Did you always think that all you had to do in Fátima was visit the Shrine? You're wrong! There are lots of activities you can do in the area. With that in mind, we've created an itinerary with you in mind and the best activities you can do in just one weekend.
Day 1 - Friday
When you arrive in the beautiful city of Fátima we advise you to go straight to one of our facilities, where you will be staying, to drop off your bags. Then you can try the local cuisine in one of the typical restaurants and for your first night you can go for a walk to get to know the city's nooks and crannies.
Day 2 - Saturday
Now, a whole day in this beautiful area! In the morning you can't miss the typical visit to the Fatima Shrinewhere you can see the Chapel of the Apparitions, a Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima, Basilica of the Holy Trinity, among other points of religious interest.
If you like religious themes, you can also visit the Francisco and Jacinta's house, a Lucia's house or even Our Lady's monument in Valinhos.
If you prefer non-religious activities, we advise you to grab your car and drive to the Mira de Aire Caves - are the largest in the country and were considered one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal. This area is very famous for its caves, as well as the Alvados Caves, St Anthony's Caves and the Moeda Caves.
At the end of the day, even before you get back to Fátima, you must stop off at the Pia do Urso Sensory Eco-Park. Legend has it that the bears that populated the Iberian Peninsula went to drink water from the natural sinks formed in the rocks. As well as offering you moments in nature where you can go for a walk or have a picnic, this park is also adapted for blind people.
In the evening, if you still have time and desire, take a look at the candlelight procession that takes place almost every night at 9.30pm at the Sanctuary.
This journey by car is approximately 40 kilometres long and takes about an hour in total.
Day 3 - Sunday
On the last day of the trip, we think it's an excellent idea to visit more memorable and unique places in the area, such as the parish of Nossa Senhora das Misericórdias! Here you can take a trip back in time and visit the Dinosaur Footprints Natural Monument, o Jurassic Flora Garden and Pedagogical Circuit - Dinosaur Footprints.
If you still have time, head to the county seat - Ourém - where you can see numerous historical monuments such as the Terreiro de Santiago (the highest point in the Medieval Village), the Medieval Castle, o Paço do Conde e Turretsamong others.
This journey by car is approximately 35 kilometres long and takes about an hour in total.
These are our suggestions for spending a great weekend in Fátima and getting to know the area. #StayDontStop
Stay with us and we'll tell you how to don't stop!