Footsteps of Paul Tour:
Greece, Ephesus & the Greek Isles Cruise A 12-Day Journey through the New Testament
May 12-23, 2027
Journey through the lands of the Apostle Paul on an unforgettable biblical tour of Greece, Ephesus, and the Greek Isles. Walk where Paul preached and established the early church as you explore Athens, Corinth, Ephesus, and the beautiful islands of the Aegean Sea.
Stand on Mars Hill where Paul addressed the Athenians, visit the ruins of ancient Corinth, and explore Ephesus, one of the great cities of the New Testament world. Along the way, enjoy daily devotionals and biblical teaching connecting each destination to Scripture and Paul’s ministry.
This inspiring journey combines meaningful biblical exploration with the comfort of a luxury Greek Isles cruise and fellowship with fellow believers
TOURING: Explore the sites of Greece and Ephesus aboard a private, air-conditioned touring coach led by a biblically knowledgeable guide. Enjoy a seven-day cruise through the stunning islands.
PRICE: $4,375.00 per person
based on double occupancy. Airfare not included
Tour Includes
First-class hotel accommodations in Athens
Seven-night luxury cruise accommodations
Private bus transportation in Greece and Turkey (Ephesus)
Entrance fees to all included tour sites and activities
Daily buffet breakfasts and dinners
Guided biblical touring and devotionals
All tips and gratuities
Tour Excludes
Round-trip airfare from the USA to Athens
Optional cruise line shore excursions
Personal expenses and travel insurance
Tour Itinerary
Walk in the Footsteps of the Apostle Paul and experience the Bible come to life on this unforgettable journey through Greece and Asia Minor. This tour combines spiritual enrichment, cultural discovery, and meaningful moments of connection. From the ancient streets of Athens and Corinth to the island beauty of the Aegean Sea and the biblical city of Ephesus, each day offers both inspiration and adventure.
During the land portion of the tour, guests travel by private motorcoach with a dedicated driver and tour manager. Licensed local guides will join the group at select sites to provide historical, cultural, and biblical insight.
Inclusions: All breakfasts and dinners are included. Lunch is included on cruise days.
During the cruise, days are coordinated by the tour manager in cooperation with the ship’s staff.
Optional shore excursions are available for purchase as noted.
Optional shore excursions are available as noted.
Day 1 – May 12, 2027: Depart from Richmond or Dulles
Your spiritual journey begins as you depart from Richmond (RIC) or Washington Dulles Airport (IAD) on your overnight flight to Athens. Prepare your heart for a time of discovery, reflection, and fellowship in the lands of the New Testament.
Day 2 – May 13, 2027: Arrival in Athen
Arrive in Athens, the city where Paul delivered his famous message at Mars Hill. You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you adjust to your new surroundings. Dinner and overnight in Athens.
Day 3 –May 14, 2027 - Athens – The Message of Mars Hill
Today, we explore Athens, the cradle of Western civilization and a vital stop in Paul’s missionary journey. Stops will include a visit to the Acropolis, Parthenon, Mars Hill (Areopagus) where Paul preached, and the Ancient Agora. Learn how Paul engaged the people of Athens with the truth of the Gospel. Dinner and overnight in Athens.
Day 4 – May 15, 2027 - Embark on Aegean Cruise
We will transfer by bus to the port of Piraeus to embark on our 7-day cruise, tracing the sea routes connected to Paul’s travels through the Greek islands. Settle into your cabin and enjoy your first evening aboard the ship. Ship departs at 5:00 PM. Overnight on board.
Day 5 – May 16, 2027 - Kusadasi, Turkey – Ancient Ephesus. Arrive in Kusadasi, Turkey, where we will board our bus and meet our guide. Next, we will visit Ephesus, where Paul lived and ministered for over two years (Acts 19). We will walk the marble streets, visit the Great Theatre where Paul spoke to thousands, see the Library of Celsus, and tour the remarkable Terrace Houses, offering a vivid glimpse into ancient Roman life. Reflect at the House of Mary before returning to the ship. Arrival at 8:00 AM - departure at 6:00 PM. Overnight onboard.
