pilgrimage tours in europe

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The 14 Most Incredible Catholic Pilgrimages in Europe

Last Updated on: 14th May 2024, 11:51 am

The 14 Best Catholic Pilgrimages in Europe

Taking a spiritual pilgrimage is a part of almost every Catholic’s bucket list.  

Pilgrimage is an incredible tool for spiritual growth and taking a Catholic pilgrimage in Europe can be a powerful spiritual experience. Whether you take a walking pilgrimage to sacred sites or join a group pilgrimage, a Catholic pilgrimage in Europe is a unique opportunity to grow your faith and deepen your spiritual life. 

If you are a Catholic or Christian considering a pilgrimage in Europe, here are 16 of the best Catholic pilgrimages in Europe for 2023. Combine these with a visit to some of the   beautiful Cathedrals in Europe   or  visiting a monastery , such as  Grandchamp in Switzerland , and you can have the trip of a lifetime. 

This post may contain affiliate links. That means I earn a small commission for products or services mentioned on this site. As always, all opinions remain my own.

1. The Camino de Santiago in France and Spain 

The  Camino de Santiago,  or Way of Saint James,  is a pilgrimage trail that has been sacred to Roman Catholics since the 9th century. Actually, the Camino de Santiago is not just one pilgrimage route but many pilgrim routes in Western Europe, starting from different points all over Europe and converging upon the  Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela . Without a doubt, the Way of St. James is one of the best and most famous Catholic pilgrimages in Europe and should be at the top of any pilgrim’s bucket list. 

Traditionally, pilgrims would just start walking from out their front door, wherever they happened to live. But all of the routes lead to the same place —  Santiago de Compostela , which just happens to be one of the most beautiful  Cathedrals in Europe.  Located in the far west of Spain, this is where the remains of St. James (“Santiago” is his Spanish name) are said to be kept inside the Cathedral – hence why the Camino is also called the Way of St. James.

In recent years, the Camino has seen throngs of pilgrims. Most pilgrims choose the  Camino Francés , with a starting point in France and continuing across northern Spain. 

There’s plenty of pilgrim infrastructure on this route,  including hostels (albergues) and other comfortable hotels , water fountains, and even a surprising number of  restaurants serving vegan and vegetarian options .  Once you get to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, there are so many  lovely places to stay in Santiago  from budget to luxury! 

If you’d prefer a more off-the-beaten-track Camino experience, consider walking the  Camino Primitivo  instead. This was the original European pilgrimage route walked by King Alfonso II of Asturias in the ninth century and sees far fewer pilgrims, allowing a more private spiritual journey. However, keep in mind that as this is a pilgrimage rather than a hike, complete isolation is not necessarily desirable. Indeed, the people you meet along the way may be the best part of the experience.

2. Medjugorje Pilgrimage, Bosnia and Herzegovina 

One of the more contemporary Catholic pilgrimages in Europe , Medjugorje in Bosnia and Herzegovina  was officially authorised by the Vatican in May 2019. It has been a popular destination for pilgrims since 1981, the year when  six local teenagers reported seeing an apparition of the Virgin Mary.

Our Lady of Medugorje , as she became known, conversed with the group, delivering them a prayer mission. Some of the teenagers (now adults) still report regular visits from her. In the years since, pilgrims have observed other phenomena in Medugorje, including seeing the sun spin in the sky and change colors before their eyes.

In the centre of the small town of Medjugorje, a white statue depicting  Our Lady of Medugorje  has been erected in front of the C hurch of Saint James the Greater Apostle.  Nearby, Cross Mountain (also known as Apparition Hill) takes around an hour to summit by foot. At its peak, you can see a large cross and another statue of Our Lady, along with sweeping views of the town and valley below.

Medjugorje attracts  more than one million visitors  every year, including Catholic pilgrims and tourists alike. It is truly one of the best Catholic pilgrimages in Europe. 

There are six or seven official pilgrimages every year for Catholics and non-believers, including a week in June to mark the anniversary of the apparitions. The town is located 35 minutes’ south-west of Mostar, close to the border with Croatia. 

When  planning a trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina ,  it’s a good idea to add a few extra days in Mostar for  a day trip to Medjugorje,  either independently by bus or by  joining a guided pilgrimage tour . You can  stay in Mostar  as well for a lovely weekend near Croatia! 

3. The Shrine of Fatima, Portugal

One of the most beautiful Catholic pilgrimage sites in Europe is the  Sanctuary of Fátima in central Portugal . While Portugal is dotted with monasteries like Jerónimos Monastery in  Belem  and the  Monastery of Batalha also in central Portugal , Fatima is uniquely alive with a modern version of Portuguese Catholicism. Fatima is easy to get to from the  central Portugal town of Coimbra  and  Coimbra is a great place to stay in Portugal  to visit the Shrine of Fatima. 

Fatima was originally the site of a  Marian Apparition , which is what the official term is for when the Virgin Mary appears on Earth to deliver a message to humanity. Our Lady of Fatima is how Mary is referred to here, and she is believed to have visited  three shepherd children in 1917 . She brought messages about World War I. The three children were later canonized as saints, and the church built the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima to commemorate the events. 

This is one of  the largest Marian shrines anywhere in the world. I nside the main church, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, you’ll find the tombs of all three children. Unfortunately only one lived into adulthood. Francisco and Jacinta Marto died a year after the appearances during the Spanish Flu pandemic. Lucia became a nun and author, living until 2005. Pilgrims visit year-round today, but the most popular day is to visit on the  13th of the month  since Mary appeared on the 13th of May and October.

Whatever time of year your visit, one of the best parts of visiting Fatima is getting to pair it with a trip to the coast of Portugal and all of the beautiful villages in central Portugal. For a wonderful pilgrimage,  stay centrally in Coimbra  or  closer to the coast near Nazaré . 

4. Pilgrimage to Lourdes, France 

Lourdes is one of the most important Roman Catholic pilgrimages in the world and certainly one of the most famous pilgrimages in Europe. 

On average six million people visit   Lourdes on pilgrimage  every year. Sick people are often brought in groups to visit the Shrine. Tourists may arrive individually and in organized groups, or on group pilgrimage tours (see here for  day-trip options to Lourdes from San Sabastian  and other nearby French towns!) 

This town in  southwest France  is famous because the faithful believe that the Virgin Mary appeared to a peasant girl,  Bernadette Sobiros , in a grotto in Lourdes a total of 18 times. 

In this grotto, the Virgin Mary proclaimed her  Immaculate Conception  to Bernadette. 

When Bernadette told her priest about the Immaculate Conception he was shocked because there was no way a peasant girl would have known about this doctrine. The Virgin Mary also told Bernadette to dig near the grotto and a fountain appeared. The spring water from the fountain is supposed to have curative properties.

In Lourdes, you can visit the home of Bernadette. You can also visit  The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes  which covers about  130 acres and has 22 places of worship. There is a traditional upper and lower basilica as well as a modern magnificent basilica which can hold 25,000 worshippers. You stand in line to visit the grotto where Mary appeared to Bernadette and can touch the spring water. Next door to the grotto are pools in which the faithful can be submerged into the holy spring water.

Lourdes itself has turned into a tourist town to accommodate the vast number of pilgrims in Europe who visit. The  nearest international airport is Toulouse  which is a two-hour drive to Lourdes. You can  stay in Toulouse  and take a day trip to Lourdes, and you can also easily reach Lourdes by train from Paris and find  plenty of comfortable accommodations  in Lourdes from “pilgrim” class to luxury. 

5. Pilgrimage to the Basilica of Saint-Denis in France 

The Basilica of Saint-Denis , near Paris, is one of the most  sacred places in France . This magnificent gothic-style cathedral was built on the exact spot where Saint-Denis was buried. Over the years Saint-Denis was one of the most important pilgrimages in Europe and remains a top place to visit for all pilgrims with an interest in French history.

Denis is the Patron Saint of Paris and France . He was the first Bishop of Paris martyred around 250 AD. by the Romans. Saint-Denis was beheaded on the hill that we know today as  Montmartre . The Saint, without the head, managed to walk all the way from Montmartre to Saint-Denis along the path that we know today as Rue du Mont Denis, where he finally died.

Over the years, the 5th-century chapel built next to the cemetery evolved into the beautiful cathedral it is today. In fact, it’s one of the  most important cathedrals in Europe ! The place became  an important pilgrimage site , with people coming from all the corners of France. A monastic community settled and founded an abbey in Saint-Denis. 

 It was the  French King Dagobert  (603 – 639) the first King to be buried in Saint-Denis and his successors and the royal dynasties that followed continued with the tradition. Saint-Denis was also the place where the French Kings came to pray and take the oriflamme before going to war.

The old  pilgrimage to Saint-Denis  started at Notre-Dame-des-Champs, in Paris 14, and went through different churches and chapels related to the Saint. Today this pilgrimage is done only on special anniversaries but the Saint is still much venerated by the Parisians. There are many  places to stay in Paris  where you can easily visit Saint-Denis. Saint-Denis is also one of the most important  churches in Paris! 

6. Pilgrimage to Assisi, Italy 

One of the most important  Catholic pilgrimages in Europe  is a pilgrimage to Assisi, the hometown of  Saint Francis. 

Before you start ticking off your list of things to see on your visit to   Assisi  it would serve you well to take the time to learn just a little about the two saints,  Francis and Clare , that make this Umbrian town the destination that it is.

First, of course, is Saint Francis, the patron saint of Italy, and known here by his Italian name, San Francesco. To say he changed the Church, and with it, the history of Western philosophy is probably not overstating his influence.

Francis lived from the  late 12th to the early 13th Century.  He was the son of a prosperous silk merchant who renounced his father’s wealth and took the vow of poverty. His first task, as a result of a vision he had, was to restore ruined chapels in the vicinity of Assisi. Among them was the so-called Portiuncula which became the home of the Friars Minor, the first religious order founded by Francis.

Soon after forming his order, Francis was approached by a noblewoman, Clare of Assisi, who wished to follow him. She was prohibited by her father from doing so, but she escaped his castle one night and came to Francis, who gave her a simple habit like his own.  A female complement to the Franciscan Minor Friars was established and eventually took the name the  Poor Clares.

The  Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi  is the main attraction in Assisi, where you can venerate the saints as well as view  extraordinary frescoes by early Italian Renaissance artists.

It’s a good idea to spend at least 3-4 nights in Assisi to get the most out of your pilgrimage. There are lots of  budget and comfortable accommodation options in Assisi , all within walking distance of the Basilicas of Francis and Clare. 

7. Pilgrimage to Rocio, Spain 

The  Pilgrimage of Rocio  in Southern Spain is one of the largest Roman Catholic pilgrimages in Europe. This beautiful and important European pilgrimage is the perfect opportunity to get a unique insight into the Andalusian culture.

The El Rocío pilgrimage attracts nearly  a million people from across Andalucia  and the entire country, and beyond. Every Andalucian city, town, and village has its own pilgrimages, for its patron saint or the Virgin Mary. However, the El Rocio Pilgrimage is more important than the local saints. It’s also one of the most colorful pilgrimages in Europe.

The Pilgrimage of Rocio follows on from  Semana Santa  (March/April), and the various spring ferias, of which Seville’s Feria de Abril (April) is the biggest. The climax usually takes place on Whitmonday.

However, you don’t need to wait until that day to witness the beauty of  El Rocio shrine.  Being one of the most beautiful churches near Cadiz, El Rocio is a must on any   Cadiz itinerary .  

El Rocio is also a  beautiful town to stay in  and make a base during your trip to Andalucia! You can also take  a day-trip from Seville which includes the Doñana National Park.  

8. Pilgrimage on the Via De La Plata, Spain

The Via de la Plata or  t he Silver Way  is an  old pilgrimage route in Europe  that starts in Seville in the south of Spain and finishes 1000km later in Santiago de Compostela. Pilgrims walking the Via can see the impressive  Roman ruins of Merida and Italica, the incredible cathedrals of Seville and Salamanca  and the   small rural villages of Andalusia and Extremadura. This gorgeous pilgrimage in Europe follows an old Roman road. 

In Roman times the road was used to connect Merida and Seville, the main cities in the region, with the metal mines. The route has nothing to do with silver; the name comes from the modified Latin word “platea” which means “wide road”. The first pilgrims followed the  Via to Santiago  in the 10th century shortly after the tomb of Apostle St.James was discovered. 

The route is easy to follow, the entire 1000kms are well-marked with yellow shells and arrows. There are many public and private albergues (hostels for pilgrims) along the way, so it’s easy to find accommodation. To walk the Via  every pilgrim needs a Credential, a pilgrim’s passport.  The Credential is a small book where pilgrims collect stamps from every albergue they stay. It can be obtained at one of the albergues along the route or at the Pilgrim’s Office in Seville.

For modern pilgrims who seek tranquility and solitude the Via de la Plata is a great route to follow, even in the peak season there are very few people here. The best time for walking this European pilgrimage route is April-May and October-November. In winter there is a lot of rain and in some parts snow. In summer it gets unbearably hot, daily temperatures rise up to 40-45°C. 

9. Pilgrimage to Chartres, France 

Located just 60 miles  southwest of Paris  is the small town of Chartres, France in the  Loire Valley .  Though the town is small, its cathedral is anything but. 

Chartres Cathedral, a  UNESCO World Heritage site , is famous for being one of the  most well-preserved Gothic cathedrals in Europe . Almost all of the stained glass is original and features a shade of blue signature to that cathedral and that one only. 

But the most important aspect of this iconic cathedral is what it holds inside, one of the most important religious relics in existence—the  Sancta Camisa .  Otherwise known as the tunic worn by the Virgin Mary on the night of Christ’s birth, this piece of cloth is the reason Chartres Cathedral is so well-known in the world of Catholic pilgrimage sites today. 

The modern  Pilgrimage to Chartres  is an annual pilgrimage that  begins at the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and ends at Chartres Cathedral  (formally known as Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres). This has become one of the most important pilgrimages in Europe, and because it’s not as long as other European pilgrimages like the Camino de Santiago, it’s a wonderful one for new pilgrims!

This current pilgrimage (though there have been pilgrimages to Chartres even long before the cathedral was built) began in 1983 and takes place each year around the time of  Pentecost in early summer —about 50 days after Easter. The journey takes between 8,000 and 10,000 pilgrims  three days  and crosses 62 miles door-to-door.

You can apply to join the Chartres pilgrimage on the  official pilgrimage website  where you can also view the official itinerary and some helpful tips. There are many wonderful  day-trips you can take from Paris  that include Chartres, or you can  stay in Chartres itself  which is a really lovely small town in France! 

10. Pilgrimage on the Via Francigena, in the UK, France, & Italy

As usually happens with pilgrimage routes throughout the world, in this case, the name does not lie. The  Via Francigena  takes its name because, after leaving Canterbury Cathedral in the UK, it crosses France before reaching northern Italy and, finally, St. Peter’s Square in Rome. This makes it one of  the longest Catholic pilgrimages in Europe , and one of the most important religious pilgrimages in the world.

Along with Santiago de Compostela, Lourdes, and Jerusalem, Rome is by far one of  the best pilgrimage sites in Italy  and best pilgrimage sites in Europe. But let’s be honest, Rome (or the Vatican) is probably the first in the ranking by the number of annual visitors.

Today, the Via Francigena is significantly different from the one that our ancestors once traveled since the Middle Ages. 

With amenities that make it possible to do it in short stages and enjoying good food and accommodation, it has never been easier to fulfill the dream of enjoying the  via Francige na  as a pilgrim for a few days –  whatever reasons you might have for becoming a pilgrim ,  weeks, or months and dedicate yourself to simply walking, each at their own pace, towards Rome. 

As the saying goes: ‘All roads lead to Rome’. 

Well, so be it.

11. The Turas of Glencolmcille, Ireland 

A lesser-known but incredibly beautiful Catholic pilgrimage in Europe is to  the Turas of Glencolmcille, in Ireland. 

Glencolmcille is named after Saint Columba, the name  Glencolmcille  translates into English as the Valley of Com Cille. Saint Colm Cille, is one of Ireland’s three patron saints and he and his followers lived in the Valley where there are several church ruins. The valley is located in  Donegal  in what is now called Glencolmcille.

A Tura is a set walk, or pilgrimage, called in Irish ‘an Turas’,  literally ‘the Journey’. Every  June 9th  the local folk and some pilgrims walk the 15 stations. This is a religious procession that includes 15 different stations or stáisiúin that are within 9 different townlands.   

The journey through the Turas begins at a court tomb built in around 3000BC. A true pilgrim will walk the Turas barefoot beginning just after midnight on June 9th. The trek takes around 4 hours through 5 and a half kilometres of bogs and the rock-strewn hillsides of Donegal. The after-midnight start is because this is the time it is believed that Saint Glencolmcille took his last breath.

For a long time, the Turas went into decline but the Catholic community began embracing its Celtic past and traditions and was supported by the Catholic Church joining in the pilgrimage. You will find information about participating in the Turas when you visit the village of Glencolmcille and  stay in any of the beautiful hotels in Donegal.

12. Pilgrimage to the Vatican, Italy 

If you are going on a Catholic pilgrimage in Europe, you simply must include the  Vatican  on your route. Better yet, this is the very place that should be the beginning of the end of your pilgrimage –as the Holy See is the heart of the Roman Catholic Church, where Pope Francis resides. 

 There are so many  amazing churches in Rome , but the Vatican is an absolute must! 

With an are of merely 49 hectares, Vatican City is officially  the smallest country in the world . Citizenship is less than 1,000 people and the population is composed of clergy, religious members, and the Swiss Guard.

Having said that,  the entire country is a holy site,  also an attraction that welcomes millions of visitors every year. The Vatican Museum showcases great works from big names including Raphael, Michelangelo,  Leonardo da Vinci  – Just to name a few. 

You simply must enter the Sistine Chapel and gawk at the ceiling, walk through the Gallery of Maps, and visit the Raphael Rooms. Worship in Saint Peters Cathedral, the largest church in the world. There are many ways  to get tickets to the Vatican  and participate in organized tours. If you are interested, you can participate in a number of liturgies presented by the Pope within the basilica or at the adjoining Saint Peter’s Square. 

Of course, there are  many places to stay in Rome , from budget hostels to 5* luxury hotels! You won’t have a problem finding great  accommodation in Rome  for your  Italian Pilgrimage   that fits your budget and travel style. 

13. Pilgrimage to Canterbury Cathedral, England

Canterbury Cathedral is one of the  most important Christian pilgrimage sites in the world  and certainly one of the most important  pilgrimages in Europe!

Canterbury Cathedral, along with St. Augustine’s Abbey and St. Martin’s Church, is  a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Pilgrimage to Canterbury has been important since medieval times. Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous work,  “The Canterbury Tales,”  is a collection of stories told by a group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury Cathedral. This literary masterpiece provides a vivid and often humorous portrayal of medieval life and pilgrimage culture.

Aside from being a beautiful example of Gothic Architecture, with some of my favorite cloisters in Europe, Canterbury Cathedral has played  a pivotal role in English and European history.  It was the site of the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170, which led to his canonization as a saint and  made the cathedral a significant pilgrimage destination. 

Following Thomas Becket’s murder, a shrine was established in his honor within the cathedral. Pilgrims from across Europe came to visit the shrine, making Canterbury one of the most important pilgrimage sites during the Middle Ages and it remains a top pilgrimage in Europe. 

There are various  pilgrimage routes in England  leading to Canterbury, but the most famous is the  Canterbury Pilgrims’ Way , which traditionally starts from Southwark Cathedral in London and ends at Canterbury Cathedral. This route is approximately  60 to 70 miles (about 97 to 113 kilometers)  and can take anywhere from 4-7 days – so is a wonderful pilgrimage if you only have a week off from work for a pilgrimage in Europe! 

Once you get to Canterbury, it’s such a beautiful town   you should stay in Canterbury  for a few days to rest and enjoy the wonderful British environment! 

14. Pilgrimage from Rouen to Mont Saint-Michel in France

There are so many incredible  pilgrimage sites in France , but by far one of the most famous (for good reason!) is Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy! 

Mont Saint-Michel has had huge religious significance for France since the Middle Ages. The first church was built on the small island in the 8th century. Legend has it that  the Archangel Micha el (“Michel”)  appeared to St. Aubert, the bishop of Avranches, and instructed him to build a church on the mount. Later, in the 10th century, Benedictine monks settled on Mont Saint-Michel and established a monastery. Over the centuries, they expanded and improved the abbey’s structures. The island played a very important role in t he Hundred Years War  and throughout French history. 

Rouen Cathedral is another of the most important religious sites in France – so by doing this pilgrimage in Europe, you will get to experience two of Europe’s most important holy places! Aside from having an absolutely magnificent  12th-century Gothic Cathedral,  the Rouen Cathedral was the site of the  trial and execution of Joan of Arc in 1431 . Joan of Arc was imprisoned in Rouen and underwent her trial in the archbishop’s palace adjacent to the cathedral.

There isn’t a single prescribed pilgrimage route from Rouen to Mont Saint-Michel, so you have some flexibility. Many pilgrims follow  a combination of walking and public transportation routes,  while others walk the whole way. If you choose to walk, the GR22 and GR223 hiking trails can take you through picturesque Normandy landscapes and lead you to Mont Saint-Michel. The distance from Rouen to Mont Saint-Michel is approximately  240 kilometers (149 miles)  – so this pilgrimage will likely take at least a week or more if you walk the whole way. 

Once you get to Mont Saint-Michel, its a good idea to stay a few days in Normandy and enjoy all that the coast of France has to offer. There are  beautiful hotels near Mont Saint-Michel  for every pilgrim! 

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10 comments.

Interesting blog , it reminds me of Lourdes , pilgrims may visit Lourdes to be cleansed of their sins and to be cured of their illnesses.

Nice list! I believe you left out the pilgrimage to Czestochowa in Poland, that’s a spectacular one as well ( https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/248708/40000-catholics-make-pilgrimage-to-our-lady-of-czestochowa-in-poland ).

Katherine petillo

Interested in planning a trip to turkey and Greece.

Good article. May I bring you attention to the Marian Retreat Center, Anakkara, Kerala, India. This is led by Fr Dominic Valanmanal, a Holy and Anointed Catholic priest. Millions of people go to this center every year and a lot of miracles/healings happen here. Fr Dominic travels all around the world (mainly Sweden, UK, US, AUS and other countries) regurarly to conduct retreats as well.

https://marianretreatcentre.org https://graceanointing.org

DWIGHT HAGOOD

LOOKING FOR BLACK MADONNA TOURS 2023

Maria L Moors

Looking for combination of Lourdes and Fatima and St Theresa in early Fall 2023 Thank you

Gary OBrien

I am looking to go on a guided tour of the St Olavs way in Norway

Any Tours to Prague?

Czestochowa pilgrimage is very popular in Poland.

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Catholic Pilgrimage Tours

Catholic Pilgrimages… A Spiritual Journey

Have you wished to experience one of the great Catholic Pilgrimages by celebrating Mass at one of the magnificent basilicas in Rome, the Holy Land or Marian Shrines of Europe? Is there a special place of pilgrimage you have always wanted to experience?

On Catholic Pilgrimages:

Parishioners pray with the Holy Father in Rome. People walk in the Footsteps of Jesus in the Holy Land, retelling stories of the Bible. Faithful Catholics are united as they celebrate Mass together at the Shrines dedicated to Our Lady & The Saints. People are drawn closer to the Lord through the blessings and graces experienced on Catholic Pilgrimages, which will encourage you throughout your lifelong pilgrimage.

14-day Pilgrimage to Ireland, Scotland & England, August 16 – 29, 2024 – $7,195 From San Francisco

12-day Pilgrimage to France, September 16-27, 2024 – $4,795 from New York (JFK)

12-day Pilgrimage to Greece & Turkey, September 17 – 28, 2024 – $4,695 from Washington Dulles

12-day Marian Shrines Pilgrimage to Portugal, Spain & France, Sept 23 – Oct 4, 2024 – $4,695 from Chicago

11-day Pilgrimage to Ireland, Sept. 30 – Oct. 10, 2024 – $4,395 from Chicago

10-day Pilgrimage to Italy, October 8-17, 2024 – $3,995 from Atlanta

11-day Pilgrimage to Italy, October 14 – 24, 2024 – $4,495 from Seattle

Marian Shrines

Ireland & Scotland

Great britain.

How often have you heard… …moving stories of experiences at the Marian Shrines, the very places where apparitions of the Virgin Mary have occurred? How enriched would your life and the lives of your fellow Catholics be if you were to experience this together? Perhaps you know of some people who need to draw closer to the Lord for spiritual growth or healing? Or it simply may be an opportunity for your parishioners to escape their every day, busy lives and dedicate some much needed time for spiritual renewal?

If you yearn to strengthen the faith of your parishioners and tighten your bond with them in an experience like no other…

Then you’re ready to embark on a spiritual journey with your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to experience the blessings of a pilgrimage tour that will last a lifetime!

Do you want your pilgrimage with a tour company who cares about you and understands your needs? Would you like to talk with a pilgrimage expert, not travel agents who also sell religious tours? How will you feel receiving personalized care and attention to every detail of your Catholic pilgrimage?

