DETAILS OF THE TRIP ARE:

PRICE: $4,395.00 per person (double occupancy)

AIR FARE: TBD

September 2-12, 2026

Flight from Dulles Washington DC

HOTELS

Sept. 3-5: Hyatt Regency, Izmir

Sept. 5-6: Richmond Thermal Hotel, Pamukkale

Sept. 6-8: Korumar Hotel, Kusadasi

Sept. 8-11: Celestyal Discovery Cruise, Athens

Sept. 11-12: Royal Olympic Hotel, Athens

Day 1
Wednesday, Sept. 2
BEGINNING OF OUR TOUR

Depart IAD for Izmir, Turkey.

Day 2,
Thursday, Sept. 3
IZMIR

Arrive in Izmir, where you will be met at the airport for transfer to your hotel. Dinner and overnight in Izmir.

Day 3,
Friday, Sept. 4
PERGAMUM/THYATIRA

Begin the morning with a drive north through farmlands, low ranges, and along the Aegean Sea to visit Pergamum, one of the most powerful cities in the ancient world. Although the city benefited from immense wealth and prominence, it was referred to as the site of “Satan’s throne” in Revelation (Rev 2:13-16). Tour the Acropolis, which sits atop a 1000-foot windswept mountain, offering a view of the neighboring modern towns, the azure waters of the Aegean, and the ruins of Pergamum that cascade down from the ancient city center. Nearby are the remains of the famous Library of Pergamum. In the afternoon, journey to Thyatira, one of the Seven Churches praised for its increasing faith but admonished for its tolerance of Jezebel (Rev. 2:20). Dinner and overnight in Izmir. Lunch included.

Day 4
Saturday, Sept. 5
SMYRNA/SARDIS/PHILADELPHIA

Begin the day with a visit to the archaeological remains of the ancient city of Smyrna. Located in modern-day Izmir, Smyrna was one of the Seven Churches that the Apostle John relays the promise from God: “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Rev 2:10). Next, visit Sardis, a militarily strong ancient city located along an important highway among the fertile plains of Hermus (Gediz River). Though Sardis was a powerful and wealthy city with a reputation for being alive, God announced that it was actually dead (Rev. 3:1-6). Explore the white marble Royal Road, the massive Temple of Artemis, the large gymnasium, and the famous synagogue. In the afternoon, drive to the modern town of Alasehir and visit the site of ancient Philadelphia. This church received God's highest commendation (Rev. 3:7-13). View the vestiges of a Byzantine Basilica adorned with 11th-century frescoes. Continue to Pamukkale for dinner and overnight. Lunch included.

Day 5
Sunday, Sept. 6
LAODICEA/PAMUKKALE

In the morning, visit Pamukkale, the “Cotton Castle.” Dip your feet in the thermal waters that flow down the hilltop’s unique, white travertine terraces. Explore the archeological remains of Hierapolis, a significant site of early Christianity due to Paul’s missionary efforts (Colossians 4:13). Stroll among several well-preserved Roman structures, including the town theatre and Temple of Apollo, before continuing to the ancient city of Laodicea. Laodicea was one of the Seven Churches named in the book of Revelation and was chastised for being lukewarm (Rev. 3:14-22). View the site’s well-preserved stadium, gymnasium, and theatres, revealing the city’s former prominence. Continue to Kusadasi for dinner and overnight. Lunch included.

Day 6
Monday, Sept. 7
EPHESUS

Spend the day exploring Ancient Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Turkey. Originally an ancient Greek Ionic city built in the 11th century BC, Ephesus grew to become the largest metropolis and capital of the Roman province of Asia Minor. Here, John carried out his mission for two years and was Bishop of the Ephesian Church before being exiled to the Island of Patmos. Ramble along the Marble Road, passing numerous historically rich sites, including the fountain of Trajan and the Temple of Hadrian. Gaze at the Library of Celsus, adorning the site’s most impressive square. Marvel at the largest surviving theater from the Roman period, the scene of an uprising provoked by a merchant named Demetrius against Paul and his teachings (Acts 19:23). End the day at The Basilica of St. John, constructed by Justinian I in the 6th century at the site believed to be the burial place of the apostle John. Dinner and Overnight in Kusadasi. Lunch included.

