Cosmos
Spiritual Highlights Of Iberia, Lourdes & Italy - Faith-Based Travel
This combination of our popular faith-based vacations, “Fátima, Lourdes & Shrines of Spain” and “Spiritual Highlights of Italy,” is ideal to experience the most treasured shrines of Europe. Start your journey with the visit of the Portuguese capital, Lisbon; experience the peacefulness of the Fátima sanctuary, and the monumental stairway of the Bom Jesus du Monte Sanctuary in Braga. Continuing to Spain, take in the spiritual atmosphere of the pilgrimage destination of Santiago de Compostela and of the Burgos Cathedral. Hear the story of St. Ignacio, founder of the Jesuit Order, in Loyola and Monresa, where he lived and worked. Take advantage of the opportunity to collect in prayer at the Marian Sanctuaries of Lourdes, France and Montserrat, Catalonia, before witnessing the lively beauty of Barcelona and flying to Rome, the center of Christianity. Attend the Papal Audience (subject to availability) and see Rome’s four major basilicas, along with the Holy Steps and the Papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo. Follow in the footsteps of the most celebrated Italian saints: St. Francis in his hometown, Assisi, and St. Pio of Pietrelcina in San Giovanni Rotondo. Spend time at the Marian Sanctuary of Loreto and discover the hillside town of Cascia, St. Rita’s hometown. Mass will be celebrated at most shrines with many opportunities for reflection and prayer.
Day 1 |
Lisbon, the enchanting capital of Portugal, entices sightseers with its vibrant color, stunning Gothic architecture, and temperate weather. Easily traversed by foot or tram, the city’s distinct quarters and vivid cultural landmarks make Lisbon an excellent spot for exploration.
The Alfama district’s notable red roofs beckon you. Its cobblestoned roads lead to the Castelo de São Jorge, once a Roman and Moorish stronghold, as well as a number of charming cafés and clubs. Alfama’s Museo do Fado offers fascinating exhibitions on the Fado genre of Portuguese music, whose melodic sounds can be heard throughout the neighborhood. A trek northeast of the Alfama district will bring you to the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, a museum displaying the intricate and colorful Portuguese tiles that line the city’s buildings. Be sure to venture south of Alfama to the central Baixa district, where the magnificent Rua Augusta Arch entices visitors to stroll the Praça de Comércio square. Head to the city’s waterfront Belém neighborhood for a spectacular view of the sparkling Tagus River and incredible beaches. Lisbon's two UNESCO World Heritage sites are also located in the Belém district: the mighty Belém Tower and the sumptuous Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Located on the water’s edge, Belém Tower is a small castle that once welcomed Portuguese explorers. The Monastery of St. Jerome was constructed to exalt Vasco de Gama’s exploration of India. There is so much to discover in captivating Lisbon! |
Day 2 |
Lisbon, the enchanting capital of Portugal, entices sightseers with its vibrant color, stunning Gothic architecture, and temperate weather. Easily traversed by foot or tram, the city’s distinct quarters and vivid cultural landmarks make Lisbon an excellent spot for exploration.
The Alfama district’s notable red roofs beckon you. Its cobblestoned roads lead to the Castelo de São Jorge, once a Roman and Moorish stronghold, as well as a number of charming cafés and clubs. Alfama’s Museo do Fado offers fascinating exhibitions on the Fado genre of Portuguese music, whose melodic sounds can be heard throughout the neighborhood. A trek northeast of the Alfama district will bring you to the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, a museum displaying the intricate and colorful Portuguese tiles that line the city’s buildings. Be sure to venture south of Alfama to the central Baixa district, where the magnificent Rua Augusta Arch entices visitors to stroll the Praça de Comércio square. Head to the city’s waterfront Belém neighborhood for a spectacular view of the sparkling Tagus River and incredible beaches. Lisbon's two UNESCO World Heritage sites are also located in the Belém district: the mighty Belém Tower and the sumptuous Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Located on the water’s edge, Belém Tower is a small castle that once welcomed Portuguese explorers. The Monastery of St. Jerome was constructed to exalt Vasco de Gama’s exploration of India. There is so much to discover in captivating Lisbon! |
Day 3 |
Fátima, a small town in central Portugal, has become one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in the world, drawing millions of visitors annually. The town's fame stems from the reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in 1917. The Sanctuary of Fátima, a sprawling complex of religious buildings and monuments, stands at the heart of the town. Pilgrims from all over the globe come to light candles, attend mass, and walk the sacred paths in reverence to these apparitions. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, with its soaring spire and neoclassical design, is a central feature of the sanctuary. Inside, you’ll find the tombs of the three visionaries, Francisco, Jacinta, and Lucia, whose simple lives were transformed by their experiences. Another must-see is the Chapel of Apparitions, marking the exact spot where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared. The ambiance here is one of deep spirituality, offering a serene setting for reflection and prayer. Beyond its religious significance, Fátima also offers cultural and historical insights. The nearby village of Aljustrel, the birthplace of the three children, provides a glimpse into rural Portuguese life in the early 20th century. Visitors can explore the humble homes of the seers and learn about their lives before and after the apparitions. Additionally, Fátima’s Museum of Sacred Art and Ethnology showcases a collection of religious artifacts, paintings, and ethnographic items, adding depth to the town's spiritual heritage. Each year on May 13 and October 13, the anniversaries of the first and last apparitions, Fátima hosts grand candlelight processions. These events, filled with prayer and song, are among the most attended religious gatherings in the world, creating a profound and unforgettable experience for those who partake. |
Day 4 |
Santiago De Compostela, Spain |
Day 5 |
Santiago De Compostela, Spain |
Day 6 |
Santiago De Compostela, Spain |
Day 7 |
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Day 8 |
Southwestern French town located in the Pyrenees mountains foothills. Attractions include Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes, or the Domain, a key Catholic pilgrimage location, as well as the Grotto of Massabielle (Grotto of the Apparitions) where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to a local woman in the 1800s. |
Day 9 |
Southwestern French town located in the Pyrenees mountains foothills. Attractions include Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes, or the Domain, a key Catholic pilgrimage location, as well as the Grotto of Massabielle (Grotto of the Apparitions) where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to a local woman in the 1800s. |
Day 10 |
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Day 11 |
To visit Barcelona is to embrace both the past and the future. There is much to do and see in this cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, from medieval structures to beaches to UNESCO Heritage Sites by Antoni Gaudí and Lluís Doménech i Montaner. FC Barcelona, the professional football club, is also a huge draw here.
Gaudí is responsible for many of Barcelona's must-see attractions, including iconic church La Sagrada Familia, the arts center Casa Mila, and public park system Park Güell. Culture, economics, architecture, and gastronomy all combine to make Barcelona a magical and unparalleled experience. Stroll pedestrian walkways in the old quarter, soak in the green spaces, and gaze at the Mediterranean, gelato in hand! |
Day 12 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
Day 13 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
Day 14 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
Day 15 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
Day 16 |
San Giovanni Rotundo is the Friary where Padre Pio, a 20th century saint, spent most of his priestly days. Today, San Giovanni Rotundo is a center of spiritual and cultural life and its reputation is international. San Giovanni Rotondo, placed on the peak of Gargano, is an ideal place to spend, in spiritual serenity, a healthy vacation, far away from the frenetic daily life. |
Day 17 |
San Giovanni Rotundo is the Friary where Padre Pio, a 20th century saint, spent most of his priestly days. Today, San Giovanni Rotundo is a center of spiritual and cultural life and its reputation is international. San Giovanni Rotondo, placed on the peak of Gargano, is an ideal place to spend, in spiritual serenity, a healthy vacation, far away from the frenetic daily life. |
Day 18 |
Assisi, Italy, is a city where history and spirituality intertwine, creating an atmosphere that is both serene and awe-inspiring. Perched on the slopes of Mount Subasio in the Umbria region, Assisi is best known as the birthplace of St. Francis, one of the most beloved saints in Christianity. The city is a pilgrimage site for those seeking to walk in the footsteps of St. Francis, with the majestic Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi standing as a testament to his enduring legacy. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is adorned with breathtaking frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of the saint and the artistic achievements of the medieval period. Beyond its religious significance, Assisi captivates with its medieval charm. The city’s narrow, cobbled streets wind through a landscape dotted with ancient stone buildings, flower-filled balconies, and peaceful piazzas. The Piazza del Comune, the city’s central square, is home to the Temple of Minerva, a remarkably preserved Roman temple that dates back to the 1st century BC. This juxtaposition of ancient Roman architecture with the city’s medieval and Renaissance structures creates a unique and enchanting atmosphere. Nature lovers will find Assisi equally appealing, as the city is surrounded by lush hills and olive groves that offer numerous hiking trails. The nearby Parco del Monte Subasio is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing stunning views of the Umbrian countryside and a peaceful retreat from the city’s historic center. For those interested in local cuisine, Assisi offers a taste of traditional Umbrian dishes, such as truffle pasta, wild boar, and Sagrantino wine, all of which can be savored in the town’s cozy trattorias. Assisi invites you to "Discover the Heart of Italy, Where History and Holiness Meet." Whether you are drawn by its spiritual heritage, its architectural beauty, or its natural surroundings, Assisi offers a deeply enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression on every visitor. |
Day 19 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
Day 20 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
Travel Dates | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|
04/17/26 - 05/06/26 |
Starting At $5,299 |
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06/05/26 - 06/24/26 |
Starting At $5,627 |
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07/03/26 - 07/22/26 |
Starting At $5,149 |
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08/28/26 - 09/16/26 |
Starting At $5,359 |
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09/11/26 - 09/30/26 |
Starting At $5,299 |
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09/25/26 - 10/14/26 |
Starting At $5,457 |
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10/02/26 - 10/21/26 |
Starting At $5,199 |
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The “Starting at” or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per passenger based on double occupancy and does not include international airfare. Some tours require intra-vacation flights (and in some cases intra-vacation segments must be purchased from Cosmos) in which case intra-vacation air and taxes are included in the price shown.