To read about Catholic Pilgrimage sites:  Click here

At Catholic Pilgrimage Tours…

We make sure our pastors and each pilgrim who joins one of our pilgrimages is not just booked, but is cared for every step of the way. When people call Pilgrimage Tours, they speak with a real person, who is happy to answer their questions. We are not a travel agency that just happens to dabble in Catholic pilgrimages. Pilgrimage is ALL we do.

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30 Top Sites for Pilgrimages in Europe

Faith Based Travel

Whether seeking solace, enlightenment or simply a transformative journey, these sites for pilgrimages in Europe present an enticing proposition for group travelers

Embarking on a pilgrimage has been a profound spiritual practice for millennia, and Europe stands as a treasure trove of sacred destinations, steeped in history and diverse cultures. From soaring cathedrals to serene monasteries, each of these sites for pilgrimages in Europe offers a unique opportunity for group travelers to connect with their inner selves, experience a sense of unity and embrace the beauty of communal devotion.

1. Fátima, Portugal

The Chapel of the Apparitions is built on the site of a Marian apparition that appeared before three peasant children in 1917. Every year since then on the anniversaries of the apparitions, May 13 and Oct. 13, the streets of Fátima swell with throngs of pilgrims who make their way to the holy site. Fatima (80 miles north of Lisbon) is home to dozens of imposing churches and monuments. Shops selling religious souvenirs, hostels and hotels can be found throughout the city.

2. Camino de Santiago, Spain

Traveling pilgrims can expect barebones accommodations along the Camino de Santiago , or Way of St. James. Monasteries provide hostels for travelers and ask for small monetary donations in return. Pilgrims should be aware that a special Credencial, or religious passport, is required to stay at a monastic hostel. American pilgrims need to register online in order to receive one.

3. Lourdes, France

The largest pilgrimage site in France is Lourdes, which takes in some five million pilgrims a year. Lourdes gains significance from the apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes and is a site of numerous miraculous healings. The stream unearthed by Bernadette Soubirous in 1858 is believed to have special properties that heal the ailments of sick people.

Tourists stay in one of 270 hotels in the city in order to visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes (commonly called the Domain). The Domain includes the Grotto where pilgrims can dispense Lourdes water from the taps and 22 separate places of worship on 126 acres.

4. Armagh, Northern Ireland

Armagh is a town with roots in Celtic paganism. When Christianity spread to the region in the 400s A.D., St. Patrick established his church there and Armagh became the ecclesiastical capital of the island. He decreed that only those educated in Armagh were fit to spread the gospel, so numerous educational institutions were founded.

The seat of both Protestant and Catholic archbishops, Armagh is the most venerated of Irish cities. The main points of interests are St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Anglican Cathedral . St. Patrick’s Trian, in a former church behind the tourist office, has exhibits on city history and St. Patrick’s writings. Armagh has recently undergone an extensive city-center regeneration project, which included upgrading all surfaces and adding new pedestrian walkways.

5. Einsiedeln, Switzerland

Einsiedeln gained popularity as a religious tourist destination thanks to its Benedictine Abbey, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Switzerland. More than 100,000 religious tourists visit annually to see the statue of the Black Madonna in the abbey’s lavishly decorated Baroque church. Also on visitors’ agendas are Diorama Einsiedeln, regarded as the world’s largest nativity display with 450 hand-carved figures, and Panorama Crucifixion of Christ , a giant circular painting.

The town, about 25 miles southeast of Zurich, is close to many scenic hiking trails in the Swiss Alps. Geneva and Zurich have sites associated John Calvin and Ulrich Zwingli, Swiss leaders of the Reformation.

6. Altötting, Germany

For more than 500 years this Bavarian town has been Germany’s most significant place of pilgrimage venerating the Virgin Mary. More than a million pilgrims a year visit the Chapel of Grace (built around 700) and its Black Madonna. As history tells it, a child drowned in a nearby river in 1489 and his mother took his body to the altar at the foot of a wooden statue of the Black Madonna . He was miraculously revived, and the news spread quickly across the country. The shrine was expanded with a nave and covered walkway. Today the small chapel, where the hearts of Bavarian kings are stored in silver urns, is one of many points of interest in this town of 12,000 near the Austrian border.

The late Gothic, twin-towered Stiftskirche (Collegiate Church) and the Neo-Baroque St. Anna’s Basilica are two of many churches within walking distance of Chapel Square, where Pope Benedict XVI celebrated Mass in 2006. Across from the Chapel of Grace is the New Ecclesiastical Treasury and Pilgrimage Museum, which is named for the Pope, a Bavarian who has been familiar with Altötting since childhood. Another draw is the Crucifixion Panorama, a 360-degree painting (dating from 1903) that depicts events that transpired on Good Friday in Jerusalem. From May to October, candlelight processions take place from St. Anna’s to the square.

7. Luther Country, Germany

Martin Luther has forever been embedded into history for sparking the Protestant Reformation. Travelers can follow in his footsteps in the states of Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia, a region deemed Luther Country. Reformation-related sites are located in Eisenach, Erfurt, Eisleben and Wittenberg. Luther spent the majority of his life in Wittenberg, the site of the Schlosskirche (Castle Church), where in 1517 he nailed his 95 Theses, or demands for reform, on its doors. He is buried inside below the pulpit.

8. Saint Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City

No list of pilgrimages in Europe would be complete without a mention of the Vatican and the renowned St. Peter’s Basilica. Construction on the current basilica began in 1506 and finished in 1626. It’s one of only four Major Basilicas in the world with the other three also located in Rome.

As one the largest church in the world and one of the most iconic religious structures, the Basilica stands as a symbol of religious devotion and architectural marvel. Pilgrims come to witness the grandeur of Michelangelo’s dome, venerate the tomb of St. Peter and participate in religious ceremonies presided over by the Pope. The sacred atmosphere within St. Peter’s Basilica fosters a sense of reverence, making it a transformative destination for spiritual reflection and contemplation.

Masses are celebrated daily at St. Peter’s Basilica and free to the public.

9. Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Apparitions of Mary have appeared before six children since 1981 in this Adriatic town and made the town a popular destination for pilgrimages in Europe. The site annually attracts one million people, some of whom have witnessed visions in the sky including hearts and crosses around the sun. This once tumultuous region now has enjoyed an economic boom, thanks in part to religious tourism. More than 1,000 hotel and hostel beds are available.

10. Assisi, Italy

Assisi, an Umbrian hill town north of Rome, is most noted for being the birthplace of St. Francis. His influence is remembered in the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, which has been named as a World Heritage Site. This is just one of eight historic churches in the area. Two castles dominate the town, both built in the Middle Ages. In early May the Festival Calendimaggio re-enacts medieval life with games, processions, dances, flag waving and theatrical performances.

11. Jasna Góra Monastery, Poland

Said to be the third largest Catholic pilgrimage site in the world and site of one of the most popular pilgrimages in Europe, Jasna Góra Monastery in Częstochowa, Poland, depicts a famous shrine of the Virgin Mary. Pilgrims from around the world come to gaze upon the Black Madonna of Częstochowa image that has been recognized by many as a revered icon, such as Pope Clement XI who designated the image a Canonical Coronation through the Vatican Chapter.

Tracked by the National Heritage Board of Poland, the site has also been one of the country’s National Historic Monuments since 1994.

Pilgrims have been visiting the site since the Middle Ages, and approximately 4.5 million worshippers from 80 different countries come to worship this magnificent shrine each year.

12. Great St. Bernard Pass, Switzerland

Only open for five months out of the year from June through October, Great St. Bernard Pass is the third highest road pass in Switzerland, connecting Martigny to the Aosta Valley in Italy.

The legendary Great St. Bernard Hospice was historically run by Augustinian monks at the beginning of the Middle Ages. The shelter symbolizes the generosity and friendliness shown by monks to travelers for centuries, and later became famous for its use of St. Bernard dogs in rescue operations.

Standing at 8,100 feet, the road is the lowest pass connecting the two largest mountains in the Swiss Alps, Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa. Religious travel groups can drive through Great St. Bernard Pass, indulging in the region’s stunning panoramic views along the curvy, winding roads.

13. Hagia Sophia, Turkey

Once an important place of worship for both Christians and Muslims, Hagia Sophia in Istanbul was built in 537 A.D. as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral under Justinian order. The cathedral was later converted into an Ottoman mosque in 1453, and remained so until 1931.

In 1935, the building was secularized and became a museum, welcoming visitors from all over the world as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . In 2020, Hagia Sophia was once again declared a mosque, though it still welcomes visitors of all faiths who marvel in awe at its exquisite Byzantine architecture, especially its carefully detailed and colorful mosaics.

14. Glastonbury Tor to Stonehenge, England

This 44-mile pilgrimage to one of the most highly recognized UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world takes religious group travelers through the countryside of Southwest England’s Somerset County, to the famous Stonehenge, a site of ceremonies for Neo-Pagans and druids since its construction dated as far back as 2,600 B.C.

This 15-hour hike from Glastonbury Tor to Wiltshire takes pilgrims through some of England’s most breathtaking countryside landscapes. If timed properly, religious group travelers can join the tens of thousands of visitors who gather each June to celebrate summer solstice.

15. Madonna del Ghisallo Chapel, Italy

Truly unique among pilgrimages in Europe for religious group travelers, this seven-mile journey designed specifically for cyclists leaves from the touristy town of Bellagio, ending at the 17 th century Madonna del Ghisallo Chapel in Lombardy.

A renowned cycling hub, the chapel features a statue outside its parameters dedicated to the cyclists who visit Madonna del Ghisallo. Formerly known as the patroness of travelers until 1949, Madonna del Ghisallo was then admitted as the patroness of cyclists by Pope Pius XII.

Inside the chapel, groups get the chance to marvel upon glass-framed jerseys featuring some of the best riders in the world, pennants of cycling clubs and a selection of historically significant bicycles.

16. Knock Shrine; County Mayo, Ireland

Legend has it that in 1879 during a two-hour long, rainy witnessing of the Apparition of the Virgin Mary in Knock, Ireland, not a single drop of water fell on the gable or vision. Since this numinous occurrence, Knock has become one of the most popular Roman Catholic pilgrimage sites in Western Europe, attracting approximately 1.5 million visitors per year.

Pilgrims flock to this renowned religious site to see Knock Shrine , an altar sculpture depicting the accounts of the Apparition. Mary was described as being beautiful, dressed in all white, boasting a luminous gold crown and standing a few feet above ground. This depiction can be seen on the altar sculpture.

17. Nidaros Cathedral, Norway

The northernmost medieval cathedral in the world and the second largest in Scandinavia, Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim was one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Christians during the Middle Ages.

With Gothic and Roman architecture throughout, Nidaros Cathedral was founded in 1070 A.D. and built over the tomb of St. Olav, the Viking king who converted Norway to Christianity.

The pilgrimage to Nidaros Cathedral is known as Saint Olav’s Way , a 350-mile stretch from Selånger, Sweden to Stiklestad, Norway. Religious group travelers should expect to take at least 28 days to complete the pilgrimage.

18. Romedius Pilgrimage Trail, Austria

For nature lovers and advanced hikers, the Romedius Pilgrimage Trail could be just what you’re looking for when it comes to pilgrimages in Europe.

Discover your inner spiritual self while following in the footsteps of St. Romedius, the son of a nobleman who withdrew to a rock cave to practice meditation.

This 111-mile hike isn’t for the faint of heart; expect to take at least 12 days to complete this pilgrimage, starting in the village of Thaur near Innsbruck. Throughout the trek, pilgrims will pass through sanctuaries, natural monuments, valleys, nature parks and lakes.

19. Stará Boleslav, Czech Republic

Situated about 15 miles northeast of Prague, Stará Boleslav is an ancient place of pilgrimage connected to the martyrdom of the patron saint of the Czech state, St. Wenceslas. St. Wenceslas was the duke of Bohemia from 921 A.D., until his assassination in 935 A.D.

Within Stará Boleslav lies the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary , a late Gothic church featuring one large tower, 16 chapels, two side vestibules, a sacristy and a double worm staircase. The basement of the church is used as exhibition space for the North-Bohemian Gallery.

20. Kirkkokari, Finland

Kirkkokari is a small island located in Satakunta, Finland. It is the only Roman Catholic pilgrimage site in Finland, and one of the few in Nordic countries. The island has been a pilgrimage site for many Catholics since the 13 th century. St. Henry is said to have been murdered on the ice of Lake Köyliö during the winter of 1156. Every year, the Finnish Roman Catholic Church organizes a pilgrimage to the island, an 87-mile journey via Saint Henry’s Way, beginning in the city of Turku.

21. Mount Athos, Greece

Regarded as the second most important Christian Orthodox religious site after Jerusalem, Mount Athos has been a destination for Christian monks since the 5 th century. However, Ottoman raids caused the population to leave slowly until it culminated in 1822 attack where they killed most of the mountain’s population. Since 1922, the peninsula has once again been inhabited by monks and has been declared a holy land.

Tradition says that John the Evangelist and the Virgin Mary sought shelter from a storm on the peninsula, hence the reason the it is also known as “Garden of the Virgin Mary”. Mount Athos features 20 monasteries throughout with them containing some of the most important Christian Orthodox artifacts such as the crown of thorns and parts of the Holy Cross.

Most pilgrims (only men as women are forbidden from entering) arrive by ship from Thessaloniki where they then take a ship that leaves from Ouranoupoli. Passengers are then taken to Dafni where they can stop at different monasteries before they then take a bus to Karies, which is the administrative center of the society.

22. Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe, Spain

Located in the province of Cáceres, the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe is a center of pilgrimage for the Western World as well as Latin America. The traditional architecture of both the monastery and the town surrounding it reflects the role it played in both the medieval and modern history of Spain. The site also symbolizes two significant world events that both occurred in 1492 namely the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus and the final expulsion of Muslim power from the Iberian Peninsula. Each year more than 60,000 pilgrims and tourists visit the monastery.

23. Basilica of Saint-Denis, France

The Basilica of Saint-Denis is one of the most sacred sites in France as the cathedral was built on the exact spot where Saint-Denis is buried. In 250 AD., he became the first Bishop of Paris to be martyred as he was beheaded on the hill now known as Montmartre, and legends say he still managed to walk to the site of the cathedral without a head before he died. It is also the burial place for French Kings with almost every king from the 10 th to the 18 th centuries buried there first starting with King Dagobert.

Starting at Notre-Dame-des-Champs, pilgrims go through different chapels and churches that are related to Saint-Denis before ending their journey at the basilica. The pilgrimage is now only completed on special anniversaries.

24. El Rocio, Spain

Attracting nearly a million people every year, the pilgrimage of El Rocio is one of the largest Roman Catholic pilgrimages in Europe. It is also regarded as one of the most colorful pilgrimages as visitors have the perfect opportunity to get insight into the unique culture of Andalucia.

Pilgrims from Andalucia and beyond arrive the Sunday before Pentecost with some even arriving a few days beforehand. The journey properly starts at noon on the Saturday as each group travels to the church of El Rocio where they turn in their ‘simpecado’, or their copy of the Virgin.

25. Chartres, France

The Chartres Cathedral , located 60 miles outside of France, is considered to be one of the most well-preserved Gothic cathedrals in Europe. It is also known for holding the Sancta Camisa , which is known as the tunic the Virgin Mary wore when Christ was born.

The annual pilgrimage, which began in 1983, begins at the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris and ends at the Chartres Cathedral. The 62-mile journey takes place every year around the time of Pentecost and takes about three days for 8,000-10,000 pilgrims to finish.

26. Turas Cholmcille; Glencolmcille, Ireland

Typically completed barefoot, the Turas Cholmcille is a 3.4-mile pilgrimage path located in Glencolmcille. Along the journey, pilgrims come across 15 stations that are all within different townlands. Visitors also have the chance to see St. Colmcille’s own Church and Bed as well as a court tomb that was built around 3000 BC. The pilgrimage occurs annually on July 9 th , the feast day of St. Colmcille, though some of the stations can be visited year-round. The entire trek takes around 4 to 5 hours to complete and is usually performed after midnight on what is known as the ‘Day of the Journey’ or when the Saint took his last breath.

27. Via Francigena, UK-France-Switzerland-Italy

For those seeking an extended journey, look no further than the cross-country Via Francigena route, which is one of the longest Catholic pilgrimages in Europe at 1,056 miles. Starting in Canterbury in England, visitors will then journey to France and Switzerland before arriving in Italy and wrapping up in Rome.

In medieval times, it was an important road and pilgrimage route for any of those who wished to visit the Holy See and/or visit the tombs of the apostles Paul and Peter . Around 990 AD, Archbishop Sigeric traveled the entire route from Canterbury to Rome and then back again. He only documented his return journey, which consisted of 80 stages and 12 miles per day, so modern-day pilgrims often complete the route in reverse to follow Sigeric’s path.

It is also possible to complete the Via Francigena in shorter stages depending on if you wish for your pilgrimage to last a few days or even a few months.

28. Pilgrims’ Way, England

Leading to the shrine of Archbishop Thomas Becket at Canterbury, this historical route takes pilgrims from Winchester to Canterbury while leading them through natural geography and other religious sites. Along the 120-mile path, pilgrims have the opportunity to pass St. Martha’s Hill, St. Catherine’s chantry chapel, St. Thomas’s 13 th century chapel and Boxley Abbey. History argued that this route is the one Henry II took on his own pilgrimage to atone for the death of his friend, Archbishop Thomas, but this has since been disputed.

29. Iași, Romania

Iași, the second largest city in Romania, draws in thousands of pilgrims each year to St. Parascheva. Regarded as one of the most beloved saints of the Balkans, she lived in the eleventh century and has been recognized by the Romanian, Greek, Russian, Serbian, and Bulgarian Orthodox churches under different names.

The relics of St. Parascheva are held at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Iași , where pilgrims gather to pray and ask for miracles. This is held during the second week of October each year.

30. Mariazell, Austria

The most popular pilgrimage destination in Austria is the Mariazell Basilica . Also regarded as being amongst the top visited shrines in Europe, the church contains a 50-meter high wooden statue of the Virgin Mary with child.

Legend says a monk named Magnus was sent to a valley by his abbott where he brought with him a carving of the Virgin Mary that he made himself. When he discovered a huge rock blocking his way, he called on the Mother of Christ for help. When she intervened, he placed the carving on a wood stump, which is part of the church’s altar today.

The Mariazell Basilica is also the only church to be named a national shrine in any of the German-speaking countries.

We hope you enjoyed this list of 30 top pilgrimages in Europe. For more great itinerary inspiration and group travel ideas, be sure to subscribe for FREE   to Leisure Group Travel.

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Europe Tours & Group Tour Packages 2024, 2025

Explore historical Christian cities and sites on our Europe tours. Our Europe tour packages allow you to visit different parts of the beautiful and historic country, from Ireland tours to tours of Turkey, Greece, and Italy. You’ll get a chance to visit historical cities and landmarks, learning about the history of the world and Christianity through tours of Europe. Find the perfect tour to get away from the hustle and bustle and learn more about Early Christianity.

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We offer a wide range of tour options through Europe, including some of these sites:

You can choose between several Italy and Sicily tours that give you an opportunity to experience the city of Rome. Popular landmarks include the Coliseum, the Catacombs, the Vatican Museum, St. Peter’s Bascilica, the Sistine Chapel, Mamertine Prison, and the Church of St. Paul Outside the Walls. Our Italy tours include these popular sites and more, so you can see everything there is to see during your trip to Rome. If you add Malta, you’ll even get a chance to visit St. Thomas Bay and enjoy a harbor cruise.

Strasbourg is a city that’s located near the border of France and Germany, known as the “City of Hope” and “Refuge of the Righteous”. This is the city where John Calvin wrote his books, playing a crucial role in the Reformation. When you visit Strasbourg, you’ll get to see St. Thomas’s Church. The Rhine River, which has played a crucial role in several events throughout history, runs along the banks of Strasbourg.

Aberdeen (Scotland kw)

Aberdeen is one of the first stops on our tours of Scotland , and there are several things to see during your stop. On your way from Edinburgh to Aberdeen, you can stop and see the world-famous St. Andrews golf course. Once you’re in Aberdeen, you can visit Dunnotar Castle near the North Sea. Aberdeen is a beautiful city that has existed for thousands of years, so there’s no shortage of historically significant sites.

Our Christian Heritage tours to England and Scotland start in London. London offers a rich and fascinating Christian Heritage. Our tour will visit Hampton Court Palace where King James authorized the mass production of the Bible, the Metropolitan Tabernacle where Charles Spurgeon preached to up to 6,000 in attendance each Sunday, and Bunhill Cemetery where John Bunyan, Isaac Watts, John Gill and Susanna Wesley are all buried.

Worms and Mainz

If you’re taking one of our Christian tours in Germany , there are several areas you can visit to see historical Christian sites. In Worms, you can see St. Peter’s Cathedral. In Mainz, you can see the Gutenberg Monument and see a Gutenburg Bible. There are also several other parts of Germany that are home to historical and religious buildings and monuments, making it a great destination for your Europe tour highlighting Christian Reformation history.

Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history dating back over 3,400 years. It is often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization due to its significant role in in the development of democracy, philosophy, and the arts. Our Biblical tours of Greece allow you to follow the steps of the Apostle Paul and the early church.

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You can book one of our Europe tours whenever you want to travel. You may want to visit in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the cities aren’t too busy. You can also save money on tours of Europe by booking in advance.

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Several of our tours allow you to visit multiple countries during your trip. We even offer a Reformation history tour if you want to learn more about the Christian Reformation movement. You can view any of our tours to see an itinerary and figure out where you’ll be traveling.

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In Europe, many countries speak their own language. You may want to learn the basics of the language before visiting a country, but we have English-speaking tour guides who can make sure you have everything you need during your tour.

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Euros are the commonly accepted currency in Europe. You can visit https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/ to find the current exchange rate for your currency.

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The Leaders in High Quality Custom Catholic Pilgrimages.

Since 1957, Unitours has a history of leading pilgrimage to Italy , Israel , France , Portugal , and other parts of the world, as well as Special Events . Our experience with religious leaders and parishioners has given us the understanding that a pilgrimage is not just another tour.

Our tour professionals involve themselves in every detail of the planning and execution of your trip, including the appropriate places to go, the best places to stay and the most interesting sights to see. You can be confident that our experienced staff and partners, located throughout the world, will be with your group every step of the way.

The Unitours Difference

At Unitours, we have an unwavering commitment to provide the best values available. We know that comfort and peace of mind are as important as price when it comes to selecting transportation, accommodations or creating itineraries. We don’t cut corners using circuitous routes, inconvenient facilities or unestablished carriers just to get cheap prices. Instead, we use our 6 decades of experience, as well as our exceptional purchasing power, to provide your group with the very most for their travel dollar.” The end result is a well-planned, well-run pilgrimage tour that will be remembered fondly by all.

Current Pilgrimages by Country

Unitours has provided the best Catholic pilgrimages to France for over 50 years. Visit the Lourdes Shrine, Paris and the Normandy Beaches on your trip.

Unitours has been the group travel experts for Catholic pilgrimages to Greece since 1957. See the ancient Greek ruins and beautiful landscape on your journey.

Unitours has been the expert on Catholic pilgrimages to Ireland since 1957. Visit majestic castles and St. Patrick’s Cathedral on your journey.

Unitours has been the group travel experts for Catholic pilgrimages to Israel for over 50 years. Visit the places you read about in scripture from Bethlehem to Jerusalem.

Unitours has been offering unforgettable Catholic pilgrimages to Italy since 1957. Visit the incredible spiritual sites of Rome, Florence, Assisi and more.

Unitours has been the travel experts for Catholic pilgrimages since 1957. Host a pilgrimage to see the Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Mayan Ruins.

Unitours has been the travel experts for Catholic pilgrimages to Poland for over 50 years. Take this unforgettable journey to learn about the life of Pope John Paul II.

Unitours has been the travel experts for Catholic pilgrimages to Portugal since 1957. Stops include Lisbon and to see the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima.

Unitours has hosted Catholic pilgrimages to Spain for over 50 years with unforgettable stops to visit Zaragoza, Santiago de Compostela and more.

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Join The Holy Father and hundreds of thousands of young people August 1 – 6, 2023 coming together from across the globe to deepen their faith, share with one another and meet other inspired youth.

Holy years also are a time when Catholics visit designated churches and pass through “Holy Doors”, visit shrines and tombs, recite special prayers, go to reconciliation and receive Holy Eucharist to receive a plenary indulgence, which is a remission of the temporal punishment due for a loved one's sins.

