Fátima
Get a deep dive into Portugal's academic and religious heritage on this private excursion from Porto to the historic cities of Fatima and Coimbra.
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.
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