Midday: Arrival in Lisbon

• Belem Tower: After arriving in Lisbon, begin your journey with a visit to Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This 16th-century fortress was built to protect the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor and is a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. The tower features beautiful Manueline architecture with intricate carvings, stonework, and historical significance as a departure point for many of the explorers who set sail to discover new lands.
• St. Anthony’s Church: Next, visit St. Anthony’s Church, located near the historic center of Lisbon. This church is built on the site where St. Anthony of Padua, the patron saint of lost things and a beloved figure in Portuguese culture, was born. The church is a popular pilgrimage site, and visitors often stop to pray or light a candle in honor of the saint.

Afternoon: Transfer to Fatima

• Journey Overview: After the tour of Lisbon, transfer to Fatima, a drive of approximately 130 kilometers taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Fatima is one of the most significant Marian pilgrimage sites in the world.

Evening: Arrival in Fatima

• Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima: Upon arrival in Fatima, you’ll check in to your hotel and have some time to rest. In the evening, you may wish to visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima. This is the site where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children in 1917. The sanctuary is a place of profound spiritual significance, drawing millions of pilgrims each year.

Morning: Explore the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima

• The Chapel of the Apparitions: We start our day with a visit to the Chapel of the Apparitions, the heart of the Fatima sanctuary. This small chapel marks the exact spot where the Virgin Mary appeared to the shepherd children. Pilgrims often gather here for prayer, Mass, and to light candles.
• Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary: Next, visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, which houses the tombs of the three shepherd children—Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta. The basilica features stunning mosaics and a peaceful atmosphere conducive to prayer and reflection.
• Perpetual Adoration Chapel: This modern chapel within the sanctuary is dedicated to the perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, offering a quiet space for personal devotion.

Afternoon: Stations of the Cross and Valinhos

• Stations of the Cross: Walk the Stations of the Cross along the "Via Sacra," a path that leads from the sanctuary to the site of the first apparition. The stations are beautifully represented by small chapels and culminate at the Calvary Chapel on a hill overlooking the sanctuary.
• Valinhos: Visit Valinhos, the site of one of the apparitions of the Virgin Mary. It is located near the homes of the three shepherd children. The area is serene, offering a chance to connect with the peaceful countryside and the history of the apparitions.

Evening: Rosary and Candlelight Procession

• Rosary and Candlelight Procession: Participate in the evening Rosary and Candlelight Procession, a moving tradition in Fatima. Pilgrims gather to pray the Rosary and process through the sanctuary grounds holding candles, creating a beautiful and spiritual atmosphere.

Morning: Depart for Avila

• Journey Overview: The day begins with a scenic drive from Fatima to Avila, covering approximately 350 kilometers. The journey takes about 4 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes of Spain’s Castile and León region.

Midday: Tour of Avila

• Avila's Medieval Walls: Upon arrival in Avila, the first impression is of the city's perfectly preserved medieval walls. These impressive fortifications, dating back to the 11th century, stretch for 2.5 kilometers and include 88 semicircular towers and 9 gates. The walls are one of the most complete examples of medieval military architecture in Europe and offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Convent of St. Teresa: A visit to the Convent of St. Teresa is a must. This convent was built over the birthplace of Saint Teresa of Avila, a prominent Spanish mystic and a reformer of the Carmelite Order. The convent houses a museum dedicated to her life and works, where pilgrims can see relics, personal belongings, and documents related to Saint Teresa. The small chapel inside the convent is a place of deep spiritual reflection, attracting pilgrims from all over the world.

Afternoon: Transfer to Burgos

• Journey Overview: After exploring Avila, the group will continue the journey to Burgos, a drive of approximately 180 kilometers taking around 2 hours. This transfer takes you deeper into the heart of Castile and León, a region known for its historical and cultural significance.

Evening: Burgos Cathedral

• Burgos Cathedral: The highlight of the evening is a visit to the Burgos Cathedral, one of Spain’s most magnificent Gothic cathedrals and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Begun in 1221, the cathedral took nearly 300 years to complete, resulting in a stunning architectural masterpiece. The cathedral is renowned for its elaborate spires, stained glass windows, and richly decorated chapels.
• Tomb of El Cid: Inside the cathedral lies the tomb of El Cid (Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar), a legendary Spanish knight and national hero. El Cid is celebrated for his role in the Reconquista, the Christian reconquest of Spain from the Moors. His life and exploits have been immortalized in Spanish literature, and his final resting place in Burgos Cathedral is a site of great historical significance.
• Chapel of the Constables: This chapel within the cathedral is known for its lavish decorations and intricate altarpieces, showcasing the wealth and power of the Castilian nobility.
• Golden Staircase: Another notable feature is the Golden Staircase, a Renaissance-style staircase that is a masterpiece of Spanish design, leading to the cathedral’s upper levels.