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COVID 19 Updated April, 2021

Like companies around the world, Unitours has been working diligently to cope with the COVID pandemic. We continue to monitor conditions, regulations, and specific efforts each country, city and our partners are anticipating as the destinations prepare for reopening. All are anticipating that as the vaccines roll out, they will quickly adopt protocols to allow resumption of individual and group travel. We urge you to check back with this COVID update site as more specific information becomes available and we provide destination specific information that will help you keep up to date about the destination of most interest to you. Many of our clients have already booked their pilgrimages for later this year and into next. Here are some comments from some of those leaders. “As the vaccine roll out continues, I'm looking forward to two pilgrimages in 2022. Early in 2022 to the Holy Land and a couple of months later will be heading to Central Europe. I have found that those who enjoy going on pilgrimage are ready to travel and believe it is safe to do so. I have full confidence in Unitours, that come 2022 both pilgrimages will be safe and as enriching as ever before. I'm confident Unitours will be delivering high quality pilgrimages to meet the demand for those desiring to once again be enriched in their faith.” Fr. Mike, Diocese of Buffalo “I lead pilgrimages almost every year. Of course, in 2020, all my pilgrimages were canceled as well as two scheduled for 2021- the COVID threat is still on us and people do not yet feel safe to travel - especially in groups. Nevertheless, I have presently scheduled two pilgrimages for the summer of 2022. I believe that the feeling of threat will be over and am confident that many people will desire to travel. After having spent over a year in isolation and quarantine, we need to break out. And the great jewel of pilgrimage travel will call us: to go meet the Lord; to be on a search for God; to journey together. I have been fully vaccinated and encourage everyone to do so. We need to be safe -so that we can live in the Lord!” Msgr. Joe, Diocese of Brooklyn “Last year we planned a trip to Italy in August 2022 to follow the footsteps of St Augustine in Ostia, Rome, Milan and Pavia and then to the Passion Play in Germany. We have 18 persons committed to the trip who have paid their deposits. We could easily have 20 people committed by this summer, a year before we go. Just yesterday one of our pilgrims told me how excited he was and looking forward to it. I think he represents a lot of people who are excited, looking forward to getting away and confident it will be safe in August 2022!” Fr. Bill - Archdiocese of Philadelphia “We are beginning to see a strong desire for people to 're-connect' to their faith and tradition. Having canceled our last pilgrimage, we chose to prepare for our next one in the summer of 2022. Response has been extremely positive - over 1/2 full already. We have used Unitours and not only trust them but know we can rely on a professional and competent performance. I am sure we will have no problem filling our trip, being well cared for by Unitours and experiencing a blessed and memorable pilgrimage. Fr. Tony, Diocese of Orlando I will be leading a pilgrimage this fall and feel that this is the perfect time for one. So much progress has been made in our spiritual lives this past year. People want to continue deepening their relationship and friendship with Jesus and a pilgrimage is an ideal way to make this happen. People already feel safer and more confident about travelling, so this is no longer the issue it may have been even two or three months ago. I encourage anyone who is considering leading a pilgrimage to do so. Fr. Joe Archdiocese of Boston Finally, as a further update, we have posted a short news interview we gave to a New York Catholic News program “Current News on Net NY TV”.

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Great Pilgrimages of Europe 2024

The Joe Walsh Tours Pilgrimages experienced travel team has designed a detailed programme of religious ceremonies and guided visits for our Great Pilgrimages of Europe escorted tours, departing regularly and combining different shrines and destinations.

Led by a spiritual leader, each tour and pilgrimage programme has been designed by our experienced team and includes a detailed schedule of religious ceremonies and visits.

With hand picked hotels, luxury air-conditioned coach transport and the assistance of a pilgrimage coordinator, our Great Pilgrimages of Europe escorted tours are the perfect travel experience for those looking to explore the spirituality and history of the most sacred shrines of Europe and the rich heritage of the continent’s most beautiful cities.

Our Great Pilgrimages of Europe tours will bring you to some of the most sacred sites and spectacular cathedrals in Europe, all places of worship as well as fascinating history.

We have fantastic tours combining different shrines and destinations, including Lourdes and Garabandal in France, Fatima in Portugal; Burgos, Avila, Salamanca and Santiago de Compostela in Spain; San Giovanni Rotondo and Rome in Italy; and Medjugorje in Bosnia.

Tours & Departures

Carmelites Derry Shrines of France Pilgrimage

• 16 September 2024

GREAT PILGRIMAGES OF EUROPE TOURS

Our great pilgrimages of europe travel packages generally include:.

• Direct return flights from Ireland and the UK
• Support from our local guides and representatives
• Private transport in luxury coach
• Hand picked hotel accommodation throughout the trip
• Breakfast and dinner each day
• Lunch also included in Lourdes and Fatima
• Detailed schedule of visits, guided tours and sightseeing
• Detailed programme of religious ceremonies and special masses

See all our departures below and contact our travel experts for advice or assistance booking your place.

THINGS TO DO: SACRED SHRINES OF EUROPE

Located at the foot of the Pyrenees, Lourdes is the world’s most famous Marian Shrine. Visit the basilicas, grotto and baths; learning about the life and work of Saint Bernadette.

The Chapel of Saint Gildard in Nevers is the resting place of Saint Bernadette, who in order to fulfill her religious life joined the Sisters of Charity in 1866.

The monastic city in Rocamadour, perched on a clifftop over the river Alzou, has been a pilgrimage destination since 1166 when the body of St Amadour was discovered.

In Normandy, we visit the places where Sainte Thérèse of Lisieux lived and worked, including Les Buissonnetts and the Carmel Chapel as well as the basilica with her name.

A city of extraordinary beauty, art and culture. Notre Dame Cathedral is an absolute must-visit for pilgrims as well as its iconic monuments, from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe.

‘The City of Stones and Saints’ is a UNESCO site since 1985 and has one of the highest numbers of Romanesque and Gothic churches in Spain. The beautiful old town in Avila is wrapped by an impressive medieval wall.

Known as the ‘City of Three Cultures’, Toledo has a rich cultural heritage and fascinating history where Christians, Muslims and Jewish people lived together in harmony.

A stunning UNESCO city, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, stunning architecture in the Plaza Mayor and two magnificent cathedrals.

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

The city of Saint James is home to an iconic cathedral and stunning medieval old town, and destination for thousands of Camino pilgrims.

ALBA DE TORMES

A small town near Salamanca once the seat of the Dukes of Alba in the 15th century and the resting place of Saint Teresa of Avila.

The Eternal City is a magnificent open air museum rich in history, art and religious tradition. Rome is home to the Vatican City and St Peter’s Square, residence of the Pope and cradle of Catholic faith. A must-visit for pilgrims.

SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO

San Giovanni in Puglia is the place where Saint Padre Pio spent most of his life and where pilgrims can visit the most important shrines and sites related to his life and work, as well as the Saint’s tomb.

A place of magnificent art and history, Assisi is the homeplace of Saint Francis. The main sights of this wonderful medieval city include UNESCO-listed Basilica of Saint Francis, the Basilica of Saint Clare and the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels where pilgrims can visit the Porziuncola, the small chapel where Saint Francis lived and where he founded the Franciscan Order.

Padua is one of the prettiest cities in Italy and the resting place of Franciscan monk Saint Anthony. The Basilica of Saint Anthony, built in 1232 in honour of Saint Anthony, has been an important pilgrimage destination for many centuries with pilgrims writing and placing prayers and petitions on the Saint’s tomb.

Karol Wojtyla lived in this stunning historic city for four decades before becoming Pope John Paul II in 1978.

The Divine Mercy Sanctuary in Krakow is the resting place of Saint Faustina.

The hometown of Pope John Paul II, where pilgrims can visit his childhood home which is now a museum and the church where he was baptised.

CZĘSTOCHOWA

This 15th century Chapel of the Blessed Virgin is home to the ‘Black Madonna’, believed to have been painted by Saint Luke the Evangelist.

Lithuania’s stunning UNESCO capital is known as the Baroque Beauty of the Baltics, Jerusalem of the North or City of Mercy. The historic old town is home to hundreds of shrines of various faiths.

HILL OF CROSSES

A symbol of the country’s devotion and identity, the hill has 200,000 crosses of all shapes and sizes which have been placed by locals since 1831, challenging opposition by authorities particularly during the Soviet period.

A must-visit on a pilgrimage to Lithuania. This is the oldest Marian apparition site in Europe has celebrated the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary for 500 years.

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Catholic Pilgrimage

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Catholic Tours & Pilgrimage

We offer Catholic tours, travel packages and tailor-made itineraries to Marian shrines , Holy Land , and other major shrines in Europe. Our Catholic pilgrimage tours and spiritual journeys are crafted to offer our pilgrims an immersive and unforgettable experience. We are specialized in Catholic group tours and custom-crafted pilgrimages , and strive to offer quality travel arrangements and excellent service, at affordable prices

More than words… We have been working in the religious tourism industry for more than 30 years. We have collaborated with other major international Catholic travel agencies, Catholic parishes and Catholic communities.

Here’s a selection of our Catholic tours and pilgrimages 2024. All our itineraries are flexible and customizable.

We offer Catholic Pilgrimage tour packages and tailor-made Catholic Tours . For any request, you can use our contact form.

Catholic Pilgrimages 2024

Catholic tours of italy and europe.

Explore the sacred beauty of Italy with our Catholic pilgrimages to Italy 2024. Our carefully crafted catholic pilgrimage tours 2024 will take you to significant religious sites, including Marian shrines, the Holy Land, and major European shrines. Experience the spiritual richness of Rome, Assisi, Florence, and the Sacred Line of Saint Michael with our expert-guided tours. Perfect for groups of 11 or more, our tours promise a deeply fulfilling spiritual journey. With over 30 years of experience, we ensure quality and meaningful travel experiences.

7 Days: Essential Catholic Rome

7 days tour to visit the most important places in Catholic History. Excursion to Assisi included.

10 Days: A Franciscan Pilgrimage to Assisi & Rome

A 10 days pilgrimage on Saint Francis’ footsteps. We relive the Saint’s life by visiting his most significant sites.

10 Days: A Pilgrimage Tour to Italy

A Catholic pilgrimage tour in the heart of Italy, starting from Rome, with an excursion in the South of Italy.

10 Days: Tour to Florence, Assisi & Rome

A 10 days tour between Florence, Assisi and Rome to discover Catholicism in Italy.

The Sacred Line of Saint Michael Tour

A 15 days tour to follow Saint Michael the Archangel’s footsteps. A journey of prayer and discovery.

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Our ambition is to take care of the logistics, planning and organizing of the pilgrimage, so that pilgrims can focus on the spiritual experience. We have been providing travel services and accompanying pilgrims on their spiritual journey for more than 30 years!

We have explored the most famous pilgrimage routes, such as the Way of St. James and the Via Francigena, and created ad hoc itineraries to ensure our travellers meet their spiritual needs.

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• Marian Shrines & Rome Tour

Marian Shrines & Rome Tour - BHT0026

Pilgrimage to Catholic shrines in  Portugal ,  Spain ,  France & Italy

Fatima Avila Lourdes Rome Assisi & Medjugorje 

The most famous Catholic destinations in Italy like  Rome ,  Assisi , and  Loreto . The journey  across Europe will start with Portugal and  Fatima, Our Lady of Rosary. We will then continue with  St. Teresa in the medieval city of Avila ! After Avila, the pilgrimage  goes on,  Lourdes, and prayers with Our Lady of Immaculate Conception !

The second part of our journey across Europe will take us to  Italy , Croatia , and  Medjugorje . General Audience with Pope Francis and a Christian tour of Rome will be the highlight of the Italy Pilgrimage!  Our last few days in Medjugorje  are a spiritual “frosting on the cake.” “ Therefore, my dear little children, pray, pray, pray ....” invitation from Our Lady Queen of Peace has already inspired millions of pilgrims! No doubt it inspired you already if you are considering this pilgrimage tour!

God bless!  

                                                                                                                       MARIAN SHRINES TOUR & ROME                                                                                               Fatima – Avila – Lourdes – Rome – Assisi – Medjugorje                                                                                                  15 DAYS PILGRIMAGE TOUR THROUGH CATHOLIC EUROPE  

Day 1 - DEPARTURE FOR PORTUGAL

Our journey starts with a flight to Portuga l, the city of Lisbon. Meals are served on board the plane.

Day 2 - LISBON  - Welcome City Tour 

Upon arrival in Lisbon, you will meet with your tour escort. The same day after we checked in to our hotel followed the Lisbon city tour. Our afternoon city tour of Lisbon will start with a visit to the church of  St. Anthony of Padua , which is built on the place of his birth, the patron saint of Portugal . The Lisbon tour will also take us to the Cathedral, the Belem Tower , and the Gothic Monastery of St. Jeronimo (no entrance). The first night of our tour will be in Lisbon. The dinner and overnight at our hotel!   

Day 3 LISBON - FATIMA  - ALJUSTREL  - VALINHOS

This morning we are on our way to the  Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima . Visit places connected with the apparition in Fatima , the tiny village Aljustrel , home of visionaries, and the pasturage at Valinhos, where Our Lady of Fatima also appeared. We will visit the Cova da Iria , the actual place of the apparition where Our Lady of Fatima gave a message to the world through Jacinta , Francisco , and Lucia . Holy Mass will be celebrated in one of the churches we will visit or in one of the chapels in the Shrine. In the evening, we will participate in the prayer service (optional). Dinner and overnight in Fatima.

Day 4 FATIMA – AVILA

Depart Fatima early this morning to travel eastward across Spain to Avila. We will walk the city's narrow cobblestone streets as we trace the life of St. Teresa of Avila . We will see the garden where she played as a child and visit the museum dedicated to her life.  The museum also contains relics of St. Teresa and her spiritual advisor St. John of the Cross . We’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Convent of the Incarnation, where St. Teresa first took her orders and would remain for more than thirty years. The museum has an interesting drawing of the crucifixion by St. John of the Cross  and a reconstruction of the cell used by the saint when she was prioress there. Dinner and overnight at our hotel in Avila.

Day 5 AVILA – LOURDES

After breakfast & Holy Mass in Avila, we will depart the fort for LOURDES . Upon arrival to Lourdes, we will check into a hotel, free time until dinner. In the evening, after dinner, walk to the Shrine of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception  and the prayer of the Rosary during the candlelight procession ( provided we are on time in Lourdes). First night in Lourdes.                

Day 6 LOURDES SHRINE

On our first morning in Lourdes, Holy Mass, we are off to visit the Shrine, the Grotto of Massabielle, where the Blessed Virgin appeared 18 times to Bernadette Soubirous in 1858 . The tour will also include The Baths , The Basilica of Immaculate Conception with Crypt , which is underneath and was the first chapel built here as a place of worship, also Rosary Basilica , Church of St. Bernadette .  The visit will then continue with the town of Lourdes, the visit to all the places associated with  St. Bernadette . The Bolly Mill in Rue Bernadette Soubirous, where the saint was born on January 7, 1844,  spent the first years of her life. The group will also visit “Cachot,” or the jail where Bernadette lived with her family in great poverty during the apparitions. Return to the Sanctuary area for lunch on your own. Free afternoon until dinner, and in the evening you can participate Candlelight Marian Procession starting each day at 9:00 pm. Dinner and overnight in Lourdes.  

Day 7 LOURDES

Today after breakfast, we will attend Holy Mass, and then the rest of the day will be free for your devotions, visit the Baths , shopping, lunch... In the evening, we will attend the Candlelight Procession to Our Lady ! Back to the hotel, dinner, and overnight!

Day 8 LOURDES - ROME

Today we will leave Lourdes and France. Flight to Rome . Upon arrival in Rome, time permitting, we will take a panoramic city tour by bus before we check in to the hotel. Dinner and our first night in Rome .

Day 9 ROME – VATICAN GENERAL AUDIENCE (Wednesday)

Today we have an early breakfast to be on time for the general audience with Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Square . After the audience, we will head for a lunch break and then, later in the afternoon, visit the heart of Vatican State , St. Peter’s Basilica , and underground burial stones with the tomb of St. Peter  and Saint John Paul II . The day will end with a visit to the first church dedicated to Mary, Mother of God – St. Mary Major ! At the end of the day, we are back in our hotel.

Audience with His Holiness Pope Francis isn't scheduled if he isn't in the Vatican. During the month of August, His Holiness isn't in Rome and General Audience isn't scheduled.  

Day 10 ROME – CHRISTIAN ROME TOUR – ASSISI

Today we will continue our Christian tour of Rome . First to have on our schedule today is a visit Basilica of   St. John Lateran . This Cathedral of Rome was a Papal residence from the 5C until the papacy departed to Avignon in France. Today we will also see the nearby Holy Staircase ( Scala Sancta ) actual stairs that Jesus Christ walked on the day he went to Pilate. At the end of the visits to Rome, we will go to the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, and our Christian tour in Rome finishes with a visit to the Domitilla Catacombs . From here, we will leave Rome and  head to Assisi – the  City of Peace, and tonight we are in our hotel in Assisi!

Day 11 ASSISI

This morning, we will explore and learn about St. Francis and his life . Our guided tour will start at the church of Santa Chiara to see The Cross that spoke to St. Francis and pray his prayer before the same Crucifix. We will learn more about St. Claire, the founder of Poor Claire’s, and see her incorrupt body. We will go down to the “ Porziuncola,” one of three restored churches by young Francis that nowadays is embraced by the  Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels . Free afternoon in Assisi. Dinner at the hotel.

Day 12 ASSISI – MEDJUGORJE (flight Rome - Croatia, Split or Dubrovnik)

Today, the group will leave Assisi and head toward Rome International Airport for a flight to Croatia, Split, or Dubrovnik. Upon arrival to Croatia follows a transfer to Medjugorje . Only a few minutes after we cross the border Croatia - Bosnia & Herzegovina , we are in Medjugorje. Dinner and overnight stay in our hotel in Medjugorje , where we stay for 3 nights.

Day 13, 14 MEDJUGORJE PROGRAM

Upon arrival in Split – transfer to Medjugorje, where the program starts the same morning!

Our Medjugorje pilgrimage will be filled with prayer, daily morning English-speaking Mass, and in the evening at the time of the apparition of Our Lady International mass and prayer of the Rosary . This will be a true spiritual retreat, and your life for a few days will go to the triangle of Podbrdo (Apparition Hill), St. James church, and Krizevac (Cross Mountain).

With thousands of pilgrims from all over the world, you will celebrate daily Mass at St. James church . Visiting Bijakovici village , all six visionaries come from it; you will go up the Apparition Hill, Podbrdo place where Our Lady first appeared. Holy Rosary is prayed during the evening program with Mass; Our Lady repeated many times how important it is to come to Holy Mass, where “ we meet Jesus alive .” Messages of Prayer of the Rosary , Holy Mass , and Confession are the center of the evening program in St. James church. According to the three visionaries, they still every day receive the apparition of Our Lady , pray with her, and are blessed by Gospa daily! The apparition takes place at 5:40 pm or 6:40 daylight savings time, and Vicka, Ivan, and Marija are the ones who experience this daily.  Mirjana, Jakov, and Ivanka are the three visionaries who don’t have daily apparitions but only once a year. Among other activities, you will have a chance to climb the “Cross mountain ,”   Krizevac , as Croats call it, and visit the “ Blue Cross,”  another place of the apparition. Each pilgrim will have time for private devotions, shopping, or simply enjoying prayer time, as the  Rosary in the hands of people you see on the streets or in the fields in Medjugorje isn’t a strange thing!

Day 15 – MEDJUGORJE departure

Early morning breakfast and transfer to the airport for flight back home – transfer with the guide as the assistant at the airport – wish you a safe and sound journey home!

TOUR INCLUDES:

• Flights from the USA
• EU flights Lourdes - Rome 
• EU flight Rome - Split or Dubrovnik
• Airport taxes - SUBJECT TO CHANGE BY AIRLINE UNTIL TICKETS ARE ISSUED
• 1 night in Lisbon - first-class 4* hotel
• 1 night in Fatima – first-class, 4* Hotel
• 1 night in Avila – first-class, 4* Hotel
• 3 nights in Lourdes – first-class, 4* Hotel
• 2 nights in Rome – first-class, 4* Hotel
• 2 nights in Assisi – first-class, 4* hotel
• 3 nights in Medjugorje – first-class, 4* Hotel
• Breakfast and dinner daily, a glass of wine & water, included
• High-class air-conditioned tourist coach with WIFI
• Escort Fatima – Rome - Medjugorje 
• Local English-speaking guides Fatima, Avila, Lourdes, Rome, Assisi, Medjugorje
• Entrance fees according to the itinerary
• Daily Mass in Fatima, Avila, Loyola, Lourdes
• Headsets for guided city tours   

NOT INCLUDED:

• Lunch daily
• Tips for guides, escorts, and drivers 
• Porterage of luggage, in & out hotels
• Travel Insurance is strongly recommended
• Personal items, visa costs  

Rates & Dates - Prices are based on a minimum of 25 people in the group:

April  30 -  May 14, 2024: Land and air from Newark EWR, New York JFK..........US$ 3895.00 Single room supplement........US$ 550.00  

June 13 - 27, 2024 - CELEBRATE THE MEDJUGORJE 43rd ANNIVERSARY: Land and air from Newark EWR, New York JFK..........US$ 3945.00 Single room supplement........US$ 645.00 JUNE 2024 - MARIAN SHRINES & ROME TOUR - 16-DAY TOUR - flyer  

September 3 - 17, 2024: Land and air from Newark EWR, New York JFK..........US$ 3945.00 Single room supplement........US$ 590.00

October 15 - 29, 2024: Land and air from Newark EWR, New York JFK..........US$ 3895.00 Single room supplement........US$ 590.00

IMPORTANT NOTES:

 - Prices are a close estimate and are  to be confirmed only after tickets are issued in your name .                  

 - The General Audience on Wednesday with His Holiness Pope Francis isn't a guaranteed event.

FOR GROUP REQUESTS - QUOTE WITHIN 48 HOURS:

 - IT IS YOUR PILGRIMAGE - SET YOUR DATE of TRAVEL, and WE WILL CUSTOMIZE IT ACCORDING TO YOUR DESIRES  - PILGRIMAGE WITH YOUR PRIEST WHO CELEBRATES PRIVATE HOLY MASS IN LOURDES, FATIMA, VATICAN, ASSISI, AVILA...  - BROCHURE & WEBSITE SUPPORT & YOU CAN TRAVEL WITH THE PEOPLE WITH WHOM YOU SHARE THE SAME VALUES & FAITH

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Places to see

• Avila & St. Teresa
• Medjugorje Apparition Hill
• Zagreb, Capital City of Croatia
• Mount Carmel in the Holy Land & Carmelites
• Santiago de Compostela, Cathedral and Botafumeiro
• Padua, St. Anthony's relics
• Medjugorje History & News
• Medjugorje - Apostolic Visitor Archbishop Henryk Hoser
• Medjugorje Way Of The Cross - Cross Mountain
• Oberammergau
• Holy Eucharistic Miracle of Santarem
• San Giovanni in Laterano
• St. Peter's Basilica Vatican

Blue Heart Travel Ltd travel agency Slavonska Avenija 1c, Zagreb 10000, Croatia ID: HR-A-01-080857927

Your gateway to Europe Catholic Tours...

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• 16 Days, 15 Nights Austria – Slovenia – Croatia – Bosnia – Italy

15 Days Europe Marian Pilgrimage

• 13 Days, 12 Nights Italy & Balkans Experience with Our Lady of Medjugorje
• 13 Days, 12 Nights Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland
• 12 Days, 11 Nights Holyland Pilgrimage
• 11 Days, 10 Nights, Israel & Rome Pilgrimage
• 11 Days, 10 Nights Arctic Circle Adventure + Baltic and Nordic Capitals
• 9 Days / 8 Nights Moscow & St Petersburg, Russia
• 4 Days / 3 Nights Adventure to the Top of the World-Lapland & Finland
• 4 Days, 3 Nights Unforgettable Dubai & Desert Stars
• 4 Days, 3 Nights Tokyo, Japan
• 7 Days, 6 Nights, Vietnam – Cambodia – Bangkok
• 13 Days, 12 Nights Nature, Mountains & Waterfalls Philippines Tour
• 6 Days, 5 Nights Explore Bohol & Cebu – Queen City of the South
• 4 Days, 3 Nights Culture, Religious, Farm CDO Tour
• 4 Days, 3 Nights CDO, Camiguin, Volcanic Islands CDO Tour
• 3 Days, 2 Nights Farm, Country, Caving, Adventure CDO Tour
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Confirmation Deposit Required. Contact (+63.88) 859 0600 or [email protected] Depending on the number of persons joining the tour, final computation will be adjusted on the full payment.

BOOKING CONDITION & IMPORTANT NOTES:

Above Itinerary & Rate subject to change without prior notice, until paid & finalized. Non-Refundable Deposit but transferable if done at least 60days prior to departure ( If visa is paid, charges will apply ) Full cancellation penalty if cancelled within 30days from departure.

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Airfere with international taxes & PH travel tax One way high-speed train Twin Sharing Hotel stay in 3-4 Stars Daily Breakfast & Dinners Guided Tours with admission tickets Souvenir Kits

EXCLUSIONS: International Travel Insurance Group Visa Drinks during meals unless specified Personal items (laundry, drinks, telephone etc. Anything not listed as included above)

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Explore the Religious Tours

A wonderful spiritual experience, explore the range of private catholic guided tours.

guided tours in most visited catholic pilgrimage sites

Home to the Sanctuary of Fátima, spoted where the Virgin Mary allegedly appeared in 1917

One of the major Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world is located in France

Assisi is one of the important sites in Italy where St.Francis was born and died

The Headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and home to the Pope.

