The Complete 8-Day Biblical Journey Through Greece

After breakfast, we drive east along the ancient Via Egnatia to Kavala (ancient Neapolis), the port where St. Paul first stepped foot on European soil after obeying the Macedonian vision. We continue to Philippi, the site of the first Christian community in Europe. We visit the Roman forum, the ancient theater, and the cell identified as Paul and Silas’s prison, where they prayed and sang hymns in chains. We then proceed to the banks of the Zygaktis River. Here, at the open-air Baptistery of St. Lydia, your Spiritual Director will lead a prayer service and the renewal of baptismal vows where Lydia was baptized. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a traditional regional tavern before returning to Thessaloniki. Dinner at the 4-star hotel and overnight.

This morning we explore Thessaloniki, tracing Paul’s ministry as recorded in Acts 17 and reflecting on his two Canonical Epistles to the Thessalonians. We visit the early Christian monuments and churches of the city. Next, we travel to Veria (ancient Berea) to pray before the ancient Bema of St. Paul. Here, we reflect on the Bereans, whom Paul praised for receiving the Word with eagerness and searching the Scriptures daily. After a delicious lunch at a traditional local tavern, we take a scenic drive through the Greek countryside towards Kalambaka, located at the foot of the giant rock pillars of Meteora. Dinner at the 4-star hotel and overnight in Kalambaka.

Today we visit the awe-inspiring monasteries of Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Suspended between earth and sky atop towering sandstone rocks, these 14th-century monastic sanctuaries stand as a living testament to ascetic prayer, silent devotion, and Christian art. We explore the sacred chapels, admire the exquisite Byzantine frescoes, and contemplate the depth of monastic dedication. After an authentic lunch at a traditional tavern in Kalambaka, we board our private coach for a comfortable drive south to Athens. Upon arrival, we check into our 4-star hotel. Dinner at the hotel restaurant and overnight in Athens.

We begin the day by exploring the Acropolis, admiring the architectural masterpiece of the Parthenon. Just below, we ascend Mars Hill (the Areopagus). Standing on the very rock where St. Paul delivered his immortal sermon (Acts 17:22-31), your Spiritual Director will read the Scriptures, reflecting on Paul’s wisdom in addressing the Athenian philosophers and proclaiming the “Unknown God” and the Resurrection. We then stroll through the historic Plaka district for a traditional lunch at a local tavern. The afternoon is free for prayer, personal devotions, or exploring the Greek capital. A quiet venue will be arranged for Holy Mass. Dinner at the 4-star hotel and overnight in Athens.

Today we drive along the Saronic Gulf, crossing the Corinth Canal to Ancient Corinth. St. Paul lived and labored here as a tentmaker alongside Aquila and Priscilla for 18 months, establishing a vibrant, albeit complex, Christian community. We walk through the ancient forum and stand before the Bema (Judgment Seat) of Gallio, where Paul defended his ministry. Here, we reflect deeply on Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians and his immortal Hymn to Love (1 Cor. 13). After celebrating Holy Mass in the area, we enjoy a lunch at a traditional local tavern. On our return journey to Athens, we stop briefly at the ancient port of Cenchreae, from where Paul set sail for Ephesus, having shaved his head in fulfillment of a vow (Acts 18:18). Dinner at the 4-star hotel and overnight in Athens.

We depart Athens for a memorable day excursion to Delphi, nestled on the dramatic slopes of Mount Parnassus. Known in antiquity as the center of the pagan world, Delphi provides a striking historical contrast for Christian pilgrims. Here, we reflect on the spiritual darkness of the ancient pagan world and contrast the ambiguous oracles of the Pythia with the clear, eternal Light and Truth brought by Jesus Christ. Along the way, we enjoy a delicious traditional lunch at a mountain tavern. Returning to Athens in the late afternoon, we gather for a special farewell dinner at the hotel restaurant, giving thanks for the spiritual graces received during our pilgrimage.

Following breakfast at the hotel, and depending on your flight schedule, a final traditional lunch will be arranged before departure. Your Mazi coach and driver will transfer your group directly to Athens International Airport for your return flight home. You depart Greece renewed in spirit, carrying the eternal light of St. Paul’s preaching back to your home parishes and communities.