Day 6 – May 17, 2027 - Rhodes
Dock in Rhodes, known for its ancient fortifications and biblical connection as a stop on Paul’s journey to Jerusalem (Acts 21:1). Our guide will walk with us and explore the medieval Old Town, or enjoy a stroll by the harbor. Alternatively, you may enjoy a bus tour to the other side of the island to explore the port where Paul arrived. The ship arrives at 8 AM and departs at 6 PM. Overnight on board.
Day 7 – May 18, 2027 - Crete
Arrive in Crete, where Titus later served as a church leader. Enjoy time exploring with our tour manager, relax on your own, or purchase an optional shore excursion. The ship arrives at 8 AM and departs at 8 PM. Overnight on board.
Day 8 – May 19, 2027 - Santorini
Wake up to the breathtaking cliffs of Santorini. Explore the island’s picturesque villages with our tour manager, enjoy free time, or purchase an optional shore excursion. The ship arrives at 8 AM and departs at 10 PM. Tendering used at this location. Overnight on board.
Day 9 – May 20, 2027 - Mykonos
Arrive in Mykonos, one of Greece’s most iconic islands. Stroll the charming whitewashed streets with our tour manager or enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Optional shore excursions are also available for purchase. The ship arrives at 8 AM and departs at 6 PM. Tendering is used at this location. Overnight on board.
Day 10 – May 21, 2027 - Milos
Discover the beautiful island of Milos, known for its volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy time with our tour manager, explore independently, or purchase an optional shore excursion.
The ship arrives at 8 AM and departs at 6 PM. Tendering is used at this location. Overnight on board.
Day 11 – May 22, 2027 - Corinth & Mycenae – Farewell Dinner
The ship arrives in Athens at 8 AM. Following disembarkation, we will board our bus and travel to Ancient Corinth, where Paul lived for 18 months and later wrote letters to the Corinthian church. Visit the Bema (Judgment Seat), where Paul stood before Gallio (Acts 18). Continue to Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers insight into ancient Greek civilization. This evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner celebrating your unforgettable journey in the Footsteps of Paul.
Day 12 – May 23, 2027: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Return inspired, encouraged, and connected—having shared a life-changing experience walking in the Footsteps of Paul.
Cruise Itinerary May 15 - May 22, 2027
- Included Excursions: Tours at locations of biblical significance—specifically Athens, Corinth, Mycenae, Rhodes, and Ephesus (Ancient Ephesus with Terrace Houses)—are included in your package price, along with your airport transfers.
- Optional Excursions: At select ports of call, a variety of additional shore excursions are available for purchase. These optional cultural, historic, and scenic tours can be pre-booked in advance or reserved onboard during the cruise. Click on this link to view the shore excursions available for purchase.
- Going Ashore: Booking a formal excursion is not required in order to go ashore. At each port, the ship provides complimentary shuttle service to the main tourist area. In addition, our tour manager will accompany the group ashore at every destination to provide a guided walking introduction and orientation to each stop.
Inclusions ● 3 overnights in Athens at Royal Olympic Hotel or similar – breakfast and dinners included
● 7-day cruise aboard the Celestyal Cruise lines, on an all-inclusive basis, with ● Shore excursion to Athens, Kusadasi/Ephesus, Rhodes, Corinth and Mycenae
● English-speaking licensed guide for sightseeing & touring as per the itinerary
● Private deluxe motor coach for transfers & touring as per itinerary.
● Guided walking introductions with historical context in Heraklion (Crete), Santorini, Mykonos, and Milos
● Entrance fees to archaeological sites & museums as per the itinerary
● Porterage at the hotels
● Headsets during tours throughout the trip
● Tips to guides, managers, and drivers
● Port taxes & Cruise Tips
● Two included cruise shore excursions: Ephesus and Rhodes
Not Included
● Passport and visa fees
● Port and visa fees
● Lunches (except during the cruise portion, where included by the ship)
● Drinks during meals (except where included during the cruise portion)
● Cable car tickets in Santorini, payable on site ● Optional cultural, historical, and scenic shore excursions offered by Celestyal Cruises (available for purchase separately)
● Round-trip airfare from Richmond or Washington Dulles to Athens ● Passport and visa fees
● Port fees
Passport - A passport is required to board an international flight and travel to Israel. If you do not have a current passport, please make an appointment with the postal service and allow 10 weeks after your appointment to complete the renewal process in the US. Passports must be valid until 11/23/27 for this tour.