San Giovanni Rotondo

The home of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina from 1916 until his death and where his relics are kept.

An unofficial place of Catholic pilgrimage allegedly Virgin Mary appeared on Apparition Hill in 1981

Sagrada Família

It is the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world located in the Eixample district of Barcelona, Spain.

Home to the relics of St Anthony, who is venerated all over the world and one of the most famouse saints.

Santiago de Compostella

It is known as the culmination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route

Explore the tours linked with the saints and other pilgrimage sites around the world with one of our Private Catholic Guided Tours

Our other catholic guided tours.

Footsteps of Saints

Listen to the catholic saints stories and a walk through their footsteps

The Pilgrimage Sites

A guide to the most famous catholic pilgrimage sites around the world.

Explore The World of Catholicism

POur aim is to bring the world of catholicism more closer to the catholics around the world and also to explose to those who are interested in the catholicism by catering guided tours in the religious sites.Explore the private catholic guided tours around the world.

explore the city tours

We are focused on religious tourism and we try to provide the best religious tour experience in the religious site with our private catholic guided tours. We provide the chance to explore the city tours as well while you enjoy your stay either as a pilgrimage or a tourist

our top picked tour

One of our top-picked tours is the tour in Assisi, specifically to see the tomb of the blessed Carlo Acutis.  Even though Assisi is one of the famous pilgrim sites among many Catholics, the story of the blessed Carlo Acutis is not yet known among many, but we would like to share more information about the saint in the tours in Assisi along with the other important religious sites.

Pilgrimage Routes in Europe: 31 Wonderful Journeys of Faith

Life-Changing Pilgrimages Routes in Europe: Amid our hectic lives, a timeless tradition calls to those searching for deeper meaning: the pilgrimage. These intentional voyages, driven by spiritual or religious motives, provide a unique and sacred space for introspection and personal connection.

With its intricate blend of history and diverse landscapes, Europe is a captivating backdrop for pilgrimage experiences. Far from a mere physical trek, this blog aims to dissect these journeys’ practical and profound aspects. 

Join us as we unravel the reasons behind the age-old practice of pilgrimage, shedding light on the unique catharsis awaiting those who choose to explore Europe’s spiritual pathways.

Fancy Hiking Round the British Isles? Read Our Other Post on U K Pilgrimage Routes!

UNMISSABLE PILGRIMAGE ROUTES IN EUROPE

Table of contents, the camino de santiago, spain: the way of st. james.

Known as one of the most famous pilgrimage routes in europe, the Camino de Santiago stretches across Spain, converging at the majestic Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.

Pilgrims from all walks of life traverse this path, seeking spiritual growth and connecting with others on the same journey.

Highlights:  The picturesque landscapes of the Camino Frances, the camaraderie among fellow pilgrims, and the profound sense of accomplishment upon reaching Santiago de Compostela.

Duration:  Approximately 30 days

Difficulty:  Moderate

The Via Francigena, Italy to England: The Road to Rome

Pilgrims on the Via Francigena follow in the footsteps of medieval travellers from Canterbury to Rome. This historic route passes through charming villages, rolling hills, and cultural landmarks, offering a deep dive into Europe’s diverse heritage.

This pilgrimage route isn’t for the faint of heart, but would be a life-changing experience.

Highlights:  Tuscany’s stunning landscapes, the locals’ hospitality along the way, and the spiritual resonance of arriving at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Duration:  Approximately 40 days

Difficulty:   Difficult

Explore More in Our Vatican City Pilgrimage Route Here!

St. Olav’s Way, Norway to Sweden: A Nordic Pilgrimage

Named after Norway’s patron saint, St. Olav’s Way winds through awe-inspiring Scandinavian landscapes, connecting historical sites and sacred spaces. Pilgrims find solace in the serene beauty of nature while reflecting on their spiritual journey.

Highlights:   The Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, the tranquillity of Nordic forests, and the profound sense of spirituality inspired by the Northern Lights.

Duration:  Approximately 25 days

Difficulty :  Moderate

The Pilgrims’ Way, England: A Canterbury Tale

Pilgrims’ Way in England traces the footsteps of pilgrims fromWinchester to the majestic Canterbury Cathedral. This ancient route immerses travellers in the English countryside, offering a glimpse into this pilgrimage’s historical and spiritual significance.

Highlights:   The iconic Canterbury Cathedral, the charming villages along the way, and the sense of pilgrimage mingling with history.

Duration:   Approximately 15 days

Difficulty:   Easy to Moderate

The Way of St. Martin, France: A Pilgrimage of Charity

Honouring St. Martin, a patron saint of France, this pilgrimage route weaves through the French countryside. Pilgrims embrace the spirit of charity and kindness, inspired by the saint’s legendary act of sharing his cloak with a beggar.

Highlights:   The picturesque Loire Valley, the historic town of Tours, and the opportunity to engage in acts of charity along the way.

Duration:   Approximately 20 days

The Holy Mount Athos, Greece: A Spiritual Haven

Accessible only to male pilgrims, Mount Athos in Greece is home to ancient monasteries and a rich spiritual heritage. The journey involves exploring monastic life and reflection in a secluded, sacred environment.

Highlights:  Byzantine monasteries, stunning sea views, and the opportunity for silent contemplation.

Duration:   Varies (Dependent on Monastery Visits)

Difficulty:   Moderate to Difficult

The Way of St. Francis, Italy: A Franciscan Pilgrimage

Following in the sacred footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi , this route traverses central Italy, passing through picturesque landscapes and historic towns associated with the life of the beloved saint.

Highlights:  The town of Assisi, the Rieti Valley, and the peaceful solitude of the Apennine Mountains.

Difficulty:   Moderate

The Jerusalem Way, Austria to Italy: A Pilgrimage Eastward

Inspired by the medieval pilgrimage to Jerusalem, this route takes pilgrims from Vienna, Austria, to Venice, Italy. The journey connects diverse cultures and landscapes, fostering a sense of spiritual unity.

Highlights:  The picturesque Wachau Valley, historic monasteries, and the cultural blend of Eastern and Western influences.

Duration:   Approximately 35 days

Difficulty:  Moderate to Difficult

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Wales: A Celtic Pilgrimage

Along the stunning coastline of Wales, this pilgrimage route offers a unique blend of Celtic spirituality and natural beauty. Pilgrims experience the rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and ancient sacred sites.

Highlights:  St. David Cathedral, the rugged Pembrokeshire coastline, and the spiritual energy of Celtic traditions.

Duration:  Approximately 18 days

The Way of St. Andrew, Scotland: Journey to the Cross

Starting from the town of St. Andrews, this Scottish pilgrimage route takes travellers through scenic landscapes and historic sites associated with St. Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland.

Highlights:  St. Andrews Cathedral, the Fife Coastal Path, and the maritime charm of Scottish towns.

Duration:  Approximately 12 days

Difficulty:  Easy to Moderate

The El Camino Real, Portugal: Royal Road to Santiago

One of the lesser known pilgrimage routes in europe is the Portuguese Camino route. It offers a less-travelled path to the famous Santiago de Compostela. Pilgrims walk through diverse landscapes, medieval villages, and historical sites, experiencing Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.

Highlights:  Porto’s historic district, the scenic Douro Valley, and the charming town of Barcelos.

Duration:  Approximately 20 days

The Krakow to Czestochowa Pilgrimage, Poland: Black Madonna Trail

Overview:  This pilgrimage route in Poland connects the cities of Krakow and Czestochowa, home to the revered Black Madonna icon. Pilgrims walk through picturesque landscapes and visit important religious sites.

Highlights:  Wawel Cathedral in Krakow, the Jasna Góra Monastery in Czestochowa, and the spiritual significance of the Black Madonna.

Duration:  Approximately 14 days

The Canterbury to Rome Pilgrimage, England to Italy: Pilgrimage of Two Cities

This route extends the other of our pilgrimage routes in Europe. It is an add on and connects Canterbury and Rome, allowing travellers to experience the spiritual heritage of both England and Italy. Pilgrims journey through diverse landscapes and historical landmarks.

Highlights:  The English countryside, the Swiss Alps, and the Eternal City of Rome.

Duration:  Approximately 60 days

The Sufi Trail, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Mystical Journey

The Sufi Trail in Bosnia and Herzegovina follows the footsteps of Sufi mystics. This unique pilgrimage combines spiritual exploration with the natural beauty of the Balkans, creating a mystical and introspective journey.

Highlights:   Sarajevo’s historic sites, the Dervish Monastery in Blagaj, and the scenic landscapes of the Dinaric Alps.

The Way of St. Patrick, Ireland: Celtic Pilgrimage

Celebrating Ireland’s patron saint, this pilgrimage route connects sites associated with St. Patrick. Pilgrims traverse Ireland’s verdant landscapes, visit ancient monastic sites, and experience the warmth of Irish hospitality.

Highlights:   St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, the Rock of Cashel, and the peaceful beauty of the Irish countryside.

The Jacobite Way, Scotland: Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Route

Following the path of Bonnie Prince Charlie after the Jacobite uprising, this pilgrimage route in Scotland explores historical sites and rugged landscapes. Pilgrims delve into the complex history of the Scottish Highlands.

Highlights:  Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Ness, and the atmospheric ruins of Urquhart Castle.

The St. Hubertus Trail, Belgium: Pilgrimage for Animal Lovers

Named after St. Hubertus, the patron saint of hunters, this Belgian pilgrimage route celebrates the bond between humans and animals. Pilgrims explore forests and meadows, reflecting on nature and spirituality.

Highlights:   The Ardennes Forest, the Basilica of St. Hubert, and the wildlife-rich Gaume region.

Duration:   Approximately 10 days

The West Highland Way, Scotland: Highland Pilgrimage

Overview:  Running through the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, the West Highland Way is a long-distance trail that offers a pilgrimage of solitude and natural beauty. Pilgrims encounter rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas.

Highlights:  Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and the ancient ruins of Kilchurn Castle.

Duration:  Approximately 15 days

The Way of St. Brigid, Ireland: Pilgrimage of the Kildare Saints

Overview:  Honoring St. Brigid, one of Ireland’s patron saints, this pilgrimage route takes travellers through the heart of Ireland. Pilgrims experience the cultural and spiritual richness associated with St. Brigid and the Kildare saints.

Highlights:  St. Brigid’s Cathedral in Kildare, the Hill of Allen, and the tranquillity of the Irish midlands.

The Transcarpathian Pilgrimage, Ukraine: Carpathian Spirituality

• *Not an advisable route as of 2023 due to war* This pilgrimage route in the Carpathian Mountains of Ukraine offers a unique blend of Orthodox Christian spirituality and traditional folklore. Pilgrims traverse scenic landscapes and explore historic monasteries.

Highlights:   The wooden churches of the Carpathians, the Hutsul culture, and the picturesque landscapes of Transcarpathia.

Difficulty:  Moderate

The Santiago de Compostela to Finisterre, Spain: Journey to the End of the Earth

An extension of the Camino de Santiago, this route takes pilgrims from Santiago de Compostela to Finisterre, believed to be the westernmost point of Europe. Pilgrims reflect on their journey while witnessing stunning coastal views.

Highlights:  The “End of the World” at Finisterre, the coastal beauty of the Costa da Morte, and the symbolic burning of pilgrims’ clothing at the ocean’s edge.

Duration:   Approximately 7 days

The St. Cuthbert’s Way, England and Scotland: Northumbrian Pilgrimage

Starting from Melrose in Scotland, St. Cuthbert’s Way takes pilgrims across the stunning landscapes of the English-Scottish border. Pilgrims visit historic sites associated with St. Cuthbert, the beloved Northumbrian saint.

Highlights:   Melrose Abbey, the Cheviot Hills, and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

The Path of the Gods, Italy: Amalfi Coast Pilgrimage

Overview:  The Path of the Gods, or Sentiero degli Dei, is a scenic trail along the Amalfi Coast in Italy. While not a traditional pilgrimage, its breathtaking views and cultural richness attract those seeking a spiritual connection with nature.

Highlights:  Positano, Agerola, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean.

Duration:  Approximately 5 days

The Lycian Way, Turkey: Ancient Pilgrimage

The Lycian Way is an ancient path along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, blending history, nature, and spirituality. Pilgrims explore ancient ruins and the stunning landscapes of Lycia.

Highlights:   Olympos, Patara, and the rock-cut tombs of Myra.

The Way of the Eagle, Austria: Alpine Pilgrimage

The Way of the Eagle, or Adlerweg, is a long-distance trail across the Austrian Alps. This pilgrimage route offers breathtaking alpine scenery and a connection with the natural world.

Highlights:  Tyrolean Alps, Zugspitze, and traditional mountain huts.

Duration:   Approximately 25 days

Difficulty:  Difficult

The Path of the Seven Lakes, Bulgaria: Rila Monastery Pilgrimage

The Path of the Seven Lakes takes pilgrims through the Rila Mountains in Bulgaria, leading to the renowned Rila Monastery. This pilgrimage combines nature, spirituality, and cultural exploration.

Highlights:   The Seven Rila Lakes, Rila Monastery, and alpine landscapes.

Duration:   Approximately 8 days

The St. Declan’s Way, Ireland: Munster Pilgrimage

St. Declan’s Way in Ireland connects the monastic site of Ardmore to the Rock of Cashel. Pilgrims experience the rich history and cultural heritage of Ireland’s Munster region.

Highlights:  Ardmore Cathedral, the Knockmealdown Mountains, and the Rock of Cashel.

Duration:   Approximately 12 days

The St. Bernard’s Way, Switzerland and Italy: Alpine Passes Pilgrimage

Named after St. Bernard of Montjoux, this pilgrimage route crosses the Alps from Switzerland to Italy. Pilgrims traverse high mountain passes and experience the majestic beauty of the Alps.

Highlights:   The Great St. Bernard Pass, Aosta Valley, and alpine meadows.

The Way of St. Denis, France: Parisian Pilgrimage

The Way of St. Denis leads pilgrims from the outskirts of Paris to the Basilica of St. Denis, the final resting place of the patron saint of France. Pilgrims explore the rich history and spirituality of the Parisian region.

Highlights:  Saint-Denis Basilica, Montmartre, and the Seine River.

Duration:  Approximately 7 days

The St. Sava’s Route, Serbia: Balkan Pilgrimage

St. Sava’s Route in Serbia connects monasteries associated with St. Sava, a key figure in Serbian Orthodox Christianity. Pilgrims experience the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Balkans.

Highlights:  Studenica Monastery, Žiča Monastery, and the Serbian countryside.

The Way of St. Columba, Scotland and Ireland: Celtic Pilgrimage

The Way of St. Columba connects sites associated with the Irish missionary St. Columba. Pilgrims traverse landscapes in Scotland and Ireland, exploring ancient monastic sites and Celtic spirituality.

Highlights:  Iona Abbey, the Giant’s Causeway, and the landscapes of the Inner Hebrides.

Why Should You Embark on our Pilgrimage Routes in Europe?

Embarking on one of pilgrimage routes in Europe can offer a multitude of benefits beyond the spiritual or religious aspects. Here are several reasons why individuals might consider undertaking such a journey:

• Cultural Exploration: Pilgrimage routes often traverse through historic and culturally rich regions, allowing pilgrims to immerse themselves in the local traditions, customs, and architecture. Exploring diverse cultures along the way adds a layer of richness to the pilgrimage experience.
• Physical Challenge and Wellness: Many pilgrimage routes involve long-distance walking or hiking, providing an opportunity for physical challenge and exercise. Engaging in such activities contributes to overall well-being, offering a balance of physical and spiritual health.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: The act of walking or traveling at a slower pace along pilgrimage routes encourages mindfulness and introspection. The repetitive nature of the journey, combined with the serene surroundings, creates an ideal environment for meditation and self-reflection.
• Connection with Nature: Pilgrimage routes often traverse scenic landscapes, offering pilgrims a chance to connect with nature in a profound way. Whether walking through forests, alongside rivers, or over hills, the natural surroundings can be a source of inspiration and tranquility.
• Community and Camaraderie: Pilgrimage routes attract individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a common purpose. This sense of shared endeavor fosters a unique camaraderie among pilgrims, creating a supportive community along the way. The connections forged during the journey contribute to a profound sense of belonging and shared humanity.
• Personal Growth and Reflection: Beyond the physical and communal aspects, a pilgrimage offers a space for personal growth and deep reflection. The solitude and simplicity of the pilgrimage experience allow individuals to detach from the distractions of modern life, providing an opportunity for self-discovery and a reevaluation of personal values.

Pilgrims often return from their journeys with a heightened sense of purpose, clarity, and a renewed perspective on life, having undergone a transformative process that extends far beyond the miles traveled on the route. Embarking on a pilgrimage in Europe, therefore, becomes not just a physical and cultural exploration but a holistic endeavor that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit.

Concluding the Pilgrimage Routes in Europe

In concluding our exploration of these diverse pilgrimage routes in Europe, we find ourselves at the crossroads of history, spirituality, and personal growth. 

Each route, with its unique highlights, duration, and difficulty, offers a profound opportunity for introspection and connection with the sacred. Whether you seek the serene beauty of Nordic landscapes, the spiritual resonance of ancient monasteries, or the camaraderie of fellow pilgrims along the Camino, these journeys beckon the curious soul. 

As you contemplate embarking on a pilgrimage, may the trails lead you across geographical landscapes and through the landscapes of your heart and spirit. 

May the echoes of footsteps that have tread these paths before guide you toward a transformative and cathartic experience—one that transcends the physical journey and delves deep into the realms of self-discovery and connection with the divine.

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Keytours Vacations Blog

Top 10 religious pilgrimages and christian tours in europe & the mediterranean.

Whether embarking on a Hold Land Tour of Jerusalem, following the famous and sacred network of ancient pilgrim routes of the Way of Saint James, exploring the Chapel of the Apparitions with throngs of pilgrims in Fatima, or venerating the Virgin Mary by visitng the Chapel of Grace and Black Madonna in Altötting Germany, be prepared for a unique and unforgettable religious pilgrimage experience handcrafted by Keytours that is unique to your group.

Delve into Keytours  Top 10 Religious Pilgrimages and Christian Tours in Europe & the Mediterranean   to get inspired and ready to plan your next group religious pilgrimage. Expore the best Christian pilgrimage tours and Christian pilgrimage sites.

1. Jerusalem, Israel

Journey to Jerusalem and the Holy Land and visit popular sites including  The Western Wall, also referred to as the Wailing Wall, the site of the original Jewish Temple.  Along your pilgrimage tour the  The Temple Mount, considered the third holiest Islamic site after Mecca and Medina where two mosques are located: Al-Aqsa and Dome of the Rock. The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is a church built on the spot where some Christians believed Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected, now one of the most sacred places of the Christian faith.

Interested in traveling to Israel? Check out our Israel Travel Packages

2. Rome, Italy

Take in the beauty of this historic city with visits to the many religious and sacred sites of Rome. Begin with Saint Peter's Basilica, the great cathedral of the Vatican and one of the seven ancient pilgrimage churches of Rome. Continue on to the Papal Basilica of Saint Paul outside the Walls, one of Rome's four major basilicas. Another site to visit is the Abbey of the Three Fountains, the site of the martyrdom of Saint Paul.  Interested in traveling to Italy? Check out our Italy Travel Packages

3. Way of Saint James, Spain

Follow the path to spiritual growth on The Way of Saint James, aka the Camino de Santiago. There are dozens of pilgrimage routes to choose from on the way to Santiago de Compostela. Visit the many cathedrals on the way including the Santa María de León Cathedra l, a masterpiece of the Gothic style and the Cathedral museum which houses a large collection of sacred art. Other notable religious sites include: the Cathedral of Astorga, the Episcopal Palace of Astorga (designed by  Antoni Gaudí) , the  Cruz de Ferro (a cross on the Camino de Santiago, located between Foncebadón and Manjarín), and the Royal Monastery of San Xulián de Samos. 

Interested in traveling to Spain? Check out our Spain Travel Packages

4. Lourdes, France

A popular destination for pilgrims, the Grotto at Massabielle & the surrounding Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is a site where an apparition of the Immaculate Conception is claimed to have been seen and where pilgrims are reputed to be healed by the Lourdes water. Lourdes is also the site of a number of churches including the Crypt, the Upper Basilica, the Rosary Basilica, the Church of Saint Bernadette, and Saint Joseph's Chapel.  Interested in traveling to France? Check out our France Travel Packages

5.  Fátima , Portugal

Fátima is home to the Sanctuary of Fátima, a Catholic pilgrimage site and  a group of Catholic religious buildings . The Chapel of the Apparitions marks the spot of  famous apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary . Other sacred sites include the  Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary , the church of Igreja da Santíssima Trindade and the Museu de Arte Sacra e Etnologia which exhibits religious artifacts.

Interested in traveling to Portugal? Check out our Portugal Travel Packages

6. Seven Churches of the Revelation, Turkey

The Seven Churches of Revelation in Turkey are also known as the churches of Asia which were  cited in the Book of Revelation : Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.  Ephesus is one of the top visited touristic attractions in Turkey and home to the Library of Celsus as well as many other monumental buildings. Smyrna is the site of an Ancient Greek city known today known as Izmir, Turkey where visitors can explore the Columns of the Western Stoa.  In  Pergamum visitors come to  see the Hellenistic theatre, acropolis, and  Roman baths complex. Interested in traveling to Turkey? Check out our Turkey Travel Packages

7. Canterbury, England

Follow the "Pilgrim's Way" taken by pilgrims from Winchester in Hampshire England to the shrine of Thomas Becket at Canterbury in Kent. Although much of the traditional route is now park of a modern road network, the North Downs Way National Trail parallels the old Pilgrim's Way. The Canterbury Cathedral, one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England, is both a holy place and part of a World Heritage Site.  Interested in traveling to England? Check out our England Travel Packages

8. Assisi, Italy

Assisi is the home town and burial place of Saint Francis and an important Franciscan pilgrimage destination. One of the highlights of Assisi is the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprised of two churches known as the Upper and Lower church including a crypt.   Interested in traveling to Italy? Check out our Italy Travel Packages

9. Altötting, Germany

Altötting, in the heart of Bavaria, is called the "Lourdes of Germany" as many pilgrims journey to the Shrine of the Black Madonna in search of healing. The Chapel of Grace is the national shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Another notable site is the   Basilica of St. Ann, the largest church built in Germany in the twentieth century.  Interested in traveling to Germany? Check out our Germany Travel Packages

10. San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy

An important site in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy is the  Church of Our Lady of Grace (Santa Maria delle Grazie) and the Shrine of Padre Pio , the second most visited shrine in the world, centering on the tomb of Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina. Saint Padre Pio is known to have supernatural abilities including  miraculous healings, the readings of souls, and personal visits from Jesus and Mary.  Interested in traveling to Italy? Check out our Italy Travel Packages

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Topics: Religious , Groups , Spain , italy , germany , portugal , france , turkey , england

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14 Unmissable European Pilgrimages

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

by Anna from Camino Adventures

Though most pilgrimages started as journeys of moral or spiritual significance, modern ones are not necessarily confined to the most faithful. Whether you are interested in learning about history, culture, and admiring spectacular landscapes, you want to test your physical aptitudes, or you are on your own spiritual journey, walking one of the many European pilgrimages promises an unforgettable adventure and true bucket list experience in Europe .

If you are thinking about embarking on an inspiring voyage, continue reading this article and find out more about the best pilgrimages in Europe. To learn about inspiring walks in other corners of the globe, see this guide to the best pilgrimages in the world .

Table of Contents

Pilgrimages in the UK & Ireland

Pilgrims’ way: winchester to canterbury.

With many remarkable parts, the 141-mile pilgrimage from Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire to Canterbury Cathedral in Kent, promises adventurous hikers two unforgettable weeks. The Canterbury Cathedral is where the shrine of St Thomas Becket is buried.

Besides the outstanding landscapes, you will have the chance to see while walking the route, there are also many opportunities to go-off path and visit charming little churches along the way. One of the most beautiful is the 900-year-old St Benedict’s Church, located in Paddlesworth, Kent.

Before you begin your spiritual trip, make sure you are properly prepared, as the road to the mesmerizing Canterbury Cathedral is known for its great number of ups and downs, both literal and emotional.

When planning your trip to Europe, search for the best hotel deals here .

Stonehenge Pilgrimage: Glastonbury Tor to Stonehenge

If you love mystery and are into myths and legends, walking the 42-mile pagan trail from Glastonbury Tor to Stonehenge should be on your must-do list. Both Glastonbury Tor and Stonehenge are renowned mystical English sites, and this pilgrimage supposedly results in rebirth.

The starting point of your transcendental trip is Glastonbury Tor, a place where faeries were once believed to live, takes you through breathtaking scenery, and ends at the celebrated Stonehenge, a stone circle constructed 3,000 years BC. Whether you choose to do this in one or two days, in the end, you will feel proud and astonished by the fascinating prehistoric monument.

