St. Paul's Path: Thessaloniki to Athens

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Amazing Experience

Overview

  • Wander through Thessaloniki’s ancient streets, where Roman, Byzantine, and early Christian legacies intertwine.
  • Trace Saint Paul’s footsteps in Philippi and admire Kavala’s sweeping coastal views of northern Greece.
  • Marvel at Meteora’s cliff-top monasteries before discovering Delphi’s timeless connection to myth and prophecy.
  • Explore Athens and Corinth, where history and faith echo through sacred ruins and vibrant city life.
  • Sail across the Aegean to Mykonos, Patmos, and Santorini, uncovering island sanctuaries bathed in sunlight.

 

Trip Includes

  • 13 Days in 4-star hotels
  • 3 day cruise based on exterior cosmos cabins
  • Hotel porterage – one piece of luggage per person
  • All transfers and transportation are by private, air-conditioned coach (One Group transfer meeting one flight only on arrival and departure is included.) Arrival Meet & Greet guide assistance, Departure guide assistance
  • Sightseeing tours as per the above itinerary
  • Entrance fees of the specified museums in the itinerary
  • Meals per the above itinerary
  • Professional Tour Manager    
  • Service and local taxes 

 

Trip Excludes

  • All airfares, departure taxes & fuel surcharges, seat selection
  • Additional charges will apply for extra transfers if anyone in the group is arriving or departing on different flights.
  • Any future fuel surcharges on land arrangements or additional costs due to COVID rules
  • Personal items
  • Changes in Government taxes and/or city taxes
  • Airport and Hotel Porterage
  • Optional Tours
  • Meals unless listed in itinerary
  • Tips, Port Fees & Gratuities
  • Early check-in & late check out of rooms (standard check-in time is 2pm and check out 10am)
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa/passport handling fees

 

Summary

Terms and Conditions

Prices are from per person based on twin/double share accommodation, subject to availability and current exchange rates, based on a minimum of 30 passengers. Seasonal surcharges and black-out dates may apply.  Please enquire about airfare, single supplements, extensions/changes to itinerary or upgrades.   

 

Welcome to Greece! Upon arrival in the port city of Thessaloniki, you’ll be greeted warmly by your tour manager. After settling into your hotel, take the evening to breathe in the atmosphere of this ancient city—where Christian heritage and Greek culture blend seamlessly. Enjoy your first dinner together, a delicious introduction to Mediterranean flavors, and begin to prepare your heart and mind for the transformative journey ahead.

Meal

Dinner

 

Arrival in Thessaloniki: Gateway to the Past

 

Your Accommodation

Imperial Plus | Urban Smart Hotel

Imperial Plus | Urban Smart Hotel is a modern luxury 4-star hotel, located at the junction of Egnatia & Tantalidou streets, in the center of Thessaloniki. Its design is completely modern and at the same time, exudes the feeling of high-tech luxury.

Imperial Plus | Urban Smart Hotel

Today you follow Paul’s first footsteps on European soil. Begin in Philippi, where Lydia, Europe’s first Christian convert, was baptized. Wander through the archaeological ruins including the forum and the ancient theatre, and visit the serene Baptistery of St. Lydia. Continue to Kavala, the picturesque port city where Paul arrived by sea. Celebrate a special mass at the Church of Saint Paul (to be confirmed), reflecting on the missionary's bravery and devotion as you stand in the very place where his European ministry began.

Meal

Breakfast

Spend the day immersed in the rich Christian and Byzantine heritage of Thessaloniki. Visit the Church of Agios Dimitrius, a tribute to the city’s patron saint, and continue to the majestic Hagia Sofia and the peaceful Vlatadon Monastery, traditionally linked to Paul's visit. Walk through the Brotherhood of Men Park and take time for quiet reflection. In the afternoon, attend a private mass at the Holy Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (to be confirmed). The city’s spiritual resonance is sure to stay with you.

Meal

Breakfast

Depart Thessaloniki and travel toward Kalabaka. Along the way, stop in Veria to view the Altar of St. Paul, built to honor his preaching there. Then explore the Royal Tombs of Vergina, where ancient Macedonian kings, possibly including the father of Alexander the Great, were laid to rest. The day ends in Kalabaka, nestled at the foot of Meteora’s towering sandstone peaks—a serene place for reflection and awe.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Veria to Kalabaka: Onward into the Hills

 

Your Accommodation

Amalia Hotel Kalambaka

Amalia Hotel Meteora is one of the top places to stay in Meteora, thanks to its prime location, exceptional facilities, and inviting guest rooms. Here, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: a welcoming, comfortable environment and easy access to the area’s famous monasteries, museums, and outdoor activities that make every visit unforgettable. The hotel features beautifully appointed rooms, expansive gardens, a large outdoor swimming pool, and a restaurant offering a variety of delicious options. Its spacious lobby, with cosy seating areas and a central fireplace, creates the perfect setting for a relaxing and carefree getaway.

