Private half-day tour of Fatima and the shepherds’ village

Discover Fatima and the Shepherds’ Village on a Private Half-Day Tour

This private half-day tour of Fatima and the shepherds’ village offers an intimate and flexible way to experience one of Portugal’s most revered religious sites. Priced at $159 per person, with a duration of 7 hours, it’s ideal for visitors seeking a personalized visit that balances sightseeing with spiritual reflection. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Lisbon, private transport in an air-conditioned van, and the opportunity to explore the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima at your own pace.

What sets this tour apart is its customizable schedule. You can choose to spend 3-4 hours in Fatima, visiting key religious landmarks such as the Chapel of the Apparitions, Basilicas, and Lucia’s House. The tour also offers the chance to visit the Shepherds’ Village, where the Virgin Mary first appeared to the little shepherds in 1917, and to attend Mass or a ceremony—a meaningful option for those wanting to participate in the local traditions. With wifi on board and a driver-guide, this experience combines comfort, flexibility, and depth.

This tour is designed for those who want a personalized, in-depth visit without the constraints of a large group, making it especially suitable for pilgrims, history enthusiasts, or anyone interested in Portugal’s spiritual heritage. The 7-hour duration ensures ample time to absorb the significance of Fatima, while the private format allows you to manage your schedule and focus on the sites that resonate most.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience of Fatima and shepherds’ village
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Lisbon with private transport
• Opportunity to attend Mass or ceremonies at the Sanctuary
• Visit key sites: Chapel of the Apparitions, Basilica, Lucia’s House, and Shepherds’ Village
• Duration of 7 hours with flexible time in Fatima and surroundings
• Visit a religious articles factory for souvenirs

The Private Tour Starts in Lisbon and Offers Flexible Timing

The tour departs from Lisbon, with hotel pickup included in the early morning or chosen starting time—check availability for exact times. A 75-minute van ride transports you directly to Fatima, ensuring a comfortable start to your spiritual journey. The private nature of the trip means you can influence the pace and focus, whether you want more time for reflection or additional sightseeing.

The pickup service is punctual, and Wi-Fi on the van helps you stay connected or look up additional information en route. Once in Fatima, the guided visit begins with an introduction to the history of the site, setting the stage for a meaningful exploration of the key locations.

Exploring the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima

The Sanctuary is the centerpiece of this tour, drawing millions of pilgrims annually. The guide explains how the Virgin Mary’s apparitions to the little shepherds in 1917 transformed this rural area into a world-famous religious destination. You will have time to visit the Chapel of the Apparitions, where the first apparition was reported, and the large basilicas built to honor the Virgin Mary.

You can also choose to attend Mass or participate in a ceremony, making this experience deeply personal and spiritual. The tour includes a visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Basilica of the Holy Trinity, both notable for their architecture and religious significance. There’s also time to light a candle and make a wish, connecting with the local traditions.

Visiting Lucia’s House and the Shepherds’ Village

A highlight is the visit to Lucia’s House, where the youngest of the three shepherd children lived. The 15-minute stop offers insight into her life and the events surrounding the apparitions. The Shepherds’ Village is another vital stop, where visitors see the site where the Angel’s appearance in 1916** occurred, giving context to the story of Fatima’s divine events.

These stops are designed to deepen understanding of the shepherd children’s experiences and the rural setting where the apparitions began. The short visit to Francisco and Jacinta’s home complements the story, giving a personal touch to the pilgrimage.

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Visiting Religious Sites and Museums in Fatima

On this tour, there is also the option to visit the Wax Museum, which offers visual displays of the events and figures tied to Fatima’s history, or explore the churches and chapels within the sanctuary complex. These visits provide cultural and religious context, enriching the spiritual journey.

For those interested in souvenirs, a visit to a religious articles factory is included, where you can purchase meaningful keepsakes. This opportunity allows visitors to leave Fatima with a tangible reminder of their experience.

Managing Your Time and Attending Mass

One of the key advantages of this private tour is the flexibility to manage your time. You can extend your visit at an extra cost if desired or focus more on the sites that resonate most. Attending Mass or participating in local ceremonies is easily arranged, allowing you to combine sightseeing with spiritual participation.

The total duration of approximately 6.5 hours ensures sufficient time for sightseeing, reflection, and shopping, with time left for a comfortable return to Lisbon.

Practical Details and Accessibility

All transport is in a private van with air conditioning, making the journey comfortable regardless of the weather. The driver-guide ensures smooth navigation and informative commentary in English, Portuguese, or Spanish. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility needs.

Pickup and drop-off are included within Lisbon, and a bottle of water is provided for refreshment. The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, and reservations can be made with pay later options for maximum flexibility.

Additional Considerations for the Fatima Experience

While the tour offers a rundown of Fatima and the shepherds’ village, it does not include food and drink during the day. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or meals if needed. The tour maintains respectful conduct by prohibiting pets, smoking, drinks, and food inside the vehicle, ensuring a peaceful environment.

The group is private, meaning no other travelers join, allowing for a more relaxed and personal experience. This setup is perfect for those seeking a contemplative visit or a flexible schedule tailored to personal interests.

Why Choose This Fatima Tour?

This private half-day tour provides an affordable and personalized way to explore Fatima’s religious sites without feeling rushed. The flexible itinerary and attend Mass option make it suitable for pilgrims and curious visitors alike. The knowledgeable driver-guide enhances understanding and ensures a smooth journey.

The 7-hour duration strikes a good balance between sightseeing and reflection, especially for visitors staying in Lisbon or nearby. The inclusion of shopping opportunities and site visits makes this tour a well-rounded spiritual and cultural experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $159 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel and visits.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it is a private group, with a dedicated driver-guide and flexible timing.

What sites are included in the visit?
You visit the Sanctuary, Chapel of the Apparitions, Basilicas, Lucia’s House, Francisco and Jacinta’s Home, and have the option to visit a religious articles factory or the Wax Museum.

Can I attend Mass during the tour?
Yes, attending Mass or ceremonies is one of the options during your visit.

Is transportation included?
Transportation in a private, air-conditioned van is included in the price.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID card is needed; additional items are optional.

Can I extend the tour?
Yes, you can extend your time at an extra cost.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

This private, flexible, and thoughtful tour makes for an enriching visit to Fatima that respects both your schedule and spiritual interests.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby