Fátima - Discovering Portugal

Travelling to Fátima

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Fátima, a pretty good destination in Portugal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Fátima and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Fátima, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Portugal, here's everything to know about Fátima for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Fátima

Fátima is a small town located around 120 km north of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. It is famous for being a major site of Catholic pilgrimage, attracting millions of visitors every year. The town became well-known after three young shepherds claimed to have seen a series of apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1917. Today, Fátima is home to a large basilica that houses the tombs of two of the visionaries, and a chapel marking the spot where the apparitions are said to have occurred. The town's main pilgrimage season goes from May to October and the most significant day is May 13th, which marks the first apparition of the Virgin Mary.

What to visit in Fátima

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Fátima, Portugal: 1. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima: This is a major Catholic pilgrimage site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sanctuary consists of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Chapel of Apparitions and the Great Oak Tree. The Chapel of Apparitions is the most significant and is where the Virgin Mary was said to have appeared in 1917.
2. Valinhos Sanctuary: Located about 1 mile from the main sanctuary, Valinhos is where the apparitions of the Virgin Mary were said to have appeared to the children in August 1917. There is a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows and a Via Sacra (Stations of the Cross) that leads up to the shrine.
3. The Wax Museum: This museum tells the story of the apparitions of Fátima through life-sized wax figures and a narrated audio guide. It's a unique and interesting way to learn about the history of the area and the religious significance of the town.
4. The Museum of the Apparitions: This museum is dedicated to the history of the apparitions and has a collection of artifacts and documents related to the events and the sanctuary. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and significance of the town to the Catholic Church.
5. Aljustrel: This is the birthplace of the three shepherd children who witnessed the apparitions. There is a museum dedicated to their lives and the history of the town.
These are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Fátima, Portugal. Each of them offers a unique perspective and interesting insights into the town's history and religious significance.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Portugal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Fátima.

When to go on holiday to Fátima

The best time to visit Fátima in Portugal is during the spring and autumn seasons, which fall between March and May, and from September to November. During these months, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices on accommodation and activities. However, if you prefer warmer weather and don't mind the crowds, summer (June-August) is also a great time to visit Fátima. Just keep in mind that temperatures can rise above 30°C during these months.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Fátima

There are several ways to get to Fátima depending on your location and mode of transportation: 1. By plane: The nearest airport is Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), which is about 118 km away from Fátima. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus/car rental to get to Fátima.
2. By train: The closest railway station is in Caxarias, around 11 km from Fátima. You can take a train from Lisbon to Caxarias, and then take a taxi or bus to get to Fátima.
3. By bus: Fátima is well-connected by bus with major cities in Portugal. You can take a bus from Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, and other cities to Fátima.
4. By car: Fátima is around 125 km from Lisbon and can be reached by car via the A1 motorway. From Porto, it is about 195 km and can be reached via the A1 and A25 motorways.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Fátima.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Fátima, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Fátima

Certainly! Here are some typical foods of Fátima, Portugal, along with a short description: 1. Cozido à Portuguesa – This is a traditional Portuguese stew made of meat (such as pork, beef, or chicken), vegetables, and beans. It’s often served with rice and bread.
2. Bacalhau com broa – This dish is made with codfish covered in a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and olive oil, then baked in the oven. It’s often served with roasted potatoes.
3. Leitão à Bairrada – Leitão is roasted suckling pig, which is a delicacy in Portugal. This dish is often served with roasted potatoes and greens, and it’s a staple of many traditional Portuguese festivals and celebrations.
4. Arroz de Pato – This is a delicious duck rice dish, which is cooked with a variety of vegetables and herbs. It’s often served with a glass of red wine and black olives, and it’s a popular meal in Fátima.
5. Sopa de Pedra – This is a traditional Portuguese soup that is often made with beans, potatoes, kale, and sausage. It’s hearty and filling, perfect for a cold day. The name "Sopa de Pedra" (Stone Soup) refers to a Portuguese fable about a beggar who makes a soup from a stone by convincing others to add their own ingredients to the pot.
You can find general info about typical foods in Portugal here.

Is Fátima an expensive destination for tourists?

Fátima is generally considered to be an affordable destination for tourists, especially when compared to other cities in Portugal. However, prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, restaurants, and activities you choose. Generally, budget-friendly options are available, such as inexpensive guesthouses, picnic lunches, and free attractions like the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima. Overall, whether Fátima is expensive or not for tourists depends on your travel style and budget.

Where to find accomodation in Fátima

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Fátima would be close to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, which is the main attraction in the area. The neighborhood of Cova da Iria and the surrounding areas, such as Avenida Dom José Alves Correia da Silva and Rua Jacinta Marto, are popular locations for accommodation due to their proximity to the Sanctuary and easy access to restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Other popular areas include the nearby town of Leiria, which offers more options for dining and entertainment, and the city of Tomar, which is home to a historic castle and monastery.
You can check hotel prices at Fátima here:
Booking.com

Is Fátima a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Fátima is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The town is a popular destination for visitors, particularly those interested in religious pilgrimage. In addition, the local authorities take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of tourists and to prevent crime. However, as with any tourist destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in busy areas such as the Sanctuary of Fátima. It is also recommended to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables and to keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Portugal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Fátima.

What type of travelers will enjoy Fátima the most?

Fátima is a popular destination for religious tourism, attracting millions of pilgrims annually who come to visit the famous Shrine of Our Lady of Fátima. Therefore, it can be most enjoyable for couples or families seeking a spiritual and historic experience, rather than young people looking for entertainment.
However, there are also other attractions such as the beautiful countryside, museums, and restaurants that can appeal to a wider range of visitors. Families with children may enjoy visiting the nearby Parque dos Monges, a theme park with activities such as archery, kayaking, and a ropes course. Additionally, Fátima is located in a region with beautiful beaches and other charming towns that can be visited as a day trip.

How to get around Fátima

In Fátima, you can move around by foot, bicycle, bus or taxi. The town is small and easy to navigate, so walking or cycling is a good option if you want to explore at a leisurely pace. There are also local buses which connect Fátima with nearby towns and cities, and taxis are readily available for hire. If you plan to visit attractions outside of Fátima, such as the Batalha Monastery or Alcobaça, you may want to consider renting a car.

What to see around Fátima

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Fátima: 1. Batalha: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Monastery of Batalha, which was built to commemorate the victory in the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385.
2. Tomar: Explore the historic town of Tomar, with its medieval castle, Convent of Christ and beautiful gardens.
3. Nazaré: Experience the stunning beaches and fresh seafood in the fishing village of Nazaré, where the world's largest waves have been surfed.
4. Óbidos: Stroll through the charming medieval village of Óbidos, surrounded by castle walls and filled with artisan shops, cafes, and restaurants.
5. Coimbra: Visit the historic university city of Coimbra, home to one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe.
6. Lisbon: Take a day trip to Portugal's capital city, Lisbon, and explore its vibrant neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine.
7. Alcobaça: Visit the impressive Monastery of Alcobaça, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 12th century.
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