May 31 – June 12, 2026
$5,995 Per Traveler; Land and Cruise Based on Double Occupancy
Group Flights from Chicago (ORD) Coming Soon!
Single Supplement: $1,950
We invite you to join us in Greece as we follow the footsteps of the Apostle Paul. This exciting tour offers the opportunity for you to explore the beautiful country of Greece while learning more about the apostle Paul, arguably one of the greatest missionaries the church has ever known. You will receive a wonderful education in Christian history and geography of the region where the forefathers of our faithspread the Gospel. The writings of the Apostle Paul will come alive in new ways as we stand on the stones of the first century churches of Philippi, Thessaloniki, Berea, Athens, Corinth, and Ephesus. We will explore the great sites of Classical and Hellenistic Greece. We will also catch a glimpse of John’s vision into heaven while on the sun-drenched island of Patmos.
More importantly, we will gain fresh insights from the Bible and a renewed appreciation for the mission, message, and ministry of the Apostle Paul. We will have incredible moments of worship, teaching and inspiration surrounded by beauty. No tour would be complete without a cruise of the wonderful Greek islands. We end our tour with 4 days on the Aegean sea with stops at Mykonos, Ephesus, Patmos, Rhodes, Crete, and Santorini.
It is a delight that this will be our third tour lead by Dave Sparks and Yanni Iliadis from Footstep Ministries. Dave is an experienced guide and an accomplished teacher, fluent in Greek and grew up spending nearly every summer in Greece. His insights into the context of Paul’s world will offer a new dimension to your understanding of Scripture. Joining him is Yanni Iliadis, who will be our Greek host for the tour. Yanni grew up in Greece, and is enthusiastic about welcoming you to his beloved homeland as only a native can. He has a deep passion for hospitality and how it can build friendships and ultimately unify the body of Christ. It will be an unforgettable journey.
You’ll experience more than you can imagine in this enchanting land of beauty and history. As we follow the footsteps of Paul the Lord will lead you on a personal spiritual adventure. Join us!
In Christ,
Dr. Gregg & Tammy Chenoweth
Erinn Proehl
Questions? Call us at 972-418-6103 or email us at [email protected]
grew up traveling to Greece nearly every summer and relishes welcoming people to a land he knows and loves. He is thrilled to share with you his knowledge of Greek life, history, and architecture, while also exploring how we as Christians can relate to members of the early church. In particular, he enjoys pointing out the aspects of scripture that are often overlooked, and how the characters from the New Testament are more complex than most imagine. A deep theological discussion while hiking through Byzantine ruins is his idea of a good time.
grew up in Greece and is enthusiastic about welcoming you to his beloved homeland. He has a passion for hospitality and how it can build friendships and ultimately unify the body of Christ. He has a background in ministry leadership and training and development with trusted brands such as Chick-fil-A. In his spare time he enjoys spending time with his wife Kelly and their 3 children, working in the garden, or a competitive game or two of pickleball. His hope is that through Footstep Ministries, travelers will be filled by the kindness of God as they experience a world class pilgrimage to the wonderful sites that we visit.
Included in Your Tour Price
Accommodations – Carefully selected first-class/superior tourist hotels (double occupancy, private bath) chosen for comfort, location, and local character. Hotel taxes and service charges are included. (Single room upgrade available at additional cost.)
Cruise Cabin – Standard interior cabin aboard our selected cruise line, including port charges and government fees. Cabin upgrades (oceanview or balcony) available upon request and subject to availability.
Daily Meals – Meals as indicated in the day-by-day itinerary (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner). Expect hot buffet breakfasts, thoughtfully arranged group dinners, and select lunches that highlight regional cuisine.
Special Group Meals & Celebrations – Welcome gathering, selected themed meals, and an Acropolis view dinner.
All Scheduled Land Transportation – Deluxe, air-conditioned motorcoach with professional driver for all group transfers and touring listed in the itinerary.
Sightseeing & Entrance Fees – Admission to all sites, museums, and activities specifically noted in the itinerary.
Hosted Teaching & Spiritual Reflection – Guided devotional moments, Scripture readings, and site talks led by Dr. David Sparks, helping you connect place, story, and faith.