Travel Insurance is HIGHLY recommended for international travel. For the best coverage, purchase your travel insurance within two weeks of booking your tour. Compare travel insurance options at this website: TravelInsurance.com
Deposits and Payments - A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required from each paid traveler, along with your reservation form, to guarantee your space on the tour. The remaining balance is due in 2 payments.
Airfare Payment is due upon ticketing of the flight.
Final Payment is due February 1, 2027.
● A supplement for single occupancy must be paid in full with the final payment.
Health and Mobility Challenges - Tours in Greece and Turkey include areas that have uneven footing, few handrails, rocky pathways, and some steep climbs. Click here for Holy Land Accessibility & Wheelchair Access Questions
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 with 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. Tour drivers will take breaks and lock up their buses when unattended. Guests cannot be left alone on an unattended 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.
For the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of all participants, our Israel tours involve a moderate to rigorous level of physical activity. Travelers should be able to:
Walk 3-5 miles per day over uneven terrain, steps, inclines, and archaeological sites
Stand for extended periods during teachings and site visits
Manage personal luggage, travel documents, and personal needs independently
Navigate airports, airline procedures, security, customs, and flight connections without assistance from ministry staff
Keep pace with a group schedule that may include early mornings and full travel days
We joyfully welcome travelers from many seasons of life. However, Aliyah Foundation ministry staff and tour leaders are not able to provide personal travel assistance, airport navigation support, mobility assistance, medical supervision, or daily personal care.
Travelers who anticipate needing assistance in any of these areas are asked to travel with a capable companion who can provide the necessary support throughout the journey.
Our goal is to ensure every guest experiences Israel in a safe, meaningful, and spiritually enriching way.
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.
Visa and Passport
Passport - A passport is required to board an international flight and travel to Greece. If you do not have a current passport, please make an appointment with the postal service and allow 10 weeks after your appointment to complete the renewal process in the US. Passports must be valid until 11/23/27 for this tour. Allow 10 weeks for processing. Passport must be submitted to Aliyah by April 12, 2027.
Visa - European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) Requirements - All non-EU guests participating in the tour are required to obtain European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) visa approval prior to travel. ETIAS is a mandatory pre-screening and travel authorization system for visa-exempt travelers entering countries within the Schengen Area. Guests must apply online through the official ETIAS website https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias. The cost of the official ETA-IL visa application is EUR 20.00. (or about $25.00). Do not use third-party sites for the application process.
Guests traveling from countries other than the host country are responsible for determining and meeting all entry, visa, passport, and documentation requirements for the destination country. Aliyah Tours is not responsible for delays, denied entry, or additional costs resulting from a guest’s failure to comply with these requirements. Any penalties, fees, or expenses incurred due to insufficient preparation are the sole responsibility of the guest.
We strongly recommend you buy Travel Insurance, as there will be no exceptions to the strict cancellation policy.
Your best coverage options will be available if you purchase your plan within two weeks of booking your tour.
Aliyah Tours (Aliyah), and/or its agents and their representatives act only as agents for the tour participants in making arrangements for hotels, transportation, touring, restaurants, or any other services in connection with the itinerary. They will exercise reasonable care in making such arrangements. However, they do not assume any liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or irregularity to person or property because of any act or default of any hotel, carrier, restaurant, company, or person rendering any of the services included in the tours. The tickets, coupons, tariffs, rules, or contracts currently in use by any carrier, hotel, restaurant, or other contractor rendering services shall constitute the sole contract between such contractor and the tour participants. All parties mentioned in this disclaimer, their agents or representatives abroad, and/or its employees accept no responsibility for any damage, delay, or injury due to sickness, pilferage, labor disputes, machinery breakdown, government restraints, hostile acts, terrorism, weather, acts of God, or any other cause beyond their personal control. All parties mentioned in this disclaimer, their agents or representatives abroad, and/or its employees are not responsible for loss of or damage to your luggage, accidents en route, or ill health which may require travelers to miss parts of the tour or to return home without the group. No carrier shall be responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time tour participants are not on board its own conveyance. The tour programs are planned in advance. If between planning time and the actual tour operation, circumstances beyond control require changes. All parties mentioned in this disclaimer, their agents or representatives abroad and/or its employees, reserve the right to vary itineraries and substitute components of tour programs. In the event it becomes necessary or advisable for any reason whatsoever to alter the arrangements of the itinerary, such alterations may be made without penalty to the Aliyah Tours operators. The right is reserved to accept or refuse any person as a member of the tour.