Day 7
Tuesday, Sept. 8
PATMOS

Step aboard The Discovery for a Greek islands cruise. First, stop at the island of Patmos, built on a mass of volcanic rock. The island marks the site where the apostle John was exiled. Visit the Monastery of St. John, taking time to savor the views of the beautiful sea below. Continue to the cave where John received the vision recorded in the book of Revelation. Return to the ship for dinner and overnight. Lunch included onboard.

Day 8
Wednesday, Sept. 9
RHODES

Enjoy a full day on the island of Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Journey to Lindos, where it is believed the Apostle Paul had a short stay on his way to Jerusalem. Visit the Acropolis of Lindos, prominently displaying the Doric Temple of Athena, built in 300 BC, with a stunning view of the sea below. See the Church of the Virgin Mary, containing frescoes from the 15th century. Return to the capital to be immersed in the history of the occupation of the Knights of Saint John during the Crusades. Pass under the imposing Gate d’Amboise and walk along the Street of the Knights. The crests which identified their Order and living quarters are still visible today. View the awe-inspiring Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, built in the Gothic style. Enjoy free time before returning to the ship for dinner and overnight. Lunch included onboard.

Day 9
Thursday, Sept. 10
CRETE/SANTORINI

Arrive in Crete, the largest of the Greek Islands and cradle of the Ancient Minoan Civilization. This island is where the Apostle Paul spent time as he was being transported to Rome as a prisoner, and where Titus remained to help the churches. Meander through Heraklion, the capital of Crete, and enjoy the shopping and local culture. Board The Discovery for an afternoon cruise to the famous island of Santorini, formed by the half-submerged crescent of a volcanic caldera. Perched atop high cliffs, savor the island’s breathtaking views from Oia. Dinner and overnight on the ship. Lunch included onboard.

Day 10
Friday, Sept. 11
ATHENS

Disembark in Athens and spend the day exploring the birthplace of democracy. Proceed to the world-renowned Acropolis and marvel at the ancient glory of the Parthenon, built 2400 years ago. Gather at Mars Hill, where Paul addressed the intellectual men of the most informed city of the time, pleading for the cause of Christianity. Savor the view of the sprawling city below. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight in Athens.

Day 11
Saturday, Sept. 1
ATHENS/USA

Transfer to Athens airport for your return flight to the USA with your heart full of memories from spectacular views and unforgettable experiences

PRICE PER PERSON -  $4,395.00 pp/double occupancy
Does not include - Round-trip Airfare from Dulles (IAD)

Air Travel to be determined.

Deposit Required: $500 per person to reserve your place on the tour.  Deposit is non-refundable. 

Passports: Must be valid until 

Deposits and Payments: A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required from each traveler along with their reservation form to guarantee the booking on the tour. The remaining balance is due in 2 payments.  Airfare payment and Final payment.

1. Airfare Payment is due 4 months from Travel Date.

2. Final Payment is due 3 months from Travel Date.

• A supplement for single occupancy must be paid in full with the final payment.

• Failure to pay the amounts due by the above deadlines is grounds for cancellation of your reservation.

• Cancellation fees will apply, if your reservation is cancelled due to late or insufficient payments. 

• If using a credit card, a 3% service fee will be added by Paypal to your total charge.

Cancellation Requests: All cancellation requests must be made in writing by email to (tours@aliyahfoundation.org) or in writing sent by mail to; P.O. Box 74111, Richmond VA 23236) to Aliyah Tours.

Cancellation Fees:  

• Deposit is non-refundable.