Morning: Depart for Lourdes

• Journey Overview: After breakfast, depart from Burgos for Lourdes, a drive of approximately 350 kilometers taking about 4 hours and 30 minutes. The journey takes you through the scenic landscapes of northern Spain and into the Pyrenees mountains as you cross into France.

Afternoon: Arrival and Orientation in Lourdes

• Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes: Upon arrival in Lourdes, you will visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world. The sanctuary includes several key sites associated with the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858.
  • Grotto of Massabielle: This is the site where Saint Bernadette experienced her visions of the Virgin Mary. The grotto has become a focal point for pilgrimages, where many come to pray, light candles, and collect water from the spring that is said to have healing properties.
  • Basilica of the Immaculate Conception: This basilica, often referred to as the Upper Basilica, is perched above the grotto and features beautiful stained glass windows depicting the life of the Virgin Mary and the story of Lourdes.
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary: Known as the Lower Basilica, it is decorated with stunning mosaics that illustrate the mysteries of the Rosary.
  • Underground Basilica of St. Pius X: This enormous underground church can hold up to 25,000 pilgrims and is used for large-scale ceremonies and gatherings.

Evening: Candlelight Procession

• Candlelight Procession: In the evening, participate in the iconic Candlelight Procession, a tradition in Lourdes where pilgrims gather with candles to pray and sing hymns, creating a moving and spiritual experience.

Morning: Explore the Sanctuary

• Sacrament of Reconciliation: Participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation at one of the many chapels within the sanctuary, where priests are available in multiple languages.
• Stations of the Cross: Walk the Stations of the Cross, a series of 14 stations representing the events of Jesus Christ’s Passion. These stations are located on a hill overlooking the sanctuary and offer a peaceful, reflective experience.

Afternoon: Continue Exploring Lourdes

• The Baths: Experience the Baths at Lourdes, where pilgrims can immerse themselves in the spring water, believed to have miraculous healing properties. This is a profound and moving part of the pilgrimage for many.
• Visit the Birthplace of Saint Bernadette: A short walk from the sanctuary, visit the former mill where Saint Bernadette was born and spent her childhood. The site has been preserved as a museum, offering insight into her early life.

Evening: Free Time for Personal Devotion

• Free Time: Spend the evening at leisure, with the option to return to the sanctuary for Holy Mass and-or to attend another Candlelight Procession.  (April ~ Oct)

Morning: Depart for Paris

• Journey Overview: After breakfast, board the TGV Express Train for a comfortable and fast journey to Paris, taking approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. The TGV offers scenic views as you travel from the southwest of France to the capital city.

Afternoon: Arrival in Paris

• Arrival: Upon arrival in Paris, transfer to hotel to check in and freshen up.
• Eiffel Tower: Begin your Parisian experience with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Depending on timing and availability, you can either ascend the tower for panoramic views of the city or enjoy the views from the Trocadéro Gardens, which offer a stunning perspective of the tower.

Evening: Seine River Cruise

• Seine River Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Seine River. This one-hour cruise provides an excellent introduction to the city, passing by major landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre (exterior), and the Musée d'Orsay, all beautifully illuminated in the evening.

Morning:

• Champs-Élysées: Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the Champs-Élysées, Paris's most famous avenue.  Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, upscale shops, and charming cafés.
• Arc de Triomphe: Visit the Arc de Triomphe at the western end of the Champs-Élysées.  Climb to the top for panoramic views of Paris and explore the base where the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located.

Midday:

• The Opera: Visit the Palais Garnier (The Opera) in the early afternoon.  Admire the opulent architecture, including the grand staircase, and learn about its role in Paris’s cultural history.
• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a nearby café or restaurant with views of the Eiffel Tower.

Afternoon:

• Notre Dame Cathedral: Head to the Île de la Cité to see Notre Dame Cathedral.  While its interior is under renovation, the exterior and surrounding area remain a significant historical and architectural site.
• Petit Palais and Grand Palais: Explore these two adjacent buildings.  The Petit Palais houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts, while the Grand Palais is an exhibition hall and historic landmark.

