From Porto: Fatima and Miracle of Santarem Private Day Tour

A Private Day Tour from Porto to Fatima and Santarem for a Deep Dive into Portugal’s Sacred Sites

This private tour from Porto, offered by FEELGO PORTUGAL, takes you on a 9-hour journey through some of Portugal’s most revered religious landmarks. For $543 per group, up to 4 people, you’ll visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, with its impressive basilica and the chapel built at the site of the 1917 apparitions. The tour also includes a trip to Santarém, home to the Church of the Holy Miracle, where a Eucharistic host has remained preserved for over 750 years, drenched in blood.

This small-group experience boasts high praise, with perfect ratings from three reviews and guides renowned for their attentiveness and expert storytelling. The tour provides a flexible, comfortable way to explore these significant pilgrimage sites with hotel pickup and drop-off included. While food and drinks are not included, the convenience and depth of the experience make it an excellent choice for those interested in Portugal’s spiritual heritage.

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Key Points

• Private tour for up to 4 participants, ensuring personalized attention
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Porto, with a private car and guide
• Visit Fátima’s basilica, chapel, and burial sites of the three shepherd children
• Discover the Sanctuary of the Most Holy Miracle of Santarém and its Eucharistic relic
• Tour lasts 9 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability
• Highly rated guides, praised for their professionalism and knowledge

Exploring the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima is the centerpiece of this tour. Known as one of the world’s most important pilgrimage sites, it dates back to 1917, when Our Lady of Fátima appeared to three shepherd children. The tour guide leads visitors through the Basilica, where the burials of Francisco, Jacinta Marto, and Lúcia are located, and the Church of the Holy Trinity.

A visit to the Chapel of Apparitions allows for reflection at the small temple built at the exact spot of the Marian apparitions. The Azinheira Grande, the notable tree passed by the children before seeing the Virgin, is also a part of the tour, adding a tangible connection to the story. Attendees have the option to attend a mass at the sanctuary, adding a spiritual dimension to the experience.

The Significance of the Basilica and Burial Sites

The Basilica of Our Lady of Fátima is the largest Catholic sanctuary in Portugal, offering impressive architecture and a sense of reverence. The burials of the three shepherd children, Francisco, Jacinta Marto, and Lúcia, are accessible to visitors, marking a poignant moment in the pilgrimage.

The Church of the Holy Trinity enhances the religious atmosphere, while the Chapel of Apparitions remains a focal point for prayer and reflection. This site continues to draw millions of visitors each year, emphasizing its importance in Catholic devotion.

The Journey to Santarém and the Church of the Holy Miracle

After exploring Fátima, the tour heads approximately 40 km south to the historic city of Santarém. The main highlight here is the Church of St. Stephen of the Holy Miracle, where a Eucharistic miracle occurred in 1266. The consecrated host, preserved for 750 years, remains intact and drenched in blood, and is displayed in a silver monstrance.

Visitors can admire the 16th-century glazed tiles and the paintings depicting the miracle. The site is further enriched by the home of the woman who experienced the miracle, open for visits. This site serves as a spiritual counterpart to the Fatima sanctuary and underscores the long-standing religious history of Portugal.

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Convenience and Customization in a Private Setting

This private tour offers the flexibility to adapt the itinerary based on your preferences. The driver-guide provides a personalized experience, sharing insights and answering questions along the way. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all participants.

Since food and drinks are not included, travelers can choose to bring snacks or plan for a meal at their convenience, making the day tailored to individual needs. The group size of up to 4 ensures a quiet, intimate experience away from large crowds.

Guide Expertise and Guest Service

The guides, such as Paola and Rodolfo, are highly praised for their attentiveness, knowledge, and friendly manner. Review highlights include their ability to explain the sites clearly and offer valuable recommendations for the trip. Comments emphasize the smooth flow of the day and the guides’ professionalism.

The multilingual guides offer tours in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, accommodating diverse travelers. The direct contact details of the driver-guide are shared in advance, ensuring seamless communication.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour starts at a time that varies based on availability, with check-in options to see the starting times. Reservations can be canceled up to 24 hours before the scheduled date for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, allowing travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment. The 9-hour duration makes this tour a full but manageable day trip from Porto.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour appeals most to visitors with interests in religious history, architecture, and Portugal’s spiritual sites. It’s ideal for those who value personalized attention and prefer private, flexible itineraries over large group tours. Travelers who want to combine historical sites with a sense of local faith will find this experience particularly meaningful.

Final Thoughts on the Fatima and Santarem Private Day Tour

The combination of iconic sanctuaries, a renowned guide experience, and convenient logistics makes this tour a solid choice for exploring Portugal’s religious landmarks. The high ratings and positive reviews suggest a well-organized, meaningful experience that balances sightseeing with spiritual reflection.

While food and drinks are not included, the flexibility and intimate group setting more than compensate. The tour’s focus on important pilgrimage sites, combined with personalized service, offers a respectful and enriching exploration of Portugal’s sacred heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility considerations.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private car, and a private guide. Food and drinks are not included.

Can I attend mass at Fátima during the tour?
Yes, there is an option to attend a mass at the sanctuary if you wish.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The private nature of the tour allows for adaptations according to your preferences, subject to guide availability.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides operate in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese.

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