Health and Mobility Concerns
Activity Level: This Greece tour and cruise involves a moderate level of physical activity and is best suited for travelers who are able to walk comfortably for extended periods each day.
Terrain and daily activity expectations:
Daily walking tours at historical, archaeological, and biblical sites
Approximately 2 to 4 miles of walking per day
Uneven footing, cobblestone streets, rocky pathways, stairs without handrails, and moderate to steep inclines
Extended standing during guided tours and site visits
Early start times and full scheduled touring days
Cruise portion considerations:
Walking and navigation of ship corridors, gangways, and port areas
Optional shore excursions are available for purchase, and may include additional walking or climbing
Mobility and assistance requirements:
Travelers must be able to manage their personal luggage independently
Ability to navigate airports, airline procedures, security, customs, and connections without staff assistance
Guests who require personal mobility support should travel with a capable companion or caregiver
Tour buses are secured during site visits and cannot remain available for guests who opt out of touring
Accessibility limitations:
Many sites are not wheelchair, scooter, or walker accessible due to historic terrain
Guests using canes or walking sticks may still encounter challenges at certain locations
Recommendations:
Comfortable walking shoes with strong support are essential
Prepare for warm summer temperatures, especially at outdoor sites
The ability to maintain the pace of a structured group itinerary is important
Our goal is to ensure every guest experiences Greece in a safe, meaningful, and spiritually enriching way. Guests with health or mobility concerns are encouraged to consult an Aliyah Tours representative before placing a deposit.
Footsteps of Paul Tour:
Greece, Ephesus & the Greek Isles Cruise A 12-Day Journey through the New Testament
May 12-23, 2027
Journey through the lands of the Apostle Paul on an unforgettable biblical tour of Greece, Ephesus, and the Greek Isles. Walk where Paul preached and established the early church as you explore Athens, Corinth, Ephesus, and the beautiful islands of the Aegean Sea.
Stand on Mars Hill where Paul addressed the Athenians, visit the ruins of ancient Corinth, and explore Ephesus, one of the great cities of the New Testament world. Along the way, enjoy daily devotionals and biblical teaching connecting each destination to Scripture and Paul’s ministry.
This inspiring journey combines meaningful biblical exploration with the comfort of a luxury Greek Isles cruise and fellowship with fellow believers
TOURING: Explore the sites of Greece and Ephesus aboard a private, air-conditioned touring coach led by a biblically knowledgeable guide. Enjoy a seven-day cruise through the stunning islands.
PRICE: $4,375.00 per person
based on double occupancy. Airfare not included
Tour Includes
First-class hotel accommodations in Athens
Seven-night luxury cruise accommodations
Private bus transportation in Greece and Turkey (Ephesus)
Entrance fees to all included tour sites and activities
Daily buffet breakfasts and dinners
Guided biblical touring and devotionals
All tips and gratuities
Tour Excludes
Round-trip airfare from the USA to Athens
Optional cruise line shore excursions
Personal expenses and travel insurance
Tour Itinerary
Walk in the Footsteps of the Apostle Paul and experience the Bible come to life on this unforgettable journey through Greece and Asia Minor. This tour combines spiritual enrichment, cultural discovery, and meaningful moments of connection. From the ancient streets of Athens and Corinth to the island beauty of the Aegean Sea and the biblical city of Ephesus, each day offers both inspiration and adventure.
During the land portion of the tour, guests travel by private motorcoach with a dedicated driver and tour manager. Licensed local guides will join the group at select sites to provide historical, cultural, and biblical insight.
Inclusions: All breakfasts and dinners are included. Lunch is included on cruise days.