If you’re visiting other historical sites besides Stonehenge, you’ll want to consider getting a National Trust or English Heritage membership; both are valid at Stonehenge. To find out the differences, see this article comparing National Trust and English Heritage memberships .

St. Cuthbert’s Way: Melrose Abbey to Lindisfarne

Between Melrose in the Scottish Borders and Lindisfarne on the coast of Northumberland in England, there is a 62-mile long trail known as St Cuthbert’s Way.

The pilgrimage has the name of a monk, bishop, and hermit born in Northumbria. He was Anglo-Saxon England’s most praised saint, and this trail traces his life, starting where he spent his formative years and ending where he was buried after in 687.

The trail is loved for its dramatic landscapes and inspiring ruins. You don’t need, however, religious reasons to adventure into walking St. Cuthbert’s Way. What you do need are five days of vacation and a good fitness level, since the relaxing walks are often interrupted by strenuous climbs.

Croagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick is a 764-meter mountain in Co Mayo, western Ireland. It is the the holiest mountain and top pilgrimage destination in the country. Pilgrims climb the mountain in honor of Saint Patrick, the Irish patron saint who lends his name to the mountain. Pilgrims believe that Saint Patrick fasted for 40 days on the mountain in 441 CE. The mountain is also on the much longer Wild Atlantic Way , a driving route connecting numerous sights in the country.

According to archaeological finds in the area, the pilgrimage to the mountain goes back around 5000 years to the Stone Age. Pagans also celebrated the new harvest there. Today, the most popular time to do this sacred walk is the last Sunday of July, called Reek Sunday. For more information on planning this walk, see these backpacking tips for Ireland !

Pilgrimages in France, Spain & Portugal

Via podiensis: le puy to saint-jean-pied-de-port.

Travelers who have the possibility of taking more than a month off can enjoy a longer hiking adventure. It is one of the four routes through France on the pilgrimage to the tomb of St. James the Great in Santiago de Compostela. But this part is a 460-mile hike, from in south-central France to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in the Pyrenees. The pilgrimage takes over a month but, if this sounds too much, it can be done in shorter stages.

Catch a glimpse of the rural life, admire stunning scenery, explore rolling hills and relax in the charming fields of sunflowers, while following this fascinating spiritual path. And, if you are feeling fit to continue, after resting in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, walk the famous Camino Frances, until Santiago.

Les Chemins Du Mont-Saint-Michel: Rouen to Mont-Saint-Michel

During the Middle Ages, pilgrims walked to the statue of St. Michael that sits atop the church spire on Mont-Saint-Michel to praise St. Michael, the Archangel, who is known for leading the charge against Satan’s forces.

Today, though for different reasons, people still follow the same paths, the 200-mile trail from Rouen, or the shorter, 100-mile route that begins in Caen. No matter where you choose to begin, walking Les Chemins Du Mont-Saint-Michel promises you an adventure filled with impressive natural beauty.

Camino Frances: Saint Jean Pied de Port to Santiago

Staring in Saint Jean Pied de Port and finishing in Santiago de Compostela, El Camino Frances takes pilgrims from beautiful southwestern France to welcoming the Spanish region of Galicia. The pilgrimage promises 284 miles of natural beauty and fascinating culture, and more than one month of self-discovery and meeting amazing people.

El Camino Frances is now probably the most popular route that takes adventurers to the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral , the place where Saint James the Great was allegedly buried. So, it is usually filled with pilgrims from all over the world, especially during the summer months. If meeting crowds of travelers isn’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other, more quiet routes to el Camino you can follow.

Camino Portugues: Lisbon to Santiago

Known for being less crowded and easier to walk, el Camino Portuguese is another great route that takes you to Santiago, from charming Lisbon (see here for planning your time in Lisbon and Barcelona ). There are 280 miles pilgrims usually walk in about one month, but if this seems too much for you, start in Porto and walk 150 miles until you reach the imposing Cathedral in Santiago.

Though less crowded, this incredible trail can also bring you valuable friendships, interesting talks, and, of course, a beautiful combination of two countries that deserve to be explored.

If neither, El Camino Frances or the Portuguese way, satisfy your desires, but you still want to reach Santiago by foot, while walking a spiritual path, we have great news. There are plenty of other routes of the famous Camino you can choose, depending on your personal preferences, time, and budget.

Another incredible network of hiking trails in Portugal is Rota Vicentina , which follows the southwestern coast of the country.

Camino de Finisterre: Santiago to Finisterre or Muxia

Finisterre or Fisterra in Gallego translates as “the end of the world”, and it is a great way to finish your El Camino de Santiago adventure, continuing from Santiago to Finisterre, and then to Muxia, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.

Besides the lovely scenery, arriving in Finisterre, at the place where pilgrims have been known to throw their shoes into the sea to symbolize their new beginning in life after completing the Camino, will make you feel amazing.

Read more about mindful travel and doing meditation while traveling .

Pilgrimages in Germany

Via coloniensis: cologne to trier.

As you can see, there are many paths to Santiago de Compostela. In Germany, for instance, there are 30 well-known routes that take pilgrims to France, where they can begin Via Podiensis.

One of the best German trails is Via Coloniensis, from charming Cologne to Trier. Before setting out, pilgrims shouldn’t miss the impressive cathedral in town, one of the top things to do in Cologne .

On the walking route, after passing through delightful villages and town, admiring the beautiful architecture and historic landmarks, the route ends at St Peter’s Cathedral, which was commissioned by Emperor Constantine in the fourth century, and is now the oldest church in Germany.

Pilgrimages in Italy

Via francigena: canterbury to rome.

Via Francigena is another classic walking trail in Europe, following an ancient pilgrimage route from Canterbury in the UK to Rome, in Italy, and crossing France and Switzerland on the way.

Not only because of its importance in medieval times, but also thanks to the crucial landmarks and beautiful landscapes it passes, this route has been a European Cultural Route by the Council of Europe since 1994.

The 1180 miles pilgrimage promises adventurous pilgrims the chance to see amazing places like the stunning Tuscan countryside, the imposing Alps, or the battlefields in Northern France. And if you don’t have months of vacation, choose only the French-Italian part of the trail.

Via di Francesco: Florence to Rome

Following the steps of Saint Francis of Assisi, who was the founder of the Franciscan Order, Via di Francesco or Camino di Francesco is an alternative route along an ancient Roman road, passing through mesmerizing sites, that takes pilgrims from Florence to Rome.

What used to be a religious voyage devoted to the life of Saint Francis is now, for many adventurous travelers, a way to test their limits and admire Italy’s immense beauty, before reaching the Basilica di San Francesco in Rome.

Madonna del Ghisallo, Rome to Lake Como

If you are looking for an exciting Italian Pilgrimage on two wheels, go first to fascinating Rome, where you can start cycling, with Lake Como as your destination. The pilgrimage takes you to the 17th-century Madonna del Ghisallo chapel in Lombardy, after offering you the chance to admire some of the most spectacular Italian landscapes.

The ride is far from being long, having only 6,5 miles, but it is challenging. So, make sure you have a good fitness level before you begin this cycling adventure.

Arriving at your destination, there are plenty of fun and/or relaxing things to do in Lake Como , rounding out unforgettable trip.

Pilgrimages in Montenegro

Ostrog monastery: multiple starting points to ostrog.

The Serbian Orthodox Monastery of Ostrog is one of the most picturesque and visited monasteries in Europe. The structure has been carved into sheer cliffs, with panoramic views of the Montenegrin countryside. Over 100,000 pilgrims make the journey to Ostrog every year to pay homage to Saint Basil of Ostrog, who is interred there.

While getting to Ostrog Monastery is relatively simple, the best way to go is to follow the steps of pilgrims by trekking from remote Ostrog train station to the monastery high up on the cliffs. The fairly simple walk can be done in two hours return and can even be done as a day trip from the popular tourist town of Kotor or, easier yet, from the capital Podgorica.

These are our suggestions for the best European pilgrimages. No matter which of these trails you choose, you will have a memorable experience, filled with adventure, self-discovery, and so many answers. Don’t forget, however, that they are all different, and completing one should only be a good reason to start planning the next on your list.

Also, remember that there are so many other incredible pilgrimages in Europe that promise glorious adventures for all outdoorsy, curious travelers who are interested in testing their physical or spiritual limits.

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Interesting blog , it reminds me of Lourdes , pilgrims may visit Lourdes to be cleansed of their sins and to be cured of their illnesses. I tried to write a blog about Lourdes, hope you also like it: https://stenote.blogspot.com/2019/07/ave-maria-day-at-lourdes.html

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17 Top Catholic Pilgrimage Sites In Europe

Looking to explore some of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in Europe? If so, this post is for you!

Europe is home to some of the most visited catholic pilgrimage sites in the world and significant holy places in Roman Catholicism. From ancient churches to stunning shrines, Europe is a popular destination for religious pilgrimages from pilgrims around the world. 

Whether you’re a devout Catholic looking for spiritual growth or just curious about the history and religious significance of these religious sites, a visit to one of the top Catholic pilgrimage sites in Europe is surely a memorable experience.

What Are The Top Catholic Pilgrimage Sites In Europe?

So, if you’re looking to explore some of the most important Catholic pilgrimages in Europe, then read on to discover the best places to visit:

1. Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain

Visiting the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain is a must for any religious traveler. This stunning cathedral is the final resting place of the remains of the Apostle Saint James and is considered one of the holiest sites in Spain and for sure one of the top 10 Catholic pilgrimages worldwide.

Built in the 11th century, the cathedral is an architectural masterpiece and a beautiful example of the Romanesque-Gothic style. Inside, visitors can admire the intricate stonework and intricate stained glass window depicting the life and death of Saint James.

The cathedral is also home to a beautiful cloister, and the adjoining Pilgrim’s Office offers a wealth of information on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route . Visiting this sacred destination is sure to be a spiritual and awe-inspiring experience, especially if you visit it for the first time as the final destination of the famous Way of St. James (commonly known as Camino de Santiago ).

Definitely, a must-see when visiting Northern Spain.

Book A Santiago de Compostela Cathedral Tour

2. Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France

The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France ( Notre-Dame de Paris which means Our Lady of Paris in English) is another must-visit for any traveler looking to explore the history and culture of the Catholic Church.

This iconic cathedral is the most visited monument in the city and has been standing for over eight centuries. Visitors can admire the stunning Gothic architecture, and intricate stained-glass windows, and explore the tombs of famous French kings, as well as the famous bell towers containing the bells of Notre Dame.

Notre Dame is also home to many important religious and historical artifacts, including the Crown of Thorns, which is said to have been worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion.

A visit to Notre Dame is a spiritual experience that will stay with you forever, and it is a great way to learn more about the Catholic faith.

Book Your Notre-Dame Cathedral and Paris Tour Here

3. St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, Italy

St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, Italy – a very popular pilgrimage destination, is an absolute must for anyone looking to explore and learn more about the Catholic faith.

This iconic basilica is the home of the Holy Father – the head of the Catholic Church, and one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world.  It is also home to some of the most significant religious artifacts and relics. From the stunning marble facade to Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes inside, St. Peter’s Basilica is a work of art in its own right.

Additionally, the basilica holds important religious relics such as a fragment of the True Cross, pieces of the Crown of Thorns, and the famous Pieta. A visit to this incredible pilgrimage site is sure to leave you in awe and appreciation of the rich Catholic history and culture of Rome.

Book Your St. Peter’s Basilica and Rome Tour Here

4. Chartres Cathedral in Chartres, France

One of the most awe-inspiring pieces of architecture in France is Chartres Cathedral in Chartres, France.

Built in the 12th century, this magnificent structure has stood the test of time and still retains its original form. Its impressive stained glass windows, intricately carved statues, and soaring spires have inspired generations and continue to draw tourists from around the world.

Chartres Cathedral is also home to some of the most important artifacts in French history, including the Sancta Camisa , which is believed to be the tunic worn by the Virgin Mary during the birth of Christ.

Additionally, some of Chartres Cathedral’s stained glass windows are part of the original set created in the 12th century. Its beautiful architecture and incredible history make Chartres Cathedral a must-see destination for anyone visiting France .

5. Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain

Visiting the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain should be at the top of your list when it comes to Catholic pilgrimage sites in Europe.

This magnificent basilica, designed by the world-renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, is an architectural masterpiece and a beautiful example of the Catalan modernism style. Inside, visitors can admire the stunning stained-glass windows, intricate stonework, and towering spires.

The basilica also offers stunning views of the city of Barcelona and its surrounding mountains, making it a great place to visit for any traveler looking to explore Europe’s Catholic culture.

Book Your Sagrada Familia Basilica & Barcelona Tour Here

6. Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Fatima, Portugal

Visiting the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima (also known as Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima ) in Fatima, Portugal is another must-visit for any religious traveler looking to explore and learn more about the Catholic faith.

This shrine is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is a major pilgrimage site for Catholics all over the world. Visitors can explore the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, as well as the Chapel of Apparitions, which is said to be the place where Mary appeared to three shepherd children in 1917.

Additionally, the shrine is home to many religious artifacts, including the Miracle of the Sun, and the famous statue of Our Lady of Fatima.

A visit to this holy shrine is sure to be a spiritual and moving experience, especially when you see people praying the Holy Rosary while kneeling on the floor until they arrive at the Capelinha .

Book Your Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima and Portugal Tour Here

7. Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi in Assisi, Italy

The Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi in Italy is an absolute must-visit for any devout traveler who wishes to delve deeper into the Catholic faith, as this awe-inspiring edifice sits atop the cave where it is said that Saint Francis prayed fervently during his lifetime. Its striking aesthetic design displays a breathtaking example of Italian architecture and makes for an unforgettable experience!

The basilica is made up of two churches that are connected by a large courtyard and contain numerous works of art and artifacts from the life of St. Francis. Visitors can explore the crypt where St. Francis is buried and the library where he wrote his famous works.

A visit to this basilica is sure to be a spiritual experience that will stay with you forever, and it is a great way to learn more about the life and teachings of St. Francis of Assisi.

Book Your St. Francis of Assisi Basilica tour Here

8. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in Lourdes, France

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Catholic faith and is visited by millions of pilgrims each year and another site of a Marian apparition.

This incredible sanctuary is home to the miraculous healing spring and grotto where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to St. Bernadette in 1858. Visitors can explore the various chapels, basilicas, and pilgrimage sites that have been built in honor of the apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

Visitors can participate in spiritual activities such as the Rosary, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament,  confession, and Masses.

Lourdes is definitely one of the best Catholic places to visit for pilgrims and our family’s favorite, too. We love to visit the Sanctuary atleast once a year.

Book Your Sanctuary to Our Lady of Lourdes Tour Here

9. St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, Austria

St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, Austria is an iconic symbol of the city and a must-see destination for any Catholic traveler visiting the beautiful country.

The Gothic-style cathedral was built in the 12th century and stands 136 meters tall, making it one of the tallest churches in Europe. Inside, visitors can admire its stunning stained glass windows, its magnificent high altar, and the many works of art and sculptures that decorate the building.

The cathedral is also the home of the Archbishop of Vienna and the site of many important Catholic events in the country, including the wedding and funeral of the famous composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Book Your St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Vienna Tour Here

10. Oviedo Cathedral in Asturias, Spain

The Cathedral of Oviedo (also known as Cathedral of San Salvador) in Asturias, Spain holds a special place in the hearts of Catholics, as it is home to The Holy Shroud of Oviedo ,  also known as Sudarium Of Oviedo , which is believed to be the cloth that was wrapped around the head of Jesus Christ after his death. The relic is kept in the cathedral and is brought out for special occasions, such as Good Friday.

It is a Romanesque and Gothic-style building that features an impressive Baroque facade, a beautiful cloister, and a bell tower that stands at over 90 meters. Inside the cathedral, visitors can admire its impressive architecture, as well as its many works of art.

Oviedo Cathedral is also one of the main destinations for pilgrims who are doing the Camino de Santiago (The Way of St. James). There’s a saying (that I learned while reading more about Oviedo Cathedral) that goes:

“Who goes to Santiago but not to Salvador, visits the servant but not the Lord.”

If you’ll be doing the Camino de Santiago, soon or in the future, you already know that skipping the Cathedral of Oviedo is not a good idea.

Even if my family was not making the Camino de Santiago in 2021, we made sure to visit the Cathedral of Oviedo on our way to Santiago de Compostela.

11. Shrine of St. Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy

The Shrine of St. Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy is built in honor of the beloved Italian priest and saint, Padre Pio, and is home to the tomb of St. Padre Pio, where visitors can pay their respects and seek his intercession.

The shrine also contains several chapels, a museum, and a library dedicated to his life and works. It is a beautiful place of pilgrimage, and those who visit can sense the strong spiritual presence of St. Padre Pio.

It is a place of prayer, reflection, and hope, and many visitors experience a deep sense of peace and joy. The shrine is a true testament to the power of faith, and it is sure to be an unforgettable experience for any Catholic traveler.

Book Your Padre Pio Shrine Tour Here

12. Valencia Cathedral in Valencia, Spain

Valencia Cathedral in Valencia, Spain is a must-see destination for any devout Catholic traveler visiting Spain. This beautiful cathedral is said to be the final resting place of the Holy Grail that Jesus’ used in the Last Supper.

Built in the 15th century, this Gothic-style cathedral is home to many works of art, including a beautiful rose window, a Baroque chancel, and a treasury filled with ancient artifacts. Visitors can also explore the relics of Saint Vicent Ferrer and the tombs of past kings and queens, as well as admire the impressive architecture of the building.

This cathedral is a great place to explore the footsteps of Jesus and pay your respects to the relics of the past.

I had been to this Cathedral when I was still single but didn’t have any idea that it was where the Holy Grail is, so, I didn’t pay much attention. I will definitely come back to Valencia Cathedral with my family one day (luckily, it’s a 3-hour drive from home) and I will read about it more before going, so, I’ll be more mindful and knowledgeable.

UPDATE: I finally went back with my family on a 3-Day pilgrimage to Valencia in December 2023.

Book Your Valencia Cathedral & Valencia City Tour Here

13. Basilica of Saint-Denis in Paris, France

One of the famous churches in France is the Basilica of Saint-Denis in Paris, France – a must-see destination for any devout Catholic traveler.

This stunning basilica is often referred to as the first example of modern western European architecture and is the burial place of many French kings and queens. The basilica is also home to the tomb of Saint-Denis, the patron saint of France and the first bishop of Paris.

Book Your Basilica of Saint-Denis Tour

14. Milan Cathedral in Milan, Italy

The Milan Cathedral, also known as the Duomo di Milano , is one of the most iconic Catholic shrines of Italy and a must-see destination for anyone taking part in Catholic shrines of Italy tour .

This magnificent Gothic-style cathedral is the 5th largest Catholic church in the world and is home to over 3,500 statues and 135 spires and pinnacles.

The Milan Cathedral is a site of great religious significance, and it is the home of the Archbishop of Milan. The cathedral is also a popular tourist destination, and it is a great place to explore the history and culture of this beautiful city.

Book Your Milan Cathedral & Milan City Tour

15. Canterbury Cathedral in Canterbury, England

Canterbury Cathedral in Canterbury, England is an iconic Catholic shrine and a must-see destination for those taking part in a Catholic Shrine of Europe tour.

This stunning Gothic cathedral is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in the world and was the original destination of the famous medieval pilgrimage. The cathedral is home to the tomb of Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury who was murdered in the cathedral in 1170, and the shrine is a site of great religious significance for both Catholics and Anglicans.

Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture of the cathedral, admire the ancient artifacts, and pay their respects to the martyr who lost his life in the pursuit of justice.

Book your Canterbury Cathedral & London Tour Here

16. Jasna Gora Monastery in Częstochowa, Poland

Jasna Gora Monastery in Częstochowa, Poland is home to a miraculous painting of the  Black Madonna of Częstochowa ( also known as Our Lady of Częstochowa) and one of Jasna Góra’s most precious treasures.

The monastery is also home to a library full of ancient manuscripts and relics, and a museum that houses religious artifacts from around the world. Every year, throngs of pilgrims flock to the monastery to pay their respects and seek healing.

Book your Jasna Gora Monastery & Częstochowa Tour Here

17. Pontifical Shrine of the Infant Jesus of Prague in Prague, Czech Republic

The Pontifical Shrine of the Infant Jesus of Prague (also known as The Church of Our Lady of Victories) in Prague, Czech Republic is one of the most famous Catholic shrines in Europe.

This shrine is dedicated to the miraculous statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague, a wooden statue of the baby Jesus that dates back to the 16th century.

The shrine is also well-known for its ornate Baroque architecture and the beautiful gardens that surround it. Visitors can also explore the many chapels and visit the museum, which features art and artifacts related to the life of the Infant Jesus.

Book your Prague City Tour Here

Final Thoughts on The Top Catholic Pilgrimage Sites in Europe

The top Catholic pilgrimage sites in Europe offer the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of our busy lives and reconnect with our spiritual roots.

These sites provide a chance to reconnect with our faith and revisit pilgrimage traditions that have been in place for centuries. From the awe-inspiring architecture of the great cathedrals, major basilicas, and different monasteries, to the mysterious and powerful relics of the past, these sites provide unique and intriguing life-changing experiences that are sure to stay with us every step of the way on our spiritual journey.

For those looking for a more intimate and immersive experience, walking pilgrimages are an excellent way to explore these holy sites and deepen one’s faith. During a walking pilgrimage, pilgrims can visit different churches, monasteries, and shrines, engaging in prayer, contemplation, and other spiritual practices.

Such pilgrimages are not only a great way to deepen one’s spiritual life but also provide a unique opportunity to connect with the local Catholic community and explore the traditions and culture of the countries visited.

Have you been to any of the holy places in Europe mentioned above? How was the experience? Or are you planning to go on a pilgrimage soon, if yes, where? Feel free to share your experiences and thoughts in the comments section below!

RELATED POSTS:

Top 19 Most Visited Catholic Shrines In The World

15 Most Popular Catholic Pilgrimage Sites in Spain

17 Most Popular Catholic France Pilgrimage Sites You Should Visit

The Marian Route And Its Five Sanctuaries

Visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Meritxell in Andorra

Looking to book your next family adventure? Feel free to use these resources that are tried and tested by my family.

If you book your next family, solo, or couple trip anywhere via the link below or with any of the hotel/travel links on the website, you’ll get the best deal available and I will get a small commission ( without any extra cost to you – the prices direct to the websites and via the links here are the same) which will help me in maintaining this site.

Book your accommodation: You can find the best prices on hotels with these two providers: Booking.com (my favorite) if you are located in Europe, and TripAdvisor if you are anywhere else. If you prefer apartment rentals, find the cheapest prices with VRBO .

Book your entrances: Book your tickets to museums and other attractions and avoid the long queue with Tiqets.com .

Book your excursions: Save time and enjoy a hassle-free excursion by hiring professional guides thru GetYourGuide and Viator .

Book your car: Get the best car rental deals by booking at least one month in advance with DiscoverCars .

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me .

is the mama behind Caballe Family . She is a cradle Catholic who loves learning more about the Catholic faith and she also loves visiting Catholic destinations and exploring Spain with her family. She used to be an au-pair/househelp in Europe for 12 years and now turned stay-at-home mama & wife, living with her family in a little village in sunny Barcelona, Spain.

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Pilgrimage to Medjugorje

The Medjugorje Pilgrimage 2024 or 2025 tour spends one week in the peaceful mountain hamlet in Bosnia Herzegovina where the Virgin Mary has been appearing since June 25, 1981. After arriving in Dubrovnik, Split, or Sarajevo, you will be met by a local guide from Medjugorje who will bring you back to his home village recounting the story of Our Lady’s first apparitions along the way. You will attend Mass and pray the Rosary daily with the villagers and other pilgrims from around the world at St. James Church.  During the Medjugorje Pilgrimage, you will have the opportunity to climb Apparition Hill where Our Lady first appeared, and to make the Way of the Cross as you ascend Cross Mountain . Your guide for the Medjugorje Pilgrimage Tour will arrange for you to meet any of the visionaries who are in the village at the time and to hear young men from the Cenacolo community share their stories of conversion and witness to the healing power of Faith. It is said that Our Lady invites all her Children to Medjugorje to lead them to a closer relationship with Her Son, Jesus, and to exhort us to Pray for Peace in our hearts, in our homes, and in our communities. For more information regarding Medjugorje itself, consult the Official Medjugorje website here.   Book your Pilgrimage to Medjugorje in 2024 or 2025 today.

On May 13, 2019, the Pope officially announced that Dioceses and Parishes throughout the world are now authorized to organize pilgrimages to Medjugorje.

For a taste of the Medjugorje Pilgrimage, see the short video below:

Tour Details for Medjugorje Pilgrimage Tour in 2024 & 2025

Departure & return location.

Your  local airport of choice  —  Or you can choose land only and make your own flight arrangements.

Departure Time

Arrive for Check-in 3 Hours Before Flight Time

Price Includes

• Air fares - Round trip airfare listed below Airfare is included for most major airports
• 1 Checked Bag for the Airlines
• Accommodations - First Class Hotel or Marija's all rooms with Private Bath / often stay at Marija's home if available
• Meals - Breakfast and Dinner Daily Wine & bottled water with dinners
• Airport Transfers
• Tour Guide - Catholic, Professional English Speaking Guides
• Daily Mass and Spiritual Activities Coordinated
• The very best guides

Price Excludes

• Travel Insurance - optional but recommended
• Gratuities for Guide, Driver and House
• Baggage Fees, if applicable
• Fees for Seat Assignments or Seat Upgrades, if applicable
• Private airport transfers when selecting Land Only and arranging your own flights
• Any Personal Expenses

Complementaries

• Name and Luggage tags
• Neck Wallet
• Tours average 19 pilgrims for Medjugorje except private groups

Itinerary for Medjugorje Pilgrimage Tour 2024 & 2025

Day 1 depart from home.

Board your overnight transatlantic flights from your local airport to begin your pilgrimage to Medjugorje.  Meals are served on board.

Day 2 Arrive Medjugorje

Arrive in Dubrovnik or Split or Sarajevo where you will be greeted by your tour guide who will then escort you to the private motor coach which will then take you on the 2 1/2-hour drive to the village of Medjugorje. Once there you will meet your fellow pilgrims and your priest-spiritual director.  Dinner and overnight in Medjugorje. 

Day 3 to 8 Medjugorje

During your stay, you will experience the beauty and peace of this simple village, and have the opportunity to share your faith with pilgrims from all over the world. Here are some of the activities planned for the week:

Daily Mass : Each mor ning, at 10:00 am (noon on Sunday), the group will gather at St. James Church for Mass and the blessing of religious articles immediately following. Climb Apparition Hill : Recite the Rosary while climbing the hill to the place where the visionaries first encountered Our Lady.

Climb Mt. Kri zevac – Cross Mountain :  In 1933, the villagers b uilt a 30′ high cross atop a mountain to commemorate Jesus’ passion and death on the cross. Climb to the top, stopping 14 times along the way to rest and Pray the Stations of the Cross.

Apparitions : Join  the villagers and fellow pilgrims in praying the Rosary in St. James Church at 5:00 pm (6:00 pm Daylight Savings Time), and stay for the apparition of Our Lady to the visionaries at 5:40 pm (6:40 pm  Daylight Savings Time) . Stay for the Croatian Mass with the Blessing of the Sick immediately following.

Adoration of the Blessed Sa crament : Our Lady has always called us to be close to Her Son. Join fellow pilgrims for Adoration on Tuesday and Saturday at the outside altar of St.  James Church, and for Veneration of the C ross on Friday inside the church. Adoration is also available in the Chapel every afternoon.

Meetings  wit h the Visionaries : Pending their availability, the guide will arrange meetings with the Vi sionaries.

Visit to the Community of Cenacolo : Founded by the Sisters of Charity, Cenacolo is a community for young men and women who have lost their way in life and are on the road to recovery. We will hear their inspirational words about their journeys back to Jesus Christ.  Prayer at the Statue of the Risen Christ : Pray at the bronze statue located on the grounds of St. James Church, and witness the droplets of water that miraculously seep out of Christ’s right knee.

Day 9 Medjugorje - Home

  After an early breakfast, you will leave by motor coach for Dubrovnik or Split or Sarajevo Airport for your return flights home.

Map of Medjugorje Pilgrimage 2024 & 2025

Photos of the Medjugorje Pilgrimage Tour 2024 & 2025

Dates, Pricing and Booking for the Medjugorje Pilgrimage Tour 2024 & 2025

Medjugorje pilgrimage 2024 tour dates, medjugorje pilgrimage 2025 tour dates.

See the airports that we serve.  A few airports have an additional charge.   Contact us  if you don’t see your airport. 

Single Supplement: $199 unless otherwise specified.

Pre or Post Stay in Medjugorje – Overnight Hotel & Breakfast

Double Room w/breakfast only  per person  $59. · Private Room w/breakfast only per person  $79. · Private Airport Transfer  per person $ 129

Flight Upgrades to Business Class or Premium Economy  

Upgrades to Business Class or Premium Economy are available – conditions apply!

Would you like to lead your parish or group on this pilgrimage to Medjugorje?    Click Here to get started.

Travel Insurance for Medjugorje Pilgrimage 2024 & 2025

Travel Insurance is available for Bosnia and Herzegovina  and – is recommended!

Click here for information on insurance plans for a pilgrimage to Medjugorje!

FAQ for Medjugorje Pilgrimage 2024 & 2025

Where do you usually stay in Medjugorje?   Medjugorje hotels and accommodations at Marija’s home can be found here.

Can you provide more information about Medjugore?   Click here for the Story of Medugorje, including Fr. Jozo, the Apparitions, the 5 Stones, or weapons.

Are your guides Catholic?  All of our guides are Roman Catholic!  All our employees are Catholic.  We are the only pilgrimage tour agency with a  Roman Catholic priest on staff!

Do I need an electrical adapter in Medjugorje?   Yes, you will need an adapter in Medjugorje.

How much experience do you have with Medjugorje pilgrimages?

Jimmy’s father organized the very first Medjugorje pilgrimage from the United States.  Jimmy first went to Medjugorje in the very early 1980s.  We have sent very many groups to Medjugorje.

How do I meet up with the group if I make my own flight arrangements? 

If you make your own flight arrangements, we cannot advise you in advance which airport we will be using or the arrival time.  We will make flight arrangements approximately 60 days in advance of the pilgrimage tour start date.  Consequently, make your own flight arrangements well in advance to obtain a good rate or to use airline points.  

Also, arrival times vary between dates and within pilgrimages.  If you make your own flight arrangements, we can arrange a private transfer from Mostar, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, or Split Airports to the group hotel for $129 per person with a minimum of 2 persons.  We can also arrange a return transfer to the airport at the end of your pilgrimage for $129 per person.  We recommend using our transfer service because they are known and trusted drivers.  As soon as you have your flight information, email Marcelle .

How can I find the latest Medjugorje Message?   Click here for recent Medjugorje Messages.

Do you offer any other pilgrimages to Medjugorje? Yes! Click for the Medjugorje – Rome Pilgrimage Tour

Do you have FAQs for airlines, passports, vaccinations, travel insurance, tipping, packing, mobility, and others?   Yes. FAQ for all Catholic Journeys Pilgrimage Tours

Would you like to lead your parish or group on this pilgrimage to Medjugorje?  Click Here to get started.

Related Tours

Regarding the Medjugorje Pilgrimage:

1- Terri Smith and Husband Vincent De Paul were amazing!

2- Guide Marco was fantastic.

3- Food was impressive

The whole experience changed my life

God Bless you all and the work you do

The Medjugorje Pilgrimage was Very Good And Peaceful! It Was My 3rd pilgrimage to Medjugorje and your guide Dragan Is a great guide, who explains all things well. We stayed with Visionary Marija and her place is great. The food and all workers at the Magnificat Center were great. Was able to go to 4 apparitions with Marija and got to eat lunch with her one day. I loved going up Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain. The food in Medjugorje was great at all places I ate and reasonable priced. I added a Lourdes extension and the Lourdes France pilgrimage was really great too! The Church, all statues, Grotto, Stations Of Cross were the Best that I have ever seen. The Hotel we stayed at was great and the food In Lourdes was fantastic. The priest and your guide was great too! Even Lourdes weather was impressive!

I am sure that I will be taking more pilgrimages In the future!

In a nutshell, our Medjugorje pilgrimage was, without a doubt, a dream come true for me!

Our Lady has blessed us in so many ways from the beginning to the end of our pilgrimage and the blessings continue!

Everyone at Catholic Journeys took such good care of us and gave us wonderful support. Dragon was the “best “ guide! We learned so much from him. Donna was a wonderful leader and worked so diligently to make this whole trip rich with opportunities for our spiritual nourishment! This was everything a pilgrimage should be! Everyone in our group brought their unique gifts and spirituality. What a blessing!

Our accommodations were fabulous! The food, wine, cappuccino were amazing! The hospitality was awesome!

My only complaint and regret is that I wished we could have stayed longer!

Fr. John Gunningham

My pilgrimage to Medjugorje was great in spirit and we had a fantastic time. Our tour guide brought us to Marija’s house for the apparition on the 25th. The food is always good in Medjugorje and we all got along well. Our guide made it special by by giving the history and great stories. We attended mass everyday at St. James Church and on Sunday in the hall. One day we went to the Divine Mercy Chapel. So, each time I go to Medjugorje, I learn something new and my faith is deepened. The fun part for me is meeting new people and spending time learning their background and why they choose to come.

Looking forward to my next Medjugorje pilgrimage!

Hello Marcelle,

My pilgrimage to Medjugorje was great. Especially going with my son. We had quality time together and as he mentioned, “Medjugorje is about our blessed mother and her son. What better time to attend with my mom.”

Our group was intimate. Only 20. Father John was awesome. Dragon was the best!. If I return to Medjugorje, he would have to be our tour guide. Returning was sad. We did get delayed in Chicago due to immigration. We lost our flight. Therefore, arrangements had to be made and at the airport too for pickup. Overall, it was worth it.

Thank you for guiding us and for your patience with all of my questions.

Sincerely Laura

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Footsteps of St Mary MacKillop

• Departs May, August and October
• Melbourne to Adelaide

Set out together on a true Australian Pilgrimage through the life and times of Mary MacKillop, as we rekindle the story, landscapes and spirit of our nations’ first Saint.

• Featuring the Cross at Memory Mountain
• Departs August, September & October
• Alice Springs to Uluru

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What pilgrims say about Harvest

“The tour was well organised, the accommodations was excellent. The tour guides were knowledgeable and were an enormous source of information. Border transfers were easily arranged. It was great to travel in an unknown area without any worries.”

“This trip has intensified our spiritual connection with Mary and the time provided gave us time for personal reflections.”

“The pilgrimage renewed my faith. I had an emotional moment at Lourdes going for a bath in the holy waters. Very profound.”

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Prepare that backpack and tie those hiking shoes, because Europe’s most famous pilgrimage routes and long-distance hiking trails are waiting for you!

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Prepare your backpack or bicycle and get ready to hit the road!

Kungsleden / King’s Trail

Pilgrims’ Way

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Via Francigena

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Any suggestions of other European hiking trails that can be added to the website, or additions or changes to the already available information is very much appreciated!

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Great Pilgrimages of Europe

The Joe Walsh Tours Pilgrimages experienced travel team has designed a detailed programme of religious ceremonies and guided visits for our Great Pilgrimages of Europe escorted tours, departing regularly and combining different shrines and destinations.

Led by a spiritual leader, each tour and pilgrimage programme has been designed by our experienced team and includes a detailed schedule of religious ceremonies and visits.

With hand picked hotels, luxury air-conditioned coach transport and the assistance of a pilgrimage coordinator, our Great Pilgrimages of Europe escorted tours are the perfect travel experience for those looking to explore the spirituality and history of the most sacred shrines of Europe and the rich heritage of the continent’s most beautiful cities.

Our Great Pilgrimages of Europe tours will bring you to some of the most sacred sites and spectacular cathedrals in Europe, all places of worship as well as fascinating history.

We have fantastic tours combining different shrines and destinations, including Lourdes and Garabandal in France, Fatima in Portugal; Burgos, Avila, Salamanca and Santiago de Compostela in Spain; San Giovanni Rotondo and Rome in Italy; and Medjugorje in Bosnia.

GREAT PILGRIMAGES OF EUROPE TOURS

Our great pilgrimages of europe travel packages generally include:.

• Direct return flights
• Support from our local guides and representatives
• Private transport in luxury coach
• Hand picked hotel accommodation throughout the trip
• Breakfast and dinner each day
• Lunch also included in Lourdes and Fatima
• Detailed schedule of visits, guided tours and sightseeing
• Detailed programme of religious ceremonies and special masses

See all our departures below and contact our travel experts for advice or assistance booking your place.

THINGS TO DO: SACRED SHRINES OF EUROPE

Located at the foot of the Pyrenees, Lourdes is the world’s most famous Marian Shrine. Visit the basilicas, grotto and baths; learning about the life and work of Saint Bernadette.

The Chapel of Saint Gildard in Nevers is the resting place of Saint Bernadette, who in order to fulfill her religious life joined the Sisters of Charity in 1866.

The monastic city in Rocamadour, perched on a clifftop over the river Alzou, has been a pilgrimage destination since 1166 when the body of St Amadour was discovered.

In Normandy, we visit the places where Sainte Thérèse of Lisieux lived and worked, including Les Buissonnetts and the Carmel Chapel as well as the basilica with her name.

A city of extraordinary beauty, art and culture. Notre Dame Cathedral is an absolute must-visit for pilgrims as well as its iconic monuments, from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe.

‘The City of Stones and Saints’ is a UNESCO site since 1985 and has one of the highest numbers of Romanesque and Gothic churches in Spain. The beautiful old town is wrapped by an impressive medieval wall.

Known as the ‘City of Three Cultures’, Toledo has a rich cultural heritage and fascinating history where Christians, Muslims and Jewish people lived together in harmony.

A stunning UNESCO city, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, stunning architecture in the Plaza Mayor and two magnificent cathedrals.

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

The city of Saint James is home to an iconic cathedral and stunning medieval old town, and destination for thousands of Camino pilgrims.

ALBA DE TORMES

A small town near Salamanca once the seat of the Dukes of Alba in the 15th century and the resting place of Saint Teresa of Avila.

The Eternal City is a magnificent open air museum rich in history, art and religious tradition. Rome is home to the Vatican City and St Peter’s Square, residence of the Pope and cradle of Catholic faith. A must-visit for pilgrims.

SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO

San Giovanni in Puglia is the place where Saint Padre Pio spent most of his life and where pilgrims can visit the most important shrines and sites related to his life and work, as well as the Saint’s tomb.

A place of magnificent art and history, Assisi is the homeplace of Saint Francis. The main sights of this wonderful medieval city include UNESCO-listed Basilica of Saint Francis, the Basilica of Saint Clare and the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels where pilgrims can visit the Porziuncola, the small chapel where Saint Francis lived and where he founded the Franciscan Order.

Padua is one of the prettiest cities in Italy and the resting place of Franciscan monk Saint Anthony. The Basilica of Saint Anthony, built in 1232 in honour of Saint Anthony, has been an important pilgrimage destination for many centuries with pilgrims writing and placing prayers and petitions on the Saint’s tomb.

Karol Wojtyla lived in this stunning historic city for four decades before becoming Pope John Paul II in 1978.

The Divine Mercy Sanctuary in Krakow is the resting place of Saint Faustina.

The hometown of Pope John Paul II, where pilgrims can visit his childhood home which is now a museum and the church where he was baptised.

CZĘSTOCHOWA

This 15th century Chapel of the Blessed Virgin is home to the ‘Black Madonna’, believed to have been painted by Saint Luke the Evangelist.

Lithuania’s stunning UNESCO capital is known as the Baroque Beauty of the Baltics, Jerusalem of the North or City of Mercy. The historic old town is home to hundreds of shrines of various faiths.

HILL OF CROSSES

A symbol of the country’s devotion and identity, the hill has 200,000 crosses of all shapes and sizes which have been placed by locals since 1831, challenging opposition by authorities particularly during the Soviet period.

A must-visit on a pilgrimage to Lithuania. This is the oldest Marian apparition site in Europe has celebrated the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary for 500 years.

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8 Beautiful Shrines of Europe

8 beautiful day trips from Fatima

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15-day HEART OF EUROPE® Circle Tour

PARIS, FRANCE

Welcome to the City of Light

Lucerne, switzerland.

This is the quintessential Swiss city

Rothenburg, germany.

Explore this picturesque storybook village

Innsbruck, austria.

You'll get a close up view of the Austrian Alps from this imperial city

Lake garda, italy.

Come experience a slice of Italian heaven

Munich, germany.

The festive capital of Bavaria is home to Oktoberfest

Antwerp, belgium.

Ornate, 16th-century Flemish Guildhouses fill the city's square

The netherlands.

The shoe always fits at a Dutch Klompenmaker shop

Rhine river.

This legendary waterway is lined with castles, vineyards, and romantic villages

Pricing disclaimer.

15-day tour featuring Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, France, Belgium and Holland. For more than 60 years, Image Tours has offered this signature tour of Europe's most popular countries. With spectacular scenery and local flavor, this is an ideal choice for travelers who want an introduction to the Old World at a great value.

Tour Year 2024

Tour itinerary.

DAY 1 - Overnight Flight to Europe.

Today brings the beginning of a new adventure . . . your trip of a lifetime is about to unfold. The Trip Documents will provide guidance for airport check-in and arrival in Europe. Relax on your transatlantic flight with the assurance that Image Tours has taken care of all the details. 

DAY 2 - GERMANY . . Arrival at Frankfurt Airport - Schriesheim.

As morning dawns, the European coastline comes into view. Upon arrival at Frankfurt’s Rhein-Main Airport, clear passport control, claim your luggage, and pass through customs. Communicating is no problem as English is widely spoken. Refer to the “Arrival Instructions” in the Trip Documents for directions on where and when to meet your tour manager, who will accompany you to your deluxe motor coach. Settle in for a pleasant drive, through central Germany, to your hotel in the village of Schriesheim. This evening, get acquainted with your fellow tour members during a “Welcome to Europe” dinner at the hotel. (Dinner)

DAY 3 - GERMANY . . Medieval Rothenburg - Bavaria.

The route this morning takes you to the northern section of the “Romantic Road,” introducing unspoiled countryside, ancient castles and storybook villages. Spend a few hours in Rothenburg, a beautifully preserved medieval village, surrounded by its original town walls. The cobblestone streets are lined with historic inns and charming storefronts, including the famous “Käthe Wohlfahrt’s Weihnachtsdorf,” a sprawling, year-round Christmas shop. Take a walk on the city walls for a bird’s-eye view of the town and the lovely surrounding landscapes. This afternoon, transfer to your hotel in the scenic and festive state of Bavaria. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 4 - GERMANY . . Munich & AUSTRIA . . Tyrolean Village.

The drive into Munich reveals many of the Bavarian capital’s interesting landmarks. There will be time to explore the central square (Marienplatz) with its unique Glockenspiel (clock tower). For a taste of Oktoberfest, consider beer, sausages and sauerkraut at the famous Hofbräuhaus. After lunch, head south to the Austrian border. Take in the natural beauty while motoring through the majestic Austrian mountains. Enter Tyrol, one of the friendliest and most scenic regions in Austria. Continue to your chalet-style hotel in a typical Tyrolean Village. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 5 - AUSTRIA . . Tyrolean Village.

This day is devoted to the boundless splendor of the Austrian Alps. Awe-inspiring mountain landscapes surround you as you walk through your Tyrolean Village admiring the flower adorned and frescoed chalets. Consider taking a chair lift up the mountain to behold the magnificent Alpine vistas. Another choice is to join your tour manager for a full day optional Salzburg & Dinner excursion (see Optional Excursions), which includes a guided tour of Salzburg (known for Mozart’s birthplace and setting for the “Sound of Music”) and a traditional Austrian meal. (Breakfast)

DAY 6 - AUSTRIA . . Innsbruck & ITALY . . Lake Garda - Verona.

The Hapsburg dynasty is responsible for much of the architectural beauty you will see during the morning stop in Innsbruck. Most notably, Maximilian I, ruler of the Holy Roman Empire from 1493 to 1519, commissioned the iconic Golden Roof balcony.  Innsbruck is the capital of Tyrol and has twice hosted the Winter Olympics. Enter Italy via the Europa Bruecke (Bridge), a remarkable feat of highway engineering through the Dolomite Mountains. Descend to “Lago di Garda” (Lake Garda), whose steep mountain shores give it a subtropical climate with rich vegetation, including colorful oleander bushes, olive and citrus trees, and grape vines which produce some of the famous Italian wines. During an afternoon stop, stroll along the lakefront, browse the quaint markets, or enjoy a gelato (Italian ice cream). From Lake Garda, it’s a short drive to the legendary city of Verona, made famous by Shakespeare’s tragic love story of “Romeo and Juliet.” Experience an authentic Italian meal during an independent dinner before transferring to your hotel. (Breakfast)

DAY 7 - ITALY . . Verona.

Today is yours to absorb the Italian art, architecture, music, and overall romantic atmosphere at your own pace. Explore Verona and its nearly 2000-year-old Roman Arena that is still used today for performances of beloved Italian operas. Use your time to browse the fashionable shops or take a local bus back to turquoise-colored Lake Garda, where you can relax along its shore while sipping a Campari or Cappuccino. Another choice for today is to join the optional Venice excursion (see Optional Excursions) to see canals, gondolas, bridges and delicately-blown glass. This excursion includes dinner at a classic Venetian restaurant. However you choose to spend the day, Italy’s uniquely captivating ambiance will surely leave an everlasting impression. At the end of the day, return to your Verona area hotel. (Breakfast)

DAY 8 - SWITZERLAND . . Lake Lugano - Swiss Alps.

Travel north through the unsurpassed splendor of the Italian and Swiss Lake districts. Switzerland greets you with a background of snow capped mountain peaks in contrast to the palm tree-lined subtropical Lake Lugano. Often referred to as the ”Rio de Janeiro of the Old Continent,” Lugano is the perfect spot for a lunch break. In the afternoon, transfer from the Italian to the German speaking region of Switzerland by way of the 11-mile-long St. Gotthard Tunnel. Overnight in a cozy village surrounded by the Swiss Alps. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 9 - SWITZERLAND . . Stans - Lucerne - Swiss Alps.

A morning drive through William Tell country uncovers impressive Lake Lucerne. The soaring mountain peaks of Rigi and Pilatus standing guard over this vast water basin create one of the most imposing sights in Europe. Stop in the old mountain village of Stans for the optional Swiss Mountain excursion (see Optional Excursions), offering thrilling panoramic views by funicular and cable car. In the afternoon, visit Lucerne with its historic covered bridge and famous Lion Monument, commemorating the heroic deaths of Swiss soldiers who defended Louis XVI during the French Revolution. The rest of the day is yours to explore Lucerne's Old Town, browse displays of delicious chocolates and wood-carved music boxes, or relax on the lovely lakeshore promenade. Before returning to your hotel for dinner, consider joining your tour manager for an optional Swiss Lake Boat Ride excursion (see Optional Excursions) on beautiful Lake Lucerne. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 10 - FRANCE . . Champagne Region – Troyes.

The church bells usher in another glorious day. Follow the Swiss Autobahn past Basel, where Switzerland, Germany and France meet. This is where the Rhine River becomes navigable before starting its approximate 700-mile run through Germany and on to the Atlantic seaport of Rotterdam, Holland. Crossing the border into France, the mountains give way to hilltop settlements and rustic vineyards. Make a mid-day lunch stop before continuing through the Burgundy and Champagne wine regions to Troyes. Your tour manager will offer a walk to the picturesque medieval town square where you may wish to try the local champagne at one of the sidewalk cafés. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 11 - FRANCE . . Paris.

After a mid-morning arrival in Paris, venture out on your own, or join the optional Seine River Cruise excursion (see Optional Excursions), featuring some of the city’s popular landmarks. Before you start your independent exploration, the tour manager will direct you to the location of principal sights such as Place de la Concorde, Champs-Élysées, Notre Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum (open every day except Tuesday), Arc de Triomphe and Galeries Lafayette department store. Tonight, join the optional Paris Evening excursion (see Optional Excursions) with dinner at a characteristic French bistro located in the heart of Paris. Or, choose your own location for an independent dinner. (Breakfast)

DAY 12 - BELGIUM . . Antwerp & HOLLAND.

Travel north to Belgium and proceed to the North Sea port of Antwerp, known for its convivial atmosphere and delicate lacework. Explore the city center, with its historic buildings and quaint shops. Treat yourself to an irresistible Belgian waffle at one of the outdoor cafés on the city’s attractive main square. This afternoon, enter Holland, also known as The Netherlands (or Nederland in Dutch which means “low lands”). Much of the country lies below sea level and is protected from flooding by an intricate system of canals, dikes and pumping stations. Many of the retired windmills, which initially accomplished this process, have been beautifully preserved and can be seen on the drive to your South Holland hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 13 - HOLLAND.

Take advantage of the efficient bus and railway network to a myriad of interesting places, many of which are less than an hour away. Your tour manager will offer a full-day optional Grand Holland excursion (see Optional Excursions), featuring the neatly-groomed countryside, a picturesque Dutch village, and a boat ride through the canals of historic Amsterdam showcasing the elegant bridges and 17th-century architecture. Choose from pancakes, seafood, or other Dutch specialties for your independent dinner. (Breakfast)

DAY 14 - GERMANY . . Rhine River - near Frankfurt Airport.

This morning, return to Germany and travel on the Autobahn (Expressway) to the Rhine River Valley. From Boppard, embark on a scenic boat ride on the Rhine River, one of Western Europe’s most important waterways. Glide past endearing villages, hillside vineyards, medieval castles and fortresses. Pass by the legendary Loreley Rock, which is the subject of boatmen folklore about a bewitching siren. Your hotel is strategically located near Frankfurt Airport and provides a place to gather with your tour companions to toast a memorable holiday during a celebratory "Farewell Dinner."  (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 15 - Daytime flight back to U.S.A.

Your journey of Europe’s scenic, cultural and historic highlights has come full circle. You will forever remember the many sights, sounds and tastes from this wondrous adventure. Transfer to the Frankfurt Rhein-Main Airport for your flight home. We sincerely hope you will return and experience more of Europe’s treasures with Image Tours. Until we see you again — “Auf Wiedersehen!” (Breakfast)

Travel Time

Overnight flight to Europe.

DAY 2 - GERMANY. . Arrival at Frankfurt Airport - Schriesheim.

Arrival at Frankfurt Airport . Meet your tour manager and transfer (1¼ hrs) to your hotel in Schriesheim . (Dinner)

Travel (1½ hrs) to your morning stop. Continue (1 hr) to the beautifully-preserved, medieval, walled town of Rothenburg . After a leisurely visit in Rothenburg , follow the Romantic Road (1¼ hrs) to one of the charming, old-world villages. Continue (1¼ hrs) to your hotel in Bavaria . (Breakfast, Dinner)

Motor (1½ hrs) to the elegant Bavarian capital of Munich for a panoramic tour (1 hr) and free time in the pedestrian-only old town (Marienplatz). Continue (2¼ hrs) across the German-Austrian border to the Tyrolean Village where you will spend the next two nights. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Free day to relax, hike or explore on your own among the Tyrolean Alps. Or, join the optional, full-day Salzburg & Dinner excursion (1¾ hrs), which includes a stop (1¼ hrs) in an alpine village restaurant for a traditional Austrian meal before returning (1 hr) to your Tyrolean Village hotel. (Breakfast)

Travel (1½ hrs) to the Imperial City of Innsbruck. Following independent sightseeing, cross the spectacular Europa Brücke (Bridge) through the Dolomite Mountains (2½ hrs). Make a rest stop in the mountains before descending (1½ hrs) to subtropical Lake Garda . Continue to legendary Verona (1 hr) of Romeo & Juliet fame. After an independent dinner, transfer (½ hr) from Verona to your hotel. (Breakfast)

Spend a leisurely day in Verona or on beautiful Lake Garda. Or, join the full day optional excursion to Venice (2 hr transfer each way). Spend the night in your Verona Area hotel. (Breakfast)

After a border stop (1½ hrs), cross into Switzerland (1¾ hrs) and stop in  Lugano , the "Rio of the Old Continent." Motor through the St. Gotthard Tunnel or Pass (2 hrs) with a short stop. Then, continue (1 hr) to your hotel in the Swiss Alps for a two-night stay. (Breakfast, Dinner)

This morning, drive (½ hr) to the mountain resort of Stans , with the opportunity to take an optional Swiss Mountain excursion. On to Lucerne (½ hr) for afternoon sightseeing and the optional Swiss Lake Boat Ride excursion. Return (½ hr) to your hotel in the Swiss Alps . (Breakfast, Dinner)

Follow the Swiss Autobahn (1½ hrs) to Basel, where Switzerland, Germany and France meet. Continue (2 hrs) across the border and stop for lunch in the Burgundy wine region. Travel through the French Countryside (2 hrs) making a comfort stop along the way. Proceed (1½ hrs) to Troyes for dinner and overnight. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Travel (1½ hrs) to your morning stop and arrive (1½ hrs) in the center of Paris . The remainder of the day is yours to explore Paris, with opportunities for two optional excursions;  Seine River Cruise and Paris Evening . This evening, transfer (¾ hr) to the hotel. (Breakfast)

Travel north to Belgium (2 hrs). After a mid-morning break, continue (2 hrs) to Antwerp . In the late afternoon, motor across the Dutch border (1½ hrs) to your South Holland hotel for a two-night stay. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day of leisure to explore Holland . Or, join the optional Grand Holland excursion, which includes a drive (1 hr) through Holland's countryside, a stop (1 hr) in Amsterdam for free time and a boat ride through the canals, and a visit (1½ hrs) to the picturesque village of Delft for independent dinner, before returning (¾ hr) to your South Holland hotel. (Breakfast)

DAY 14 - GERMANY . . Rhine River- Frankfurt.

Travel (2¼ hrs) across the German border. Enjoy a morning stop, before continuing (2½ hrs) through the Rhine River Valley to Boppard. Board a steamer for an upstream boat ride on the legendary Rhine River. Proceed (1¾ hr) to your hotel located near Frankfurt Airport. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Transfer (¼ hrs) to the Frankfurt Airport for your daytime flight back to U.S.A. (Breakfast)

Favorite Traveler Experiences

•   Walk the wall surrounding the medieval village of Rothenburg
•   Sip ale from a stein at Munich’s famed ‘Hofbräuhaus’ beer hall
•   Wake up to views of the Alps from an Austrian chalet hotel
•   Kiss your true love under Romeo & Juliet’s balcony in Verona
•   Ascend to the peak of a Swiss mountain on a cable car excursion
•   Marvel at the extensive architectural triumphs of Paris
•   Sample a Belgian waffle at a café on Antwerp’s Grand Square
•   Try on a pair of traditional Dutch wooden shoes
•   Glide past castles and vineyards on a Rhine River boat ride
•   Accommodations in Superior Tourist Class or First Class hotels
•   13 Breakfasts and 8 Dinners in addition to any in-flight meals
•   Tour Manager for the full European duration of the tour
•   Land Transportation in Europe by deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach
•   Image Tours Touroclopedia® trip preparation tips
•   Trip Documents with luggage tags, final details and travel guidance

Traveler Reviews

Henry & alyssa g..

The Availability, Departure Dates, and Rates are for illustration and planning purposes only. Since final pricing and single availability can only be confirmed with a travel agent, steps 4 & 5 of this on-line booking module is reserved for your travel agent only. (Please Call) indicates that we still have some tour availability; however, you should have your travel agent call our office to confirm air availability.

Select Departure Month

Upcoming departures, sep 03, 2024, sep 17, 2024, $4,140 p.p.d.o., almost sold out, sep 10, 2024, sep 24, 2024, oct 01, 2024, sep 23, 2024, oct 07, 2024, oct 15, 2024, oct 08, 2024, oct 22, 2024, tour hotels.

Hotel Scheid

• satellite TV
• beer-garden
• nature paths

NH Collection Nürnberg City

• Air Conditioning
• Satellite TV
• In-Room-Safe

Seminaris Hotel Nuremberg

• in-room safe
• fitness center

Q! Hotel Maria Theresia

• fireplace lounge

Landhotel Kirchenwirt

• wellness area

Montresor Hotel Tower

• air conditioning
• in room safe
• spa treatments

Hotel Schweizerhof

Hotel Crystal

Hotel Central am See

• outdoor pool

Mercure Hotel Troyes Centre

Hotel IBIS Styles Troyes Centre

Holiday Inn Express - Canal de la Villette

• internet center
• safety deposit box at reception

NH Hotel Capelle

Hotel Felsenkeller

NH Hotel Frankfurt-Niederrad

Optional excursions.

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS DETAILS

Our tours are carefully planned to offer a comfortable balance of sightseeing, entertainment and leisure time. Optional Excursions provide the flexibility to choose between leisure time or additional guided sightseeing activities. Unless otherwise noted, optional excursions must be booked with and paid to your tour manager during the tour. Prices are in U.S. Dollars. MASTERCARD®, VISA®, or DISCOVER® (no other credit cards are accepted) are recommended to avoid carrying excessive cash and exchange rate fluctuations. You must be able to present the actual card to your tour manager. If you bring a DISCOVER® card, also bring a VISA® or MASTERCARD®, as DISCOVER® is not widely accepted in Europe. Cash payments during the tour must be in Euros. Personal checks and traveler’s checks are not accepted. The operation of all excursions is subject to sufficient participation, and some excursions are subject to favorable weather conditions. Your tour manager reserves the right to make changes or cancel excursions at their sole discretion.

SALZBURG & DINNER

Transfer to Salzburg where a local guide will accompany you on an informative walking tour through Mirabell Gardens and the historic town center. You will have ample free time for lunch and to discover more of Salzburg's many treasures. Before returning to your hotel, stop for a traditional Austrian dinner at an alpine village restaurant.

A private boat transfers you from the mainland, through the Venetian Lagoon, to the center of Venice. A guided walking tour provides an introduction to the history, culture and architecture before concluding with a visit to a glass-blowing workshop. If you have your heart set on gliding through the canals, the cost is about €45 per person based on up to six people sharing a gondola. This excursion includes dinner at a characteristic restaurant.

SWISS MOUNTAIN

Reach the summit of Mount Stanserhorn (elevation 6,232 feet) by both cog-wheel train and the world’s only open-top cable car. At the highest stop, enjoy the panoramic views from the terrace, take a walk along the paths, and snap pictures of the magnificent alpine vistas. This excursion is subject to favorable weather and cable car operation, and may be rescheduled or cancelled. In some cases, another mountain may be substituted.

SWISS LAKE BOAT RIDE

Board a steamer for a relaxing and scenic ride on Lake Lucerne. The lake borders four cantons (states) of Switzerland and, for this reason, is also known as Vierwaldstättersee (“Lake of the Four Forest Cantons”). Your cruise will provide splendid views of the surroundings, comprised of mountain cliffs rising up to 5,000 feet, picturesque villages, and gorgeous lakeside resort homes.

SEINE RIVER CRUISE

Glide along the Seine River by boat, while viewing the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and several other impressive sights in Paris. This excursion provides for excellent photo opportunities.

PARIS EVENING

Your French cuisine experience at a true Paris bistro is accompanied by roving musicians. Dinner includes wine or another beverage and features a tantalizing choice of French dishes. Your return motor coach ride will provide memorable impressions of the "City of Light".

GRAND HOLLAND

Travel among the rural and urban landscapes which highlight the distinctive characteristics of Holland. The day includes a panoramic tour of Amsterdam aboard a glass-topped boat. Also visit the picturesque Dutch village of Delft with an informative explanation on the craft behind the famous locally-made earthenware. 

Tour Extensions

Rüdesheim post-tour extension, 15-day heart of europe® circle tour map.

Got Back Tour - 2024

Estadio Centenario, Montevideo

1 October 2024

Estadio Centenario 11400 Montevideo Departamento de Montevideo Uruguay

River Plate Stadium, Buenos Aires

5 October 2024

River Plate Stadium Av. Pres. Figueroa Alcorta 7597 C1428 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires Argentina

6 October 2024

Estadio Monumental, Santiago

11 October 2024

Estadio Monumental Av. Marathon 5300 Macul Región Metropolitana Chile

Allianz Parque, São Paulo

15 October 2024

Avenida Francisco Matarazzo 1705 R. Palestra Itália 200 - Água Branca São Paulo - SP 05001-200 Brazil

Estádio da Ressacada, Florianópolis

19 October 2024

Carianos Florianópolis - State of Santa Catarina Brazil

Estadio Mario Kempes, Córdoba

23 October 2024

Estadio Mario Kempes Ramón Cárcano Córdoba Argentina

Estadio Nacional, Lima

27 October 2024

Estadio Nacional C. José Díaz s/n Lima 15046 Peru

Estadio BBVA, Monterrey

8 November 2024

Av. Pablo Livas 2011 La Pastora 67140 Guadalupe N.L. Mexico

Estadio GNP Seguros, Mexico City

12 November 2024

Viad. Río de la Piedad S/N Granjas México Iztacalco 08400 Ciudad de México CDMX Mexico

Corona Capital, Mexico City

17 November 2024

Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez Viad. Río de la Piedad S/n Granjas México, Iztacalco 08400 Ciudad de México CDMX Mexico

La Défense Arena, Paris

4 December 2024

99 Jard. de l'Arche 92000 Nanterre France

5 December 2024

WiZink Center, Madrid

9 December 2024

Av. de Felipe II s/n Salamanca 28009 Madrid Spain

10 December 2024

Co-op Live, Manchester

14 December 2024

Etihad Campus 1 Sportcity Way Manchester M11 3DL

15 December 2024

The O2, London

18 December 2024

Peninsula Square London SE10 0DX

19 December 2024

Tour Information

Paul will bring his acclaimed 'Got Back' tour to South America and Europe later this year! Fulfilling his promise to 'get back', Paul will return to Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Peru and Mexico, then head to France, Spain and the UK. His first show of 2024 will take place on 1st October in Montevideo. PRE-SALE AND GENERAL SALE TIMINGS ARE STAGGERED BY SHOW Tuesday 1st October - Estadio Centenario, Montevideo, URUGUAY ⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Monday 10 June 2PM UYT / 6PM BST ⁠General sale: Monday 17 June 12.01PM UYT / 4.O1PM BST ⁠ ⁠Saturday 5th October - River Plate Stadium, Bueno Aires, ARGENTINA Sunday 6th October - River Plate Stadium, Bueno Aires, ARGENTINA ⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Tuesday 11 June 10AM ART / 2PM BST ⁠⁠General sale: Wednesday 12 June 12pm ART / 4PM BST ⁠ ⁠Friday 11th October - Estadio Monumental, Santiago, CHILE ⁠⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Monday 17 June 11AM CLT / 4PM BST ⁠⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 11.01AM CLT / 4.01PM BST Tuesday 15th October - Allianz Parque, Sao Paulo, BRAZIL ⁠⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Tuesday 25th June 10AM BRT / 2PM BST ⁠⁠General sale: Wednesday 26th June 12PM BRT / 4PM BST Saturday 19th October - Estádio da Ressacada, Florianópolis, BRAZIL ⁠⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Tuesday 25th June 10AM BRT / 2PM BST ⁠⁠General sale: Wednesday 26th June 12PM BRT / 4PM BST ⁠ ⁠Wednesday 23rd October - Mario Alberto Kempes, Córdoba, ARGENTINA ⁠⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Tuesday 11 June 10AM ART / 2PM BST ⁠⁠General sale: Wednesday 12 June 12pm ART / 4PM BST ⁠ ⁠Sunday 27th October - Estadio Nacional, Lima, PERU ⁠⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Friday 14 June 10AM PET / 4PM BST ⁠⁠General sale: Sunday 16 June 10AM PET / 4PM BST Friday 8th November - Estadio BBVA, Monterrey, MEXICO ⁠⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Monday 24 June 9AM CST / 4PM BST ⁠⁠General sale: Friday 28 June 1PM CST / 8PM BST Tuesday 12th November - Estadio GNP Seguros, Mexico City, MEXICO ⁠⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Monday 24 June 9AM CST / 4PM BST ⁠⁠General sale: Friday 28 June 1PM CST / 8PM BST Wednesday 4th December - La Defense Arena, Paris, FRANCE ⁠Thursday 5th December - La Defense Arena, Paris, FRANCE ⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Tuesday 18 June 10am CET ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am CET ⁠ ⁠Monday 9th December - WiZink Center, Madrid, SPAIN ⁠Tuesday 10th December - WiZink Center, Madrid, SPAIN ⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Tuesday 18 June 10am CET ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am CET ⁠ ⁠Saturday 14th December - Co-op Live, Manchester, UK ⁠Sunday 15th December - Co-op Live, Manchester, UK ⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Wednesday 19 June 10am BST ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am BST ⁠ ⁠Wednesday 18th December - The O2 Arena, London, UK ⁠Thursday 19th December - The O2 Arena, London, UK ⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Wednesday 19 June 10am BST ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am BST

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Paul announces Brazil dates for the 2024 'Got Back' tour

Paul announces mexico dates for the 2024 'got back' tour, paul announces europe dates for the 2024 'got back' tour.

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The Taylor Swift Economy Has Landed in Europe

Economists are debating what effect the singer’s sweep through Europe will have this summer as swarms of fans increase demand for hotels and services.

By Eshe Nelson

Reporting from London

It’s not just Taylor Swift fans keeping a close eye on her Eras Tour dates. One of Europe’s most prominent economists is acutely aware that the singer is spending the summer jetting between Europe’s stadiums.

Philip Lane, the chief economist at the European Central Bank, had the pop star on his mind when he spoke at an event on Monday. The interviewer had asked him about the risk that stubborn inflation in the services sector could intensify, especially with Europe heading into a particularly busy summer with the Olympics in Paris and the Euro 2024 soccer championship in Germany.

“Well, that’s very interesting,” he said at the event . “You managed to say all that without saying Taylor Swift.”

Ms. Swift is touring Europe this summer, bringing in her wake hundreds of thousands of Swifties spending on airfare, hotels, restaurants and friendship bracelets . On Friday, she will perform the first of eight shows at London’s Wembley Stadium; about 700,000 people are expected to see the shows in the British capital. And analysts are debating the economic footprint it will leave.

Economists in the United States know that Eras is an economic tour de force. As consumers splurged on concerts, meals, vacations and other recreational experiences they missed out on during pandemic lockdowns, one company estimated that the tour could generate $4.6 billion in North America alone from spending on tickets, merchandise and travel.

Central bankers are justified in scrutinizing the potential inflationary effects of the arrival of a global superstar: In May last year, when Beyoncé kicked off her Renaissance World Tour in Stockholm, an economist attributed a blip in the inflation data to the singer’s concert, as fans traveled from afar to witness the first show.

Europe’s central banks have started to cut interest rates — or are poised to — as inflation has slowed substantially over the past year, putting their 2 percent target rates within sight. But there are lingering concerns that inflationary pressures have not been stamped out because price gains for services, which include hotels and restaurants, are repeatedly higher than expected.

The demand that the Eras Tour creates for hotel rooms and flights across Europe could push up prices that feed into each country’s inflation rate. Central bankers are sensitive to even minute changes in the data as they try to distinguish one-off effects from lasting ones. If central bankers worry that inflation is not slowing as expected, they could hold off cutting rates.

“All those tiny quirks are going to matter a lot,” said Lucas Krishan, a strategist at TD Securities in London. They can “muddle the picture for central banks heading into these decisions.”

Last month, Portugal’s inflation rate accelerated, in part because of a jump in hotel prices in Lisbon “resulting from a major cultural event,” the country’s statistics office said. Ms. Swift performed in Lisbon on May 24 and 25.

The impact that events like Ms. Swift’s tour have on inflation can be mitigated by how well a country’s economists anticipate the effect of her concerts so investors and others are not surprised by the data. Policymakers at the European Central Bank have said that the path back to 2 percent inflation will be “bumpy” and that a relatively strong tourism season is already baked into their forecasts.

But Mr. Krishan said it was possible that Ms. Swift's concerts in August, when the tour swings back through London, could increase services inflation in Britain, especially because one of her tour dates may coincide with the day that the nation’s statistics agency records price data. If hotel prices follow the pattern set when she played in Liverpool this month, services inflation could rise as much as 0.3 percentage points. Higher-than-expected inflation data in August could encourage Bank of England officials to hold off on cutting rates in September, Mr. Krishan said.

Other analysts are skeptical of Ms. Swift’s ability to have a seismic impact that shows up in national statistics.

“Taylor Swift is unlikely to be affecting central bank policy. She’s unlikely to be affecting government policy,” said George Moran, an economist at Nomura. “And I don’t think it’s a sustainable option for growth in a country to rely on having superstar concerts.”

Barclays predicted that Ms. Swift's tour would lead to a bump of nearly 1 billion pounds ($1.3 billion) in the British economy , but those suggestions are hard to substantiate, Mr. Moran said, because no one knows how much people are diverting their spending from other activities. Even then, £1 billion would not be enough to revitalize Britain’s stagnant economy .

Still, Mr. Moran added that for individual cities and certain sectors, the tour could have a meaningful impact. When tickets went on sale last summer, Airbnb searches in host cities increased more than 300 percent on average, the company said. The Greater London authority estimated that Ms. Swift’s eight London shows would generate £300 million for the economy .

“The impact is going to be more local than macro,” Mr. Moran said. “Taylor Swift is obviously a massive phenomenon, and the areas that she’s visiting is causing a big buzz in the hospitality sector.”

Eshe Nelson is a reporter based in London, covering economics and business news for The New York Times. More about Eshe Nelson

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Travis, Jason and Kylie Kelce attend Taylor Swift's Eras Tour show in London

Swift fever has touched down on the British capital as Taylor Swift was set to perform her first sold-out night in London's Wembley Stadium ushering in new opening acts with Travis, Jason and Kylie Kelce cheering from the floor.

Travis Kelce was seen walking to the VIP floor tent during Paramore's "Misery Business" with Kelce's brother, sister-in-law and best friend Ross Travis. The Kelces were in Cannes, France the day before the concert for the Cannes Lions Festival. Fans snapped photos and videos of Jason exchanging friendship bracelets with Swifties. Also spotted on the floor, Swift's parents Scott and Andrea Swift , Bridgerton actress Nicola Coughlan , Queer Eye host Jonathan van Ness and actress Cara Delevingne.

Online, social media accounts have confused Ross Travis and Travis Kelce. Travis was wearing a green shirt and Cowboy hat.

Kelce has attended the tour a half dozen times since the couple went public last year. His first stop was Buenos Aires, Argentina , followed by Sydney, Australia,  two nights in Singapore and the final night in Paris. Swift has changed the “Karma” lyrics to "guy on the Chiefs" every time Kelce has cheered her on from the sidelines. She also attended 13 NFL games in the 2023-2024 season culminating in the Super Bowl.

The Kansas City football player was in Nashville, Tennessee, on Tuesday for his three-day event Tight End University . Before heading to Europe he hosted a the program that brings tight ends together for film study, on-field drills, recovery and rehabilitation.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Introducing Mette to the Swift universe

Mette opened up for night one in Wembley taking the stage before Paramore, the opening act for all 51 Eras Tour shows in Europe. Mette describes her musical repertoire as "sensual and sweaty." Prior to the Eras Tour she played Cassandra alongside Swift in the 2019 movie "Cats."

"This is such a special night y'all," Mette said. "Thank you, Taylor."

London transforms into Swiftmania

The City of Dreams has prepared for the three nights of Swift. She's sang about the city in several of her songs including "London Boy," "So Long London" and "The Black Dog." She has a history with the city after dating ex Joe Alwyn for six-plus years, frequently visiting Camden Market, Highgate, the West End, Brixton, Shoreditch and Hackney.

Murals appeared around the city the week leading up to Swift's show. Hours before the show, the Tube, or London subway system, created a map decked out in the singer's 11 eras, recoloring the lines to correspond to different albums and renaming stops after songs like "All Too Well" and "I Knew You Were Trouble." Gemstones were added to reflect popular landmarks like the Hampstead Heath or Wembley Stadium.

Swift has two more performances at Wembley Stadium before heading to Dublin. On Saturday, Griff will open for the singer before Paramore and on Sunday, Benson Boone will be the first act to take the stage.

Don't miss any Taylor Swift news; sign up for the  free, weekly newsletter This Swift Beat.  

Follow Taylor Swift reporter Bryan West on  Instagram ,  TikTok  and  X as @BryanWestTV .

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Taylor swift and travis kelce leave london eras tour show hand in hand after onstage surprise.

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So long, London.

Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift left her third and final Eras Tour show in London hand in hand, as seen in a fan video .

The Kansas City Chiefs player, 34, was spotted waiting for the pop star in an all-white outfit and a bucket hat as she chatted with someone on Sunday.

THEY ARE DRESSED NICE WHERE ARE THEY GOING?! pic.twitter.com/5h9AUKB8aP — Tayvis Nation 🏈🫶🏻 (@tayvisnation) June 23, 2024

After wrapping up her conversation, Swift stepped into frame in a pink dress and heels, reaching for her partner’s hand as they walked down a ramp.

“THEY ARE DRESSED NICE WHERE ARE THEY GOING?!” one X user asked.

Another gushed , “going on a date after a 3+ hour show?! and they say love is dead.”

Swift, also 34, kicked off her England performances on Friday and rolled right into another show on Saturday.

Kelce was spotted at Wembley Stadium for all three concerts, even making a surprise onstage appearance for the final show.

He joined two of her backup dancers during the “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” transition, fanning himself during the songwriter’s subsequent wardrobe change.

Swift will have a few days off before hitting the stage in Dublin next week.

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Want celebrity news as it breaks? Hooked on Housewives?

Kelce, who is in his NFL offseason, last attended one of his girlfriend’s shows in Paris in May, making headlines for dancing with Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid .

The athlete remained abroad for a Lake Como getaway with Swift.

The couple stayed in a luxurious private villa , which cost $21,000 per night, and he filmed his and brother Jason Kelce’s “New Heights” podcast from somewhere “in Europe.”

The tight end gushed about Swift’s “unbelievable” skills while urging listeners to catch her upcoming tour stops.

“It has her new ‘Tortured Poets Department,’ a handful of those songs in the new show, which means  there’s a new segment , new lights, new dancing and everything,” Travis said at the time. “I enjoyed every bit of it.”

The three-time Super Bowl winner hadn’t met Swift when he first attended an Eras Tour show in Missouri in July 2023 — although he did try to give her his phone number on a friendship bracelet.

While he was “disappointed” Swift didn’t talk to him at the time, news broke two months later that the duo were dating .

When the “Catching Kelce” alum next attended one of her shows in Buenos Aires in November 2023, the couple were caught on camera embracing and kissing .

He has since watched Swift perform in Singapore and Sydney, showing PDA both times.

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Taylor Swift Eras tour: London setlist and everything you need to know

F orget the Euros, Glastonbury or Wimbledon. The hottest tickets in Britain this summer are for one show only: Taylor Swift’s Eras tour , which has now finished its run in Edinburgh, Liverpool, Cardiff and London – until August, that is, when the singer will return to cover Wembley Stadium in another five-nights worth of sequins, friendship bracelets and VIP guests.

What time do gates open? 

• Secret songs

How long is the concert?

Of course, actually getting tickets for the biggest tour in a generation – my colleague, Neil McCormick , wrote in his recent definitive review that the Eras tour is “worthy of six stars” and more akin to a religious ritual than a pop concert – is only half of the battle. You might have beaten the Ticketmaster queue and planned an outfit, but are you ready for a three-hour extravaganza packed with secret clues and rituals?

Eras tour UK dates

Swift is playing eight more dates in the UK and Ireland: 

• June 28-30: Dublin, Aviva Stadium
• August 15-20: London, Wembley Stadium

Here’s your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about the UK leg of the Eras tour – past, present and future – from timings, support acts and the 46-strong setlist to potential secret songs and special guests.

Fans with early entry should be able to enter Wembley from 4pm, with general ticket holders permitted from 4.30pm. 

Swift’s main performance will begin between 7pm and 7.20pm (with the primary support act, Paramore, taking to the stage around 6pm, and the earlier opener expected around 4.30-5pm).

Which songs are on the setlist?

In order, the full setlist is as follows: 

From Lover:

• Miss Americana and the Heartbreak Prince
• Cruel Summer
• You Need to Calm Down

From Fearless:

• You Belong With Me
• We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together
• I Knew You Were Trouble
• All Too Well (10 minute version)

From Speak Now:

From Reputation:

• …Ready For It?
• Don’t Blame Me
• Look What You Made Me Do

From Folklore/Evermore:

• Champagne Problems
• Illicit Affairs
• My Tears Ricochet
• Blank Space
• Shake It Off
• Wildest Dreams

From The Tortured Poets Department:

• But Daddy I Love Him
• So High School
• Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me?
• The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived
• I Can Do It With A Broken Heart

Surprise song section (see below)

From Midnights:

• Lavender Haze
• Midnight Rain
• Vigilante Shit

The majority of the Eras setlist hasn’t changed since Swift kicked off the tour in Arizona last March – it still opens with Lover and ends with Midnights, spanning 46 songs and 10 albums (her poor Debut still doesn’t get a look in). But the arrival of The Tortured Poets Department back in April resulted in a predictable switch-up, with certain songs taken off the setlist (The Archer, Long Live, The 1, The Last Great American Dynasty, ’Tis the Damn Season and Tolerate It) to make room for seven from the new album. 

Fans disappointed at the changes can always hold out hope that one will appear as a secret song during the acoustic set – which immediately follows The Tortured Poets Department’s section.

The secret songs played so far – and what could be next

The secret song (or acoustic) section of the show is easily the most anticipated by fans. Every night is different – although Swift has abandoned her rule from the US leg that secret songs can only be played once, unless a mistake was made – with Swift having 11 albums of material to choose from. 

Swift has swapped performing two full secret songs for ‘mashups’ including, usually, two or three tracks. Here is the full list of secret songs from each UK show so far, and which could be next.

Edinburgh night one:

• Would’ve Could’ve, Should’ve/I Know Places
• ‘Tis the Damn Season/Daylight

Edinburgh night two:

• The Bolter/Getaway Car
• All of the Girls You’ve Loved Before/Crazier

Edinburgh night three:

• It’s Nice to Have a Friend/Dorothea
• Haunted/Exile

Liverpool night one:

• I Can See You/Mine
• Cornelia Street/Maroon

Liverpool night two: 

• This Is What You Came For/Gold Rush
• The Great War/You’re Losing Me

Liverpool night three:

• Carolina/No Body, No Crime
• The Manuscript/Red

Cardiff: 

• I Forgot That You Existed/This Is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things
• I Hate It Here/The Lakes

London night one:

• Hits Different/Death By A Thousand Cuts
• The Black Dog/Come Back Be Here/Maroon

London night two:

• thanK you aIMee/Mean
• Castles Crumbling (with Hayley Williams)

London night three:

• Us (with Gracie Abrams)
• Out of the Woods/Is It Over Now?/Clean

Our predictions:

British fans will be delighted that London Boy and So Long, London live to see another day as potential surprise songs; surely, the first will be turned into a shorter mash-up (I can’t see her playing it in full, what with it being a love letter to her ex boyfriend - awkward) and the latter played on the final night at Wembley on August 20. There’s a few collaborations with British artists that haven’t been played yet, either: I Don’t Wanna Live Forever (featuring One Direction’s Zayn Malik), Everything Has Changed (Ed Sheeran) or Florida!!! (Florence Welch), so they’re looking likely.

Taylor Swift’s set lasts for three hours and 15 minutes: up there with career-spanning performances from Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney and The Cure. 

The main show begins with the appearance of a ticking clock on stage, which counts down from a total of two minutes while songs from Lady Gaga (Applause) and Lesley Gore (You Don’t Own Me) play in the background. 

Once the countdown reaches zero, dancers brandishing ginormous, pastel-hued flags walk out on stage to a backing track listing her various albums (the crowd’s biggest scream being reserved for when it says “My name is Taylor, and I was born in 1989!”). Then, the fabric flags fall to the floor, lifts and reveals Swift beneath, in the centre, ready to be hoisted up on a rising stage block to sing a short version of opener Miss Americana and the Heartbreak Prince (from Lover) before going straight into her biggest streaming hit, Cruel Summer.

Swift takes no substantial breaks during the three-hour plus set – aside from various outfit or stage changes in between Eras – but there are fleeting moments you can rest, including after the Speak Now section (which is a mere single song, Enchanted) which has a slightly longer interval before Swift begins to perform songs from Red. Don’t forget, either, to put on the special wristband you’re handed on entry – it flashes different colours throughout the set and can often signal surprise songs or special moments.

Prepare your friendship bracelets

Whether you’re a bona fide Swiftie or the parent or guardian of one, I guarantee you will have heard of friendship bracelets. Inspired by a lyric from Midnights’ You’re On Your Own, Kid (“So make the friendship bracelets / Take the moment and taste it”), Swift’s fans wear armfuls of homemade, largely plastic bracelets featuring beads that spell out song names or inside jokes. 

Then, once at the show, the fans “trade” bracelets with each other to make new friends. The internet is full of tutorials on how to make them, but if your show is drawing closer and you’re yet to make any, Amazon Prime is your best bet.

What to pack?

Despite what Gen Zs on TikTok may suggest, the Eras tour is just a concert. Thus, it doesn’t necessitate buying fancy new cameras, iPhones, earplugs or battery packs – but you would be wise to pack a jumper (it gets cold – and the ones for sale on the official merchandise will set you back around £60); those friendship bracelets, as well, of course, as your ticket. 

The tour is completely sold-out for all dates, but it is worth keeping an eye on your emails as Ticketmaster are reportedly sending out last-minute purchase codes ahead of each date. 

What to wear?

Sequins, glitter, cowboy hats – anything goes, as long as you go for it. Find the link to our all-ages guide on what to wear to Swift’s Era’s tour below. 

What to wear to the Eras tour

Learn the fan lyrics 

If you’re lucky enough to have tickets to the Eras tour, learning 11 albums worth of songs – plus the Vault tracks from her ‘Taylor’s Version’ rerecords – might seem like an impossible task. Unluckily, it’s not just Swift’s 274 official singles (46 of which make up the setlist) that you need to know, because the crowd adds special lines to multiple songs. 

During Delicate, from Reputation, fans yell the chant “One, two, three, let’s go b—h!” after she sings “We can’t make any promises, now can we, babe?” Chart-topping revenge anthem Bad Blood, meanwhile, taken from 2014’s 1989, sees fans screech the end of the line “You forgive / You forget / But you never let it go”. Swift’s knowing winks during the songs indicate she knows exactly what the crowd is gearing up for.

Who are the support acts?

US pop-rock band Paramore are the primary support act for all UK Eras shows, and typically begin their 45-minute set at 6pm. There were extra support acts for the first three shows at Wembley Stadium (Mette, Griff and Benson Boone), but ones for the August dates have yet to be announced.

A guide to the Eras support acts

Standout moments so far – concert by concert

The Eras tour is a tightly-run ship revolving around immaculate choreography, a watertight setlist and a performer renowned for her professionalism, but that doesn’t mean every single night is the same. The weather can be temperamental, Swift could bring out a special guest, or you might just spot your favourite A-lister lurking within the crowd (or, more likely, the coveted VIP tent in front of the sound desk). And of course, there’s the secret song section, for which we’ve dedicated a separate section above this one.

Edinburgh: Night One

Fans present at the opening show in Edinburgh were quick to record the moment Swift had to take a break from performing Would’ve, Could’ve, Should’ve on acoustic guitar – as part of the secret songs set – because of a pesky hand-cramp. As Swift put it: “My hand has frozen in a weird way. This has never happened before!” 

Videos of her shivering on stage suggest the reliably-volatile Scottish weather was to blame. Another highlight came courtesy of her backing dancer Kam, recently in the news for his decision to buy a kilt (after worrying it was cultural appropriation), who contributes a city-specific line to We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together – Edinburgh’s first one being “Ya wee raj”. Think of it as Taylor does Trainspotting.

Edinburgh: Night Two

Proving that the secret song section is truly what gets the crowd (and internet) talking, Swift’s decision to perform Crazier, a track taken from 2009’s Hannah Montana: The Movie – that she has never played live before – had Swifties around the globe hyperventilating, not least because its inclusion suggested it will appear on the rerecording of her debut album.

Elsewhere, fans of Amazon Prime Video’s hit Outlander would have been wise to peer towards the VIP tent, where the show’s cast – including Sam Heughan – were busy dancing the night away.

Edinburgh: Night Three

Scottish singer Nina Nesbitt, who watched the third show from the VIP tent, shared a moving message on Instagram about her long-term love for Swift. The 29-year-old, who hails from West Lothian, wrote: “It was so special to hear the songs that made me want to pick up a guitar back in the place I’m from”. 

Swift’s influence was also keenly felt during her surprise performance of Exile, in which the crowd – all 73,000 of them – dutifully sang Bon Iver’s parts of the song; you can see her joy in videos from the performance in which she’s grinning, in disbelief, that this many people know her music this inside-out.

Liverpool: Night One

You’ll be surprised to learn that Liverpool’s biggest Swiftie is not, in fact, a random teenage girl singing along to Fearless in her bedroom. Jurgen Klopp, the former Reds manager, who has spoken of his love for Swift’s music before, showed up on the first night at Anfield (wearing pink heart-shaped sunglasses, no less) to show his support. Elsewhere, Swift performed I Can See You, a Vault track from Speak Now (Taylor’s Version), as the first secret song - fitting given it was filmed in the city last year. No appearance from Sir Paul McCartney - also an avid Swiftie - but there’s two nights left…

Swift used her 100th Eras Tour show to confirm that the tour will end this year, ending speculation that more dates would be added. “The celebration of the 100th show for me means this is the very first time I’ve acknowledged to myself and admitted that this tour is going to end in December. Like, that’s it,” she told the rain-sodden crowd at Anfield. “I think that this tour has really become my entire life,” she said during her intro to All Too Wel. “It’s taken over everything. I think I once had hobbies, but I don’t know what they were anymore.

“All I do when I’m not on stage is sit at home and try to think of clever acoustic song mash-ups and think about what you might want to hear.”

Liverpool: Night Two

Stood just a few heads back from where Swift was seated for the surprise songs set, nothing could have prepared me for the first track: This Is What You Came For, the 2016 hit originally performed by Calvin Harris and Rihanna – that Swift wrote. It will surely be on Reputation (Taylor’s Version); Harris, Swift’s superstar DJ ex-boyfriend, clearly couldn’t be bothered to deal with the social media attention, because he deleted his account on X after this performance. I’ve seen Swift on multiple tours, in wildly different stages of her career, but seeing her on Eras – so confident and self-assured – is a privilege. 

British rising star Griff, who will open for Swift on the second night at Wembley, was also present - warning that “if I don’t have a voice next week at Wembley it’s because I lost it at Eras a week early.” 

Liverpool: Night Three

A highlight of the Red set is always We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, when Swift’s dancer Kem tries out his best local slang. The third night in Scouseland saw him listen to the TikTok advice and yell “Jog on lad,” much to the delight of the crowd. The Red trend continued through to the surprise songs, when Swift performed the title track from that album – an ode to love, but for one night only, Liverpool FC. Or, of course, the Kansas City Chiefs.

A special mention goes to the Swifties who dedicated a selection of friendship bracelets to victims of the Hillsborough disaster.

Swift had obviously been doing her homework before heading to the Welsh capital’s Principality Stadium, as she uttered a number of Welsh phrases throughout the gig, from “Shwmae Cardiff” (Hello Cardiff) to “Croeso I daith Eras” (Welcome to the Eras tour) and “Un, dau, tri, pedwar” (1, 2, 3, 4). Fan favourite dancer Kam, meanwhile, went for “ych a fi!” (gross) during We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together. As the only indoor/closed-roof concert of the UK leg of Eras, meanwhile, some fans in Cardiff were left disappointed there was no firework display during Karma, the closing song.

London: Night One

The first night in the capital was always going to be starry, and Wembley certainly didn’t disappoint. Swift’s boyfriend, the NFL star Travis Kelce, showed up with his brother Jason, along with supermodel Cara Delevingne, fashion designer Stella McCartney, actresses Rosamund Pike, Salma Hayek and Nicola Coughlan and even Labour leader Keir Starmer (with his wife, Victoria). Meanwhile, the Prince of Wales opted to celebrate his 42nd birthday at the show , watching from a private box with his children. 

As always, the surprise songs segment proved a winner, as Swift launched into The Black Dog, for the first time ever, which was inspired by her past visits to an unassuming boozer in Vauxhall. Swift has always had a special relationship with London, having lived here for a time when she was dating British actor Joe Alwyn, meaning her first night at Wembley (she has played at the stadium before, as part of 2018’s Reputation tour) was always going to be special. Little wonder she called it “the most exhilarating city in the world”! She even got the weather to bend to her every whim, with the day’s rare sun giving way to rain during Midnight Rain.

London: Night Two

The second night at Wembley took a look at Friday’s guestlist and said oh no, you’re not getting away with that. Two future Kings and a (potential) future Prime Minister had nothing on the second night’s VIP guests: Tom Cruise, Greta Gerwig, Liam Hemsworth, Rachel Zegler, Jamie Dornan, Hugh Grant (eating a bag of carrots in the VIP tent, no less), Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher, Emily Maitlis, Beth Mead and, again, Swift’s boyfriend Travis Kelce (seemingly with his full family in tow). 

The show turned into a “who’s who” of Hollywood, but it was the appearance of Swift’s beloved mother, Andrea - who got choked up by a hero’s welcome from fans - that touched the heartstrings. Eighteen years of guiding her daughter later, and she’s the biggest popstar in the world, her tickets a hotter commodity than gas or oil (*kind of). 

Also, the secret song choices made this path even more poignant: first up was thanK you aIMee (the capitalised letters spell out Kim, widely thought to be a reference to former nemesis Kim Kardashian) crossed with Mean, Swift’s Grammy-winning country single about classmate jibes and irrelevant haters from Speak Now, where she swapped the lyrics to “Someday I’ll be singing this song at Wembley”. Then came a long-awaited duet with Paramore’s Hayley Williams for Castles Crumbling, also from Speak Now, a sparkling showcase for both women’s talents - and mutual respect and adoration.

London: Night Three

Travis Kelce appearing on stage as one of Swift’s backing performers for I Can Do It With A Broken Heart! The Sir Paul McCartney trading friendship bracelets from the VIP tent, where he was hanging out with daughter Stella! Swift bringing close friend Gracie Abrams out to sing Us, their collaboration from Abrams’s new album . Once again, it was the VIP guests who got the crowd talking: Macca at the top, closely followed by Jon Bon Jovi, Ellie Goulding, Sophie Turner, Cate Blanchett, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Andrew Scott and Piers Morgan. 

Swift also made a few pointed comments about the pitfalls of playing live (during the 10 minute-long All Too Well, she stopped for a few seconds, saying “I swallowed a bug, can you sing?”), and the talents of her extensive live band, seemingly in response to disparaging comments made by Dave Grohl in London the day before. At a Foo Fighters gig at the London Stadium, Grohl warned the crowd “Be nice! You don’t want the Swifties after you” before suggesting Swift doesn’t sing live at her live shows. 

Potential special guests

Swift has brought a number of famous guests on stage to sing with her throughout the Eras tour – typically artists with feature credits on her songs. The National’s Aaron Dessner, who produced much of her lockdown albums Folklore and Evermore, appeared in Santa Clara, California, to perform melodic break-up ballad Right Where You Left Me. The National are in Europe throughout the summer for festivals, so he could make a surprise appearance again. 

Then there’s sister-indie trio HAIM, who are personal close friends with Swift and featured on No Body, No Crime. Pictures of them out for a meal in London with Swift (and other famous faces, including Kate Moss, Lena Dunham and Andrew Scott) suggest they could make an appearance.

Other potential secret guests range from Lana Del Rey (who sang on Snow on the Beach, and is in the UK in August for Reading and Leeds festivals), Ed Sheeran (Everything Has Changed), Jack Antonoff (Getaway Car and more) and Zayn Malik (I Don’t Wanna Live Forever). All are probable, since Swift already brought out Paramore’s Hayley Williams for their collaboration, Castles Crumbling, and Gracie Abrams (for Us).

The secrets to look out for – and what they all mean

Ask any Taylor Swift fan what the secret to her colossal success is, and you might be surprised by their answer. Her emotionally vulnerable lyrics and 11 chart-topping studio albums come into play, of course, but it’s her Easter eggs – the secret clues she hides in her songs – that have established her as an unprecedented force in the music industry. And she’s done the same with the Eras concert, filling it with clues, tips and tricks hidden behind certain stages, lyrics or costumes that throw light on her life, her passions and her songs. Here we interpret it all for you. 

The show opens with Lover – to mark Taylor’s creative rebirth …

Released in 2019, Swift’s seventh studio album was meant to get the full bells and whistles treatment: chart-topping singles (Me!, You Need to Calm Down, Lover and The Man) and a sold-out tour (“Lover Fest” was supposed to be a worldwide phenomenon, that included a show at London’s BST Hyde Park). Lover was also intended to mark a creative rebirth for Swift, whose popularity had waned following public spats with Kanye West and Kim Kardashian (that resulted in 2017’s Reputation). 

Instead, Covid arrived, the tour was cancelled, and some of the singles flopped (although the album did feature Cruel Summer, surprisingly now her biggest, most-streamed hit). Swift had multiple reasons to open the Eras tour with the Lover section, and track Miss Americana and the Heartbreak Prince. The album was her first record to be entirely hers – following her legal battle with former record label Big Red Machine, that has seen her rerecord much of her back catalogue – and it never got its glory days because of the pandemic, so she seems to be picking up where she left off. 

Some fans have even construed the choice to be aimed at former boyfriend Joe Alwyn, who she reportedly broke up with in March 2023 (the same month the Eras tour kicked off in the US), with Swift the all-American golden girl and he, the brooding British actor, the prince who wound up breaking her heart.

… Then the house burns down

For much of the Lover section, Swift performs on stage in front of a huge glass house with rooms nodding at previous music videos or Eras. As the titular track ends and she prepares to move into the Fearless era, the house bursts into fake flames and looks like it is burning down on stage. Could it symbolise the breakdown of her relationship with Alwyn, an end to her romantic side, or a potential hiatus post-Eras tour?

The Fearless dance

Nostalgia forms the heart of the Eras tour. Over two decades, Swift has released 11 studio albums packed with hits – from Love Story to We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together – and made billions of dollars from her music. The tour itself is a celebration of this (as Swift announces at the beginning: “We are about to go on a little adventure together”), as well as her old and new fans. The second part of the show is dedicated to 2008’s country gem Fearless – which won her first Grammy for Album of the Year – and features multiple nods to her younger years and earlier performances, including the jump and spin dance and heart sign she makes with her hands during the title song.

The meaningful outfits 

Colours are important in Taylor Swift’s World, because each album is colour-coded (gold for Fearless, purple for Speak Now, black for Reputation, etc). Those signifiers form the heart of many fans’ chosen outfits for the tour, but also Swift’s own style choices on stage. When she announced 1989 (Taylor’s Version) in Los Angeles on August 9, she swapped her usual outfits for blue variants (1989’s colour) throughout the show. The show’s newest Era, dedicated to 11th album The Tortured Poets Department, sees her wear a toned-down spin on a circus ringmaster outfit for I Can Do It With a Broken Heart (a knowing nod to her 2012 MTV Europe Music Awards outfit) – a song about powering through heartbreak to dazzle fans and critics – while the logo on the t-shirt she wears during 22 (from Red) changes depending on the show.

One particular outfit to keep an eye on is the black and red, snake-emblazoned sequin catsuit she wears during the Reputation era – because it’s the only outfit that hasn’t changed since the beginning of the tour. 

I Can Do It With a Broken Heart – and the Reputation glass boxes

ICDIWABH, mentioned above, is a defiant, gloriously poppy middle finger-up to anyone who thought Swift would buckle under the pressure of heartbreak and fame. “They said, “Babe, you gotta fake it ‘til you make it” and I did,” she sings. “Lights, camera, bitch smile, even when you wanna die”. The staging itself involves a motionless Swift, lying on the ground after performing The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived, being picked up by two grinning circus masters, who strip her dress and replace it with the ringmaster outfit. After flopping and falling around like a ragdoll, Swift suddenly jerks to life and bursts into song – a true professional, at whatever personal cost.

During the Reputation section, meanwhile, and in particular Look What You Made Me Do, Swift performs in front of a collection of glass boxes containing dancers dressed in similar costumes to ones worn throughout her career. The song itself, which was originally aimed at West and Kardashian, is Swift’s way of standing up for herself in front of an industry who expected her to be the meek, good-girl country star, instead of a powerful woman. Taken together, the imagery of both songs (ICDIWABH and LWYMMD) supports this – Swift seeing herself as someone who hasn’t been allowed to grow up, whose entire adolescence (and now, adulthood) was catered to pleasing the public.

Taken from her fourth studio album, 2012’s Red, 22 marked a musical switch for Swift from country to pure pop. During her performance of the song at the Eras tour, she storms down the long stage with her crew of backing dancers to reach one lucky fan at the other end, who is handed the black (personally signed) trilby she wears during the performance (and wore in the original video). 

Fans looking to secure the hat would be best to direct their attention to the Taylor Nation social media accounts – allegedly run by a combination of 13 Management, her mother Andrea and father Scott – who personally choose the recipient. One such lucky fan was the late basketball player’s Kobe Bryant’s young daughter, Bianka, who was handed the hat (and embraced) by Swift in Los Angeles.

The Folklore house

Between the pop-tastic anthems of Red and 1989, Swift brings down the tempo for the Folklore section (twinned with Evermore on the European leg). The album, which she wrote and released during the pandemic, was a critical darling; co-written with and produced by The National’s Aaron Dessner, it marked a switch from pop to a more indie, mature sound. During the set, she performs songs from Folklore and Evermore from atop a grassy woodland cabin (inspired by her 2021 Grammy performance) that is also home to the moss-covered piano where she sits and performs Champagne Problems.

So High School’s ode to Travis Kelce

When Swift began the Eras tour, she was newly single and heartbroken, tearing up on stage while performing for songs she had written in honour of former beau Joe Alwyn. Since then, she’s released The Tortured Poets Department, another break-up album widely interpreted to be about Matty Healy, the 1975 frontman who she dated afterwards. 

But her current boyfriend, the NFL star Travis Kelce, has no reason to fear, because he gets his love story during So High School. Swift only sings part of the song, which is about her falling head over heels for this teenage-kind of love (and includes the line “You know how to ball / I know Aristotle”), but the accompanying dance is the clearest nod to Kelce. She and her backing dancers sit atop makeshift bleachers and “swag surf” – a waving motion typically used at US sporting events, that she was seen doing during a Kansas City Chiefs game earlier this year.

The Bejeweled TikTok dance

It’s easy to attribute the unprecedented success of the Eras tour to the rise of TikTok. The day after the tour began in Arizona in March 2023, I had seen it in its entirety – from my bedroom in London – thanks to people live-streaming from the concert, or uploading multiple videos. Since then, of course, there has been the blockbuster concert film, but the video sharing platform offered the first opportunity for international fans (or those who couldn’t afford tickets) to see the show. 

TikTok even provided Swift with a free choreographer. New Jersey-based creator Mikael Arellano went viral in 2022 with his dance to Bejeweled, the ninth track from Midnights, where he shimmies and shakes his hands and body to the chorus. It racked up billions of views and sure enough, when the Eras tour opened, Swift and her dancers did the same dance. As a way of saying thank you, Arellano was even called up to accept the much-fêted 22 hat in May 2023.

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