Project Description
HOLY LAND
EUROPA TOUR
Explore the essence of Western Europe’s faith, history and culture on this one-of-a-kind journey. This itinerary will take you to discover some of the most significant shrines and temples for the Catholic religion, such as Lourdes, Fatima and Avila, as well as the iconic Camino de Santiago. You will also visit vibrant capitals full of history, including London, Paris, Madrid and Lisbon, where you will discover the cultural richness of their churches, monuments and the multiculturalism that defines their essence. Throughout this itinerary, we will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, enjoy landscapes that inspire peace and reflection, and delve into the traditions that continue to nourish the souls of millions of pilgrims and travelers in Europe.
Are you ready to embark on a journey that connects faith, history, and culture in the heart of Europe?
Welcome to London!
DAY
1
ARRIVAL IN THE UNITED KINGDOM
Upon arrival at the airport in London, we are greeted with a warm welcome by our group guide, who will accompany us throughout the trip. We transfer to the hotel by private transport and in the evening, we enjoy dinner in an Indian restaurant, where we can taste the exotic flavors that enrich the multiculturalism of the British capital, which we are just about to discover.
DAY
2
LONDON, A MUST-SEE: A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY AND FAITH IN THE BRITISH CAPITAL
After breakfast, we begin our tour of this fascinating metropolis. In a private service, we head to Buckingham Palace, where we attend the iconic Changing of the Guard, a ceremony steeped in tradition and one of London’s most important attractions. We continue to the Great Westminster Clock, which you might know as Big Ben. Since 1859, it has marked the passage of time with its original mechanism and remains one of the most photographed monuments in the city.
We continue our tour with a visit to the Tower Bridge, a bascule structure inaugurated in 1894, designed to allow boats to cross the Thames River. Next, we head to the imposing Westminster Abbey, which has been the site of the coronation of British monarchs since 1066. This church is not only a symbol of England’s history, but also houses the tombs of figures such as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Stephen Hawking. Finally, we visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, which since the sixteenth century boasts one of the largest domes in the world. This place has been the scene of historical events of great relevance, such as the wedding of Charles and Diana and the funeral of Winston Churchill. After this tour, we have lunch in a local restaurant and rest before continuing our trip.
In the afternoon, we visit the Madame Tussauds Museum, where we contemplate impressive replicas of historical figures such as Albert Einstein, Nelson Mandela, Usain Bolt and Michael Jackson, among others. We finish our day with a panoramic ride on the London Eye, an unforgettable experience that gives us spectacular views of the illuminated city at sunset. At the end of the day, we enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant and return to the hotel to rest.
DAY
3
MAGICAL PARIS: VISIT THE LOUVRE AND MAGICAL CRUISE ON THE SEINE RIVER
In the morning, we board the Eurostar fast train, which takes us from London to Paris across the English Channel through the Eurotunnel, the third-longest railway tunnel in the world.
We begin our visit to Paris at the Louvre Museum, the largest museum on the planet! Its majestic building, originally a royal palace, houses one of the most impressive art collections, with more than 35,000 works on display. With the guidance of an expert, we enter its rooms to contemplate pieces such as the Code of Hammurabi, the famous painting Liberty Leading the People, the Venus de Milo and of course, the famous Mona Lisa, which will surely captivate you with her smile. We pause for lunch at a local restaurant, where we taste French specialities while we recharge our batteries to continue exploring the city.
In the evening, we enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Seine River, while we dine on board and admire the most representative monuments of Paris from a unique perspective. We return to the hotel to rest and prepare for the exciting day ahead.
DAY
4
PARIS AND VERSAILLES CHARMS
After a delicious breakfast, we start with a guided tour of the city, exploring the most emblematic corners of Paris in a new, comfortable and sustainable way: the tuk tuk. We start at the historic Place de la Concorde and witness the most turbulent moments of the French Revolution, including the guillotining of Louis XVI. Along the world-famous Champs Elysees, we arrive at the imposing Arc de Triomphe, where we stop to admire its majesty and take memorable photographs.
Next, we pass by the elegant Pont Alexandre III, one of the most beautiful bridges in the world, with its golden ornaments and mythological-inspired sculptures, connecting the two banks of the Seine. We continue to the Trocadéro, a privileged place from where we enjoy an incomparable panoramic view of the iconic Eiffel Tower. We approach this masterpiece of more than 300 meters high, the tallest building in the world until 1930. The tour continues to the Pantheon, a mausoleum dedicated to the most illustrious figures of French history, such as Victor Hugo and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. We also visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic art, which reopened in December 2024 after the devastating fire of 2019.
At lunchtime, we take a break to enjoy a delicious lunch in a typical French bistro. In the afternoon, we drive to the famous Palace of Versailles, a symbol of the opulence of the French monarchy and its absolute power. Upon arrival, we start our visit to the Royal Chapel, exploring the King’s and Queen’s chambers. Next, we tour the Hall of Mirrors, a dazzling space decorated with frescoes covering more than 1000 m2 and 357 mirrors. This luxurious baroque-style hall was the scene of one of the most important events in contemporary history: the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, which ended the First World War. We close the day with a delicious dinner in a luxury restaurant and head back to the hotel to rest.
DAY
5
TRANSFER TO LOURDES, LAND OF MIRACLES
After breakfast, we transfer to Lourdes by train, the most comfortable and fastest means of transportation to our destination. The Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes is a deeply meaningful place for both devout Catholics and travelers seeking a spiritual experience of inner connection. At the foot of the Pyrenees in France, the complex is dedicated to the veneration of the Virgin Mary. It was here, in 1858, that a young girl named Bernadette Soubirous witnessed eighteen apparitions of the Virgin, a fact that made this place one of the main centers of Catholic pilgrimage globally.
The sanctuary is not only a place of prayer and reflection but also a site that has witnessed thousands of accounts of incredible healings. Since the 19th century, these claims have been analyzed by the Lourdes Office of Medical Constatations, an institution that investigates and verifies cases of alleged miracles. During our trip to Lourdes, we have lunch at a local restaurant, perfect to recharge our batteries and appreciate the gastronomy of the region. Upon arrival, we head to our hotel for check-in. We have some time to relax before enjoying a delicious dinner at the hotel.
DAY
6
LOURDES: AN ENCOUNTER WITH THE DIVINE AT THE FOOT OF THE FRENCH PYRENEES
After enjoying a refreshing breakfast, we prepare to visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes. This day invites us to live a personal experience, immersing ourselves in the spirit of Lourdes and connecting with its unique atmosphere of devotion and peace.
One of the most emblematic spots we visit is the Massabielle Grotto, where the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Bernadette took place in 1858. This grotto, a true spiritual refuge, is located at the foot of an imposing rock face 27 meters high. From inside, the statue of the virgin stands out, as well as the spring that gushes from the ninth apparition on February 25, 1858, considered by many as a source of healing and miracles. After this visit, we continued exploring the sanctuary with a tour of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, a masterpiece of the Romanesque-Byzantine style, inaugurated in 1889. Its beautiful mosaics and chapels dedicated to the mysteries of the rosary are an invitation to meditation and contemplation.
At lunchtime, we enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. The afternoon gives us more time to visit the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, an imposing Gothic temple, built in 1871. After the visit, we return to the hotel for dinner and prepare for the next stages of our exciting adventure, taking with us a deeply spiritual and enriching experience.
DAY
7
A ROAD WITH HISTORY: BURGOS AND TORDESILLAS
After a delicious breakfast, we depart by private transport to the small town of Tordesillas, famous for its historical importance as the place where the transcendental treaty was signed in 1494. The Treaty of Tordesillas, negotiated between King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile (now Spain), and King John II of Portugal, defined the division of the American continent, then known as the “New World”, marking a milestone in the history of colonialism.
On the way, we stop in the historic city of Burgos, where we visit the imposing Cathedral of Santa Maria, a Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 13th century. Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it is also a point on the Camino de Santiago, Europe’s most famous pilgrimage route. Its origin dates back to the 9th century, when the tomb attributed to the apostle James the Greater, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus, was discovered in Santiago de Compostela. Today, in addition to being a path of faith, it is a cultural route that stands out for its heritage of medieval bridges, historic hostels, old hospitals and majestic churches.
After the visit, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing our journey to Tordesillas. Upon arrival in this town, we visit the famous Casas del Tratado, where the historic agreement was signed that eased tensions between Castile and Portugal over the control of trade routes and the territories of America. The day concludes with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant and a transfer to the hotel.
DAY
8
MEDIEVAL AVILA AND THE LEGACY OF SANTA TERESA
We started the day with a buffet breakfast at the hotel to recharge our energy. On our way to Madrid on a private transport, we make a stop in Avila, a charming city known for its majestic medieval walls. This World Heritage Site is also famous for being the birthplace of Saint Teresa of Jesus, a transcendental figure in the spirituality and religious literature of the Spanish Golden Age. As the first woman to be proclaimed “Doctor of the Church”, her influence as a reformer of the Carmelite order and mystical writer is unparalleled, although her works faced censorship in her time.
After visiting the famous walls, we enter the Monastery of the Incarnation, a key place in the life of St. Teresa. Here we visit the Chapel of the Transverberation, a space of deep spiritual significance, where the mystical event recounted by St. Teresa in her writings took place: an experience of religious ecstasy from feeling a very close connection with the divine. We continued with the Church and Convent of Santa Teresa, built on the birthplace of the Saint. After an intense morning, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant to savor the gastronomy of the region.
In the afternoon, we continue our way to Madrid, where we conclude the day with a delicious dinner in a typical restaurant in the Spanish capital, a perfect opportunity to share impressions of the day and enjoy an authentic culinary proposal.
DAY
9
ESSENTIAL MADRID: HISTORY, RELIGION, AND SPORTS
We commence the day with a buffet breakfast at the hotel and get ready to enjoy a guided tour of dynamic and modern Madrid.
On our tour, we pass by the iconic Puerta de Alcalá, a majestic neoclassical arch that has witnessed the city’s history for centuries, and the Retiro Park, a green oasis. Then, we continue our way to the Palacio de Cibeles, a modernist masterpiece that today houses the Madrid City Hall. Next, we walk into the Puerta del Sol, one of the most important squares in Spain, and stop in front of the statue of the Bear and the Madroño Tree, a symbol of the city. Here we also visit the famous Kilometer Zero, the point from where all the country’s radial roads start.
We move on to the Plaza Mayor, a place full of history that takes us back to medieval times when it was known as the Plaza del Arrabal and served as a market in the times when the walls protected the city. We continue to the impressive Almudena Cathedral, where we admire its neo-Romanesque crypt, with more than 400 columns. Then we head to the Royal Palace, built in the 18th century by the Bourbons. With 135,000 m2, this jewel of Spanish baroque is twice the size of the Palace of Versailles. At noon, we take a break to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, we visit the famous Plaza España, with its monument in honor of Miguel de Cervantes, with Don Quijote and Sancho Panza, representatives of Spanish literature in the world. Next, we head to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, home of Real Madrid, the team that holds the record for victories and goals scored in the European Cup/Champions League. On a premium tour, we visit their museum, which displays the club’s most iconic trophies and moments, explore the stadium and stop at their official store to take home unique souvenirs. Finally, we end this exciting day with a delicious dinner at an Indian restaurant, indulging in exotic flavors to round off our day.
DAY
10
JEWELS OF LISBON: A DAY AMONG MONUMENTS AND TILES
After breakfast, we head to the colorful and cheerful Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. We use private transportation services both to and from the airport in Madrid and on our arrival in the Portuguese capital. After leaving our belongings at the hotel in Lisbon, we stop for lunch at a nearby restaurant.
In the afternoon, we start our guided tour at the Lisbon Cathedral. This impressive Romanesque building, whose construction dates back to the 12th century, is a symbol of the Christian triumph after the reconquest of Lisbon. We also head to the Church of St. Anthony of Lisbon, erected in the 18th century on the birthplace of St. Anthony of Padua, one of the most revered saints of the Catholic Church. This baroque church, with its charming interior and historic location, is an important center of devotion and pilgrimage.
