Depart U.S.

Departure from U.S. for Athens, the Capital of Greece.

Arrive Athens

We arrive at the Athens New International Airport, where we are met and assisted through customs and baggage claim formalities. We will transfer to our hotel. Remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to explore on our own the “Plaka area” which is walking distance from our hotel. Dinner and overnight in Athens.

Corinth & Athens City Tour – Acropolis, Mars Hill

This morning we start our day with a drive along the Saronic Gulf across the Corinth Canal through rolling vineyards to ancient Corinth, which was the most beautiful, and frivolous city of Roman Greece. Visit the Doric style Temple of Apollo, the market place, museum, the Fountain of Pirene, the Agora and the Bema from which Paul preached so well. After lunch, we make our way back to Athens, where we will have the opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city. Our guide will take us to see the center of the City, the Constitution Square (Syntagma), the House of Parliament, the memorial of the Unknown Soldier, the Presidential Palace, the Panathenaic Stadium (where the first Olympic games of the modern era were held in 1896), the Academia, the University, the National Library and the Omonia Square. We conclude our day with a visit to the Acropolis – the Propylae, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erectheon and the Parthenon and Mars Hill. Dinner and overnight in Athens.

Athens, Sail on your Greek Island Cruise

After breakfast transfer to the Port of Piraeus. Embark on our cruise. Our first port-of-call is Mykonos. Mykonos combines in a unique way the luxuriant and sophisticated lifestyle with the simple and yet charming life of a Cycladic Island. Free time to stroll the winding narrow streets full of boutiques, visit tiny chapels and take pictures of the famous windmills. Or perhaps just sit by the waterfront and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Rhodes

Visit the island of Rhodes. The ship enters the port, which was once dominated by the Colossus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Drive along the southeastern coastline on your way to Lindos, the most important of the three great cities of ancient times- visit to the Acropolis of Lindos – overlooking the Aegean Sea and St Paul’s Bay. After the visit there will be some time free in the small attractive village with the little shops and narrow streets. Drive back to the city of Rhodes for your walking tour of the city of Rhodes – stroll through the Medieval Old City – down through Chevaliers Road and view the Palace of the Knights of St, John.

Kusadasi, Ephesus, and Patmos

In the morning arrival at the Port of Patmos. We depart the port of Scala by motor coach you will enjoy the short drive up to the Monastery of St John, which has been magnificently built within the walls of a strong fortification. Walk uphill towards the entrance of the Monastery; view the courtyard, the Monks” dining room and the main church with its outstanding frescoes and the small but beautiful museum. At the end of your visit return to your motor coach and continue on to the nearby Grotto of the Apocalypse where above stands the church of the Apocalypse. In the afternoon we arrive at Kusadasi – a lovely Turkish port and the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. Drive along the coast to reach Ephesus, famous in antiquity for its Temple of Diana – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and later the home of St. John. You will see the monuments such as the Forum, the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, the Thermal Bath of Scolastika and the Great Theatre, built in the Greek era and reconstructed in the Roman period. Walk back to the motor coach along the Arcadian Way, where once Mark Anthony and Cleopatra rode in procession. Driving back to Kusadasi view the Basilica of St. John – just downhill lays the site of the famous Temple of Diana, today in ruins.

Piraeus, Fly to Rome – Vatican and Sistine Chapel

We disembark our cruise and transfer to the airport for our short flight to Rome. We arrive Rome and are met by our agent and transferred to our deluxe motorcoach for our sightseeing tour of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel the celebrated Chapel of the Popes and the venue of the Conclaves for Papal elections. It is one of the most splendid masterpieces in the history of world art and is well known around the world for its magnificent ceiling, beautifully decorated by Michelangelo. From here, your next visit will be to the Basilica of St. Peter, the largest church in the world, which overlooks the enormous Piazza San Pietro. Dinner and overnight in Rome.

Rome Sightseeing

After breakfast we will start with our sightseeing tour of this Eternal city. Driving through the main streets of Rome, you will marvel at monuments of this great capital. Visit the Colosseum, which symbolizes the eternity of the Roman civilization, the Forum and the Piazza Venezia, dominated by the imposing monument to Vittorio Emanuel II. Before return to our hotel, we stop near the Fontana di Trevi. Here, following tradition by tossing a coin into the fountain, promising the return to Rome. OPTIONAL EXCURSION to the Catacombs ($25.00 per person). The catacombs of St. Callixtus are among the greatest and most important of Rome. They originated about the middle of the second century and are part of a cemeterial complex which occupies an area of 90 acres, with a network of galleries about 12 miles long, in four levels, more than twenty meters deep. In it were buried tens of martyrs, 16 popes and very many Christians. The Catacombs are the historical proof that the Church in its origin was a Church of Martyrs and a Church of true Christians who testified, in everyday life, their faith and love for Christ. “Today, the Church has become a Church of Martyrs again” (John Paul II). Dinner and overnight in Rome.

Rome at Leisure

Complete day at leisure, or may we suggest a Full day optional excursion to Pompeii to see the excavations of this world- famous Roman town, destroyed by the eruption of the Mt.Vesuvius in 79 A.D. ($149.00 per person), Return to Rome late in the afternoon. Overnight Rome.

Rome U.S.

After breakfast transfer from your Hotel to the Airport in Rome for your return flight home, arriving the same day.

Depart U.S.

Begin your exciting journey as you depart on board your flight to Athens.

Arrive Athens

Arrive Athens where you will be met and escorted to your waiting motorcoach for transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day is at leisure.

Athens

Our morning tour takes us to the Olympic Stadium, then to the Temple of Zeus. Continue to Hadrian’s Arch built on the boundary of the Greek and Roman cities, and then to the Acropolis, sacred hill of the ancient Athenians. Visit the Parthenon, with its famous Temple of Diana. Then to Mars Hill, where the apostle Paul’s famous speech to the men of Athens on the “Unknown God” was made. The afternoon is free for exploring Athens.

Athens, Corinth, Mycenae & Nauplia

Today we’re bound for ancient Corinth. Drive along the Sacred Way of Elusian Mysteries, passing the Island of Salamis. Cross the Corinth Canal, which connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas? See the Isthmus, where boats were once dragged over land from one sea to the other. Arrive Corinth, the most important city in the days of Paul. Visit the ruins of the ancient city where Paul worked with Aquila and Priscilla. See the remains of first century shops, the agora where Paul’s trial by Gallio took place, Fountain of Peirene, Temple of Apollo and The Bema. Depart for Epidaurus to visit the amphitheatre with its astonishing acoustics. Continue to the ruins of Agamemnon’s capital, Mycenae, with its fascinating Cyclopean Walls, Tomb of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra. Return to Athens for Dinner and overnight.

Athens, Delphi

This morning we arrive Piraeus; board your deluxe motorcoach for your tour of Delphi. Drive on the national highway through Thebes, Levadia and the picturesque village of Arachova to Delphi. Visit the Museum to see the famous Bronze Charioteer along with other statues. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Apollo, the Theatre, the Athenian Treasury, and the Castalian Spring. Dinner and overnight in Athens.

Athens

Today is at leisure to explore the wonders of this Ancient City, or finish your last minute shopping. Dinner on our own this evening.

Athens, Cape Sounion & Patras

This morning you will begin your tour by visiting some of the sights that make Athens famous. First you will visit the awesome Acropolis with its spectacular view of the city below and admire one of the world’s masterpieces, the eternal Parthenon. You will also visit the Temple of Olympia Zeus, the Royal Palace and much more. We return back to Athens and continue to Patras to board overnight deluxe Super fast ferry to Bari, Italy. (We depart from Patras at 6:00 PM and arrive at Bari, Italy at 8:30 AM in the morning.) Dinner is included aboard your ferry to Rome.

Arrive Bari, Naples, Pompeii & Rome

We arrive at Bari, and transfer to our deluxe motor coach, which will take us to Naples, with a short sightseeing tour of Pompeii. From Pompeii, we continue to Rome. Traveling through the main streets of Rome, you will marvel at the famous monuments of this great capital. Such as the Coliseum, that symbolizes the eternity of the Roman civilization, the Roman Forum, and the Piazza Venezia, dominated by the imposing monument to Vittorio Emanuele II. Before returning to our hotel, we stop near the Fontana di Trevi. Here, follow tradition by tossing a coin into the fountain, promising to return to Rome. Dinner, and overnight at your hotel in Rome.

Rome

Our first visit will be to the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel, the celebrated Chapel of the Popes and the venue of the Conclaves for Papal elections. It is one of the most splendid masterpieces in the history of world art and is well known around the world for its magnificent ceiling, beautifully decorated by Michelangelo. From here, your next visit will be to the Basilica of St. Peter, the largest church in the world, which overlooks the enormous Piazza San Pietro. Typical Farewell Pasta Dinner, and overnight at your hotel in Rome.

Rome, U.S.

We transfer to the airport for our return flight home, arriving the same day with our hearts filled with many fond memories of our Journey.

Depart USA for Israel

Tour members depart USA for our flight to Tel Aviv. After take-off we will be served meals aloft according to the flight schedule.

Arrival Tel Aviv

Arrival in Tel Aviv and transfer to Kibbutz Guesthouse Mashabei Sade in the Negev, or overnight in Beer Sheva with welcome dinner.

