Portugal: Fatima, Aljustrel & Valinhos Trip with Picnic

Explore Fatima’s Sacred Sites with a Private Guide for $398

This private day tour to Fatima, offered by Estrela d’Alva Tours, provides an immersive experience of one of Portugal’s most revered pilgrimage destinations. Priced at $398 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours and explores the town’s key religious sites, including the Chapel of Apparitions, Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, and Basilica of the Holy Trinity. The tour also visits the historic homes of Francisco and Jacinta Marto and Sister Lucia, along with sacred locations like Loca do Cabeço and the Arneiro well.

This experience suits those interested in religious history, spiritual reflection, and cultural exploration, with the added comfort of private transportation and a personal guide. The tour includes a scenic outdoor picnic with regional cheese, traditional bread, and local wines, offering a relaxed way to connect with Fatima’s spiritual atmosphere. The pickup and drop-off at Lisbon hotels make planning straightforward, although travelers should note that the tour runs rain or shine and involves walking at various stops.

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Key Points

• Price: $398 per person for an 8-hour private tour from Lisbon
• Highlights: Visits to Fatima’s sacred sites, including the Chapel of Apparitions, Basilicas, and homes of the seers
• Transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicle with onboard WiFi and bottled water
• Included: Personal guide, picnic lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, stroller-friendly, with some walking involved
• Booking Flexibility: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, reserve now, pay later

Starting Point: From Lisbon to Fatima in Comfort

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Lisbon, where a driver-guide greets travelers with identification and a welcoming attitude. After leaving the city, the journey takes approximately an hour to reach Fatima, a site renowned as the Altar of the World. The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized experience, with the guide tailoring insights to your interests.

Travelers appreciate the comfort of air-conditioned transportation equipped with WiFi and bottled water, making the trip pleasant and convenient. The private group setup minimizes crowds, allowing for a more intimate exploration of Fatima’s religious landmarks and history.

Visiting the First Apparitions at Loca do Cabeço and the Arneiro Well

The day’s spiritual journey begins at Loca do Cabeço, where the Angel of Peace first appeared to the seers in 1916. This site holds deep significance, marking the beginning of the series of apparitions that drew millions of pilgrims over the years.

Next, the tour visits the Arneiro well, the location of the second apparition. These stops offer insight into the initial moments of Fatima’s divine encounters and set the tone for understanding the town’s sacred importance. Travelers can expect a respectful, contemplative atmosphere at each site, with the guide providing context about the apparitions’ significance.

Exploring the Homes of the Seers: Francisco, Jacinta, and Lucia

A highlight of this tour is visiting the houses of Francisco and Jacinta Marto, as well as Sister Lucia’s house. These historic homes are open for visitors and allow a glimpse into the daily lives of the seers who witnessed the apparitions.

The houses are close to each other, about 1 kilometer from Aljustrel and 2 kilometers from the sanctuary, making for manageable walks. Here, travelers learn about the seers’ childhoods and the environment that shaped their faith. This part of the tour adds a personal touch to the spiritual narrative of Fatima.

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The Parish Church of Fatima and Baptismal Site

Not far from the seers’ homes is the Parish Church of Fatima, where Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta were baptized. Visiting this church provides a sense of the community that embraced the seers and the roots of Fatima’s religious significance.

The church is an important stop for those interested in the local history of Fatima’s Christian community. It also offers a quiet space for reflection after the more intense visits to the sacred sites.

The Heart of Fatima: Chapel of the Apparitions

The Chapel of the Apparitions is the exact location where the Virgin Mary appeared to the children in 1917. This site is considered the heart of the sanctuary and draws countless pilgrims each year.

Visitors can spend time in contemplation here, soaking in the atmosphere of faith that surrounds this spot. The guide explains the historical and spiritual importance of the chapel, making it a moving part of the tour.

Sacred Monuments and Basilica Visits

The tour continues with visits to Cova de Iria, where prayers are said and monuments honor the apparitions. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Basilica of the Holy Trinity are also included, showcasing impressive religious architecture and sculptures.

Additional landmarks like Cruz Alta, Fontanário, Azinheira Grande, and a temporary exhibition enrich the experience. These sites highlight Fatima’s spiritual landscape and offer moments for personal reflection or photographs.

Outdoor Picnic Lunch in Scenic Settings

A notable feature of this tour is the outdoor picnic lunch at designated picnic parks around the sanctuary. The meal includes regional cheese, traditional bread, and a choice of red or white wine.

This relaxed outdoor break allows travelers to enjoy their meal amid nature, providing a restful pause before continuing the exploration. The picnic complements the spiritual experience with a taste of local flavors, making the day more memorable.

Flexibility and Accessibility of the Tour

The entire experience is designed to be customizable to suit individual preferences, with the driver-guide available to tailor the visit. The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for strollers and foldable wheelchairs, although some walking is involved.

Travelers should remember to bring comfortable shoes and clothing for walking and outdoor activities. The tour operates rain or shine, so packing appropriately is advised.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Booking the tour is flexible, with the option to reserve and pay later. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, offering peace of mind. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward and saving time.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This private Fatima tour appeals most to those seeking an in-depth, respectful exploration of the sacred sites, history, and stories associated with Fatima. The personal guide ensures a tailored experience, perfect for history buffs, pilgrims, or anyone curious about this spiritual landmark.

Travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and meaningful stops will find this tour a worthwhile way to connect with Fatima’s significance beyond just visiting the sanctuary.

The Sum Up: A Thoughtful Journey into Fatima’s Sacred Heart

This 8-hour private tour offers a comprehensive visit to Fatima, blending history, faith, and scenic moments. The inclusion of homes of the seers, key sanctuaries, and a relaxing picnic makes it a balanced experience for those wanting to understand and feel the spiritual essence of this revered site.

The personalized nature, knowledgeable guide, and convenient logistics stand out, although travelers should prepare for some walking and outdoor elements. This tour provides a respectful, detailed exploration suitable for those interested in religious history, cultural heritage, or spiritual reflection.

Perfect for visitors who seek an intimate, flexible, and meaningful day trip from Lisbon to Fatima, it promises an experience that many will find both enlightening and inspiring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for foldable wheelchairs and strollers, but some walking is involved.

What is included in the picnic lunch?
The outdoor picnic features regional cheese, traditional bread, and a choice of red or white wine.

How long is the drive from Lisbon to Fatima?
The journey takes approximately one hour in private transportation.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages does the guide speak?
The tour guide speaks Portuguese, English, and German.

Is it possible to customize this tour?
Yes, the tour can be tailored to your preferences, and the guide offers personal accompaniment throughout the day.

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