✨ A One-Day Journey from Lisbon: Our Lady of Fátima’s Spiritual Calm & Nazaré’s Wild Waves
- netaleeh1
- May 8
- 3 min read
By Neta-Lee | Next Stop with Neta-Lee
When I first started planning our trip to Lisbon, Fátima was high on my list. Before that, I had only heard of it once or twice—being Jewish, many Christian sacred places aren’t exactly familiar territory for me. But I’ve always been drawn to Christianity and I’m obsessed with old cathedrals and sanctuaries.
So, I started digging into the story of Fátima—and wow, a whole new world opened up. A world of Marian apparitions, mysterious countryside legends, and deep spiritual resonance.
Nazaré, on the other hand, was a total accident. Our friends, who were traveling with my husband and me, suggested a stop there. I checked the map, saw that Fátima and Nazaré were fairly close, and pitched the idea of a combined day trip. Thankfully, they were on board!
Some days linger with you long after they’re over—and this was definitely one of those days. Whether you're in the mood for peaceful reflection, dramatic ocean views, or a cozy dinner back in Lisbon, this itinerary delivers.
🚗 Morning Drive to Fátima: A Sacred Start
Just 1.5 hours north of Lisbon, Fátima is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Even under a cloudy sky, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima radiated a quiet, powerful serenity.
On the drive, I shared the story of the three shepherd children and their visions of the Lady of the Rosary. That alone got everyone intrigued!
As we approached the sanctuary, we started spotting shops filled with statues of Our Lady of Fátima and rows of devotional candles. The sacred vibe slowly settled over us.
We wandered through the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, stood in the vast open square, and watched pilgrims lighting candles. Regardless of your beliefs, the atmosphere invites reflection and peace.
📸 Tip: Don’t rush—walk the esplanade slowly and soak it all in.
🌊 Afternoon in Nazaré: Where the Ocean Roars
From Fátima, it’s a beautiful 45-minute drive to Nazaré, the coastal town famous for its gigantic waves.
We headed straight to Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo, dramatically perched over the Atlantic. The view? Absolutely breathtaking. The rooftop was packed with people, all watching the sea’s raw power. The ocean crashed below us, wild and mesmerizing, under a sky that looked like a painting.
Then we made our way down to the Praia do Norte viewpoint, where you can almost feel the force of the ocean—and in winter, this is where surfers ride 20+ meter waves!
🌊 Fun fact: Nazaré’s underwater canyon is what gives rise to those monstrous waves. It’s a big-wave surfer’s paradise.
🛍️ Back to Lisbon + a Quick Shopping Detour
On our way back, I had one small (okay, not-so-small) goal: visit Primark. As an Israeli, I don’t get to enjoy Primark regularly, and Google told me the Colombo Shopping Centre was the place to go. Turns out—it’s a shopping heaven. Rituals, C&A, Sephora… I was in my element.
We had a quick but very satisfying shopping session before heading back to the hotel.
🍷 Dinner at Troubadour: A Fiery Finish
Dinner was at Troubadour, a rustic little gem in central Lisbon I’d seen featured in several vlogs. I was dying to try it—and it didn’t disappoint!
Their flaming chouriço stole the show: the sausage was grilled right at our table, lit with a boozy blue flame. The flavors were rich, comforting, and the whole experience was such a fun way to end the day.
🗺️ Final Thoughts
This one-day trip from Lisbon blends spiritual depth in Fátima with natural drama in Nazaré. It’s a journey of contrasts—quiet reverence followed by nature’s raw power—and it ends with delicious, fire-kissed food in Lisbon.
If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon, this combo is a must. It’s one of those days that stays with you.
👉 Next Stop? We’ll see where the road leads next…
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