Negev, Zin Desert, Dead Sea

Today we will start our journey by following in the footsteps Moses with the Children of Israel in the Negev. In the morning we shall drive in the direction of Kadesh Barnea and stop at the place where the Edomites blocked the way of Moses on the way to the Promised Land (Numbers 20;14). Here Moses was forced to turn eastward into the Zin Desert. South of this place is the seat of the King of Arad (Exodus 21;1). We shall go on the journey of the Children of Israel along the Zin River. We visit Ein Avdat, in order to view the sources of the waters in the Desert. The water supply was one of the main problems that Moses encountered (Exodus 15;22). From the site of the grave of the First Prime Minister of Israel, Mr. David Ben Gurion, we shall view the Zin River where Moses walked with the Children of Israel.

From the top of Mount Avnon we shall have a panoramic view of the big crater which is 14 km. long and 7 km. wide. We shall meet again with the Zin River on our descent from the Akrabim (Scorpion) Heights which is mentioned several times in the Bible with regard to the southern border of the Tribe of Judah and also because it is close to the Zin River. (Numbers 24;4) (Joshua 15;3)

We shall arrive at Nokdim Village in the desert, where we shall be hosted in a desert tent for a very large and rich meal as were the kings at the table of the Patriarch Abraham. (Genesis 18;1) Afterwards we shall discuss how the Lord turned the desert into a school for Abrahan, Isaac, Jacob and Moses. Dinner and overnight at Hotel in Ein Bokek at the Dead Sea.

Ein Gedi, Masada, Qumran, Galilee

In the morning we shall leave for Ein Gedi Nature Reserve where 3000 years ago David the youth hid from the wrath of King Saul.(Samuel A 24;1). We shall continue to Masada which was King Herod’s magnificent palace and fortress and where took place the last heroic Jewish stand against the Romans. We shall ascend by cable car and shall descend on foot through the ramp.

Continue to Qumran on the shores of the Dead Sea and which is the site of the caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. We shall continue to the Monastery of St. George near the Keret River. Here the Prophet Elijah hid from King Ahab and Jezebel, (Kings A 17;5). Proceed to Einot Zukim (Ein Fescha) See the realization of the prophesy of Ezekiel (47:8-10) becomes true and Fish and fauna grow in this arid desert landscape thanks to the waters coming from the Temple area in Jerusalem (see below further information regarding the importance of this special site). Drive via the Jordan Valley to the Galilee for dinner and overnight

Mt. Arbel, Caesarea Philippi, Tabgha, Capernaum, Boat Ride on Sea of Galilee

We shall start the day from the top of MountArbel which is overlooks the settlement of Midgala. Here we have a panoramic view of all the north of the Galilee where Jesus taught his beliefs. Next, we will visit Caesarea Philippi where Jesus asked the question “Who do men say that I am?”We shall continue to the shores of Tabgha, not to the church, but to the place of the Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes. (John. 1;1). We shall go on to Capernaum the main center of Jesus’ teachings and where also there are the remains of a Synagogue from the 4th century, We shall end the day, at the setting of the sun, with a Boat Ride on the Sea of Galilee. Dinner and overnight at the Sea of Galilee

Mt. of Beatitudes, Nazareth, Mt. Carmel, Caesarea Maritima, Jerusalem

Departure from the Galilee, stopping at the Mount of Beatitudes (Matt. 5-7). continue to Nazareth, the city of Jesus’ childhood (Luke 1 & 2). From a distance we will be able to view Mt. Carmel, the site where Elijah challenged worshipers of Baal upon whom God sent the fire down from Heaven. Proceed to Caesarea Maritima (Act 9 & 25), Capital of the Romans, built by Herod the Great and once the seat of Roman rule. Ascend the holy city of Jerusalem via the Judean Hills. Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem

Mt. of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Temple Mount, City of David

After breakfast and devotions are accomplished we will make our way to the Mount of Olives and view the city of Jerusalem as Jesus must have seen it many times. Now we descend down the Palm Sunday Road to the Garden of Gethsemane. After prayer and study, we take a short walk to the south side of the Temple Mount to visit the ancient ruins of the Southern Steps. We know that Jesus used these steps many times. After a lunch break at the Zion Gate, we will visit the Wailing Wall and possibly the Temple Mount then it’s on to the Upper Room. Next, we stop at the traditional site of King David’s Tomb. Time permitting we’ll include a brief visit to the City of David, and then back to our hotel in time for dinner and a good night’s rest.

Rabbi’s Tunnel, Antonio’s Fortress, Pool of Bethesda, Jewish Quarter, Temple Institute

After breakfast and devotions, we will go to the Rabbi’s Tunnel which is an underground tour of the Western Wall. Upon exiting the tunnel we will proceed to Antonia’s Fortress (Praetorium) where Jesus stood before Pilate. Afterwards we move down the road to the Pool of Bethesda, where a Crusader Church stands. Here, we will have a opportunity to sing unto the Lord where the acoustics make us all sound beautiful. We will leave the city by Stephens Gate (the Lion’s Gate) and proceed to re-enter through Zion’s Gate for a lunch break in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City. The afternoon will be spent at the Temple Institute and the Cardo. When the day is finished we will return to our hotel for dinner and overnight.