• Up to 4 months prior to departure date, the cancellation fee is the initial deposit plus 50% of other amounts paid.

• Up to 6 weeks prior to departure date, the cancellation fee is the initial deposit plus 75% of other amounts paid.

• Within 6 weeks prior to departure date, the cancellation fee is 100% of all amounts paid.

Tour Arrangements
Air – Air arrangements are not included in most group tours. Assistance with air travel arrangements is available through Aliyah Tours or an affiliate.
Land – All packages including overnight hotel stays are quoted based upon double occupancy sharing a twin or double room with private facilities. Aliyah Tours does not arrange sharing for individual travelers. Single rooms are available at additional cost. Aliyah Tours reserves the right to substitute hotels based upon availability when necessary. Sightseeing and entrance fees are included as per itinerary. Individual passengers and passengers arriving independently from a scheduled group are responsible for their own transfers.

Not Included
Airport taxis and private transfers (unless specifically included in certain group tours), optional tours, charges for passports, excess baggage charges, accident, trip cancellation and baggage insurance, telephone and cable charges, laundry, meals not specified in the itinerary, liquor, items of a personal nature and any items not specifically listed as included.

Passports/VisaYou will be required to provide Aliyah Tours with a copy of your passport before (date TBD), which is 6 weeks before the tour. It can take as long as 10 weeks to process a passport application in the USA. Please expedite passport applications submitted after (date TBD). Also note: The State of Israel requires that your passport have an expiration date valid for at least 6 months after your date of departure from Israel. Other nationals should contact their consulate for visa information. For other destinations, please contact Aliyah Tours.  Aliyah Tours does NOT process visa applications. No inoculations are currently required for travel to Israel. Please contact public health authorities for further information or other destinations.

Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is Highly recommended. Get Travel Insurance here and purchase the amount of coverage you deem necessary. 

Baggage
Suitcases: 1 per person, not to exceed 50 lbs. for 1 bag. Each can measure up to 62 linear inches (length + height + width). Carry On Luggage: 1 per person, not to exceed 11 lbs. Each can measure up to 45 linear inches (length + height + width).

Deviations
Any change in the basic program will result in the charge of $150 per change per person plus any additional charges that may apply for revised air or land arrangements.

Unexpected Airline Challenges
Airlines can and will make unexpected changes to travel itineraries due to weather, mechanical problems and staffing issues. Should your flight be delayed or canceled, it is up to the passenger to work directly with the airline to rebook flights to the intended destination. Aliyah Tours is not responsible for airline changes that cause delays, cancellations, late arrivals, baggage loss, and associated expenses. Group transfers are limited to the original arrival time and will not be available for rescheduled flights. (Air travel ticketing agents affiliated with Aliyah Tours are not responsible for rebooking your canceled or delayed flights.) Travel insurance is highly recommended to address all these challenges and the associated expenses for the traveler.

Health and Mobility Challenges
Tours in Israel and Greece include areas that have uneven footing, few handrails, rocky pathways, and some steep climbs. The streets and sites we visit are not wheelchair and walker friendly. Most of our tours include 3-5 miles of walking per day. Guests iwith mobility challenges or other health issues should make private arrangements to travel with a caregiver who can stay with them if they need to opt out of a tour stop. Guests cannot be left alone or on the bus should they choose to opt out. If you have health challenges, please consult an Aliyah Tours representative before you put down a deposit on a tour. 

European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) Requirement

Buy Travel Insurance Here

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND YOU BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE AS THERE WILL BE NO EXCEPTIONS TO THE STRICT CANCELLATION POLICY. 

This tour has an activity level rating of 3-4: Moderate to Active.  See Activity level ratings at this link.

NOTE - Solo travelers require a high level of independence and must travel with a caregiver if assistance is required.

Guests with mobility concerns will not travel comfortably on this particular tour. See the link below for more information.

Holy Land Accessibility and Wheelchair Access Information is available at this link.