City Tour procession of candles, Fatima night

Discover the Candlelight Procession of Fatima from Coimbra

The City Tour Procession of Candles, Fatima Night offers a profound experience rooted in faith and tradition. Priced at $318.96 per group (up to 6 people), this tour provides a 5 to 6-hour journey into one of Portugal’s most revered religious sites. It starts with a pickup option and features a mobile ticket, making it convenient for small groups seeking a meaningful evening outing.

This tour is highly rated, holding a perfect 5.0/5 from five reviews, and is booked on average 35 days in advance. Its unique highlight is the candle procession at night, an event that captures the spiritual essence of Fatima and leaves a lasting impression. The experience is suitable for most travelers seeking a memorable and atmospheric religious gathering.

Key Points

• Private tour for up to 6 guests, priced at $318.96
• Duration of about 5 to 6 hours, starting from Coimbra
• Includes pickup and mobile ticket for easy access
• Highlights: Candle blessing, recitation of the Rosary, procession between Capelinha and the Sanctuary
• Deeply moving experience that combines prayer, singing, and candlelit atmosphere
• Ideal for travelers wanting an authentic spiritual experience in Fatima

Starting in Coimbra: Pickup and Timing

This tour departs from Coimbra, with a pickup offered typically around 7:00 pm, ensuring ample time to reach Fatima before the candle procession begins at 10:15 pm. The journey takes you from the historic university city of Coimbra to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima, Portugal’s largest Catholic sanctuary.

Travelers should plan for the three-hour window for the entire experience, including pickup, transfer, and the procession itself. The tour is designed to be accessible to most, with most travelers able to participate, and its private format ensures a personalized experience.

Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima

The tour’s focal point is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima, inaugurated on October 12, 2007. Before the procession begins, visitors have time to explore or enjoy a meal. The sanctuary includes the Basilica of the Holy Trinity, a significant religious site that commands attention with its modern architecture and spiritual significance.

The visit to the sanctuary provides a peaceful moment to connect with the sacred environment before the evening’s main event. It also allows time for personal reflection or a quick visit to the Capelinha das Aparições, where the candles are blessed.

The Candlelight Procession: A Night of Spiritual Connection

At 10:15 pm, the candle blessing takes place in the Prayer Hall, a deeply reverent moment. Following this, the candle procession begins, moving between Capelinha das Aparições and the main sanctuary. Thousands of pilgrims, holding lit candles, sing hymns and prayers as the Virgin of Fatima is symbolically accompanied through this short but emotionally charged route.

The procession culminates around midnight, with participants immersed in the atmosphere of devotion, illuminated only by the flickering candles. The experience is described as chilling and fascinating, evoking a tangible contact with the divine in a breathtaking environment.

The Experience of the Candle Procession

What sets this tour apart is the powerful ambiance created during the candlelit procession. The recitation of the Rosary, combined with singing and the glow of hundreds of candles, fosters a sacred atmosphere that is both moving and awe-inspiring.

The guide facilitates the experience, explaining the significance of each part of the procession and helping visitors appreciate the spiritual context. The blessing of the candles and the communal prayer create an environment of shared faith, making this a truly memorable religious event.

Practical Details and Group Size

This is a private tour/activity, exclusively for your group, which enhances comfort and personalization. The group size is limited to 6 people, ensuring a more intimate experience. The pickup is near public transportation, making it accessible from central Coimbra.

The price of $318.96 covers the entire experience, with the convenience of a mobile ticket. Travelers can cancel free of charge if they notify at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in planning their spiritual journey.

The Guides and Their Role

While specific guide names are not provided, the reviews mention the courteous, knowledgeable guides who lead the procession and explain its significance. Guides like Paul have been praised for punctuality, kindness, and their ability to enhance the experience with personal insights, making the night feel even more special.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The combination of a private setting, a meaningful procession, and the atmospheric candlelit environment gives this tour a unique appeal. The midnight timing adds an element of solemnity and mystique, making it ideal for those seeking a spiritual event rather than a tourist spectacle.

Plus, the reviews highlight the professionalism of the tour operator, Madruga Tours, and the overall reliability and warmth of the experience. This tour delivers authentic moments that resonate long after the candles are extinguished.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience?

This tour is perfect for faithful pilgrims, spiritual travelers, or those interested in religious traditions. The emotional impact of the candle procession and the connection to Fatima’s sacred site appeal to those seeking a deeply moving, personal experience.

Travelers looking for a well-organized, private guided tour with timing flexibility and an intimate setting will find this offering particularly rewarding. It suits both first-time visitors to Fatima and repeat visitors who want a more personal and reflective experience.

Final Thoughts on the Fatima Candle Procession Tour

The City Tour procession of candles at Fatima from Coimbra offers a well-rounded, meaningful opportunity to witness one of Portugal’s most profound religious events. The private format, combined with expert guides and a powerful atmosphere, ensures a memorable night rooted in tradition.

While it’s a longer evening, the emotional rewards and spiritual ambiance justify the time investment. This tour is especially suited to those who value authentic religious experiences and are comfortable with a midnight event.

Overall, it delivers a highly rated, professionally managed experience that captures the essence of Fatima’s candle procession, leaving visitors with lasting impressions of faith and community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $318.96 per group for up to 6 people.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, including pickup, transfer, and the candle procession.

What time does the procession start?
The candlelight procession begins at 10:15 pm after the blessing of candles.

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour/activity, exclusively for your group.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, pickup is offered, and transport is arranged for the transfer from Coimbra to Fatima.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Most travelers can participate; the experience is designed to be accessible.

What is the significance of the candle procession?
The procession symbolizes faith, with lit candles, prayers, and hymns honoring the Virgin of Fatima in a powerful, spiritual setting.

Who leads the procession?
While specific guide names are not provided, reviews mention courteous and knowledgeable guides who explain the significance of each moment during the procession.

Is there an opportunity for reflection before the procession?
Yes, visitors have time to visit the sanctuary, enjoy a meal, or reflect in the Prayer Hall before the procession begins.

What should I wear or bring?
While not specified, it’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing suitable for an evening outdoor event and bring a small candle if desired—though candles are blessed on-site.

Can I participate in the procession if I am not religious?
The tour is rooted in religious tradition; participation is entirely personal and respectful of individual beliefs.