Our pilgrimage starts this morning with a visit to St. Anthony’s Basilica, the birth place of St. Anthony of Padua. We continue to visit the Belem Tower and the Gothic Monastery of St Jeronimo. We will stop at Holy Miracle Church of St Stephen at Santarem before continuing our journey to Fatima.

Overnight stay in Fatima (B D)

This morning we visit the Tombs of the visionaries of Fatima; the Aljustrel where the children lived; and the Valinhos; where Our Lady appeared after the children’s return from prison. We have time for praying the Stations of the Cross and for our own devotions. We will visit the Little Chapel of Apparitions and join for the Rosary and participate in the candlelight processions in the evening.

Overnight stay in Fatima (B D)

After breakfast, visit Alba de Tormes, home to the Carmelite Monastery founded by St. Teresa of Avila. Upon arrival we will visit the Monastery where St. Teresa died and was buried. We will also visit the small museum dedicated to St Teresa of Avila before we drive to continue our journey to the medieval city of Avila for overnight stay.

Overnight stay in Avila (B D)

This morning we begin with a walking tour of Lourdes to visit the Upper & Lower Basilicas; the Grotto of Massabielle; Boly Mill, the birthplace of St. Bernadette; and Cachot, the home of St. Bernadette at the time of the apparitions. The rest of the day is free for Adoration, Confessions, and a time of private devotion, reciting the Rosary and bathing in the miraculous spring. This evening we may again participate in the candlelight procession with faithful from all over the world.

Overnight stay in Lourdes (B, D)

This morning, we will awaken feeling well refreshed! Following breakfast, we will journey to the medieval city of Avignon, a city where the Popes resided for a time and which and remained under papal rule until becoming part of France. Then proceed to Palais des Papes, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe and Pont d’Avignon that contains the remains of the Saint-Bénezet.

Overnight stay in Avignon (B, D)

Today we depart Avignon and continue with our scenic drive along the French Riviera. A relaxed walking tour of Nice’s enchanting old town, indulging in delicious local cuisine while taking in the sights, colors and stories of historic Nice.

Overnight stay in Milan (B, D)

This morning, we will visit Milan’s beautiful Cathedral, the “Duomo” and Basilica of St. Ambrose, where St. Ambrose baptized St. Augustine and the saint’s relics can be found. Later, we will visit the Basilica of St. Anthony, where the patron saint of lost things is honoured.

Overnight stay in Padua (B, D)

Today we will continue to Venice, for some of the greatest wonders you will ever see: St. Mark’s Square, the Golden Basilica of San Marco, the Bridge of Sighs and have a see to the Doges’ Palace from outside. After the tour, you will have some free time to explore Venice on your own and do some shopping. Later we will journey to Assisi for an overnight stay at the hotel.

Overnight stay in Assisi (B, D)

In the morning, travel to Assisi and visit St. Francis’ Basilica – Tomb of St. Francis. We will later enjoy a walking tour of town, including the Church of San Rufino, and the Basilica of St. Clare, where her incorrupt body lies in repose. Later in the afternoon, we stop at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, here we view the Porziuncola, the tiny church contained inside the Basilica and the cross of San Damiano. Drive to Rome for overnight stay.

Overnight stay in Rome (B, D)

After breakfast visit Catacombs of St. Callixtus and Chiesa Del Domine Quo Vadis. Then visit the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem, Mary Major, St. John Lateran and ‘Scala Santa’. Later proceed to an inside tour of Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Arch of Constantine, Circus Maximus, Palatine Hill and many more.

Overnight stay in Rome (B, D)

We begin our day with a Papal Audience which is scheduled for today (Wednesday). However, if you wish to have a free morning of shopping/rest, you can do so. Later we will continue with a walking tour to see the Pantheon, Novona Square and Trevi Fountain.

Overnight stay in Rome (B D)

After breakfast, we drive to Rome International Airport for our return flight to Australia. (B)