Evening:

• Les Invalides:  Conclude your day with a visit to Les Invalides. Explore the Army Museum and the Tomb of Napoleon, with its golden dome making for a striking end to our day.

Morning: Depart for Black Forest

• Journey Overview: After breakfast, depart for the Black Forest region in Germany, with the first stop at Hofgut Sternen, a popular location known for its traditional German architecture and scenic surroundings. The drive is approximately 500 kilometers and takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes.

Afternoon: Black Forest and Cuckoo Clocks

• Black Forest: The Black Forest is a mountainous region in southwest Germany, famous for its dense forests, picturesque villages, and traditional cuckoo clocks. Visit Hofgut Sternen, where you can see demonstrations of how cuckoo clocks are made and learn about the region’s traditions and crafts.
• Titisee Lake: Continue to the nearby Titisee Lake, a glacial lake in the southern Black Forest. The lake is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and offers opportunities for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride.

Evening: Arrival in Titisee

• Titisee: Arrive in Titisee, a small town near the lake, where we will spend the night. The town is known for its charming atmosphere and is a great place to relax after a day of travel.

Morning: Transfer to Lucerne

• Journey Overview: After breakfast, transfer to Lucerne, a drive of approximately 100 kilometers taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Lucerne is a beautiful city known for its preserved medieval architecture and stunning lakeside setting.

Midday: Explore Lucerne

• Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke): Visit the Chapel Bridge, a covered wooden bridge that dates back to the 14th century. The bridge features a series of paintings under its roof, depicting events from Lucerne’s history. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in Switzerland.
• Lion Monument: Stop at the Lion Monument, a poignant memorial commemorating the Swiss Guards who were massacred during the French Revolution. The monument depicts a dying lion carved into a sandstone rock, symbolizing courage and loyalty.
• Old Town Lucerne: Take a stroll through Lucerne’s Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lively squares. The Old Town is also home to many shops and cafes, making it a great place to explore.

Afternoon: Transfer to Engelberg

• Journey Overview: In the afternoon, transfer to Engelberg, a short drive of approximately 35 kilometers, taking about 40 minutes. Engelberg is a picturesque mountain resort known for its stunning alpine scenery.

Evening: Arrival in Engelberg

• Engelberg: Upon arrival in Engelberg, check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. The town is nestled in a valley surrounded by towering peaks, offering a peaceful retreat.

Morning: Transfer to Engelberg

• Journey Overview: After breakfast, take a short drive of approximately 30 kilometers to Engelberg, a charming Swiss village nestled in the Alps.
• Mount Titlis Excursion
  • Titlis Rotair: Board the Titlis Rotair, the world’s first revolving cable car, which provides a panoramic view of the breathtaking Swiss Alps during your ascent. The ride offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and the glacier below.
  • Titlis Glacier Park: At the summit of Mount Titlis, explore the Glacier Park. Here, you can enjoy a range of winter activities, including snow tubing and snowball throwing, regardless of the season. The park offers a fun and unique experience in the snowy environment.
  • Titlis Cliff Walk: Experience the Titlis Cliff Walk, a high-altitude suspension bridge that extends over a dramatic cliff. This thrilling walk offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glacier.
  • Ice Flyer: Take a ride on the Ice Flyer, a chairlift that glides over the glacier, providing a close-up view of the icy landscape and crevasses.
  • Observation Decks: Enjoy the observation decks for panoramic views of the Alps, including the stunning peaks and the glacier's blue ice. The clear, crisp mountain air and the expansive views create a memorable experience.

Midday: Lunch

• Lunch at a restaurant on Mount Titlis or Engelberg, where you can savor Swiss cuisine while enjoying alpine views.

Afternoon: Transfer to Como

• Journey Overview: After your exciting mountain adventure, transfer to Como, a drive of approximately 220 kilometers, taking about 3 hours. Como is a picturesque town situated on the shores of Lake Como.

Evening: Arrival in Como

• Como: Arrive in Como and check in to your hotel. Enjoy an evening at leisure to explore the charming streets of Como, relax by the lake, or have dinner at a local restaurant.

Morning: Transfer to Milan

• Journey Overview: After breakfast, depart for Milan, a short drive of approximately 50 kilometers, taking about 1 hour. Milan is Italy’s fashion and design capital, but it’s also rich in history and culture.

