Nestled just north of Lisbon lies the revered pilgrimage site of Fátima, home to the renowned Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima. Here, visitors can explore the faithful reconstructions of the homes where the three little shepherds – Lúcia, Francisco, and Jacinta – experienced their extraordinary religious visions. A journey to this sacred place offers the chance to attend mass at the Chapel of the Apparitions and purchase unique rosaries as cherished souvenirs. Discover the spiritual essence of this captivating destination and uncover the profound stories that have shaped its legacy.

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Key Points

Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, a major Catholic shrine with the Chapel of the Apparitions and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.
Explore the Village of the Three Little Shepherds, including a faithful reconstruction of the home of Lúcia, Francisco, and Jacinta.
Attend mass at the Chapel of the Appearances, the site of the Virgin Mary’s apparitions, and experience the sacred atmosphere.
Join guided tours to learn about the history, significance, and traditions of the sanctuary and the shepherds’ home in Aljustrel.
Purchase handcrafted rosaries, crucifixes, and statues as meaningful souvenirs from local workshops in Fátima.

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Visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima

Why does the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima draw millions of pilgrims each year?

It’s a major Catholic shrine commemorating the 1917 Marian apparitions. The centerpiece is the Chapel of the Apparitions, built on the site where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared.

Pilgrims can attend mass, venerate the chapel’s image of the Virgin, and light candles.

The vast Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary features stunning Portuguese Baroque architecture.

Visitors can also explore the homes of the three shepherd children who witnessed the apparitions and browse local religious workshops.

Looking for more options in Lisbon? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring the Village of the Three Little Shepherds

After visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, the tour moves on to explore the village of Aljustrel, home to the three little shepherds who witnessed the Marian apparitions. Guests will visit a faithful reconstruction of the humble home where Lúcia, Francisco, and Jacinta lived. The guide provides insights into the children’s lives and the profound impact of the visions. A table showcases the key events and messages from the apparitions, evoking the spiritual significance of the site.

| Event | Message |

|——-|———|

| May 13, 1917 | "I am the Lady of the Rosary" |

| July 13, 1917 | "Do not offend the Lord our God anymore" |

| October 13, 1917 | "I am the Lady of the Rosary" |

The tour concludes with an opportunity to purchase rosaries and religious articles, connecting visitors to the enduring faith of Fátima.

Attending Mass at the Chapel of the Appearances

Visitors then attend mass at the Chapel of the Appearances, which stands at the site where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to the three children.

The chapel holds great spiritual significance for pilgrims. Guests can participate in the mass and experience the profound atmosphere of this sacred place.

The tour guide provides insights into the history and significance of this important religious site.

After the mass, there’s an opportunity to explore the chapel and grounds further, reflecting on the powerful spiritual connection that draws people to Fátima from around the world.

Guided Tours at the Sanctuary and Aljustrel

The guided tours at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima and the village of Aljustrel provide visitors with an immersive experience.

The 1-hour tours cover the key sights, including the Chapel of the Apparitions where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared.

The 1-hour tours cover the key sights, including the Chapel of the Apparitions where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared.

At Aljustrel, the guide leads visitors through the faithful reconstruction of the three little shepherds’ humble home.

Throughout the tours, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the history, significance, and traditions of these sacred sites.

The tours offer a deeper understanding of Fátima’s spiritual and cultural importance.

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Buying Rosaries and Religious Articles

This tour provides ample opportunities for visitors to purchase rosaries and other religious articles. Visitors can browse a local workshop and find a wide selection of handcrafted items. The workshop offers:

| Item | Description | Price |

| — | — | — |

| Rosaries | Hand-knotted with various bead options | $5 – $20 |

| Crucifixes | Bronze, silver, or gold-plated finishes | $10 – $50 |

| Statues | Figurines of saints and religious icons | $15 – $75 |

These keepsakes make for meaningful souvenirs to commemorate one’s spiritual journey to Fátima. Visitors can find the perfect item to take home and hold onto the memories of this sacred pilgrimage.

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Pickup and Drop-Off From Central Lisbon

As a convenient service, the tour includes optional pickup and drop-off from central Lisbon locations.

Guests can meet the group at the designated meeting point in Parque Eduardo VII, where the air-conditioned minivan will depart promptly at 8:20 AM.

At the end of the tour, travelers will be dropped off back at the same meeting point or at their hotels in central Lisbon.

This seamless transportation ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing participants to focus on the highlights of the Fátima and Three Little Shepherds House tour without the worry of navigating on their own.

What to Bring and Important Information

To make the most of the tour, guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a sun hat and sunscreen, and pack rain gear in case of inclement weather.

The tour check-in is at 8:10 AM, with a prompt 8:20 AM departure. Guests shouldn’t bring pets, alcohol, or drugs, as they aren’t allowed.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from central Lisbon locations, as well as a disposable mask for each participant.

Ensuring guests are prepared and informed will help them fully enjoy the Fátima and Three Little Shepherds House experience.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Guests who’ve experienced the Fátima and Three Little Shepherds House tour have overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 19 customer evaluations.

Highlights include:

Guide rating of 5/5, praised for their enthusiasm and dedication
Transportation rating of 5/5, with the air-conditioned minivan ensuring a comfortable journey
Value for money rating of 5/5, offering an exceptional experience at a reasonable price
Positive feedback on the well-planned itinerary and informative guiding
Satisfaction with the included lunch and opportunities to purchase religious items.

Since You Asked

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may be suitable for young children, as it includes a guided visit to the village of the three little shepherds and a lunch. However, the 7-hour duration could be challenging for some younger participants.

Can We Stop at Any Other Sites on the Way?

The tour itinerary doesn’t mention any additional stops. However, you can check with the tour operator if they offer any optional add-ons or customization to include other sites along the way to Fatima.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Sanctuary?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting religious services. It’s best to check with tour guides or staff for any specific rules or restrictions.

Do I Need to Be Catholic to Participate in the Tour?

No, you don’t need to be Catholic to participate in the tour. The tour is open to people of all faiths or no faith. The focus is on the cultural and historical significance of the site.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve their spot now and pay nothing today, giving them flexibility to cancel if needed.

The Sum Up

Explore the spiritual heart of Portugal on a captivating day trip from Lisbon to Fátima. Visit the renowned Sanctuary, tour the homes of the three little shepherds, and attend mass at the sacred Chapel. Discover unique religious souvenirs to cherish your journey. This immersive experience offers a chance to connect with the profound faith and history of this revered pilgrimage site.