Embark on a captivating day tour to Sintra and Fatima, exploring historic pilgrimage centers and royal residences. Visit the famous Basilica and Chapel of Apparitions in Fatima, and discover the charming village of Valinhos. Then, immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit one of its magnificent palaces. Indulge in the traditional sweets of the region for a truly unforgettable experience.
- Fatima - The renowned Marian Sanctuary of Fatima stands as one of the world’s foremost pilgrimage destinations. Each year, millions visit to honor the three shepherd children who experienced the Virgin Mary’s apparitions in the fields of “Cova da Iria”. You will have free time to attend Mass (optional) and visit the Chapel of the Apparitions, where the image of the Virgin Mary is displayed. We will also tour the Basilica, which houses the tombs of Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco (the latter two were canonized by Pope Francis in May 2017, making them the youngest saints in the Catholic Church). Our journey continues to the modern Church of the Blessed Trinity of Fatima, designed by Greek architect Alexandros Tombazis, which accommodates 8,633 people and spans 40,000 square meters. There will be time for religious shopping (optional).
- Valinhos Sanctuary - This village is the birthplace and home of the three shepherd children, Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco. You can visit their family’s limestone houses. Once an isolated and impoverished area in Portugal’s interior, it remains remarkably beautiful.
- Sintra - Sintra is undoubtedly one of Portugal’s most remarkable locations. Its unique microclimate turns this small town on the slopes of the “Serra de Sintra” mountain range, near the Atlantic, into a major draw for visitors who come to admire its famous castles and palaces or savor traditional food, pastries, and sweets. Don’t miss the souvenir shops offering typical local items. We will stop in the historic center, where you can sample the renowned “travesseiros” and “queijadas” at the Piriquita Pastry Shop and wander through the narrow streets of Portugal’s most romantic town. You may choose to visit one of these palaces: National Palace of Sintra, National Palace of Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, or Palace of Monserrate (optional visit - entrance fee).
- Certified professional driver-guide
- High comfort Mercedes Benz vehicles
- All taxes included
- WiFi and bottled water on board
- Accident and liability insurance
- Entrance tickets
- Clients meals and lodging
Situated around the spot where Virgin Mary is said to have made her appearance to three shepherd children in 1917, Fatima stands as one of the world’s most visited pilgrimage sites. The tour includes a visit to the Basilica where the ‘three visionaries’ are laid to rest, the Chapel of Apparitions, and the modern Church of the Holy Trinity. You will have some leisure time for prayers or to participate in a service, if desired. Next, we’ll move to Valinhos, the birthplace of the three shepherd children, where you can explore their houses and get a glimpse of the regional dwelling style from the early 20th century.
Sintra, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been the preferred summer retreat for royalty since the 14th century. Thanks to its unique microclimate and abundant moisture, Sintra boasts a flourishing vegetation, which was an inspiration for 19th century romantic poets, including Lord Byron. As part of the tour, you’ll visit one of Sintra’s many palaces and have the chance to sample traditional sweet treats.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.