Churches of Revelation & Journeys of Paul – A Pilgrimage hosted by Pastor Ray Hughes, October 1 - 11, 2025

Questions? Email us at info@signaturetours.com

Jacqueline and I are excited to invite you along for a special tour to Greece & Turkey to explore the Book of Revelation and the Greek Isles. This tour will take you to visit all Seven Churches from the Book of Revelation (Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Laodicea, and Philadelphia.) We will visit Pamukkale to see Hierapolis. We will also spend 3 nights aboard the Celestyal Discovery, touring the Greek Isles of Patmos, Rhodes, Crete, and Santorini. We will end our journey in the city of Athens, touring the Parthenon and Mars Hill. Walking the land where the mission of Jesus spread and much of the New Testament was written will immerse you in the movement of Jesus and His early followers in an amazing way!  This is truly a life-changing experience. Book your spot today! 

- Ray Hughes

DAILY ITINERARY

DAY 1 (OCT 1): BEGINNING OF OUR TOUR- Depart IAH for Izmir, Turkey.

DAY 2 (OCT 2): IZMIR- Arrive in Izmir, where you will be met at the airport for transfer to your hotel. Dinner and overnight in Izmir.

DAY 3 (OCT 3): 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). Lunch included. 

DAY 4 (OCT 4): 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 Tancient 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 (OCT 5): 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 (OCT 6): 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 (OCT 7): 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 (OCT 8): 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 (OCT 9): 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 (OCT 10): 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 (OCT 11): 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

NOTE: Schedule is subject to change due to various factors and the tour guide’s discretion.

PRICING:

• $5,895 per person based on double occupancy.
  
• Single room supplement - $1,495
• $500 per person with registration to secure space.
• 50% of the total amount is due on or before April 1, 2025
  
• Balance due on or before July 1, 2025

FLIGHT SCHEDULE:

TK 134   01OCT  IAH-IST    1435 1030 02OCT
TK2324  02OCT  IST-ADB   1300 1415
TK1844  11OCT  ATH-IST   1025 1210
TK  33    11OCT  IST-IAH    1400 1910 

* Flight times, flight numbers, equipment, gates, and seats are subject to change. For the most current information check the airline website.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE REGISTERING

PASSPORTS: Passports must be valid with an expiration date of at least six months beyond the return home date of the tour. Participants with non-US passports are responsible for country-specific entry requirements. If you do not have a valid passport or need to renew your passport, enter "RENEWING" or "APPLIED FOR" when completing registration.

CANCELLATION POLICY: The $500 per person deposit is nonrefundable. Other payments exceeding the $500 per person are refundable in full up to ninety days prior to departure. After this date, refunds for unused accommodations and services will be limited to the amount received from and/or credited by all carriers, sightseeing operators, and hotels. All funds, including the deposit, are non-transferable.

AIR: The Standard Tour includes round-trip, economy-class airfare from the departure city listed in the itinerary. All group seating is assigned by the airline and cannot be changed by Signature Tours. Seat changes can only be made during check-in at the airport. Upgrades such as Comfort, Premium, Business, or First Class are not available with the standard tour. Participants who wish to upgrade or purchase a specific seat should choose the Land Only option when registering. Frequent flyer, TSA Precheck, and Global Entry numbers can only be added at check-in.

LAND ONLY: Participants who wish to arrange their own air should choose the Land Only option. $1000pp will be deducted from the standard tour price when selecting this option. Participants arranging their own air should notify Signature Tours at least 6 months prior to the departure date. Land Only Passengers arriving with or before the group are welcome to join the group bus at no additional charge. For those not traveling with the group, Signature Tours can provide contact information to arrange a private transfer.

GROUND/TRANSFERS: The group will be met on arrival by a Signature Tours representative and transferred to the hotel/airport. Land Only participants not traveling with the group are responsible for scheduling ground transfers.

HOTELS: Superior first-class hotels throughout. Priced based on two people per room with a private bath and shower.

CRUISE: Celestyal Discovery Cruise Ship. Guided Shore Excursions include Ephesus, Patmos, and Santorini. Shore excursions for Crete are available for purchase onboard. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included on the cruise. Drinks are included with all meals. Additional drink packages and Wifi are available for purchase onboard.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: A limited number of single rooms are available at additional supplement prices. Signature Tours and/or the group leader will make every attempt to pair single participants requesting a roommate. However, the single supplement fee will be charged for each person occupying a single room, whether by choice or circumstance.

MEALS: Breakfast and dinner are provided daily. Lunch is provided on days as noted in the itinerary. 

SIGHTSEEING: Entrance fees to all places listed in the itinerary are included, as well as an expert English-speaking guide.

LUGGAGE: Space is limited on the tour buses. Participants are allowed one suitcase weighing 50lbs or less and will be transported in storage under the bus. Participants are allowed one backpack/daypack or personal bag to carry on the bus during the tour. These requirements will meet most airline carrier restrictions. See the carrier website for airline-specific baggage restrictions and requirements. Medical devices are not included in these restrictions. 

TIPS, SERVICE CHARGES, AND TAXES: Tips, service charges, and taxes ARE INCLUDED in the selling price. Taxes, as imposed by national and/or local governments, that are not included at the time of booking are the responsibility of the participant.

NOT INCLUDED: Excess baggage fees, passport fees, visa fees, food or drink items not listed on the regular table menu for included meals, and items of a personal nature such as room service, laundry, etc. Any service not indicated in the itinerary and/or the above list of included features.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: This tour requires a substantial amount of walking. Many of the sites are not accessible by wheelchair, and the uneven terrain is not feasible for rollators. Signature Tours reserves the right to refuse individuals who may require special attention beyond what the tour guide and tour host can provide.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Travel Insurance is not included in the purchase price. For your convenience, we offer travel insurance through Trawick International. Please Click Here for more information or to enroll in the plan. A preexisting medical condition waiver is available if purchased within 21 days of registration.

Signature Tours
PO Box 956817 Duluth, GA 30095
info@signaturetours.com