Every year, parishes, confraternities, prayer groups and schools from around the world travel to Fátima. Many fly into Lisbon or arrive on a cruise and need reliable transport for the 130 km to the Sanctuary. This guide covers what group leaders need to plan.
1. Choose the right vehicle
Leave space for luggage if you are travelling between the airport, Lisbon and Fátima, and mention any wheelchairs or walking frames so we can plan the right vehicle.
2. Decide on the shape of the day
- Day trip from Lisbon: morning departure, Mass and visit in Fátima, return to Lisbon in the evening.
- Pilgrimage night: arrive in the afternoon, attend the Rosary and candlelight procession, and return to Lisbon afterwards. Read our candlelight procession guide.
- One way: Lisbon to your hotel in Fátima, with a return on another day.
- With stops: Batalha, Alcobaça, Óbidos or Nazaré on the way. See the one-day itinerary.
3. Plan around the Sanctuary's timetable
If your group wants to celebrate or attend a specific Mass, build the day around it. The Sanctuary publishes its daily schedule of Masses, Rosary and ceremonies, and groups can contact the Sanctuary's pilgrim services in advance. Allow extra time on the 13th of each month and on the great pilgrimages of May and October.
4. Pilgrimage days need extra planning
On 12–13 May and 12–13 October, Fátima receives its largest crowds of the year. Expect traffic restrictions around the town and designated areas for coaches and minibuses. Agree a clear meeting point and time, share the driver's phone number with the group leader, and build in a buffer for the walk between the drop-off area and the esplanade.
5. Group leader's checklist
- Final passenger list with names and a phone number for the group leader
- Pick-up address (hotel, airport terminal or cruise terminal) and time
- Flight or ship arrival details, if collecting on arrival
- Number of pilgrims with reduced mobility or wheelchairs
- Mass or ceremony times you want to attend
- Whether you need a certified guide, and in which language
- Return time, or whether you are staying for the evening procession
Send us these details in the quote form and we will reply within 24 hours with a clear price per vehicle.
Frequently asked questions
What vehicle do we need for a group pilgrimage to Fátima?
Up to 3 people fit in a Mercedes sedan or estate, up to 7 in a Mercedes V-Class, and groups of 8 or more travel best in a minibus. For very large groups, several vehicles can travel together.
Can you collect our group at Lisbon Airport?
Yes. We can meet your group at Lisbon Airport or the Lisbon cruise terminal and go straight to Fátima, or take you to your hotel first.
How far in advance should a group book transport to Fátima?
For ordinary dates, a few weeks is usually enough. For the May and October pilgrimages, book as early as possible, as vehicles and drivers are in high demand.
Can we add a guide for our group in Fátima?
Yes. We can arrange a certified guide at the Sanctuary in the group's language, subject to availability.
Transport for your pilgrim group
Minibuses, V-Class vans and sedans from Lisbon Airport, the cruise terminal or your hotel to Fátima. Tell us your group size and date.
Free quote within 24h · No payment required to enquire
Plan your trip: Your Fátima pilgrimage
Tell us your date and group. We reply by email within 24 hours with a route and a confirmed price. No payment is needed to enquire.