Garden Tomb, Yad Vashem, Shrine of the Book and Model City, Jaffa

After breakfast and devotions, we will start our day with a special visit to Golgotha, ‘The Place of the Skull’ where our Lord dies for our sins. The Garden Tomb is just a few steps away. We will tour the Garden and spend time at the empty tomb where our Lord rose from the dead, pardoning us. There will be time to linger and individually contemplate this wonderful place. We conclude with communion in the Garden as we celebrate our salvation. From here we board our motorcoach and transfer to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial. This will take a couple of hours, but will add years of knowledge to your life, Afterwards we leave Jerusalem and we make our way to Jaffa in time for our farewell dinner and then transfer to Tel Aviv, Ben Gurion Airport for our evening flight back home.

Arrives USA

We return back to the USA, with wonderful memories of our pilgrimage to His land.

DEPART USA

Tour members meet for our flight to Tel Aviv. After dinner is served, sit back and relax, enjoying the on-board entertainment as you prepare for this exciting adventure of a lifetime – walking where Jesus walked.

ARRIVE TEL AVIV

In Tel Aviv we are met by our agent who assists us through customs and security. We transfer to our motorcoach for a short drive to our hotel in Tel Aviv in time for our welcome dinner and overnight beside the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.

CAESAREA, MEGIDDO, MT. CARMEL, DRUZE VILLAGE, NAZARETH, CANA, GALILEE

Today we depart for the Galilee, visiting the following Biblical sites: Caesarea where Peter proclaimed the Good News to the Roman Centurion (Acts 9 & 25), Megiddo, Mt. Carmel where Elijah prayed and God defeated 450 prophets of Baal with fire from heaven (1 Kings 18). Time permitting we’ll stop at the Druze Village for a short lunch break. We continue to Nazareth (Luke 1 & 2) and Cana (John 2). While in Cana, where Jesus performed his first miracle at a wedding reception, those who would like to will have opportunity to renew their marriage vows. We’ll arrive in Tiberias for dinner and overnight on the shore of the Sea of Galilee.

GALILEE, NAZARETH VILLAGE, MT. OF BEATITUDES, CAPERNAUM, BOAT RIDE, JORDAN RIVER

There is nothing like watching a sunrise on the Sea of Galilee from our hotel. We begin our sightseeing with a drive to Nazareth to visit the “Nazareth Village” with detailed explanation of what life was like during the time of Jesus. Afterwards we make our way to the Mt. of Beatitudes (Matthew 5-7), with time for reflection and worship. We make our way to Capernaum (Jesus’ base for His early ministry.), then board a replica wooden “Jesus Boat” for our boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.

Our lunch stop includes the option of the special St. Peter’s Fish for those interested (not included). Afterwards we see Gadara and then make our way to the River Jordan and the opportunity to step into that special river. Dinner and overnight in Tiberias.

GOLAN HEIGHTS, CAESAREA PHILIPPI, TEL DAN, BEIT SHEAN, JERUSALEM

After breakfast we travel north for the Golan Heights and view the area from a special lookout. We drive to Caesarea Philippi, where Peter made the good confession of Christ as “the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:13-16.).

We will have a short hike/walk to Tel Dan where we will see the gate of Jeroboam and Gideon Springs. Afterwards, a visit to Beit Shean, one of the best preserved Decapolis Roman cities. In Beit Shean, the bodies of King Saul and his sons were hung from the city walls (1 Samuel 31:10-12) after they were defeated by the Philistines. We then ascend to the majestic city of Jerusalem in time for dinner and overnight. “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’ Our feet are standing within your gates, O Jerusalem.” (Psalm 122:1-2 NASB)

MT. OF OLIVES, PALM SUNDAY ROAD, GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE, JEWISH QUARTER, CHURCH OF THE HOLY SEPULCHRE, TEMPLE MOUNT, SOUTHERN STEPS, BETHLEHEM

We begin the day on the beautiful Mt. of Olives to behold the breathtaking panorama of the Holy City. Our pilgrimage will proceed down the Old Palm Sunday Road to the Garden of Gethsemane with its ancient olive grove, and the Church of Agony, where tradition holds that Jesus prayed. We will enter Jerusalem through the Zion Gate, and walk to the holiest site in the whole Jewish world, the Western (Wailing) Wall of Herod’s temple. Beyond the wall lies the 35 acre temple area purchased by King David (2 Samuel. 24:18-25). On this site now stands El-Aksa Mosque, and the magnificent Dome of the Rock (the third holiest shrine in Islam).

From the temple area, we make our way to St. Stephen’s Gate, to walk the Via Dolorosa – including St. Anne’s Crusader Church, Pools of Bethesda, the Pavement (where Jesus stood while being tried by Pilate), Ecce Homo Arch, and the ancient Cardo. We continue to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. A short walk takes us to stand on the original steps that Jesus walked on as he entered the Temple area. We conclude our sightseeing with a visit to Bethlehem. We pass by Rachel’s tomb on the outskirts, and visit the Church of the Nativity and Shepherd’s Field. We will have dinner and overnight in Jerusalem. After dinner we return to the Western Wall to visit the Rabbis’ Tunnel.