During the cruise, days are coordinated by the tour manager in cooperation with the ship’s staff.
Optional shore excursions are available for purchase as noted.
Optional shore excursions are available as noted.
Day 1 – May 12, 2027: Depart from Richmond or Dulles
Your spiritual journey begins as you depart from Richmond (RIC) or Washington Dulles Airport (IAD) on your overnight flight to Athens. Prepare your heart for a time of discovery, reflection, and fellowship in the lands of the New Testament.
Day 2 – May 13, 2027: Arrival in Athen
Arrive in Athens, the city where Paul delivered his famous message at Mars Hill. You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you adjust to your new surroundings. Dinner and overnight in Athens.
Day 3 –May 14, 2027 - Athens – The Message of Mars Hill
Today, we explore Athens, the cradle of Western civilization and a vital stop in Paul’s missionary journey. Stops will include a visit to the Acropolis, Parthenon, Mars Hill (Areopagus) where Paul preached, and the Ancient Agora. Learn how Paul engaged the people of Athens with the truth of the Gospel. Dinner and overnight in Athens.
Day 4 – May 15, 2027 - Embark on Aegean Cruise
We will transfer by bus to the port of Piraeus to embark on our 7-day cruise, tracing the sea routes connected to Paul’s travels through the Greek islands. Settle into your cabin and enjoy your first evening aboard the ship. Ship departs at 5:00 PM. Overnight on board.
Day 5 – May 16, 2027 - Kusadasi, Turkey – Ancient Ephesus. Arrive in Kusadasi, Turkey, where we will board our bus and meet our guide. Next, we will visit Ephesus, where Paul lived and ministered for over two years (Acts 19). We will walk the marble streets, visit the Great Theatre where Paul spoke to thousands, see the Library of Celsus, and tour the remarkable Terrace Houses, offering a vivid glimpse into ancient Roman life. Reflect at the House of Mary before returning to the ship. Arrival at 8:00 AM - departure at 6:00 PM. Overnight onboard.
Day 6 – May 17, 2027 - Rhodes
Dock in Rhodes, known for its ancient fortifications and biblical connection as a stop on Paul’s journey to Jerusalem (Acts 21:1). Our guide will walk with us and explore the medieval Old Town, or enjoy a stroll by the harbor. Alternatively, you may enjoy a bus tour to the other side of the island to explore the port where Paul arrived. The ship arrives at 8 AM and departs at 6 PM. Overnight on board.
Day 7 – May 18, 2027 - Crete
Arrive in Crete, where Titus later served as a church leader. Enjoy time exploring with our tour manager, relax on your own, or purchase an optional shore excursion. The ship arrives at 8 AM and departs at 8 PM. Overnight on board.
Day 8 – May 19, 2027 - Santorini
Wake up to the breathtaking cliffs of Santorini. Explore the island’s picturesque villages with our tour manager, enjoy free time, or purchase an optional shore excursion. The ship arrives at 8 AM and departs at 10 PM. Tendering used at this location. Overnight on board.
Day 9 – May 20, 2027 - Mykonos
Arrive in Mykonos, one of Greece’s most iconic islands. Stroll the charming whitewashed streets with our tour manager or enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Optional shore excursions are also available for purchase. The ship arrives at 8 AM and departs at 6 PM. Tendering is used at this location. Overnight on board.
Day 10 – May 21, 2027 - Milos
Discover the beautiful island of Milos, known for its volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy time with our tour manager, explore independently, or purchase an optional shore excursion.
The ship arrives at 8 AM and departs at 6 PM. Tendering is used at this location. Overnight on board.
Day 11 – May 22, 2027 - Corinth & Mycenae – Farewell Dinner
The ship arrives in Athens at 8 AM. Following disembarkation, we will board our bus and travel to Ancient Corinth, where Paul lived for 18 months and later wrote letters to the Corinthian church. Visit the Bema (Judgment Seat), where Paul stood before Gallio (Acts 18). Continue to Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers insight into ancient Greek civilization. This evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner celebrating your unforgettable journey in the Footsteps of Paul.
