May 16 - 29, 2026
$5,695 Per Traveler; Land and Cruise Based on Double Occupancy
Single Supplement: $2,095
Optional Group Airfare out of DFW: $1,675 per person, Economy Class
(details after the itinerary below)
*Preston Trail Community Church Members Only
Denise and I invite you to join us on an unforgettable 14-day pilgrimage next May as we re-trace the second missionary journey of Paul the Apostle around the Aegean Sea. The dates are May 16–29, 2026.
Picture yourself …
Stepping into the stream where Paul baptized Lydia, the first convert in Europe
Listening as Paul’s sermon "to an unknown god” echoes across Mars Hill in Athens
Sharing Communion in Corinth on the very site where Paul defended himself before the magistrates
Together, we’ll journey through the vibrant culture and rich biblical history of Greece as we follow in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul. Our tour will take us to cities and sites that come alive from the pages of the New Testament—Berea, Thessaloniki, Philippi, Athens, and Corinth. Along the way, we’ll also explore iconic landmarks such as the Royal Tombs of the Macedonians and the awe-inspiring Parthenon.
After discovering the treasures of mainland Greece, we’ll spend four days cruising the Aegean Sea, visiting breathtaking port towns and islands including Rhodes, Crete, Patmos, Mykonos, Santorini, and the ancient city of Ephesus in modern-day Turkey.
This unforgettable journey will be led by the renowned Dr. David and Elizabeth Sparks, in partnership with the expert team at Footstep Ministries. Dr. Sparks—an experienced guide with over 100 tours to his name—brings Scripture to life through his deep knowledge of Paul’s ministry and the historical backdrop of these sacred places. Elizabeth, a native of Greece, adds a unique personal touch, offering insight into the heart of Greek culture. She will introduce you to authentic cuisine, guide you through lively local markets, and unveil hidden gems along the way.
We’re so grateful to have you with us for this life-changing and inspiring journey. As we trace Saint Paul’s path together, we anticipate a truly meaningful experience for all.
Excited for the journey ahead,
Paul Basden
Senior Pastor, Preston Trail Community Church
Frisco, TX | Prestontrail.org
Questions? Call us at 972-418-6103 or email us at [email protected].
is author of the Journal of Paul and a devotional series of daily insights based on the letters of the Apostle Paul. For the past thirty years he and his wife Elizabeth have led numerous tours both for adult-enrichment and academic credit. His passion is to make the Word come alive by exploring it in its historical context so that travelers return home with a renewed faith and a strengthened witness.
delights in showing you her homeland as only a native can do. Her desire is for travelers to experience the cultures of various lands and to enjoy wonderful and supportive Christian fellowship. Her prayer is that the Lord will touch each traveler's heart in special ways as we study the Word and listen to His voice.
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.
NOT INCLUDEDED IN PRICE:
International airfare, travel insurance, personal expenses, beverages other than those served with included meals, cruise cabin or hotel upgrades, passport fees, incidentals, and any activities labeled “optional” in the itinerary.
Depart US, arrive Thessaloniki, Greece
Depart the US on an overnight flight to Greece, where a world of ancient history and stunning landscapes awaits you.
If you are making your own flight arrangements, we kindly suggest aiming to arrive in Thessaloniki by early to mid-afternoon. This will give you ample time to settle in and refresh before joining us for a delightful dinner on the evening of the 17th, where you can savor local flavors and the warm hospitality of Greece. (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. (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.
ANCIENT PHILIPPI
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. (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 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 cheese. (B,L,D).
*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.
In the morning, we board our short flight to Athens and check in at our hotel at the foot of the Acropolis. In the evening we visit the Acropolis Museum as we begin exploring this wonderous city. (B,D)
The architectural splendors of this ancient city are magnificent. In the morning, we visit the Areopagus (Mars Hill) where Paul gave his sermon of “the unknown God.” Then we stroll through the Plaka. We break for lunch and shopping. Late afternoon, 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. Then we are off to dinner at a local taverna. (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. (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. (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.
Patmos, Greece
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 the heavens. We sing songs of worship as we remember the great words of the heavenly chorus, "Hallelujah!" (B,L,D)
*Holy site - Patmos: 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.
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)
*optional beach day, details to come!
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.
*Holy site (Crete): 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.
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).
Group Airfare is only offered with a one day early departure from DFW. Total price for airfare and one early night stay at our group hotel is $1,675 per person (economy class only).
15 MAY 2026
DFW → ISTANBUL – Turkish Airlines #192
Depart: 8:55 PM | Arrive: 4:55 PM (+1)
16 MAY 2026
ISTANBUL → THESSALONIKI – Turkish Airlines #1893
Depart: 7:00 PM | Arrive: 8:25 PM
29 MAY 2026
ATHENS → ISTANBUL – Turkish Airlines #1844
Depart: 10:30 AM | Arrive: 12:05 PM
29 MAY 2026
ISTANBUL → DFW – Turkish Airlines #191
Depart: 2:10 PM | Arrive: 7:10 PM
Group transportation will be provided between the airport and hotel for those on the group flights—or on the same itinerary.
Please note:
The group flight arrives one day before the main portion of the tour begins.
Our first official group activity is dinner on May 17 around 6:45pm, details to come. Lunch on the May 17 is not included, but we will give plenty of suggestions.
We’re so excited you’re joining us on this unforgettable journey! 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 16, 2026 (overnight flight)
Arrive in Thessaloniki (SKG): May 17, 2026
First group activity: A delicious welcome dinner around 6:45PM on May 17. Please plan to have your flight arrive by 4 PM, so you have time to get settled in before our dinner together.
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 May 29, 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, passport information, etc.
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.
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!
