For those seeking a captivating exploration of Portugal’s cultural heritage, the ‘From Lisbon: Fatima/Batalha and Mafra Convent/Óbidos Tour‘ offers an immersive experience. Over 6-7 hours, this small-group tour takes visitors to the renowned Fátima Sanctuary, the impressive Batalha Monastery, and either the grand Mafra Convent or the picturesque town of Óbidos. With a knowledgeable guide, participants uncover the stories and architectural wonders of these iconic landmarks, tailoring the experience to their interests and questions. But what secrets do these sites hold, and how will they leave a lasting impression on those who venture to explore them?
Key Points
- This tour from Lisbon explores Portugal’s cultural and historical heritage, including visits to the Fátima Sanctuary, Batalha Monastery, and either the Mafra Convent or the town of Óbidos.
- The tour duration is 6-7 hours, with a group size limited to 6 participants, providing an intimate and personalized experience.
- The tour includes knowledgeable guides, reliable transportation, and admission fees to the iconic landmarks, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
- The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, with a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance or weather-related cancellations.
- Highlights of the tour include learning about the history and apparitions of the Virgin Mary at the Fátima Sanctuary and admiring the architectural wonders of the Batalha Monastery and either the Mafra Convent or Óbidos.
Tour Details
The tour lasts 6-7 hours and limits group size to 6 participants. Availability and start times can be checked, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
This exclusive small-group experience allows travelers to explore Portugal’s rich cultural and historical heritage at a comfortable pace. Whether you’re seeking a scenic day trip or want to explore significant landmarks, this tour provides a well-rounded itinerary tailored to your interests.
From the iconic Fátima Sanctuary to the magnificent Batalha Monastery, you’ll uncover the architectural wonders and sacred sites that define Portugal’s identity. With transportation and entrance fees included, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and learn about the country’s captivating stories.
Group Size
This exclusive small-group tour limits the number of participants to just 6 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and immersive experience.
With a capped group size, you’ll enjoy:
- Undivided attention from the knowledgeable guide, who can cater to your specific interests and questions.
- The ability to navigate historical sites and landmarks without feeling lost in a crowd, allowing you to truly learn about the culture and architecture.
- A more intimate and interactive dynamic with your fellow travelers, fostering shared discoveries and deeper connections.
Cancellation Policy
With this tour, travelers can enjoy the flexibility to cancel their bookings up to 24 hours in advance without incurring any fees. This free cancellation policy provides peace of mind and allows for last-minute changes in plans. Whether unexpected circumstances arise or priorities shift, the tour operator understands the need for flexible arrangements. By offering this considerate cancellation policy, they aim to provide a hassle-free experience for all participants.
| Cancellation Period | Refund Amount |
|---|---|
| Up to 24 hours before tour | 100% refund |
| Less than 24 hours before tour | No refund |
| No-shows | No refund |
| Weather-related cancellations | 100% refund |
Tour Highlights
Visitors on this tour can explore the renowned Fátima Sanctuary, a significant Catholic pilgrimage site. They’ll learn about the sanctuary’s construction and history, including the apparitions of the Virgin Mary that occurred here in 1917.
Next, they’ll venture to Batalha’s Monastery, an impressive example of Gothic architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts intricate stone carvings and serves as a symbol of Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour then offers the choice between visiting the grand Mafra Convent or the picturesque town of Óbidos, allowing participants to customize their experience.
These highlights promise an immersive exploration of Portugal’s captivating past and its lasting architectural wonders.
Fatima Sanctuary
The Fátima Sanctuary, a renowned Catholic pilgrimage site, captivates visitors with its rich history and profound spiritual significance. Constructed in the early 20th century, the sanctuary commemorates the 1917 apparitions of the Virgin Mary, drawing millions of faithful pilgrims each year. Visitors can explore the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, a stunning example of neo-baroque architecture, and the Chapel of the Apparitions, the site of the reported Marian visions. The sanctuary’s grounds also feature the breathtaking statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the revered Capelinha das Aparições, a small chapel built on the location of the apparitions.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Construction | Early 20th century |
| Significance | 1917 apparitions of the Virgin Mary |
| Annual Visitors | Millions of faithful pilgrims |
| Notable Features | Basilica, Chapel of the Apparitions, Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Capelinha das Aparições |
Batalha’s Monastery
Towering over the landscape, Batalha’s Monastery stands as a testament to Portugal’s remarkable architectural heritage. Crafted in the Gothic style, this 14th-century masterpiece captivates visitors with its intricate sculptures, soaring vaulted ceilings, and an abundance of natural light that illuminates its grand interior.
The monastery’s highlights include:
- The Founder’s Chapel, an exquisite mausoleum adorned with delicate tracery and statues honoring the royal family.
- The Unfinished Chapels, an ambitious project that showcases the evolution of Gothic architecture over several centuries.
- The magnificent Rose Window, a stunning example of the monastery’s masterful craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Mafra Convent or Óbidos
A choice awaits travelers between the grand Mafra Convent and the picturesque walled town of Óbidos, each offering a distinct glimpse into Portugal’s rich heritage.
The Mafra Convent, a testament to 18th-century Baroque splendor, boasts an impressive basilica, lavish royal apartments, and a grandiose library featuring over 36,000 volumes.
Alternatively, Óbidos, a charming medieval town, enchants visitors with its colorful houses, quaint cobblestone streets, and well-preserved city walls. Strolling through this fortified town, one can’t help but be swept away by its timeless beauty and the sense of stepping back in time.
Whether drawn to the majestic Mafra Convent or the picturesque Óbidos, travelers will undoubtedly be captivated by these captivating Portuguese destinations.
Inclusions
This tour includes a guided exploration, ensuring travelers receive in-depth insights into the cultural and historical significance of the landmarks visited. Comprehensive transportation to the key sites is provided, along with the necessary entrance fees, allowing participants to fully enjoy the experience without additional logistical concerns.
The inclusions of this tour are designed to create a seamless and enriching experience, enabling visitors to focus on the captivating stories and architectural marvels that await them. The key inclusions are:
- A knowledgeable guide to lead the way and share fascinating narratives.
- Reliable transportation to transport guests between the tour destinations.
- Admission fees to access the iconic landmarks, such as the Fátima Sanctuary and Batalha’s Monastery.
Recap
This captivating tour from Lisbon offers a unique opportunity to explore Portugal’s cultural and historical treasures.
Visitors will uncover the stories and architectural marvels of the renowned Fátima Sanctuary, the impressive Batalha Monastery, and either the grand Mafra Convent or the picturesque town of Óbidos.
With a knowledgeable guide and a personalized experience, this small-group tour promises an immersive journey through Portugal’s rich heritage.
