With a privileged location in the center of the country, the Fátima region is surrounded by an immense religious, historical, cultural, and natural heritage.
Fátima is a must-visit destination in Portugal, for both locals and foreigners, believers and non-believers.
Home to one of the most important Marian sanctuaries - the Sanctuary of Fátima, the city attracts around 6 million visitors annually, making it one of the largest Catholic pilgrimage centers in the world.
Fátima is a religious and tourist phenomenon that goes beyond peak tourist seasons, but it is between May and October that it gathers the largest number of visitors. The main celebrations of the apparitions of Fátima are on May 13th, with the impressive Candlelight Procession at night, and on October 13th, with the traditional "Farewell Procession" to Our Lady at the Chapel of the Apparitions.
Fátima is about an hour's drive from Lisbon and is close to places associated with the sea and beach, like Nazaré, as well as historical centers with important monuments such as the towns of Batalha and Óbidos, and the cities of Tomar, Leiria, and Alcobaça.
Behind the name of the city of Ourém lies, according to legend, a love story between a Moorish princess who, in order to be with her Christian beloved, changed her name from Fátima to Oureana and agreed to be baptized.
The lands of Abdegas were given to her as a wedding gift and have since been known as "Terra Oureana" – now Ourém.
The romantic essence of this story can still be felt when strolling through the narrow streets of the ancient Medieval Village, located on a hill and enclosed within a wall with two arched gates: Santarém Gate to the north and Vila Gate to the south.
Beyond the castle and the old town, the new part of the city offers several places worth visiting, such as the Ourém Municipal Museum – Administrator's House or António Teixeira City Park, an excellent spot for walks or family picnics.
The town of Batalha grew around the Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória, whose construction began in 1386. It was built in fulfillment of a vow made by King João I of Portugal, who promised to erect it in honor of Our Lady if Portugal triumphed over Castile in the Battle of Aljubarrota on August 14, 1385.
The Batalha Monastery is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, incorporating various influences due to its long construction period, which spanned several reigns. Inside, highlights include the Founder’s Chapel, adorned with stunning stained-glass windows, the cloisters, the Unfinished Chapels, richly decorated with Manueline and Flamboyant Gothic elements, and the Chapter House.
Around the monastery, the Parish Church is also worth mentioning, featuring a beautiful Manueline-style portal.
In addition to the delicious Alcobaça apple, this city owes its fame to the Monastery or Royal Abbey of Santa Maria, founded by the Cistercian order. Considered one of the most beautiful in the world, it has been rebuilt several times in various architectural styles, from Gothic to Manueline. Talking about the Monastery of Alcobaça is also talking about the greatest love story in Portuguese history – the tragic passion of King Pedro and Dona Inês de Castro, immortalized at this site.
On the other hand, influenced by the monasteries and convents of the Cistercian order in the region, the traditional pastries make Alcobaça the capital of indulgence! The most famous sweet is the Pão de Ló de Alfeizerão, but other temptations include the cornucopias, the abbess crowns, and the "queijinhos do céu." You won't be able to resist, especially if you try them during the International Show of Conventual Sweets & Liqueurs, which takes place annually in November, inside the Monastery.
A visit to Leiria has several must-see spots, one of which is undoubtedly its towering Castle. Bathed by the Lis River, it is a lively city full of life. Wander through the streets of the historic center, where traditional commerce is thriving and highly recommended! In Praça Rodrigues Lobo, one of the most emblematic and popular squares, enjoy the cafés and restaurants. Take the opportunity to stroll along the river, visit the Cultural Center at the Sant’Ana Market, or relax in one of the city’s many gardens. Between rivers, beaches, pine forests, lagoons, salt pans, religious and civil architecture, museums, thermal springs, popular traditions, and gastronomy, there are plenty of attractions to explore in Leiria.
Famous for its giant waves, the tourist village of Nazaré offers an idyllic setting to enjoy unforgettable moments.
Don't miss a stroll through the streets of Nazaré or along the pleasant promenade by the beach, where you're sure to encounter fishermen dressed in checkered shirts and black pants, or their women wearing seven petticoats.
At the top of the village is the Sítio, a place you can access via the well-known elevator that makes a pleasant journey of about 110 meters. The Sítio is a favored spot for pilgrims heading to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré located there.
With its traditional features, such as whitewashed houses and the huge cliffs overlooking the sea, this village has become a sought-after tourist destination for thousands of people.