Amalia Hotel Kalambaka

This morning, ascend the otherworldly heights of Meteora, where monasteries appear to float above the clouds. Explore the Great Meteoron and Varlaam Monasteries, marvels of both faith and architecture. Their history, prayerful silence, and panoramic views offer a profound sense of peace. Later, travel to Delphi, once the navel of the ancient world. Here, ancient prophecies and divine wisdom awaited those who journeyed to its sanctuary.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Meteora to Delphi: Monasteries in the Sky

 

Your Accommodation

Amalia Delphi Hotel

For ancient Greeks, Delphi was considered to be the center of the world. Renowned kings, warriors and philosophers visited Delphi and the famous Pythia, the prophetess, anticipating an oracle about their future. At Amalia Hotel Delphi you do not have to wonder about the future of your stay. Rest assured that you will have an unforgettable holiday! The Amalia Delphi has an exquisite location at the foot of mount Parnassus offering panoramic view to the green valley, all the way to the sea, Itea and the beautiful town of Galaxidi. From the lobby, guests can admire the breathtaking view of the Delphian scenery. Lounging around the central fire place, which remains the focal point of the lounge. One level down, the restaurant overlooks the valley and the pool, surrounded by the green gardens.

Amalia Delphi Hotel

Explore Delphi’s storied ruins and museum, walking among the Temple of Apollo and the ancient theater while reflecting on the spiritual seekers who once came for answers. Then drive to Athens, the city where Paul delivered his message of the 'unknown God' at the Areopagus. Arrive and celebrate mass at the Holy Catholic Church of Saint Denis (to be confirmed). Athens' deep layers of history set the perfect stage for the next chapter of your pilgrimage.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Delphi to Athens: From Oracle to Apostle

 

Your Accommodation

Amalia Hotel Athens

Amalia Hotel Athens is centrally located in the heart of the city. Overlooking the Parliament, the National Gardens, and the hotel is ideal for leisure and business travelers alike. Its premium location, next to Syntagma Square and the metro station as well as all the historical, cultural, shopping and business addresses of the city, it facilitates your moving around the busy streets of Athens.

Amalia Hotel Athens

Journey through ancient Athens on a guided tour that combines classical marvels with spiritual milestones. Ascend the Acropolis to see the Parthenon, gaze out over Syntagma Square, and climb Areopagus Hill—where Paul’s voice once challenged philosophers with the Gospel. Visit the Ancient Agora and celebrate mass at the Holy Apostles Church (to be confirmed). The day weaves together ancient thought and enduring faith in one unforgettable experience.

Meal

Breakfast

Travel to Corinth, a key center of Paul’s ministry. Explore the archaeological site, including the Bema where Paul was judged, and walk the streets he once knew. Corinth’s ruins still speak of his trials and triumphs among the early Christian community. En route back to Athens, pause for photos at the dramatic Corinth Canal. Conclude the day with mass at the Catholic Church of Saint John (to be confirmed), then reflect on Paul's perseverance in the face of adversity.

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, transfer to Lavrio and board your cruise ship. Bid farewell to your land-based guide and embark on a seaborne pilgrimage to the Greek Islands. Your first port is glamorous Mykonos, known for its iconic windmills and charming alleyways. Enjoy free time to explore the island, shop, or simply sit by the sea before returning to your ship for dinner and evening fellowship onboard.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Today brings two extraordinary experiences. In the morning, dock in Kusadasi, Turkey, and journey to Ephesus—home to one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities and the site where Paul taught. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary and walk the ancient Marble Road. In the afternoon, sail to Patmos, where you'll visit the Monastery of St. John and the Grotto of the Apocalypse—the cave where John received the visions of Revelation. Few places bring scripture to life as vividly as today’s destinations.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Wake up in Crete’s vibrant capital, Heraklion. Enjoy the morning at leisure—explore the Venetian fortress, shop, or sip coffee by the sea. Then sail to the dreamy island of Santorini, known for its whitewashed villages and sunsets that paint the sky. Whether you wander its streets or take in the Aegean views, Santorini is a perfect close to your cruise experience. Enjoy one last evening of reflection under the stars.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Arrive at Lavrio port and say goodbye to your floating home. A local assistant will meet you and ensure a smooth transfer to the Athens International Airport. With hearts full and spirits renewed, you’ll return home carrying the stories, sacred spaces, and timeless teachings of this once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage.

Meal

Breakfast

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