Day 12 – May 23, 2027: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Return inspired, encouraged, and connected—having shared a life-changing experience walking in the Footsteps of Paul.
Cruise Itinerary May 15 - May 22, 2027
- Included Excursions: Tours at locations of biblical significance—specifically Athens, Corinth, Mycenae, Rhodes, and Ephesus (Ancient Ephesus with Terrace Houses)—are included in your package price, along with your airport transfers.
- Optional Excursions: At select ports of call, a variety of additional shore excursions are available for purchase. These optional cultural, historic, and scenic tours can be pre-booked in advance or reserved onboard during the cruise. Click on this link to view the shore excursions available for purchase.
- Going Ashore: Booking a formal excursion is not required in order to go ashore. At each port, the ship provides complimentary shuttle service to the main tourist area. In addition, our tour manager will accompany the group ashore at every destination to provide a guided walking introduction and orientation to each stop.
Inclusions ● 3 overnights in Athens at Royal Olympic Hotel or similar – breakfast and dinners included
● 7-day cruise aboard the Celestyal Cruise lines, on an all-inclusive basis, with ● Shore excursion to Athens, Kusadasi/Ephesus, Rhodes, Corinth and Mycenae
● English-speaking licensed guide for sightseeing & touring as per the itinerary
● Private deluxe motor coach for transfers & touring as per itinerary.
● Guided walking introductions with historical context in Heraklion (Crete), Santorini, Mykonos, and Milos
● Entrance fees to archaeological sites & museums as per the itinerary
● Porterage at the hotels
● Headsets during tours throughout the trip
● Tips to guides, managers, and drivers
● Port taxes & Cruise Tips
● Two included cruise shore excursions: Ephesus and Rhodes
Not Included
● Passport and visa fees
● Port and visa fees
● Lunches (except during the cruise portion, where included by the ship)
● Drinks during meals (except where included during the cruise portion)
● Cable car tickets in Santorini, payable on site ● Optional cultural, historical, and scenic shore excursions offered by Celestyal Cruises (available for purchase separately)
● Round-trip airfare from Richmond or Washington Dulles to Athens ● Passport and visa fees
● Port fees
Passport - A passport is required to board an international flight and travel to Israel. If you do not have a current passport, please make an appointment with the postal service and allow 10 weeks after your appointment to complete the renewal process in the US. Passports must be valid until 11/23/27 for this tour.
Travel Insurance is HIGHLY recommended for international travel. For the best coverage, purchase your travel insurance within two weeks of booking your tour. Compare travel insurance options at this website: TravelInsurance.com
Deposits and Payments - A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required from each paid traveler, along with your reservation form, to guarantee your space on the tour. The remaining balance is due in 2 payments.
Airfare Payment is due upon ticketing of the flight.
Final Payment is due February 1, 2027.
● A supplement for single occupancy must be paid in full with the final payment.
Health and Mobility Challenges - Tours in Greece and Turkey include areas that have uneven footing, few handrails, rocky pathways, and some steep climbs. Click here for Holy Land Accessibility & Wheelchair Access Questions
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 with 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. Tour drivers will take breaks and lock up their buses when unattended. Guests cannot be left alone on an unattended 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.
For the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of all participants, our Israel tours involve a moderate to rigorous level of physical activity. Travelers should be able to:
Walk 3-5 miles per day over uneven terrain, steps, inclines, and archaeological sites
Stand for extended periods during teachings and site visits
Manage personal luggage, travel documents, and personal needs independently
Navigate airports, airline procedures, security, customs, and flight connections without assistance from ministry staff
Keep pace with a group schedule that may include early mornings and full travel days
We joyfully welcome travelers from many seasons of life. However, Aliyah Foundation ministry staff and tour leaders are not able to provide personal travel assistance, airport navigation support, mobility assistance, medical supervision, or daily personal care.
Travelers who anticipate needing assistance in any of these areas are asked to travel with a capable companion who can provide the necessary support throughout the journey.
Our goal is to ensure every guest experiences Israel in a safe, meaningful, and spiritually enriching way.
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.
