Beyond a Catholic pilgrimage site.
Fátima is one of the smallest but magnificent cities in Portugal. It is known for the extravagant Santuário de Fátima, this city definitely has a charm. Do not stray away if you believe you have to be religious to come here, Fátima is a great place to day trip to, check the top things to do while traveling there.
SEE
Santuário de Fátima – say a lil prayer
2495-401 Fátima, Portugal
The Sanctuary of our Lady Fátima is the biggest church in Portugal. Light up a candle for a loved one and throw it in the fire for him or her. If you made a promise or gave up something, you must kneel down the white path and walk on your knees to the church – the whole way. This is the most beautiful church in Portugal and it is a must-see.
EAT
Lebre Churrasqueira – traditional Portuguese cuisine
Av. de Dom José Alves Correia da Silva 123, 2495-402 Fátima, Portugal
Hands down the best place to eat traditional Portuguese food in Fátima and probably in all of Portugal. Lebre Churrasqueira is one of the most popular places to go in this city. It is a family owned business that puts TLC in their food. It is a self-serve, buffet-style eatery where you can pick what you want to eat! The prices are reasonable for the high quality of food they serve. Tip: The lines are long BUT do not worry, they go fast!
DRINK
I Love Beer Bar – beers & cocktails
R. do Biqueiral 67, 2495-350 Fátima, Portugal
I Love Beer is one of the coolest bars in Fátima! Any kind of beer you want, they have it and plus more! They have a wide variety of beers and cocktails. The inside of the bar has an upstairs and a downstairs, and there is an outside patio. This place is filled with vintage propaganda, photos, license plates with a little western style added to it and more. Definitely a must-go because the atmosphere is killer.
STAY
Near the Sanctuary of Our Lady Fátima
Fátima is a very small town in Portugal therefore there are not many choices to stay at. My best recommendation would be to stay near the Sanctuary of Our Lady Fátima. This is a very religious district and most travelers arrive here to see the church, so why not stay as close as possible to it!
SHOP
If you are looking to shop in Fátima for all things cork or religious-related items, head over to R. João Paulo III street. There are a few stores you can definitely find souvenirs, cork wallets/purses and religious statues. Tip: I bought the cutest pearl beaded rosary from one of these stores!
