A Pilgrimage to the Marian Shrines is a sacred invitation to to place your heart in the care of our Blessed Mother and walk where heaven touched the earth. In these holy places, Mary gently leads us closer to her Son, Jesus, deepening our faith and trust in God’s presence. Join a 14-day pilgrimage to the Marian Shrines of Portugal, Spain, France, and Switzerland with a Pilgrimage Chaplain on September 16 to 29, 2026. Let this journey become a grace-filled encounter that renews your spirit.
Begin your pilgrimage with a Mass at the Church of St. Anthony in Lisbon, Portugal. Built on the birthplace of St. Anthony of Lisbon—later known as St. Anthony of Padua—this sacred site invites pilgrims to reflect on a life completely given to God.
From Lisbon, the journey continues to Fatima, where you will spend two prayerful nights at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima. Here, Mary appeared to the three shepherd children—Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta—calling the world to prayer, repentance, and peace. Celebrate Mass at the Chapel of the Apparitions, standing on the very ground where Our Lady spoke words that continue to echo through time.
Leaving Portugal, you travel into Spain and arrive in the historic city of Burgos. Mass is celebrated at the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Mary of Burgos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This towering Gothic masterpiece stands as a testament to centuries of faith, devotion, and the enduring beauty of worship offered to God.
Travel onward to Lourdes, France, where you will spend two nights at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes—one of the most beloved Marian shrines in the world. In the stillness of the Grotto of Massabielle, where the Blessed Virgin appeared to St. Bernadette Soubirous in 1858, pilgrims are invited to pray, hope, and trust. Here, Mary revealed herself as the Immaculate Conception and directed Bernadette to the healing spring that flows to this day. In the evening, join the candlelight rosary procession, as voices from many nations rise together in prayerful song.
From Lourdes, journey on to Paris, the “City of Lights.” Visit the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, where Our Lady appeared to St. Catherine Labouré, promising abundant graces to those who wear the medal with faith. Enjoy a peaceful cruise along the River Seine and take in the beauty and grace of Paris’s most iconic landmarks.
Leaving France, the pilgrimage continues through the scenic heart of Switzerland. Enjoy a picturesque drive through the French Parc National de Forêts en route to Zurich. Head to the mountain resort town of Engelberg for a memorable alpine experience, highlighted by a breathtaking ride aboard the rotating Rotair cable car. Take in the stunning scenery of Mount Titlis and explore the enchanting Ice Grotto.
Continue to Lucerne for a sightseeing tour featuring the city’s main highlights: the Lion Monument, the wooden Chapel Bridge, the Water Tower, the Jesuit Church, and the new Concert and Congress Hall. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore Lucerne’s charming Old Town at your own pace.
Then, travel to Einsiedeln, one of Europe’s most important pilgrimage destinations. The Shrine of Our Lady of Einsiedeln is home to the revered Black Madonna, sacred relics, and a Benedictine monastery steeped in centuries of prayer. Nearby, visit the Diorama Bethlehem, the world’s largest nativity scene, before continuing to Rapperswil, known for its stunning rose gardens and serene lakeside charm.
Wind down your pilgrimage in Zurich. Begin the day with Mass at the Church of St. Anton, followed by a guided city tour. Enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Zurich and a visit to the world-famous Lindt Chocolate Shop—a gentle, joyful ending to days filled with prayer and grace.
Heed the loving call of Our Blessed Mother and allow this pilgrimage to become a moment of renewal and transformation. Join the 14-day Pilgrimage to the Marian Shrines of Portugal, Spain, France, and Switzerland with a Pilgrimage Chaplain on September 16 to 29, 2026. May this journey deepen your love for Christ, strengthen your faith, and inspire you to walk more faithfully in the footsteps of Jesus, guided always by Mary and the saints.