Midday: Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano)

• Milan Cathedral: Visit the magnificent Milan Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. The cathedral is an architectural marvel with its stunning façade, intricate spires, and more than 3,000 statues. You can also ascend to the rooftop terraces for panoramic views of Milan. The cathedral’s interior is equally impressive, with beautiful stained glass windows and a vast nave.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: After visiting the cathedral, take a stroll through the nearby Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the oldest shopping malls in the world. The Galleria is housed in a grand 19th-century building with a glass-domed roof and elegant mosaics.

Afternoon: Transfer to Padua

• Journey Overview: In the afternoon, transfer to Padua, a drive of approximately 240 kilometers, taking about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Padua is a historic city known for its rich religious heritage.

Evening: Arrival in Padua

• Padua: Upon arrival in Padua, check in to your hotel and have some free time to explore the city. Padua is famous for its university, one of the oldest in the world, and for being the home of Saint Anthony.

Morning: Transfer to Padua

• Journey Overview: After breakfast, take a transfer to Padua, which is approximately 80 kilometers from Venice, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Basilica of Saint Anthony (Basilica di Sant'Antonio): The Basilica of Saint Anthony is one of Padua’s most significant religious sites and a major pilgrimage destination. It is dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua, a revered Franciscan friar and saint known for his powerful sermons and miracles.
  • Sanctuary of Saint Anthony: Enter the basilica to visit the Sanctuary of Saint Anthony, the most sacred part of the church. This area houses the saint's tomb and a renowned relic, the "Basilica of Saint Anthony's Tomb." The sanctuary is richly decorated with marble and offers a serene and reverent atmosphere for reflection and prayer.
  • Chapel of Saint Anthony: Explore the Chapel of Saint Anthony, where we can see the saint’s relics and many votive offerings left by devotees.
  • Frescoes and Artworks: Admire the basilica’s frescoes and artworks, including those by renowned artists like Giotto and Donatello. The frescoes depict biblical scenes and saints, adding to the basilica's spiritual and artistic richness.
  • The Cloisters: Visit the adjoining cloisters, where you can enjoy the peaceful gardens and admire the architectural details. The cloisters provide a tranquil setting for contemplation and reflection.

Midday:

• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Padua, where you can savor traditional Italian dishes and relax before continuing with your itinerary.
• Transfer to Venice
  • Journey Overview: After lunch, transfer to Venice, which is approximately 40 kilometers from Padua, with a driving time of about 1 hour.

Afternoon: Venice Exploration

• Boat Ride: Arrive in Venice and embark on a classic gondola or vaporetto (water bus) ride through the city’s picturesque canals. Enjoy the unique views of Venice’s historic buildings and charming waterways.
• St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco): Visit St. Mark’s Basilica, the most famous church in Venice. Admire its Byzantine architecture, glittering mosaics, and the impressive Pala d’Oro altar. The basilica’s opulent design reflects Venice’s historical wealth and artistic heritage.
• Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale): Explore the Doge’s Palace, a stunning Gothic palace that once served as the residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of Venetian government. The palace features magnificent rooms, artworks, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs.
• Piazza San Marco: Wander around Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square), Venice’s main public square. The piazza is surrounded by notable landmarks, including the Campanile (bell tower) and the Clock Tower.

Evening: Transfer to Florence

• Journey Overview: After your exploration of Venice, transfer back to Florence, which is approximately 250 kilometers from Venice, with a driving time of about 3 hours.
• Arrival in Florence.  Arrive in Florence and check in to your hotel for overnight accommodation.

Morning:

• Transfer to Pisa
  • Journey Overview: After breakfast, take a transfer to Pisa, which is approximately 90 kilometers from Florence, with a driving time of about 1.5 hours.
• Pisa
  • Leaning Tower of Pisa: Visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, part of the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles). The tower, famous for its unintended tilt, is a marvel of medieval engineering. You can climb the 294 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding Tuscan landscape.
  • Piazza dei Miracoli: Explore the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to several other architectural masterpieces. Admire the beautiful marble facade of the Pisa Cathedral, and visit the Baptistery, known for its remarkable acoustics and elegant design.
  • Pisa Cathedral (Duomo): Visit the Pisa Cathedral, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture with its intricate marble facade and impressive interior. The cathedral is renowned for its elaborate decoration and historical significance.
  • Baptistery: The Baptistery of St. John is the largest in Italy and renowned for its exquisite Gothic architecture and the impressive pulpit by Giovanni Pisano. It is also famous for its acoustics, which you may experience during a brief musical demonstration.

