The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima is a huge religious complex in central Portugal and perhaps the most famous Marian shrine in the world. It was built in tribute to the reported apparitions of Our Lady to the three shepherd children in 1917 and now receives millions of visitors every year, particularly during major pilgrimage dates like May 13 and October 13, which commemorate the first and last apparitions.
Key components of the site include the Chapel of the Apparitions, which was first built in 1919 on the exact spot the Virgin is meant to have appeared, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, a large neoclassical church containing the tombs of the three shepherd children, and the modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity, one of the largest churches in the world. It also contains a vast esplanade that can accommodate hundreds of thousands of pilgrims during major feast days, and a museum full of artefacts, photographs, religious art, and historical documentation related to the apparitions and the development of the sanctuary.
Portugal has a remarkably rich history, and several cities have played pivotal roles in shaping the country’s cultural, political, and religious identity. Fátima is without doubt the religious capital, holding enormous spiritual weight due to the Marian apparitions that took place there in 1917 and has become one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Coimbra, on the other hand, can be seen as the country’s intellectual capital, home to one of the world’s oldest universities and a remarkably well-preserved historic centre. Our comprehensive excursion from Porto allows you to see the best of both cities and gain a deeper understanding of their profound impact on Portugal across the centuries.
On your private full-day excursion, you will:
Discover the spiritual and scholarly heart of Portugal on this enriching private day trip to Fátima and Coimbra. Departing from your hotel in Porto in the company of a knowledgeable driver-guide, who will bring centuries of Portuguese history and culture to life. You’ll journey first to Fátima, the country’s most important pilgrimage site. Along the way, hear the fascinating story of the three shepherd children who, in 1917, witnessed the Marian apparitions that would transform this quiet village into a spiritual hub known around the world.
Your first stop is the Aljustrel House Museum, the preserved home of the visionaries, offering intimate insight into their daily lives. From there, you'll continue to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, a sacred complex that welcomes millions of pilgrims each year. You’ll see the Chapel of the Apparitions, built on the very spot of the Virgin Mary’s first appearance, the vast esplanade where masses are held, the striking Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, and the massive modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity, one of the largest Catholic churches in the world. After time for personal reflection and exploration, you’ll enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch at a local restaurant before continuing north toward Coimbra.
Once the medieval capital of Portugal, Coimbra remains one of its most culturally significant cities. Upon arrival, you’ll begin with a visit to the hilltop Santa Clara-a-Nova Monastery, where you can enjoy panoramic views over the city and learn about Queen Saint Isabel, the revered monarch laid to rest here. Then you will descend to the atmospheric streets of Coimbra’s UNESCO-listed historic centre for a walking tour where your guide will reveal the city’s Roman roots, its vital role in the early formation of the Portuguese nation, and its enduring academic legacy. You’ll see the prestigious University of Coimbra, among the oldest in Europe, and hear stories of illustrious scholars and particular student traditions that carry on to this day while you admire the intricate details of its stunning historic architecture.
By the time you embark on the scenic journey back to your hotel in Porto, you’ll be left with a profound appreciation of Portugal’s spiritual and scholarly heritage brought to life by two of its most beloved cities.
There are so many places to discover on the way from Porto down to Lisbon, so why not make the most of your journey by treating yourself to a convenient private transfer including a stop in the historic city of Fatima? One of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Catholic world, Fatima caught the world’s attention following a series of Marian apparitions reported by three children in 1917. It has since transformed from a small rural parish into a major religious destination and makes for a great pit stop on your journey to the capital.
By choosing our comfortable transfer service, your journey from Porto to Lisbon will be arranged ahead of time, taking the stress out of navigation and planning. With our hassle-free pick-up and drop-off, your driver can come directly to your hotel or Porto airport, ensuring you and your luggage will be in safe hands. Our professional drivers have extensive knowledge of Portugal and are well-versed in the best routes to maximise comfort and travel efficiency.
As a bonus, you will stop in Fatima along the way, with 1 hour of free time to explore the city or visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima, the vast religious complex built to commemorate the incredible events of 1917
At the end of your stopover, your driver will be ready and waiting to continue your journey to Lisbon, with seamless drop off at your hotel or the location of your choice in the city centre or Lisbon airport.
Please note: If you have a flight departing from Lisbon, be sure to account for travel and stop times when selecting your transfer to ensure timely arrival.
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