EIN GEDI, QUMRAN, MASADA, DEAD SEA—SWIM/FLOAT

After breakfast, we drive to Ein Gedi where David hid from King Saul. From here we make our way to Qumran and the settlement of the first century sect known as the Essenes, authors of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Following the road south along the western shore of the Dead Sea, we visit Masada, ascending the wilderness mountain by way of cable car to the fortress built by King Herod.

Here we survey the ruins of fortifications, waterworks, synagogue, temples and palaces. We will make a special stop at the Dead Sea (the lowest spot on earth) for a short swim. During today’s sightseeing, we will enjoy a brief Sunday worship service together, including Communion. Time and conditions permitting, we’ll include a short visit to Jericho. The road from the Dead Sea area to Jerusalem is an ascent of 4,000 feet in 13 miles. Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.

SHRINE OF THE BOOK, MODEL CITY, HEZEKIAH’S TUNNEL, GARDEN TOMB

After breakfast we visit the Shrine of the Book Museum, where the Dead Sea Scrolls are displayed. You will be fascinated by the 1:50 scale model of Jerusalem as it would have appeared in Jesus’ time. Next we drive to Hezekiah’s Tunnel (conditions permitting). Be sure to bring a flashlight and good water shoes with you, as you will get wet walking through the tunnel. From here we make our way to the Church of Agony at St. Peter Gallicantu. Afterwards we visit Golgotha and the Garden Tomb for worship and communion. Overnight in Jerusalem.

JERUSALEM

Today is without a planned schedule. It’s a special opportunity to collect your thoughts, and revisit the places of most interest to you. We will suggest several options including the Rockefeller and Hebrew Museums displaying a wealth of archeological treasure. Return for a last look within the walls and visit the Old City for souvenirs, where bargaining is a must. Farewell Dinner and evening transfer to Tel Aviv Airport for your return flight back to the USA.

DEPART TEL AVIV FOR U.S.A.

Arrive back to the USA in the morning.
The close of an unforgettable tour, we take home wonderful memories of the Old and New Testament, a renewal of our faith, and a greater understanding of the life of our Lord.

Depart U.S. for Israel

Tour members meet in Chicago and board our flight for Europe, for Tel Aviv, Israel. After take-off we will be served meals aloft according to the flight schedule.

Arrival Tel Aviv

Arrival in Tel Aviv and transfer to Kibbutz Guesthouse Mashabei Sade in the Negev, or overnight in Beer Sheva with welcome dinner.

Negev, Zin Desert, Dead Sea

Today we will start our journey by following in the footsteps Moses with the Children of Israel in the Negev. In the morning we shall drive in the direction of Kadesh Barnea and stop at the place where the Edomites blocked the way of Moses on the way to the Promised Land (Numbers 20;14). Here Moses was forced to turn eastward into the Zin Desert. South of this place is the seat of the King of Arad (Exodus 21;1). We shall go on the journey of the Children of Israel along the Zin River. We visit Ein Avdat, in order to view the sources of the waters in the Desert. The water supply was one of the main problems that Moses encountered (Exodus 15;22). From the site of the grave of the First Prime Minister of Israel, Mr. David Ben Gurion, we shall view the Zin River where Moses walked with the Children of Israel.

From the top of Mount Avnon we shall have a panoramic view of the big crater which is 14 km. long and 7 km. wide. We shall meet again with the Zin River on our descent from the Akrabim (Scorpion) Heights which is mentioned several times in the Bible with regard to the southern border of the Tribe of Judah and also because it is close to the Zin River. (Numbers 24;4) (Joshua 15;3)

We shall arrive at Nokdim Village in the desert, where we shall be hosted in a desert tent for a very large and rich meal as were the kings at the table of the Patriarch Abraham. (Genesis 18;1) Afterwards we shall discuss how the Lord turned the desert into a school for Abrahan, Isaac, Jacob and Moses. Dinner and overnight at Hotel in Ein Bokek at the Dead Sea.

Ein Gedi, Masada, Qumran, Galilee

In the morning we shall leave for Ein Gedi Nature Reserve where 3000 years ago David the youth hid from the wrath of King Saul.(Samuel A 24;1). We shall continue to Masada which was King Herod’s magnificent palace and fortress and where took place the last heroic Jewish stand against the Romans. We shall ascend by cable car and shall descend on foot through the ramp.

Continue to Qumran on the shores of the Dead Sea and which is the site of the caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. We shall continue to the Monastery of St. George near the Keret River. Here the Prophet Elijah hid from King Ahab and Jezebel, (Kings A 17;5). Proceed to Einot Zukim (Ein Fescha) See the realization of the prophesy of Ezekiel (47:8-10) becomes true and Fish and fauna grow in this arid desert landscape thanks to the waters coming from the Temple area in Jerusalem (see below further information regarding the importance of this special site). Drive via the Jordan Valley to the Galilee for dinner and overnight

Mt. Arbel, Caesarea Philippi, Tabgha, Capernaum, Boat Ride on Sea of Galilee

We shall start the day from the top of Mount Arbel which is overlooks the settlement of Midgala. Here we have a panoramic view of all the north of the Galilee where Jesus taught his beliefs. Next, we will visit Caesarea Philippi where Jesus asked the question “Who do men say that I am?”We shall continue to the shores of Tabgha, not to the church, but to the place of the Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes. (John. 1;1). We shall go on to Capernaum the main center of Jesus’ teachings and where also there are the remains of a Synagogue from the 4th century, We shall end the day, at the setting of the sun, with a Boat Ride on the Sea of Galilee. Dinner and overnight at the Sea of Galilee

Mt. of Beatitudes, Nazareth, Mt. Carmel, Caesarea Maritima, Jerusalem

Departure from the Galilee, stopping at the Mount of Beatitudes (Matt. 5-7). continue to Nazareth, the city of Jesus’ childhood (Luke 1 & 2). From a distance we will be able to view Mt. Carmel, the site where Elijah challenged worshipers of Baal upon whom God sent the fire down from Heaven. Proceed to Caesarea Maritima (Act 9 & 25), Capital of the Romans, built by Herod the Great and once the seat of Roman rule. Ascend the holy city of Jerusalem via the Judean Hills. Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.

Mt. of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Temple Mount, City of David

After breakfast and devotions are accomplished we will make our way to the Mount of Olives and view the city of Jerusalem as Jesus must have seen it many times. Now we descend down the Palm Sunday Road to the Garden of Gethsemane. After prayer and study, we take a short walk to the south side of the Temple Mount to visit the ancient ruins of the Southern Steps. We know that Jesus used these steps many times. After a lunch break at the Zion Gate, we will visit the Wailing Wall and possibly the Temple Mount then it’s on to the Upper Room. Next, we stop at the traditional site of King David’s Tomb. Time permitting we’ll include a brief visit to the City of David, and then back to our hotel in time for dinner and a good night’s rest.

Rabbi’s Tunnel, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Antonio’s Fortress, Pool of Bethesda, Jewish Quarter

After breakfast and devotions, we will go to the Rabbi’s Tunnel which is an underground tour of the Western Wall. We make our way along the Via Dolorosa and will visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Upon exiting the tunnel we will proceed to Antonia’s Fortress (Praetorium) where Jesus stood before Pilate. Afterwards we move down the road to the Pool of Bethesda, where a Crusader Church stands. Here, we will have a opportunity to sing unto the Lord where the acoustics make us all sound beautiful. We will leave the city by Stephens Gate (the Lion’s Gate) and proceed to re-enter through Zion’s Gate for a lunch break in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City. In the afternoon we will visit the Cardo. When the day is finished we will return to our hotel for dinner and overnight.

Garden Tomb, Yad Vashem, Jaffa

After breakfast and devotions, we will start our day with a special visit to Golgotha, ‘The Place of the Skull’ where our Lord dies for our sins. The Garden Tomb is just a few steps away. We will tour the Garden and spend time at the empty tomb where our Lord rose from the dead, pardoning us. There will be time to linger and individually contemplate this wonderful place. We conclude with communion in the Garden as we celebrate our salvation. From here we board our motorcoach and transfer to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial. This will take a couple of hours, but will add years of knowledge to your life, Afterwards we leave Jerusalem and we make our way to Jaffa in time for our farewell dinner and then transfer to Tel Aviv, Ben Gurion Airport for our evening flight back home.

Arrive U.S.

We return back to the U.S. in the afternoon, with wonderful memories of our pilgrimage to His land.

Depart U.S.

Tour Members meet for our flight to Athens. Sit back and relax, enjoy the on-board entertainment as you prepare for this exciting trip of a lifetime—walking where Paul walked. After a brief touchdown and change of planes, we depart for modern Athens.

Arrive Athens

Arrive in Athens, where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

Athens, Parthenon, Mars Hill, Corinth

In the morning, admire the architectural miracles of ancient Athens, as you follow your guide to the world renownAcropolis, to see the Propylea, the Erectheum and the Parthenon. Visit Mars Hill where Paul, delivered his speech on the “Unknown God”. View the Agora, the ancient center of the economic and public life of the city, where Paul preached to the skeptical Athenians. During the bus tour, you see Constitution Square with the House of Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Temple of Zeus, the Old Olympic Stadium and the Neoclassical buildings of Athens. Then, you continue your trip to Ancient Corinth. This is the once glorious city near the Isthmus, where Paul met Aquilla and Priscilla and spent a year and a half preaching the Gospel. You visit the Archaeological Museum, the Forum, the Temples and the famous Bema, where Paul stood before Gallio, accused by the Jews of Corinth. Then, you drive to Cenchreae, the little harbour Paul sailed back to Asia from, thus ending his second missionary journey. Back to Athens for dinner and overnight.

