Fátima and Coimbra Full Day Tour from Porto

The Sanctuary of Fátima

Fátima became a place of pilgrimage after 1917, when three shepherd children reported apparitions of Our Lady on the 13th of the month between May and October. Today the Sanctuary has a vast esplanade, the Chapel of the Apparitions, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and a modern basilica dedicated to the Holy Trinity, which is one of the largest churches in the world.

Visitors of all faiths can walk the grounds, light a candle and see pilgrims arrive, especially on the big pilgrimages of 12 and 13 May and 12 and 13 October. Dress modestly and be respectful. A Fátima day trip from Porto is about two hours each way, and the tour gives you free time so you can pray, walk the esplanade or simply take in the atmosphere.

The houses of Francisco, Jacinta and Lúcia in Aljustrel

A short distance from the Sanctuary lies Aljustrel, the small hamlet where the three shepherd children lived. Entry to the houses of Francisco and Jacinta and of Lúcia is included in the tour, so you can step inside the simple rooms, see the furniture and tools and learn about their everyday life.

The visit helps you understand the human story behind Fátima, in a rural setting little changed from the early 20th century. Francisco and Jacinta were canonised as saints in 2017. It is a quiet, moving stop, and worth including on any Fátima and Coimbra tour from Porto for anyone who wants to go beyond the Sanctuary.

Coimbra's historic centre

Coimbra rises on a hill above the Mondego River and was Portugal's capital in the 12th and 13th centuries. Your guide leads a walk through the old town, up narrow streets, through the medieval Almedina gate and past the Old Cathedral, a Romanesque building from the 12th century, to give you a feel for the city.

Coimbra is also known for its student life, with black academic capes and the tradition of Coimbra fado, sung in a different style from that of Lisbon. The historic centre is compact but hilly, so expect some uphill walking. It is a lively contrast to the calm of Fátima and a great chance to see everyday Portuguese city life.

The University of Coimbra and Pátio das Escolas

The University of Coimbra was founded in 1290 and moved to its hilltop site in 1537, which makes it one of the oldest universities in Europe. Its historic campus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour visits the Pátio das Escolas, the main square with the Iron Gate, the clock tower nicknamed the Goat, and views across the city.

Entry to the Joanine Library, the University and the cathedral is not included, but the guide explains what you would see there, including the Baroque library with its gilded shelves. If you want to go inside, you can buy tickets on the day, subject to availability. The best time to visit Coimbra University is morning, before the queues form.