Later we walk through the lively historic center to the majestic Plaza del Comercio, one of the main meeting points of the city, which in the past was the site of the Royal Palace. We continue our tour to the emblematic Rossio Square and the beautiful Rossio Central Station, which will leave you speechless. At the end of the day, we return to the hotel for dinner and rest after a day full of learning and photogenic monuments.
DAY
11
PILGRIMAGE TO FÁTIMA: TRACING THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE VIRGIN MARY
After a delicious breakfast at our hotel, we begin our journey with a private shuttle to Fatima, one of the largest centers of Catholic pilgrimage and a global reference of Marian worship in the world, which receives more than 6 million visitors every year. On the way, we will stop for lunch before continuing to this iconic destination.
Upon arrival, we visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima, the place where in 1917 the Virgin Mary appeared to three little shepherds. In the center of the sanctuary is the Chapel of Apparitions, built on the exact spot of the visions.
We continue with the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, a majestic neo-baroque temple that began to be built in 1928. Its imposing facade and grand staircase welcome us to an interior decorated with sculptures and stained-glass windows dedicated to the Virgin and the saints, reflecting the deep devotion that this place inspires. After the sightseeing, we transfer to our hotel in Lisbon to relax and have dinner, enjoying a quiet evening.
DAY
12
BEYOND LISBON: PALACIO DA PENA, THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PALACE IN THE WORLD AND FADO EVENING
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we start our day with a visit to the Pena Palace, possibly one of the most beautiful palaces in the world. This palace stands majestically on the hills of Sintra, surrounded by a unique setting of forests and lush gardens that are part of the Parque da Pena.
Built in the 19th century, this architectural masterpiece is a symbol of Portuguese Romanticism, showcasing a spectacular fusion of Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, and Moorish styles, enhanced with exotic touches. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pena Palace stands out not only for its eclectic architecture but also for the breathtaking panoramic views from its terraces, overlooking the valleys, the ocean, and the historic center of Sintra.
After the visit, we head to a local restaurant to enjoy a traditional lunch, savoring the delicious flavors of the region’s cuisine.
In the evening, we return to Lisbon for a delightful dinner at a typical restaurant, accompanied by an emotional fado performance—the nostalgic and passionate music of Portugal, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This heartfelt performance captivates us with melodies that tell stories of love, loss, and saudade, reflecting the soul of Portuguese culture. After the show, we transfer back to the hotel to rest.
DAY
13
JEWELS OF BELÉM AND RELAX IN CASCAIS
After an energizing breakfast, we visit the iconic Belém district, located at the mouth of the Tagus River as it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, we catch a glimpse of the impressive 25 de Abril Bridge, a massive steel structure stretching over two kilometers.
Once in Belém, we admire its elegant tower, a prime example of Manueline architecture, standing as a guardian of the city’s entrance and a symbol of Portugal’s maritime power during its golden age. By the river, we pause at the Monument to the Discoveries, a tribute to Henry the Navigator, the leader of Portugal’s maritime explorations. This imposing sculpture is not without controversy, as it was conceived during the authoritarian regime of António de Oliveira Salazar, who ruled from 1932 to 1968. We then indulge in the famous freshly baked pastéis de Belém, paired with coffee—a delicious representation of Portugal’s rich culinary tradition.
Next, we explore the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, built in the 16th century. This stunning structure is renowned for its intricate cloister and grand façade, both testaments to the religious devotion and economic prosperity that defined Portugal during that era. The monastery is also the resting place of Vasco da Gama, the first European to reach India via the Spice Route. After our visit, we stop for lunch at a local riverside restaurant, enjoying a delicious meal with breathtaking panoramic views.
In the afternoon, we head to the beautiful coastal town of Cascais, known for its charming old town with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. We then return to our hotel for a final dinner together and a well-earned rest.
DAY
14
THE END OF AN UNFORGETTABLE TRIP
We end our tour of Europe with a delicious buffet breakfast, with the opportunity to share the experiences that marked each stage of our journey: from sacred shrines to historic metropolises, this journey allowed us to connect with places of deep religious and cultural significance, as well as to reflect on our own personal quest. As we head to the airport, we leave behind an itinerary filled with unforgettable moments, but we carry with us memories that will enrich our perspectives and our lives forever.
