Private Tour to Fátima, Alcobaça or Batalha, Nazaré and Óbidos

Set out on a captivating journey through the historical gems of Portugal with a personalized private tour. From the iconic Sanctuary Square in Fátima to the stunning Gothic architecture of the Monastery of Batalha, this immersive experience promises to unveil the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Along the way, explore charming fishing towns, enchanting medieval streets, and breathtaking coastal landscapes, all while discovering the intriguing stories that have shaped this remarkable destination.

Key Points

• A private guided tour through Portugal’s historical western towns, including Óbidos, Nazaré, Alcobaça, Batalha, and Fátima.
• Flexibility to choose between visiting Fátima or both Alcobaça and Batalha.
• Tour duration of approximately 10 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Explore the Sanctuary Square in Fátima, which commemorates the 1917 Marian apparitions to three shepherd children.
• Visit the Monastery of Batalha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Monastery of Alcobaça, known for its impressive Gothic structures.

Tour Overview

This private guided tour takes visitors on a journey through Portugal’s historical western towns, including Óbidos, Nazaré, Alcobaça, Batalha, and Fátima.

Guests can explore the medieval town of Óbidos and the fishing village of Nazaré. The tour offers flexibility, allowing visitors to choose between visiting Fátima or seeing both Alcobaça and Batalha.

The tour lasts approximately 10 hours and includes a local guide, private transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Entrance fees to monuments are optional, and the tour can be customized to individual preferences.

Inclusions and Logistics

The private tour includes a local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Gratuities, food and drink (unless specified), and entrance fees to monuments (optional) aren’t included.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The price varies by group size, starting from $538.52 per person.

The tour includes:

1. Local guide
2. Hotel pickup and drop-off
3. Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
4. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors explore the Sanctuary Square in Fátima, twice the size of St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. They learn about the 1917 Marian apparitions and the significance of the site, which attracts up to 300,000 pilgrims annually.

Next, they admire the Monastery of Batalha, the largest Gothic-style monastery in Portugal, showcasing Manueline and Gothic architectural styles.

In Alcobaça, they explore the 12th-century monastery and historical monuments dedicated to D. Ines de Castro and King D. Pedro I.

During a lunch break, visitors appreciate the charming fishing town of Nazaré.

Finally, they gain insight into Portuguese royalty while exploring the walled medieval town of Óbidos.

Fátima: Sanctuary Square and Apparitions

Fátima’s Sanctuary Square, twice the size of St. Peter’s Square in Vatican, attracts up to 300,000 pilgrims annually.

This sacred site commemorates the 1917 apparitions, where the Virgin Mary reportedly appeared to three shepherd children.

Visitors can:

1. Explore the grandiose basilicas and chapels that dot the square.
2. Learn about the significance of the Rosary and its role in the apparitions.
3. Witness the candle-lit processions and religious ceremonies that take place throughout the day.
4. Visit the homes of the shepherd children and the sites of the apparitions.

The Fátima Sanctuary is a profound spiritual destination, steeped in history and faith.

Batalha: Monastery of Batalha

A testament to Portugal’s rich architectural heritage, the Monastery of Batalha stands as the largest Gothic-style monastery in the country. Commissioned by King João I in the 14th century, this remarkable structure showcases both Manueline and Gothic influences. Its grand scale and intricate details captivate visitors, who can explore the cloisters, chapter house, and royal tombs. The monastery’s significance is reflected in its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Features	Description
Architecture	Gothic, Manueline
Commissioned	By King João I in 14th century
Highlights	Cloisters, chapter house, royal tombs
Accolade	UNESCO World Heritage Site

Alcobaça: Monastery and Historical Monuments

The Monastery of Alcobaça stands as another architectural marvel on this tour, showcasing Portugal’s rich historical and cultural legacies. Founded in the 12th century, this monastery is renowned for its impressive Gothic structures and intricate details.

Visitors can explore:

1. The ornate Royal Cloister, adorned with intricate Manueline-style architecture.
2. The tombs of King Pedro I and his mistress Inês de Castro, a dramatic tale of love and power.
3. The vast Monastery Church, a stunning example of Portuguese Gothic design.
4. The Kitchens, an impressive medieval structure with an innovative chimney system.

Nazaré: Charming Fishing Town

After exploring the architectural wonders of Alcobaça, the tour takes visitors to the charming fishing town of Nazaré.

Nestled along the Atlantic coast, Nazaré offers a glimpse into the traditional Portuguese coastal lifestyle. Visitors will enjoy a lunch break in this picturesque town, strolling along the lively beachfront promenade and observing the local fishermen bringing in their daily catch.

The town’s unique funicular railway provides access to the upper viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the vast ocean and the town’s iconic cliffs.

The casual, seaside ambiance of Nazaré provides a refreshing contrast to the historic sites visited earlier in the tour.

Óbidos: Walled Medieval Town

Nestled within the rolling hills of Portugal’s western landscape, the walled medieval town of Óbidos captivates visitors with its well-preserved charm and rich history.

Visitors can stroll along the town’s fortified walls, admiring the whitewashed houses, quaint cobblestone streets, and Gothic architecture.

Key highlights include:

1. Exploring the picturesque Rua Direita, the main street lined with charming shops and cafes.
2. Visiting the imposing Castle of Óbidos, a former royal residence dating back to the 12th century.
3. Sampling the town’s famous ginjinha, a traditional Portuguese cherry liqueur.
4. Discovering the Santuário do Senhor da Pedra, a 17th-century chapel perched atop a rocky outcrop.

FAQ

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The price for this tour varies by group size, indicating that it can accommodate groups of different sizes. However, the specific average group size is not explicitly stated in the provided information.

Can We Request a Specific Pickup Location Within Lisbon?

Yes, travelers can request a specific pickup location within Lisbon for this tour. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, allowing for a convenient and personalized start to the day’s excursion to Portugal’s historical western towns.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Entry Tickets?

The tour package doesn’t include entry fees to monuments, which are optional. Visitors can pay for these tickets on their own, providing them flexibility to customize their experience and budget.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Spend More Time at Certain Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to spend more time at certain sites. The itinerary is flexible, and travelers can work with the local guide to adjust the schedule based on their interests and priorities.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Families or Seniors?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for families and seniors. Families with children can receive up to 10% off, while seniors aged 65 and over are eligible for a 5% discount on the tour price.

Sum Up

This private tour offers a captivating exploration of Portugal’s historical gems. Visitors can enjoy the rich religious and architectural heritage of Fátima, Batalha, Alcobaça, Nazaré, and Óbidos, led by a knowledgeable local guide. The personalized itinerary ensures a tailored experience to suit each traveler’s interests and schedule, providing an unforgettable journey through Portugal’s stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.