In the Footsteps of Saint Nicholas (3 Days)

Overview

A focused Christian pilgrimage in the footsteps of Saint Nicholas, the 4th-century Bishop of Myra whose love for the poor gave the world Santa Claus. Over three days from Istanbul we visit his birthplace at Patara, the Church of Saint Nicholas built over his tomb in Demre (ancient Myra), and the warm old city of Antalya. The itinerary is designed for Orthodox and Western Christian pilgrims as well as travellers who love history. Round-trip flights from Istanbul, 3-4 star hotels, transfers and a licensed guide are included.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Istanbul to Patara

We fly from Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast and drive to Patara, where Saint Nicholas was born around 270 AD. We explore the Lycian harbour city: its colonnaded street, the council house of the Lycian League and the ancient lighthouse, while reflecting on the saint's early life. Dinner and overnight at a 3-4 star hotel on the coast.

Day 2 - Demre: the Church of Saint Nicholas

We spend the morning at the Church of Saint Nicholas in Demre, raised over the bishop's tomb and one of the most important Saint Nicholas pilgrimage sites in the world, with its Byzantine frescoes and ancient sarcophagi. We also see the rock-cut Lycian tombs and Roman theatre of Myra, learning how the bishop's secret gifts became the legend of Santa Claus and why his relics were taken to Bari in 1087. Transfer to Antalya for the night.

Day 3 - Antalya and return to Istanbul

We explore old Antalya (Kaleici), Hadrian's Gate and, time permitting, the Antalya Museum, before transferring to the airport for our flight back to Istanbul.

Tour highlights

Pray or reflect at the Church of Saint Nicholas in Demre, a major Christian pilgrimage site
Stand in Patara, the birthplace of the real Santa Claus
See the Lycian rock tombs and Roman theatre of Myra
Discover the old town and museum of Antalya
Flights from Istanbul, 3-4 star hotels, transfers and a guide included

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. It is built around the Church of Saint Nicholas in Demre, an important Orthodox and Christian pilgrimage site, and the saint's birthplace at Patara. It suits Orthodox, Catholic and Protestant pilgrims as well as history travellers.

Saint Nicholas was a 4th-century bishop of Myra (Demre) famous for secret gifts to the poor. Over centuries his feast and generosity evolved into the figure of Santa Claus, also called Father Christmas.

The Church of Saint Nicholas is a museum and monument today, but special services are occasionally held, and visitors are welcome to pray and light candles respectfully.

Round-trip domestic flights from Istanbul, 3-4 star hotels, all transfers, site and museum entrance fees, and a professional guide. Lunches and personal expenses are not included.

Spring and autumn are ideal. Saint Nicholas is commemorated on 6 December; tours around this date can be arranged on request and are especially meaningful for pilgrims.