A Pilgrim's Passage: Walking in the Footsteps of St. Paul in Greece

Nov 23, 2025
4 min read

We at Twelve Pilgrims Travel feel a deep connection to the rich tapestry of faith woven into the very fabric of Greece. It's a land where history isn't just taught in textbooks; it's tangible, right under your feet. For us, a journey to Greece is far more than a holiday; it's a pilgrimage, a chance to walk the ancient paths where the Good News of Jesus Christ first took root on European soil.

This is where the Apostle Paul planted the seeds of the early church, and to stand in those very places is to bring the pages of the New Testament vividly to life.

The Unforgettable Sites: Where Scripture Comes Alive

A Christian tour of Greece centres profoundly on the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul. His relentless travels across this ancient landscape are what birthed some of the most enduring communities of faith in the early Church.

Athens: Mars Hill (Areopagus)
- Standing on this rocky outcrop, you can gaze out over the majestic Acropolis, just as Paul did when his "spirit was provoked within him" by the city's idolatry (Acts 17:16). It was here, at the heart of Athenian philosophical debate, that he delivered his famous sermon about the "Unknown God." It's a powerful moment for reflection on bridging the gap between faith and culture.
- Scriptural Reference: Acts 17:22-34
Corinth: The Bema
- The ruins of ancient Corinth offer a stunning insight into the thriving, yet deeply flawed, city to whom Paul wrote his two epistles, packed with timeless lessons on love, unity, and Christian living. You can explore the marketplace, the Temple of Apollo, and stand near the Bema (judgment seat) where Paul was brought before the Roman Proconsul Gallio (Acts 18:12-17).
- Scriptural Reference: 1 & 2 Corinthians, Acts 18:1-17
Philippi: The Birthplace of European Christianity
- This is a cornerstone of any pilgrimage. Philippi is the first city in Europe where Paul preached the Gospel, an event that marked a seismic shift in the history of Christianity. We visit the riverside where Lydia, the seller of purple cloth, was baptised, becoming Europe’s first documented convert (Acts 16:13-15). You can also see the Roman Forum and what is traditionally identified as the prison where Paul and Silas were miraculously freed after singing hymns at midnight (Acts 16:25-34).
- Scriptural Reference: Acts 16:9-40, Philippians
Thessaloniki: The City of Faith
- A vibrant port city then and now, Thessaloniki hosted one of the most significant early churches. Here, Paul preached in the synagogue for three Sabbaths, facing opposition and establishing a community to whom he later wrote the Epistles of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. The city’s Byzantine churches, such as the Church of St. Demetrius, testify to centuries of continued Orthodox devotion.
- Scriptural Reference: Acts 17:1-9, 1 & 2 Thessalonians
Berea (Veria): The Noble-Minded
- A quiet contrast to the bustling cities, Berea is celebrated in Scripture for its people, who "received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true" (Acts 17:10-12). A visit here, and to the traditional Bema of the Apostle Paul, is a wonderful opportunity for prayer and Bible study, reflecting on the importance of diligence in one's faith.
Meteora: Monasteries in the Sky
- While not connected to St. Paul's time, the breathtaking Meteora Monasteries stand as a powerful testament to the enduring presence of Christ in Greece. Perched impossibly atop towering rock pillars, these 14th-century structures embody the ascetic, prayerful spirit of Orthodox monasticism and offer a truly spectacular vision of devotion.

Twelve Pilgrims Travel's Top Tips for Your Greek Pilgrimage

Travelling with a focus on faith requires a little more consideration than a standard trip. Here are our top tips for a seamless and spiritually enriching journey:

Embrace Modesty at Holy Sites: Greece is overwhelmingly Orthodox Christian, and respect for holy places is paramount. When visiting monasteries and churches, both men and women should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. A lightweight scarf or shawl is a practical addition for quick covering up.
Pack Comfortable Footwear: Many ancient sites involve uneven ground, cobbled paths, and significant walking. Your well-loved, supportive walking shoes are far more valuable than sandals or fashion trainers. You'll be standing and walking a lot!
Bring the Scripture to Life: Take a light, pocket-sized Bible (or use a digital one) and actively read the relevant passages (Acts, Corinthians, Thessalonians, Philippians) while you are at each site. This simple act transforms a historical visit into a truly profound spiritual encounter.
Embrace the Pace: Greek life, especially outside the main cities, often moves at a more relaxed rhythm. Don't rush. Take time for quiet contemplation at the sites—standing where Paul stood should not be a photo opportunity, but a moment of prayerful reflection.
Be Prepared for the Weather: The Greek sun, particularly from April to October, is intense. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-factor sun cream. For winter travel (November-March), pack layers; while the weather is mild, northern cities like Thessaloniki can be cold, so a warm jacket is a must.

A Christian journey to Greece is an opportunity to touch the ancient foundations of our faith. It is a spiritual adventure that connects us directly to the tireless efforts of St. Paul and the earliest Christian communities. We look forward to helping you embark on this most sacred of travels.