Europe
Friday, March 8: Porto Excursion
After breakfast, we embark on an excursion to the coastal city in the Northwest of Portugal, Porto. Arriving by coach, we explore notable sites such as the Church and Bell Tower/Torri ta Clerigos, Pjazza Liberta', and Stacion San Bento. A visit to Cais De Ribeira follows, where we catch the 6 Bridges River cruise tour (extra). Subsequently, we visit the Port Wine cellars (extra), the Cathedral, and then journey back to Fatima. The day concludes with dinner and a visit to Cova De Iria near the monument of the Sacred Heart.
Saturday, March 9: Lisbon Excursion
After breakfast, we transfer to Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, for a captivating day excursion. Our exploration begins in Alfama, focusing on the Cathedral and the church where Sant'Antnin was born. Guided by the leader, we discover Commercial Square, Augusta Street, Don Pedro Square, and Restauradores. Free time is provided, followed by a visit to the Belem area on the Tagus river, including Belem Tower, Vasco De Gama Bridge, Jeronimos Monastery, and the Padros Dos Descobrimentos monument. The day concludes with a transfer to Lisbon airport to check in for flight FR9655, departing at 20:05, arriving back in Malta at 00:15.
Tuesday, March 5: Arrival in Fatima
Meeting at the international airport of Malta at 10:30 for flight FR9654, departing at 12:30, and arriving in Lisbon at 15:00 (Local Time). After a coach transfer to Fatima, one of the most important Catholic places in the world, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Accommodation at the 4-star Hotel Santa Maria, a few steps away from the Sanctuary, includes dinner. The evening allows time for the first visit to the square and the Sanctuary.
Wednesday, March 6: Exploring Fatima
Beginning with breakfast, the day involves participating in the Eucharistic celebration in the Apparition Chapel. The journey includes visits to the Basilica of the Rosary, with the tombs of Lucia, Jacinta, and Francesco, and the modern circular Basilica of the Holy Trinity. An optional tourist train (extra) takes us to Valinosu Ajustrel to see Lucia's house, followed by a visit to the Parish Church of the three shepherds. The day concludes with dinner at the hotel.
Thursday, March 7: Tomar and Caves of Mira D'Aire
After breakfast, a coach transfer takes us to the commercial center of Fatima for free time for shopping. The journey continues to Tomar, where we visit the Templars Monastery (extra entrance) and explore the city through a walking tour. Free time is provided to visit the Mira D'Aire Caves (extra entrance) for a guided tour of these spectacular caves, including a fantastic show of dancing waters. The day ends with dinner and participation in the international rosary in the Apparition Chapel, followed by accompanying Madonna during the Aux Flambeaux procession.
