Before you go

Your trip to Fátima.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

Fátima – Santarém Destination Fátima and Tomar

How to get there

Aeroporto Humberto Delgado (LIS) Lisboa · 130 km
Terminal Rodoviário de Fátima 1 km

Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.

From Lisbon, direct buses take about 1h30 to Fátima bus terminal; by car via the A1. The nearest train station, Chão de Maçãs-Fátima, is about 20 km away. Confirm before booking.

How many days

One day is enough for the sanctuary and Aljustrel. Pilgrims typically stay two or three days for the celebrations.

When to go

From April to October, with more pleasant weather. On May 12–13 and in October, major pilgrimages fill the town. Winter is cold.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

Not for the sanctuary. For Aljustrel, 2 km away, you can walk along the shepherds' path; for Tomar and Batalha, a car is helpful.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in Fátima

Morning
Capelinha and Basilica of the Rosary
Start at the Capelinha das Aparições and visit the tombs of the little shepherds in the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.
Afternoon
Aljustrel and Valinhos
Walk to Aljustrel along the Valinhos path, with the Stations of the Cross, and see the houses of the little shepherds.
Late afternoon
Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity
Return to the sanctuary and visit the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity.
Evening
Candlelight procession
Join the recitation of the rosary and the candlelight procession, which usually takes place at night.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

Who were the little shepherds of Fátima?

Lúcia, Francisco and Jacinta, three children who said they saw Our Lady in 1917. Francisco and Jacinta were canonized in 2017.

Does Fátima have a candlelight procession?

Yes, it usually takes place at night after the rosary, especially from May to October. Check the sanctuary's schedule.

Do you have to pay to enter the sanctuary?

No, entrance to the sanctuary and the basilicas is free.

Is Fátima far from Lisbon?

About 130 km, roughly one and a half hours by bus or car.

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