Paul's Path: A 4-Night Central & Northern Greece Post Tour Extension

METEORA MONASTERIES / VERIA (BEREA) / VERGINA / THESSALONIKI

• After early breakfast we will visit Meteora, a region renowned for its awe-inspiring 11th century monasteries, perched on towering rock formations. The history of these monasteries is closely tied to the devotion of Christian hermits and monks who sought solitude and spiritual fulfillment on these heights. We will visit some of these active monasteries, which house priceless relics, icons, and manuscripts, offering insight into the Byzantine era’s profound influence on Christianity.
• We will head to Veria (Berea), where Paul was welcomed into the synagogue and preached to the people (Acts17:10-15). See the monument marking the spot where the Apostle Paul’s was preaching and delivered his message, and the Bema where he stood to proclaim the Gospel. Continue to Vergina, where the ancient royal tombs, including that of King Philip, offer a glimpse into the history of Macedonia and its influence on early Christianity.

• We will end the day driving to the city of Thessaloniki, known as the “Queen of the North.” This vibrant city is deeply connected to early Christian history, as it was the place where Paul wrote two of his epistles to the Thessalonians. Thessaloniki was an important site for Paul’s missionary work that hold rich history of the early Christian Church. Check-in at the hotel in Thessalonica for dinner and overnight.

• From the scriptures – “The brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea; and when they arrived, they went into the Jewish synagogue.” (Acts 17:10-14)

  “Setting sail therefore from Troas, we made a direct voyage to Samothrace and the following day to Neapolis ” (Act 16:11)

• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
• Accommodation:  Thessaloniki, Electra Palace Hotel or Mediterranean Palace Hotel

THESSALONIKI

• After breakfast, we will start a city tour of Thessaloniki. Built by King Cassandros and named after the sister of Alexander the Great, the city flourished under the Byzantine Empire. We will see the Old City Walls, the White Tower, Galerius Arch and the Rotunda.
• Then, visit the Aghia Sofia Church, an 8th-century Christian church modeled after the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. You’ll also visit St. Demetrios Church, with its impressive mosaics and frescoes, which bear witness to the city’s deep Christian roots.
• Visit the Byzantine Museum, the site where the monastery of Vlatadon was built is believed to be the location where Jason’s house once stood and where Paul was accommodated during his visit to Thessaloniki.  Enjoy dinner and overnight in Thessaloniki.

From the scriptures – “Paul came to Thessaloniki with Silas and following his usual custom, he went to the Synagogue where he used the Jewish scriptures as the source for his preaching.” (Act 17:2-4)

• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
• Accommodation: Thessaloniki, Electra Palace Hotel or Mediterranean Palace Hotel

KAVALLA AND PHILIPPI

• Today, you will visit the historic city of Kavala (ancient Neapolis), the port where Paul and his companions first landed on European soil.
• Continue to Philippi, where the Apostle Paul established a strong church and sent his letter (Acts 16:9-33). This location is a significant site for early Christianity. It was here that Paul preached and converted Lydia, the first European Christian, marking the beginning of the spread of Christianity throughout the continent. We see the river where Lydia is said to have been baptized, the ruins of a prison where the Apostle Paul and Sylas had been kept, the Agora, 5th and 6th century Basilica and the Theater.Visit the Panagia Eikosifinitsa Monastery before returning to Thessaloniki for dinner and overnight.

From the scriptures – “Setting sail therefore from Troas, we made a direct voyage to Samothrace and the following day to Neapolis ” (Act 16:11) “And from thence to Philippi which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony; and we were in that city abiding certain days.” (Act 16:12)

• Meals:  Breakfast & Dinner 
• Accommodation: Thessaloniki, Electra Palace Hotel or Mediterranean Palace Hotel

DEPARTURE BACK TO THE UNITED STATES

After breakfast, you will make your own way to the Thessaloniki airport for your flight home, taking with you the many spiritual experiences and profound insights you’ve gained on this unforgettable journey through the lands that shaped early Christianity.

• Meals:  Breakfast
• Accommodation: On Board flight