Onboard Cruise Excursions – All scheduled shore excursions during the cruise portion of the journey are included (no need to pick & pay à la carte).
All Gratuities – Prepaid tips for hotel staff, restaurant service on included meals, local guides, drivers, and cruise gratuities—so you can relax and simply say “thank you.”
Baggage Handling – 1 piece of luggage per traveler transferred between bus and hotel room.
Headsets / Whisper Devices – Personal audio headsets so you can hear your guide clearly.
Pre-Trip Preparation Materials – Digital travel notes, packing tips, reading plan, and spiritual preparation resources sent in advance.
On-Tour Support – Full-time Footstep Ministries tour host team available throughout the journey for assistance, prayer, and logistical coordination.
Single room supplement: $1,950
Airfare to and from Greece
Potential increases in airline tax/fuel surcharges
Optional tour activities as listed in the itinerary
Additions or changes to the standard program
Individual airport-hotel transfers
Cruise cabin or hotel room upgrades
Travel insurance
Coffee and drinks
Excess baggage fees
RESERVATION & DEPOSIT:
A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $500 per person is required at the time of reservation. Fifty percent of the balance is due no later than December 2, 2025. The final balance is due March 2, 2026 .
Arrival
Depart US, arrive Thessaloniki, Greece
Our pilgrimage begins as we depart the United States on our international flight. Our first group activity is a relaxing dinner together.
*Overnight in Thessaloniki (D)
Today begins with an orientation to Greek culture and our first day of touring. When Paul arrived in Veria (Berea), he went immediately to the Jewish synagogue and shared the message of the Messiah with them, proving that Jesus was the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. We visit the traditional rostrum where Paul delivered his sermon, and the remnants of the Jewish quarter housing the synagogue.
Then we are off to Vergina, one of the most fascinating sites of recent discovery. In the mid-seventies, the tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, was discovered containing silver vessels and golden crowns. The royal tombs also house one of the few remaining paintings from the Macedonian period.
*Overnight in Thessaloniki (B,L,D)
Today we continue our journey in the footsteps of Paul and his companions, Silas, Timothy, and Luke. In Philippi, we make our way to the riverside and spend time recalling Paul’s words to Lydia whose heart was opened to the Gospel. It was in this stream that Paul baptized her and welcomed her into the Christian community. In the baptistery dedicated to Lydia we join in singing praises as we are thrilled by the marvelous acoustics of the shrine.
*wear purple in honor of Lydia (optional)
Following lunch, we make our way to the ancient city of Philippi, walking through the forum, seeing two major basilicas and a Roman theater. We pause at the prison cell of Paul and Silas and recall their words of salvation. Then we travel to the port city of Neapolis (Kavala), Greece's most picturesque mainland port. Paul arrived at this port when landing in Greece. Here we see a modern mosaic depicting Paul's vision and his arrival at Neapolis before returning to our hotel and dinner.
*Overnight in Thessaloniki (B,L,D)
The New Testament books to the Thessalonians are Paul's letters to this community of first century Christians. In Thessaloniki we see the old city ramparts, the landmark White Tower proudly adorning the harbor, and the Arch of Galerius that rises over the Via Egnatia. We visit the most beautiful basilica in the city, the 1,400 year old church of St. Demetrius, dedicated to a Roman military officer who was martyred for his faith in Christ by the Emperor Galerius. As part of our appreciation of modern Greece, we visit the bustling open air market with its wide variety of Greek olives and feta cheeses. In the afternoon we board a short flight to Athens and check in to our hotel at the foot of the Acropolis.
*Overnight in Athens (B,L,D)
Thessaloniki, holy site: Please wear clothing that covers both the shoulders and knees. Casual wear is acceptable. A shawl can be used to cover the shoulders while we are in the church.
The architectural splendors of this ancient city are magnificent. We make our way to the world-renown Acropolis with its Propylaea entrance. As we stand before the Parthenon we can still hear the hammers striking stones of marble as reconstruction continues to maintain the wonder of this monument to man’s achievement. We also visit the Acropolis Museum and the Erechtheion before descending to the Areopagus (Mars Hill) and read the sermon that Paul addressed to the Athenians of his day. From there we stroll through the Agora (ancient market place and center of Athenian public life).
