Steps of Paul & Three Continents - 14 Nights

Your fascinating 7-night Steps of St Paul journey begins in the magical city of Athens. The Greek capital is one of the oldest cities in the world and home to the iconic landmark of the Acropolis. Take your time to discover the heritage, history and culture that is firmly embedded in the heart of this captivating modern metropolis before joining us onboard as we head for Thessaloniki.

Following the path of St Paul’s Second Missionary in Europe, leads you beyond the imposing Byzantine walls that guard the sophisticated port city of Thessaloniki. The beguiling architecture and meandering cobblestone streets are a pleasure to explore, topped only by the captivating site of the biblical city Berroia, known today as Veria. Join your expert guide to hear all about St. Paul’s tribulations as he tried to win over the noble Jews that lived here.

The seaport resort of Kavala perched on the slopes of Mt Symvolo offers spectacular panoramic views. It was here that St Paul baptised the first Greek and European Christian convert, Lydia, and gave his first sermon. Visit the open-air baptistery, the monument that honours the Saint and the prison ruins where he was held captive with St Silas or join our specialist guide for a fascinating excursion to Neapolis and Philippi.

The vibrant city of Istanbul straddles the continents of Europe and Asia via the Bosphorus Strait. Here you can visit the lavish Byzantine and Imperial mosques which pierce Istanbul’s skyline with their towering minarets. The iconic Sultanahmet (blue) mosque, the Romanesque Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace and the world-famous Church of Hagia Sophia are just a few of the enigmatic attractions to admire.

Snaking its way along the beautiful coastline of Turkey’s seafront city of Dikili is a lush landscape of green forestry and expansive golden sands. Sparkling crystalline turquoise waters complete the captivating scenery. Here you have the opportunity to visit the Ancient Pergamon and the ancient Acropolis. The remains of the healing temple of Asklepion is the final stop of the day.

In Turkey’s picturesque seaside resort of Kusadasi, St. Paul wrote a letter to the Ephesians and preached at the Great Theatre of Ephesus. The second-largest city of the Roman Empire is also the home of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the Temple of Artemis. You can learn about this and more on our incredible tour to ancient Ephesus and the city of Miletus.

Patmos is the smallest of the Greek Dodecanese islands and also its most spiritual. The tranquil island is famously known for being the location where John the Apostle experienced the vision that inspired the Book of Revelations. The last remaining disciple was banished to Patmos by Rome. Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims to St John’s Monastery and the Holy Grotto of the Apocalypse.

You’re making your way through your Aegean getaway and dropping anchor in Athens. As one of the oldest cities in the world, the vibrant modern metropolis boasts an intriguing and contrasting mix of old and modern architecture in perfect harmony and balance. Soak up this ancient city’s unique blend of cultures and tastes, before you take to the sea once more.

A day at sea gives you the opportunity to explore the ship’s array of amenities, take full advantage of the onboard activities and indulge in our chef’s exquisite cuisine. Kick back and soak up the sun as we treat you to drinks from the bar. Alternatively, why not participate in handicrafts, language lessons, traditional dancing, games or exercise. There’s plenty to do.

At the northern end of Egypt’s iconic Suez Canal, the city of Port Said evokes an entrancing air of nostalgia. It boasts a raised pedestrian boardwalk that runs along the scenic waterfront, offering fabulous views of the canal’s entry point. The surrounding late 19th-Century buildings and properties flaunt a certain charm that magically transports you to a bygone era.

At the northern end of Egypt’s iconic Suez Canal, the city of Port Said evokes an entrancing air of nostalgia. It boasts a raised pedestrian boardwalk that runs along the scenic waterfront, offering fabulous views of the canal’s entry point. The surrounding late 19th-Century buildings and properties flaunt a certain charm that magically transports you to a bygone era.

Bustling Limassol is Cyprus’ cultural hub and tourist center. Its streets are lined with colorful cafes, bars and restaurants. To complement the modern attractions, the lively city also has the historic monument of Limassol Castle and a collection of ancient treasures on show in the Cyprus Medieval Museum. You can discover the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Pafos and the legend of Aphrodite’s rock through wonderful excursions.

The idyllic Greek island of Rhodes is home to one of the nation’s most iconic landmarks – the Acropolis at Lindos. The island also has a bounty of beautiful beaches, majestic medieval fortification ruins and an enchanting Old Town to discover. Explore the labyrinth of quaint cobblestone streets that instantly transport you back in time to the days of the Byzantine Empire.

The historically significant Turkish city of Kusadasi is bathed in glorious sunshine for 300 days of the year so make sure you wear plenty of sunblock and a hat. Here, you have the chance to explore iconic ruins on a tour to ancient Ephesus. Before you come back onboard, feel free to browse the stalls for souvenirs and trinkets in the Grand Bazaar near the harbor.

Your epic journey comes to a close where it all began – in the legendary city of Athens. Our early arrival gives you plenty of time to explore the city’s unforgettable sites. Why not join our local experts to discover the highlights of the Acropolis and learn how Greece inspired western democracy. Alternatively, explore our capital and all her charms on your own terms.