Delphi, Thessaloniki

Today you leave for Central Greece. Travel to scenic Delphi, one of the most beautiful places on the face of the earth, which in antiquity was believed to be the “navel” (omphalos) of the world. Walk on the Sacred Way to see the Athenian Treasury, the Temple of Apollo, where the priestess Pythia uttered ambiguous prophecies, and the Theater. Also, visit the Museum with its splendid collection of ancient works of art, including the Sphinx of the Naxians, the Silver Bull, the Column of the Dancers, the “Omphalos” and the pride of the museum, the 5th c. B.C. bronze “Charioteer”. You continue on to Thessaloniki, the city where Paul was received by Jason. Paul was preaching the Word of God here, until he was rushed out of the city. Dinner and overnight in Thessaloniki.

Philippi, Kavala, Thessaloniki

Follow the route of the Via Egnatia and visit, like Paul and his companion, the area of Amphipolis, to see the famous funerary Lion of Amphipolis, and the site of Philippi. There, you visit the Baptistery of Lydia near the river, where Paul baptized her. Lydia was the first convert of Paul on European soil and the conversion of the jailer followed. Also, visit the ruins of the Forum of Philippi, the Christian Basilicas, the “Prison of Paul” and the Theater. Drive to Kavala (Neapolis), a picturesque port and view the Byzantine Castle and the Roman Aqueduct. Return to Thessaloniki for dinner and overnight.

Veria (Berea), Kalambaka

In the morning, you drive in Thessaloniki to see the landmark of the city, the White Tower, the Walls of the Byzantine Acropolis, the Roman Arch of Galerius and the Rotonda. Visit two of the city’s oldest and most admired Christian churches, the Basilicas of St. Demetrius and St. Sophia (Divine Wisdom). Then you drive to Veria, where you visit the Bema of the apostle Paul. Continue to Kalambaka, dinner and overnight.

Meteores, Igoumentis Overnight Ferry

After breakfast you visit the Monasteries of Meteores – amid striking scenery perched atop huge rocks, which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless monasteries. You can also see exquisite specimens of Byzantine art. After your visit to breathtaking Meteora Monasteries you will be transferred through central-western Greece to the port of Igoumenitsa from where you will take the overnight deluxe ferry to Bari-Italy. Overnight on board the ship.

Bari, Italy, Rome

You arrive at Bari, and transfer to our deluxe motor coach, which will take you to Rome. Traveling through the main streets of Rome, you will marvel at the famous monuments of this great capital. Such as the Coliseum, that symbolizes the eternity of the Roman civilization, the Roman Forum, and the Piazza Venezia, dominated by the imposing monument to VittorioEmanuele II. We will include a visit to the Catacombs and if time permits a short visit to St. Peter Church to see the chains that held Paul in Prison. We end the day with a stop near the Fontana diTrevi. Here, follow tradition by tossing a coin into the fountain, promising to return to Rome. Dinner, and overnight at your hotel in Rome.

Rome, Vatican & Sistine Chapel

Our first visit will be to the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel, the celebrated Chapel of the Popes and the venue of the Conclaves for Papal elections. It is one of the most splendid masterpieces in the history of world art and is well known around the world for its magnificent ceiling, beautifully decorated by Michelangelo. From here, your next visit will be to the Basilica of St. Peter, the largest church in the world, which overlooks the enormous Piazza San Pietro. Typical Farewell Pasta Dinner, and overnight at your hotel in Rome.

Rome, U.S.

Morning transfer to the airport for our return flight home, arriving the same day with your hearts filled with many fond memories of your Journey.

Depart U.S.

Tour members depart on our flight from our hometown for Europe. After take-off we will be served dinner.

Arrival London

Meet and greet at airport and transfer to hotel with panoramic sightseeing of London’s lively West End en route: Buckingham Palace, Knightsbridge, Oxford Street, some of the world’s most famous parks, the Houses of Parliament, Whitehall, Downing Street, Westminster Abbey. The balance of the day is at leisure. Welcome Dinner at hotel and Overnight London.

London – Bristol

Drive through the Salisbury Plain this morning, with a visit to the prehistoric mystery of Stonehenge, to the small city of Bath – England’s best-known Spa – a walk and a visit to the famous Roman Baths to appreciate the city’s unique and harmonious architectural character before proceeding to Bristol. Dinner and Overnight Bristol.