Midday:

• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Pisa, where you can savor Tuscan cuisine and relax before heading back to Florence.
• Transfer Back to Florence
  • Journey Overview: Return to Florence in the early afternoon.

Afternoon:

• Florence
  • Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral): Upon returning to Florence, visit the Florence Cathedral, also known as the Duomo. Admire its striking dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, and explore the cathedral’s interior, which features beautiful frescoes and intricate details.
  • Baptistery of San Giovanni: Next to the cathedral, explore the Baptistery of San Giovanni, famous for its bronze doors known as the "Gates of Paradise." The baptistery is an architectural gem with stunning mosaics and historical significance.
  • Giotto’s Campanile (Bell Tower): Visit Giotto’s Campanile, a separate bell tower that complements the cathedral. Climb the 414 steps to the top for a spectacular view of Florence and the surrounding landscape.
  • Piazza della Signoria: Walk to Piazza della Signoria, Florence’s main square, where you can admire the Palazzo Vecchio and the replica of Michelangelo’s David. The square is a hub of cultural and political history.
  • Uffizi Gallery: End your afternoon with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world. The gallery houses an extensive collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Evening:

• Dinner and Leisure: After a day of exploring, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Florence. Spend your evening at leisure, perhaps strolling through the city’s charming streets or relaxing at a café.

Morning: Transfer to Assisi

• Journey Overview: After breakfast, depart for Assisi, a drive of approximately 170 kilometers, taking about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Assisi is a small town in Umbria known for being the birthplace of Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan Order.

Midday: Assisi Tour

• Basilica of St. Francis: Visit the Basilica of St. Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The basilica is divided into two levels: the Lower Church, which houses the crypt of Saint Francis, and the Upper Church, decorated with frescoes by Giotto depicting the life of Saint Francis. The basilica is a place of great spiritual significance and artistic beauty.
• Basilica of Santa Chiara: Next, visit the Basilica of Santa Chiara, dedicated to Saint Clare, the founder of the Order of Poor Clares. The basilica contains her tomb and the original San Damiano Cross, which is said to have spoken to Saint Francis.
• Piazza del Comune: Explore the Piazza del Comune, the main square of Assisi, surrounded by historic buildings, including the Temple of Minerva, a Roman temple converted into a church.

Afternoon: Transfer to Rome

• Journey Overview: After the Assisi tour, transfer to Rome, a drive of approximately 180 kilometers, taking about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Evening: Rome City Tour

• St. Paul’s Outside the Walls: Begin your tour of Rome with a visit to the Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls, one of the four major basilicas of Rome. The basilica is built over the tomb of St. Paul and is known for its grand nave and beautiful mosaics.
• Colosseum (Photo Stop): Next, stop at the Colosseum for a photo opportunity. The Colosseum is an ancient amphitheater and one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Although you won’t enter, one can admire its grandeur from the outside and take memorable photos.
• Walking Tour:  We conclude our day with a walking tour starting from Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Steps) and continuing to Trevi Fountain, Piazza Colonna, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Campo de’ Fiori.  This walking tour will allow us to experience Rome’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

Morning:

• Papal Audience
  • Time: Attend the Papal Audience at 10:00 AM, where the Pope delivers a heartfelt address and imparts blessings to the crowd. This unique experience offers a profound spiritual moment.
• St. Peter's Basilica
  • Marvel at St. Peter’s Basilica, the heart of the Catholic Church, known for its breathtaking dome and Michelangelo’s Pietà, epitomizing Renaissance grandeur.

Midday:

• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near Vatican City.
• Vatican Museums
  • Explore the Vatican Museums, home to an unparalleled collection of art and historical treasures, including Raphael’s Rooms and the Gallery of Maps.

Afternoon:

• Sistine Chapel
  • Admire the Sistine Chapel’s stunning frescoes by Michelangelo, including the iconic "Creation of Adam," a masterpiece of Renaissance art.
• Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta)
  • Visit the Holy Stairs, believed to be the steps Jesus ascended during His trial before Pontius Pilate. Climb these sacred stairs on your knees for a deeply moving experience.

Evening:

• Dinner and Leisure: Celebrate the penultimate evening of our tour with a special dinner in Rome, reflecting on the highlights of your journey.

Morning: Transfer to Rome International Airport

• Journey Overview: After breakfast, transfer to Rome International Airport (FCO) for our departure flight. The drive from the city center to the airport takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic.