Discover Fatima

Useful Information for Tourists About Fatima

Table of Contents

Fatima is a small town located in Portugal that attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year due to its religious and historical significance. The name “Fatima” has a deep historical origin. But what does Fatima mean?

It is related to the Muslim conquest of Portugal in the 8th century, when the Moors (Arab conquerors) brought with them cultural heritage, including names. The Fatima name originated from the name of the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, Fatima al-Zahra, who had special significance for the Muslim world. Over time, the town of Fatima became known for a series of apparitions of the Virgin Mary that are said to have taken place here in 1917. 

Since then, Fatima has become a place of Fatima pilgrimage for Catholics from all over the world, and the Shrine of the Blessing of the Virgin Mary of Fatima was built here. The town is also known for its beautiful gardens and architectural monuments, making it an attractive destination for religious as well as cultural tourists.

Where Is Fatima?

The city of Fatima is located in central Portugal, about 142 kilometers northeast of Lisbon. 

For tourists going to Fatima, it is important to know that the city is easily accessible both by car and by public transportation from Lisbon. The most convenient way to reach Fatima from Lisbon is by train or bus. The journey takes about 1.5 – 2 hours.

The main places of attraction in Fatima are the shrines in Portugal, namely the Basilica of Our Lady of Fatima and the Holy Place of the Dome. Tourists can also visit the House of Fatima, where lived small shepherds, and the museum dedicated to the apparitions of Fatima.

In addition, Fatima offers an abundance of souvenir stores, restaurants and cafes where tourists can relax and enjoy the local cuisine. The area is also famous for its beautiful scenery and opportunities for walking and relaxation. Bookmark the location of Fatima Portugal on the map and go traveling!

Why Is Fatima Interesting for Visiting?

Fatima attracts different categories of visitors due to its unique combination of religious and historical significance. Fatima will be interesting to visit for such categories of people:

Catholic believers. For the faithful, Fatima is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in the world. According to Christian tradition, this is where the Virgin Mary appeared to three shepherds in 1917, making it a shrine and a place of spiritual revival for many believers. Finding where Fatima shrine is very easy, so everyone can visit this place. 

Historically Interested. Fatima has a rich historical heritage, linked not only to the apparitions of the Virgin Mary but also to the cultural influences of the Moors and the Islamic period in the history of Portugal. A visit to Fatima provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of the region and learn more about its cultural roots.

For lovers of architecture and art. The Basilica of Our Lady of Fatima and other architectural sites in Fatima are beautiful examples of architecture and art. Visiting these sites allows you to enjoy the majestic structures and learn more about the local art and culture.

Travelers in search of spiritual peace. The atmosphere of Fatima, with its tranquil gardens and holy sites, provides a unique setting for relaxation, reflection and spiritual peace. Many visitors come here to spend time in prayer, meditation and contemplation.

What to See in Fatima?

Fatima has several significant attractions that attract tourists and pilgrims from all over the world:

  1. The Basilica of Our Lady of Fatima and the Holy Place of the Dome. This is one of the most visited places in Fatima. Here is the tomb of the three shepherds, Lucia, Jacinta and Francisco, to whom, according to the belief, the Virgin Mary appeared. The basilica impresses with its architectural forms and spiritual atmosphere. To find where is Our Lady of Fatima located it is enough to enter in maps and get to the place by foot or by bus. 
  2. Gardens of Fatima. These beautiful gardens are an ideal place for rest and relaxation. They surround the Basilica and create a peaceful environment for visitors.
  3. Fatima house. This is the place where the shepherds to whom the Virgin Mary appeared used to live. The House of Fatima is now a museum where objects related to the apparitions of Fatima are on display, as well as items that belonged to the shepherds.
  4. Fatima apparitions museum. Here visitors can learn more about the history and significance of Fatima’s apparitions through interactive displays and exhibits.
  5. Our Lady of Fatima shrine. This is the place of special sanctuary where the apparitions of the Virgin Mary are said to have taken place. It is located inside the Basilica of Our Lady of Fatima.

You can also visit Fatima church Portugal, these are all attractions that make Fatima a unique place for pilgrimage, spiritual peace and cultural exploration.

Where to Stay in Fatima

There are several hotels in Fatima offering comfortable accommodation and a convenient location close to the city’s main attractions:

Hotel Santa Maria

The hotel is located a 2-minute walk from the shrine of Our Lady of Fatima. The rooms are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including free Wi-Fi. The hotel’s restaurant serves regional Portuguese and international cuisine. The hotel also features a garden, a meditation room and a terrace overlooking the sanctuary. Price range: from €90 per night for a double room. 

Address: Rua de Santo António, nr 79, 2495-430 Fátima, Portugal.

Hotel Steyler Fátima

The hotel is located just 100 meters from the shrine of Fátima. It offers spacious rooms with amenities such as air conditioning and satellite TV. The hotel’s restaurant serves Portuguese cuisine and drinks can be enjoyed in the garden. Guests can visit the private chapel and buy souvenirs from the on-site store. Price range: from €110 per night for a double room.

Address: Praça Luis Kondor, s/n, 2495-409 Fatima, Portugal.

Hotel Aleluia

The hotel is located opposite the shrine of Our Lady of Fatima and the Paulo VI Convention Center. Rooms with balcony and scenic views of the Church of the Holy Trinity. The hotel’s restaurant offers a varied menu with traditional Portuguese dishes. Guests can relax in the hotel lobby decorated with photographs. Price range: from €90 per night for a double room. These hotels offer comfortable accommodations and are in close proximity to Fatima’s main points of interest, making them a great choice for tourists.

Address: Av D Jose A. C. Silva, 120, 2495-402 Fatima, Portugal.

The Best Way to Explore Fatima

The best way to explore Fatima is to join a day tour. This format offers a convenient and efficient immersion into the city’s cultural and spiritual heritage in a short time. The benefits of day tours include the opportunity to get a comprehensive view of Fatima, maximize your time, and learn interesting facts and historical events from an experienced guide. It is also a convenient option for those traveling with limited time or who want to explore the city in a short format.