, and social heart of ancient Rome, holds deep significance for Christians reflecting on the Apostle Paul’s life and ministry. It was near this iconic site that Paul, after his long journeys spreading the Gospel across the Roman Empire, was imprisoned under house arrest as he awaited trial before Caesar. Despite his confinement, Paul continued his ministry, writing letters to the early churches, which later became part of the New Testament. The Forum symbolizes both the power of the Roman Empire and the persistence of the Christian faith in the face of persecution. For believers, it stands as a testament to Paul’s unwavering commitment to proclaiming the message of Christ, even in the heart of an empire that sought to suppress it.

Culinary Adventures Await «

GREEK AND ITALIAN CUISINE

Greek and Italian cuisine are two beloved culinary traditions, each with distinct flavors, ingredients, and cultural influences that reflect the rich histories of their respective countries. While both cuisines share a Mediterranean foundation, they have unique characteristics that make them stand out and provide travelers with unforgettable dining experiences.

Greek cuisine is deeply rooted in ancient traditions, drawing on local ingredients like olives, feta cheese, fresh vegetables, and herbs. Meals are often simple yet flavorful, featuring classic dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita. Greek food emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, with olive oil, lemon, and oregano playing starring roles in many recipes. Dining in Greece is a communal experience, with meals centered around family and friends, and shared dishes like mezze—small plates of dips, olives, and cheeses—are a common feature of the Greek table.

Italian cuisine, while also built on the foundation of fresh and seasonal ingredients, varies greatly from region to region. Northern Italy is known for its rich dishes like risotto and polenta, while southern Italy favors lighter fare such as pasta with tomato-based sauces, fresh seafood, and vegetables. Italian staples like pizza, pasta, and gelato are famous worldwide, but the authentic experience of enjoying these dishes in Italy offers a deeper connection to the country’s culinary history. Italians place a strong emphasis on tradition, with recipes often passed down through generations, and meals are seen as an opportunity to celebrate family, culture, and the joy of eating.

Both Greek and Italian cuisines share a focus on hospitality, where the act of sharing food is central to their cultures. In Greece, meals are seen as a time to gather and enjoy each other’s company, while in Italy, “la dolce vita” (the sweet life) is often reflected in the leisurely pace of dining, with multiple courses and a focus on savoring each moment. Travelers following in the footsteps of Paul through Greece and Rome can expect to enjoy a wide variety of local dishes that reflect the warmth and generosity of these cultures.

Despite their differences, Greek and Italian food share Mediterranean staples like fresh seafood, olive oil, bread, and vibrant salads. Both cuisines offer an authentic, flavorful experience for travelers, where each bite not only satisfies the palate but also connects them to the history, traditions, and landscapes of the regions they are exploring. Whether enjoying a traditional Greek taverna meal or indulging in Italian pasta in a Roman trattoria, these cuisines offer a culinary journey rich in history and flavor.