Fatima & Coimbra Full Day - from Oporto

Your full-day tour begins in the direction of Fátima, the most important Portuguese religious centre and one ofthe world's most famous places of Catholic pilgrimage. Its worldwide prominence is due to the account of the apparitions of the Virgin Mary reported by three shepherd children (Lúcia, Francisco, and Jacinta) from May 13 to October 13, in 1917. When arriving in Fátima, your guide will take you to the humble houses where the three cousins were born, in the small village of Aljustrel, about 2 km away from the Shrine. There, you can imagine the everyday life of these families during the period of the Apparitions. You will be impressed by the rooms, the work instruments, and the clothes you will find inside. It's now time to visit the greatest highlight of this tour. Observe the inspiring devotion of many pilgrims from all over the world and feel a magical sense of peace and serenity when arriving at the Sanctuary of Fátima, a Marian Shrine, dedicated to Nossa Senhora de Fátima (Our Lady of Fátima). Did you know that, in the statue of the Virgin Mary, you can see the bullet that hit the Pope John Paul II, during the attempt of his assassination? Here, have the opportunity to visit the Chapel of the Apparitions (Capelinha das Aparições) - a heavenly space constructed at the exact location where the Virgin Mary used to appear to the children. Believer or not, this will a completely emotional experience! In the tremendous area of the Sanctuary, you will find the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the greatest landmark of Fátima, that hosts the tombs of Lúcia, Francisco, and Jacinta. Then, take some time to experience the spiritual environment of this sacred place. We also recommend you observe the segment of the Berlin Wall, donated in 1994 as a "symbol of peace". Later, relax your legs and enjoy a savoury lunch and proceed your visit to Coimbra, the notorious University city. In fact, its University is the ex-libris of the city, dated from the 13th century and declared a World Heritage Site. Coimbra keeps alive a set of student traditions and symbolic practices: look around and observe the emblematic uniforms of the students. The long black capes embrace perfectly the prestigious tradition of this noble city. It is time to visit the notorious University of Coimbra, which blends impeccably its rich History and the actual student life. It is easy to see why its monumental buildings and History attract people from all over the world. Located on the top of a hill, from the atrium of the University, you can have stunning views of the city. But not only this area will surprise you in Coimbra. Walk through its narrow streets, the Roman ruins, the ramparts and every nook full of a strong heritage and secrets to tell. Discover the long staircase of the Quebra-Costas, and the typical neighbourhoods of the historical centre. Take the time you need to ask your guide all your questions: unveil the most amazing stories that Coimbra has been holding for centuries!