Visa and Passport
Passport - A passport is required to board an international flight and travel to Greece. If you do not have a current passport, please make an appointment with the postal service and allow 10 weeks after your appointment to complete the renewal process in the US. Passports must be valid until 11/23/27 for this tour. Allow 10 weeks for processing. Passport must be submitted to Aliyah by April 12, 2027.
Visa - European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) Requirements - All non-EU guests participating in the tour are required to obtain European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) visa approval prior to travel. ETIAS is a mandatory pre-screening and travel authorization system for visa-exempt travelers entering countries within the Schengen Area. Guests must apply online through the official ETIAS website https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias. The cost of the official ETA-IL visa application is EUR 20.00. (or about $25.00). Do not use third-party sites for the application process.
Guests traveling from countries other than the host country are responsible for determining and meeting all entry, visa, passport, and documentation requirements for the destination country. Aliyah Tours is not responsible for delays, denied entry, or additional costs resulting from a guest’s failure to comply with these requirements. Any penalties, fees, or expenses incurred due to insufficient preparation are the sole responsibility of the guest.
We strongly recommend you buy Travel Insurance, as there will be no exceptions to the strict cancellation policy.
Your best coverage options will be available if you purchase your plan within two weeks of booking your tour.
Aliyah Tours (Aliyah), and/or its agents and their representatives act only as agents for the tour participants in making arrangements for hotels, transportation, touring, restaurants, or any other services in connection with the itinerary. They will exercise reasonable care in making such arrangements. However, they do not assume any liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or irregularity to person or property because of any act or default of any hotel, carrier, restaurant, company, or person rendering any of the services included in the tours. The tickets, coupons, tariffs, rules, or contracts currently in use by any carrier, hotel, restaurant, or other contractor rendering services shall constitute the sole contract between such contractor and the tour participants. All parties mentioned in this disclaimer, their agents or representatives abroad, and/or its employees accept no responsibility for any damage, delay, or injury due to sickness, pilferage, labor disputes, machinery breakdown, government restraints, hostile acts, terrorism, weather, acts of God, or any other cause beyond their personal control. All parties mentioned in this disclaimer, their agents or representatives abroad, and/or its employees are not responsible for loss of or damage to your luggage, accidents en route, or ill health which may require travelers to miss parts of the tour or to return home without the group. No carrier shall be responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time tour participants are not on board its own conveyance. The tour programs are planned in advance. If between planning time and the actual tour operation, circumstances beyond control require changes. All parties mentioned in this disclaimer, their agents or representatives abroad and/or its employees, reserve the right to vary itineraries and substitute components of tour programs. In the event it becomes necessary or advisable for any reason whatsoever to alter the arrangements of the itinerary, such alterations may be made without penalty to the Aliyah Tours operators. The right is reserved to accept or refuse any person as a member of the tour.
Health and Mobility Concerns
Activity Level: This Greece tour and cruise involves a moderate level of physical activity and is best suited for travelers who are able to walk comfortably for extended periods each day.
Terrain and daily activity expectations:
Daily walking tours at historical, archaeological, and biblical sites
Approximately 2 to 4 miles of walking per day
Uneven footing, cobblestone streets, rocky pathways, stairs without handrails, and moderate to steep inclines
Extended standing during guided tours and site visits
Early start times and full scheduled touring days
Cruise portion considerations:
Walking and navigation of ship corridors, gangways, and port areas
Optional shore excursions are available for purchase, and may include additional walking or climbing
Mobility and assistance requirements:
Travelers must be able to manage their personal luggage independently
Ability to navigate airports, airline procedures, security, customs, and connections without staff assistance
Guests who require personal mobility support should travel with a capable companion or caregiver
Tour buses are secured during site visits and cannot remain available for guests who opt out of touring
Accessibility limitations:
Many sites are not wheelchair, scooter, or walker accessible due to historic terrain
Guests using canes or walking sticks may still encounter challenges at certain locations
Recommendations:
Comfortable walking shoes with strong support are essential
Prepare for warm summer temperatures, especially at outdoor sites
The ability to maintain the pace of a structured group itinerary is important
Our goal is to ensure every guest experiences Greece in a safe, meaningful, and spiritually enriching way. Guests with health or mobility concerns are encouraged to consult an Aliyah Tours representative before placing a deposit.
