Things to Do in Fatima, Portugal

Located in the town that shares its name, the Sanctuary of Fátima is located in the central region of Portugal. Renowned as one of the most significant Catholic pilgrimage sites, Fátima draws around 6 million visitors annually, who come to venerate the image of Our Lady of Fátima.

Fátima is one of the best day trips from Lisbon. Situated just 130 kilometers from Portugal's capital, it is a destination that can even be visited in half a day.

Similarly, Fátima is a prime location to explore on a day trip from Porto. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Fátima, the history of its sanctuary, and the key attractions.

Looking for how to visit Fatima from Lisbon? Check out these tours and day trips:

History of the Sanctuary of Fátima

 

Fátima’s journey into the global spotlight began on May 13, 1917. On that day, three children—Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta—claimed to have seen “a lady brighter than the sun” atop an oak tree. She foretold peace and requested the children to return on the 13th of each of the next five months to witness her miracles.

Although their account faced skepticism, the news spread, and by October 13, 1917, around 70,000 people gathered near the oak tree.

Witnesses described an extraordinary phenomenon during a fierce storm: the sun became dazzlingly bright and "danced across the sky," leaving those present awestruck and kneeling in prayer.

The Virgin of Fátima

 

In 1930, the Vatican officially recognized the Virgin of Fátima. Since then, her feast day, celebrated annually on May 13, has drawn thousands of pilgrims from across towns, cities, and countries.

Several popes have shown deep devotion to Our Lady of Fátima. Pope John Paul II visited the site of the apparitions three times and left a bullet that struck him during an assassination attempt—an event that coincidentally occurred on May 13.

He believed that Mary’s protection saved him. Likewise, Pope Francis consecrated his papacy to the Virgin of Fátima and commemorated the 100th anniversary of the apparitions with a visit in 2017.

Things to Do in Fátima

The Sanctuary of Fátima is home to several must-visit religious monuments, including:

• The Chapel of the Apparitions

• The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary

• The Basilica of the Holy Trinity

The Chapel of the Apparitions

The first structure built in response to Our Lady’s request was the Chapel of the Apparitions. Erected on the exact spot where the Virgin appeared in 1917, it hosted its inaugural Mass on October 13, 1921. The pedestal bearing the image of the Virgin is the most significant site within the sanctuary.

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary

 

This iconic structure is easily recognized by its 65-meter-high tower, adorned with a gleaming bronze crown weighing over 7,000 kilograms.

Inside, visitors can admire stained glass windows, mosaics, and artworks depicting the Marian apparitions and events surrounding them.

The Basilica of the Holy Trinity

Originally a minor basilica consecrated in 1953, its capacity proved insufficient for the growing number of pilgrims. In 2004, construction began on a new basilica that can accommodate 9,000 people, making it the fourth-largest Catholic church in the world.

If you plan to visit Fátima in the morning, consider joining the Fátima Excursion from Lisbon, where you’ll explore the magnificent sanctuary and have time to visit the house of the three shepherd children, now a museum in the nearby village of Aljustrel.

Other recommendations include visiting the Museum of Sacred Art and Ethnology and the Gruta da Moeda (Coin Caves), a beautiful limestone formation offering a glimpse into Fátima’s natural charm.

When to Visit Fátima

 

Pilgrimage season peaks every year on the 13th of each month from May to October. For a quieter experience, plan your visit between November and early May.

One of the most enchanting events in Fátima is the Candlelight Procession, held on the 12th of each month and during the evenings from Holy Week through November.

Guided Tours to Fátima

Fátima lies conveniently between Porto and Lisbon, making it an ideal addition to your itinerary from either city.

From Porto, the Fátima and Coimbra Day Trip combines a visit to the sanctuary, the basilicas, and the Chapel of the Apparitions with an afternoon visiting the main sights of Coimbra, renowned for its historic center, cathedral, and famous university.

From Lisbon, the Fátima Tour in English includes a guided visit to the sanctuary, delving into the history of the apparitions and the secrets revealed by the Virgin, now known as the “Three Secrets of Fátima.”

 

Discover More

Are you excited to explore Fátima and other destinations in Portugal? Check out our tours in Lisbon, Porto and Algarve for unforgettable travel experiences.