Bristol – Chester

An early departure this morning and a drive past relaxing Cotswolds Villages to Statford-Upon-Avon for a visit to Holy Trinity Church, the burial place of Shakespeare and his family, and his Birthplace – a half timbered 16th Century House that has been attracting visitors for centuries. Later, drive on to the exquisite city of Chester. On arrival, enjoy a walk through the Rows – Chester’s famous galleried, timbered medieval shops. Dinner and Overnight Chester.

Chester – Glasgow

Drive to Glasgow through the beautiful Lake District: Stop at Lake Windermere to enjoy its magnificent views, then on to William Wordsworth’s beloved Grasmere. Later, head North for the Scottish Border. Overnight Glasgow.

Glasgow – Edinburgh

Today, a scenic drive: On to peaceful Loch Lomond – one of the most famous Scottish Lakes – past pretty Loch Katrine – the very essence of the Trossachs – then South again through Aberfoyle and Callander to Edinburgh. Overnight in Edinburgh

Edinburgh

local guide this morning will introduce this magnificent city: The Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle – standing on a rock which has been a fortress from time immemorial – historical Holyrood Palace where Mary, Queen of Scots, had her court, John Knox House – one of Edinburgh’s oldest medieval houses and a tribute to Scotland’s religious reformer. The afternoon is at leisure for further sightseeing or shopping. Tonight, enjoy a typical Scottish meal with Highland dancers, bagpipers and the Ceremony of the Haggis. Overnight in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh – Yorkshire

Drive through the Northumberland National Park and North Yorkshire to York “the City of Churches”. Walk along the walls that gird the ancient city and visit the famous Minster, its crowning glory. Dinner and Overnight in Yorkshire.

Yorkshire – London

Back to London today, with a stop at the delightful little town of Windsor, the site of the latest Royal Wedding . Enjoy some free time and a visit to the largest inhabited castle in the world before continuing to your hotel. Dinner and Overnight London.

London

This morning, enjoy a tour of the City of London, rich in history and for many centuries a leading commercial and financial centre. Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral – built by Sir Christopher Wren – the final resting-place of many renowned sailors, soldiers, painters and the scene of State weddings and funerals. Later, walk through the Covenant Garden stalls and shops for some last souvenirs. Tonight, we enjoy a farewell dinner at a lively London restaurant or local pub. Farewell Dinner and overnight London.

London – U.S.

Morning transfer to airport for our return flight home.

Depart U.S.

Begin your exciting journey as you depart on board your flight to Athens.

Athens

Arrive Athens, meet and transfer to your hotel. P.M. Athens city tour with visits to the Acropolis, the ruins of the Parthenon, Erectheum and Propylene. Also ascend Mars Hill, view the Agora (ancient marketplace). We will also see the House of Parliament, the tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Palace.

Athens / Delphi / Meteores

We start our tour in Athens, taking the road through the fertile plain of Boeotia, past the towns of Thebes connected with the tragedy of King Oedipus – Levadia and Arachova, famous for its colorful rugs and carpets (short stop). Arrive at Delphi, the center of the Ancient World – the “Omphalos” (navel) of the earth – whose prestige extended far beyond the boundaries of the Hellenic World. On the slopes of Mount Parnassus, in a landscape of unparalleled beauty and majesty, lie the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo Pythios. Visit the Treasury of the Athenians, the Temple of Apollo and the museum. We continue our journey for Meteores, where we overnight.

Meteores / Thessaloniki

Today we visit the Monasteries of Meteores, amid striking scenery, perched atop huge rocks which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless monasteries, where you can see the exquisite specimens of the Byzantine art. We continue our tour for Thessaloniki, going through Veria Pella – it is indicated that Paul remained in Veria for several days on his way to Athens. We arrive in Thessaloniki in the afternoon for our city tour including: the White Tower, St. Demetrius and St. Sophia.

Thessaloniki / Philippi/ Kavalla / Thessaloniki

We visit the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and continue to Philippi. Visit the Baptistry of Lydia, the marketplace, the cistern where St. Paul was imprisoned, the Basilica and the theater. From Philippi, we drive to Kavalla, on the site of ancient Neapolis. Visit this beautiful city and return to Thessaloniki.

Athens

Today is a free day for shopping or relaxing. There is so much to see and do that we are certain you will want to do some extra sightseeing. Dinner and overnight in Athens.

Athens / Corinth

Today our sightseeing includes Corinth. Drive along the Saronic Gulf, across the Corinth Canal through rolling vineyards to ancient Corinth, which was the most beautiful and frivolous city of Roman Greece. Visit the Doric-style temple of Apollo, marketplace museum, the Fountain of Pirene, the Bema of St. Paul and Agora. Return to Athens. Remainder of day at leisure. Dinner and overnight Athens.

Athens

Morning at leisure. Afternoon sightseeing tour. Dinner and overnight in Athens.

Athens

Morning at leisure. Afternoon sightseeing tour. Dinner and overnight in Athens.

Athens / U.S.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Airport for your return flight to the United States, arriving the same day.