*Overnight in Athens (B,L,D)
Enjoy this free day by ambling through the historical district of the Plaka, noted for its shops, cafes, taverns, and colorful people. Explore one of the many museums of Athens. Relax and soak up the sites and sounds. Remember that today is the only day you need to buy your own lunch and dinner.
*Overnight in Athens B)
On our way to Corinth, we visit the isthmus that boasted two major ports and controlled the flow of goods in ancient times, one reason that Corinth became the leading commercial city of the Greek mainland. Paul spent a year and half in this community and later wrote letters to them, the first of which contains his chapter on love. We visit the Archaeological Museum, the marketplace, the Bema and Temples. We celebrate communion among the ruins of this great city. In the afternoon, we return to Athens for a celebratory dinner of our last night on the mainland.
*Overnight in Athens (B,L,D)
This cruise provides a perfect introduction to the Aegean Sea. In the days following the land tour, we cruise through the most beautiful waters in the world to enchanting destinations. Stroll along the marble streets of Ephesus; visit the grotto of St. John on the isle of Patmos where he wrote his apocalyptic book of Revelation; wander the whitewashed alleyways of Mykonos; travel the Crusader streets of Rhodes; explore the Venetian city of Heraklion of Crete; and marvel at the breathtaking view of Santorini. The history of each of our ports-of-call is rivaled only by their natural beauty.
Mykonos
On Mykonos we find beautiful beaches, chic boutiques, and elegant nightclubs. Beneath its sophisticated surface lies a quite essential Greek island. Hundreds of tiny chapels dot this blue and white-washed island with its iconic windmills. Find a table on the waterfront and bask in the serenity of sunset over its picturesque harbor. (B,L,D)
Ephesus, Turkey
A tour to nearby Ephesus should not be missed for here history truly comes to life. Walking towards the ancient harbor, down a marble road rutted by the wheels of countless chariots, we pass architectural masterpieces such as the Library of Celsus before arriving at the Great Amphitheater where the Ephesians shouted their praises to Artemis in reaction to the Gospel proclamation of Paul.
After the tour, cool off with a refreshing freshly squeezed pomegranate or orange juice or a cold scoop of unique Turkish "stretchy" ice cream. Just make sure to keep a good grip of the cone!
We then head to a local rug workshop and showroom and get to see how beautiful turkish rugs are made, following a tradition that has been passed down through the generations. It truly is an artform! Should you desire to bring one home as a souvenir, you will have an opportunity here to do so!
We then return to the ship where you can grab some lunch, a nap, or a just relax on deck.
This island is known as the site of the apocalyptic Revelation of John written here during his exile from the Roman Empire. The cave where he lived is now an Orthodox chapel that captures a glimpse of the vision of heaven. After a brief lesson examining an overview of the book, we make our way into the chapel.
There, we sing songs of worship as we remember the great words of the heavenly chorus, "Hallelujah!"
After making our way back to the harbor you can stroll the small town briefly, before making your way back to the ship for dinner and our overnight sailing to the island of Rhodes.
Patmos, holy site: Please wear clothing that covers the shoulders and the knees. Casual wear is acceptable. A shawl can be used to cover shoulders.
Rhodes
The beautiful "Island of Roses" has a rich and varied history. On a hill above the charming town of Lindos rises an ancient acropolis dedicated to the goddess Athena. Below lies the bay of St. Paul, where the apostle landed during his voyages. The crusading Knights of St. John left the medieval city of Rhodes behind when they were defeated by the Sultan. Stroll through the Palace of the Grand Masters and recall the days of the Crusades. (B,L,D)
Three options for this day:
*Option 1. Discover the Medieval Town of Rhodes
Venture into the charming medieval town of Rhodes, conveniently located near our ship dock. A major highlight is the impressive and majestic walled fortress of the Knights Hospitaller, a legendary and formidable crusading order that inhabited the island for centuries. There are plenty of quaint cafes, restaurants and retail shops to make a relaxing day of exploring the medieval town.
Option 2. Half-day on a local boat,
Consider spending 5-6 hours aboard a delightful small to medium sized boat that will take you to various picturesque swimming/snorkeling spots around the stunning Islands of Rhodes. Enjoy a light, delicious lunch and refreshing beverages while on board. The cost ranges from $110 to $145 per person, depending on the number of participants that sign up. You will still have an hour or two to explore the old town after our time on the water (swimming spot pictured below).
Option 3. Car Rental to scenic Lindos Beach
Rent a car (accommodating up to five people) and take a 45-minute drive to the beautiful Lindos Beach. This sandy beach features calm, shallow waters and breathtaking views of a nearby acropolis, which houses both a historic crusader castle and a classical Greek temple. The rental cost is approximately $125 per car (including rental and gas). Meals and refreshments at the beach will be on your own and we sit at a wonderful beachside restaurant (beach pictured below).
Heraklion, Crete
Paul ministered on this island with his traveling companion, Titus, who became the first overseer of the Christian community founded here. We visit the Church of Titus as we begin to wrap up our journey in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul.
Crete, holy site: Please wear clothing that covers knees and shoulders. Causal wear is acceptable. A shawl can be used to cover the shoulders while we are in the church.
Santorini
The island of Santorini is perhaps the most breathtaking of all the Greek Islands. The town of Fira boasts beautiful white-washed houses, narrow streets, open-air cafes and glittering boutiques clinging to steep cliffs. Lying on the upper rim of a dormant volcano, Fira is only accessible by either cable-car or mule ride. (B,L,D)
Board our bus for transfer to airport and return trip to USA filled with wonderful memories of Greece! (B).
*Please be sure to book your airfare for a departure time after 10:25 AM. We will all transfer to the airport together after disembarking the cruise ship in Athens. This timing will ensure everyone has sufficient time to make their flight.
We’re so excited you’re joining us on this unforgettable journey! We'll be offering a group flight itinerary from Chicago (ORD), so stay tuned for those details. For those interested in booking your own flights, here’s everything you need to know about flights and travel plans so your adventure gets off to a smooth start:
Leave the U.S.: May 31, 2026 (overnight flight)
Arrive in Thessaloniki (SKG): June 1, 2026
First group activity: A delicious welcome dinner around 7:00 PM on June 1
When you arrive, just hop in a taxi to the hotel—it’s super easy and costs about €35. We’ll send you more tips and details as the tour gets closer!
At the end of the tour, we’ll all travel together from the port to the Athens (ATH) airport on our comfortable group bus.
Fly home from: Athens (ATH)
Be sure to book your return flight for after 10:25 AM on June 12, 2026 to allow time for the group transfer.
You’ll want to book a multi-city itinerary, flying into Thessaloniki (SKG) and out of Athens (ATH).
Some travelers choose to fly roundtrip to Athens and catch a short commuter flight to Thessaloniki on Aegean Airlines. If you go this route, be sure to leave plenty of time to get your luggage and recheck it.
Many of our travelers like to come a day or two early to shake off jetlag and ease into the experience.
We’d be happy to book you extra nights at the group hotel at our special group rate—stay tuned for details on how to add an early night or two .
Closer to the trip (about 4 months before departure), we’ll send you a quick email asking for you to log in to your WeTravel account to share your flight details with us (if you booked your own flights), so we can keep everything running smoothly.
We don't just organize tours.
When you travel with us through the lands of the Scriptures, you’re more than a tourist. You’re a pilgrim! In Israel, you will walk in the footsteps of Jesus. In Greece, you’ll join Paul in his missionary journeys. In Italy, you’ll live Paul’s letters to the Romans through the eyes of medieval and renaissance art. In England you'll see the faith through the eyes of the English saints.
We do not put you on the tourist treadmill. We don’t rush you through sites. We set our own pace and at each venue, we provide you time to reflect on God’s Word and for worship. We accompany every group, ensuring personal attention all along the way. We view each tour as an opportunity to minister to your life.
In other words, we're different. We are not a "travel company," we're a ministry!
