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Sacred Sites of Turkey

Istanbul, Cappadocia & Hierapolis

Best time to travel
Apr-Oct
Ideal Length
10 nights
Perfect for
All
From (incl flights)
€3,399 pp

At a glance

  • International flights from Dublin to Istanbul and home from Izmir.
  • All private transfers as well as your internal flight from Istanbul to Antioch.
  • 10 nights’ handpicked accommodation in Istanbul, Antioch, Cappadocia, Pamukkale and Kusadasi.
  • Guided small group tours of significant religious sites, including St Pierre Church, the House of Mary and sacred city of Hierapolis.
  • Witness the marvellous classical ruins, underground cities and the iconic fairy chimneys of Cappadocia’s otherworldly valleys.
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Introduction

Follow in the footsteps of St Paul, one of the most important and celebrated Christian missionaries. On this tailor-made suggested itinerary, embark on a guided journey through some of Turkey’s most sacred and significant sites. From the first church in the world to the birthplace of St Paul, prepare to discover spectacular destinations that hold strong significance to Christianity. Throughout the journey, you will also visit the marvellous classical ruins, underground cities and the iconic fairy chimneys of Cappadocia.

View all of our luxury holidays to Turkey.

Trip Overview

Depart from Dublin to Istanbul, the former seat of the Roman, Ottoman and Byzantine Empires.

Your private driver will transfer you to your central hotel where you will spend two nights in the culture-rich metropolis. Catch up on some rest and meet the small group you will be touring Turkey with.

Set out on a guided historical exploration of Istanbul.

From the magnificent Blue Mosque to the vibrant alleys of the Grand Bazaar, soak up the spectacular blend of culture in the city. We’ll arrange tables at the best restaurants to appreciate flavourful Turkish cuisine.

Blue Mosque, Istanbul
Depart for Antioch, at the eastern end of Turkey's Mediterranean coast.

After a short flight, begin your historical tour of St Pierre Church, believed to by the first church of the world. View the incredible landmark before continuing to the Hatay Archaeological Museum, home to incredible mosaic and coin collections. Spend the night in Antioch in a handpicked property.

Cave Church of St. Peter, Antioch
Transfer to Cappadocia, stopping in Tarsus along the way.

The birthplace of St Paul, Tarsus holds a strong significance and is home to the Church and Well of St Paul. Explore the pilgrimage destination before arriving in your accommodation for your two night stay.

St Paul's Church, Tarsus
Explore the underground cities and valleys of Cappadocia.

Start in the labyrinthine tunnels of the underground city of Kaymakli, continue to the Goreme Open Air Museum and finish in the Devrent Valley, home to the iconic fairy chimneys that form a lunar-like landscape.

Fairy Chimneys, Cappadocia
Transfer to Pamukkale via Konya.

Visit the religiously significant city of Konya, spending time in the Mevlana Museum and admiring the impressive Sultanhan. Spend the night in Pamukkale and catch up on some rest before morning.

Mevlana Museum, Konya
Discover the sacred city of Hierapolis.

Believed to have been founded by Apollo, it also holds religious significance as it was mentioned by St Paul in his Letter to the Colossians. In addition to its classical ruins, one can bathe in its thermal pools while admiring views of the ancient sites.

Thermal Baths, Hierapolis
Explore the classical ruins of Kusadasi.

During your three night stay, visit Aphrodisias, one of the oldest and most sacred sites in Turkey. You’ll also visit the ancient Greek city of Ephesus, Library of Celsus, House of Mary, Basilica of St John and the historic city of Miletus.

Tetrapylon Gate ruins, Aphrodisias
Transfer to the international airport for your flight home.

Arrive in Dublin.

Tailoring your holiday

OROKO Itineraries are created with you in mind and no two are the same. These can be used to help plan your trip - or we can design a completely different itinerary to suit you.

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Accommodation

Where to rest your head

Looking for the best accommodation? We've got the contacts

Charisma Deluxe Hotel

Charisma Deluxe Hotel

The Charisma Deluxe Hotel is ideally set on the coast of Turkey’s Aegean Sea. Traditional from the exterior, interiors are contrastingly modern and stylish.

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oroko occidental Taksim

Occidental Taksim

Occidental Taksim occupies a prime position in Istanbul, just steps away from the famed promenade and Taksim Square. The centrally situated property is modern and comfortable.

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Pam Thermal Hotel

Pam Thermal sits on a hillside, surrounded by landscaped gardens and indigenous pine trees. Ideally located, it is just a short drive from Hierapolis and the Pamukkale Travertines.

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Grand Bogazici Hotel

Grand Bogazici Hotel is a modern hotel set just outside central Hatay. It features classic furnishings and facilities include a traditional hammam and fully-equipped gym.

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Cappadocia

Dere Suites Cappadocia

Dere Suites offers traditional lodging within a stone hillside property in Cappadocia, reflective of Cappadocia’s architecture and underground cities.

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What people are saying

I wanted to thank you and your team for arranging such an amazing holiday. It was just what I needed – so well organised, no stress and such an incredible hotel and location. It was all seamless. I look forward to my next trip!!

Jennifer – Val Thorens, 2023

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