1-480-626-1266 info@johnpaultours.com
Marian Shrines of Spain, Fatima and the Way of St. James

Marian Shrines of Spain, Fatima and the Way of St. James

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Marian Shrines of Spain, Fatima and the Way of St. James

Barcelona | Montserrat | Zaragoza | Madrid | Toledo | Santiago de Compostela | Fatima | Santarém | Lisbon

>> This may be one of the absolute best programs of Spain and Fatima where you begin by following St. Ignatius Loyola at the Shrine of our Lady of Montserrat, to Zaragoza where the Blessed Virgin Mary co– located and appeared to St. James. Continue through Madrid to Santiago de Compostela and walk a few miles of the famed Camino to the Cathedral of St. James. Finally end this journey with a few days in Fatima, where Our Lady appeared in 1917 to the three shepherd children calling for the people to pray for world peace.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
|

“All of those added stops and surprises you gave us along the way made the trip so special!”

–Edward P.

Day 1 | USA – Barcelona, Spain Depart the USA for Barcelona, Spain. Dinner and breakfast will be served during your transatlantic flight.

Day 2 | Arrival in Barcelona, Spain
Upon arrival in Barcelona we meet our Escort and check into the hotel. After dinner, we have the evening to rest after our long flight. (D)

Day 3 | Barcelona – Montserrat
We begin our day with a morning trip to the Shrine of Our Lady of Montserrat following the pilgrimage taken by St. Ignatius Loyola to pray before the Virgin of Montserrat. After enjoying Escolanía, one of the oldest and most renowned boys’ choirs in Europe, sing “Salve Regina” and the “Virolai” (hymn of Montserrat) in the basilica before we depart for a city tour of Barcelona. During the tour, we will have the opportunity to see La Sagrada Familia, the Basilica which began construction under Antoni Gaudi in 1882 and is still under construction today. (B, D)

Day 4 | Barcelona – Zaragoza – Madrid
This morning we enjoy a filling breakfast and depart Barcelona for Madrid. On the way, we explore the Basilica de Pilar where the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to St. James in Zaragoza. Around 44 AD while the Virgin Mary was still alive, she appeared to St. James upon a pillar carried by angels while he was spreading the Gospel in Spain. It is believed that this pillar is the same as the one in the Basilica. We continue to Madrid for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

Day 5 | Madrid – Toledo
Today we will make a panoramic city tour of Madrid. We will see many of the most famous sites of the capital of Spain, including Plaza de España, Puerta del Sol and the Royal Palace. Our journey continues to the ancient city of Toledo, city–museum, and the oldest capital of Spain. The historic city center is one of the largest in the country. You will see many beautiful sites including a 13th Century Cathedral, medieval castle, and more. In the afternoon, you have a chance to shop for local art. In the evening we return to Madrid for overnight. (B, D)

Day 6 | Madrid – Astorga – Santiago de Compostela
After breakfast we board our coach for the journey to Santiago de Compostela. En route, we will stop along the Way of St. James in Astorga- famed for its Cathedral and Episcopal Palace designed by Antoni Gaudi. After lunch we continue to Santiago de Compostela. Upon arrival, we join the evening Pilgrim’s Mass at the Cathedral where we hope the famed Botafumeiro will swing (this is subject to the Cathedral’s changing schedule). Fun Fact: The swinging Botafumeiro is a famous thurible, one of the largest in the world, which tradition says was put in place to reduce the stench coming from tired and unwashed pilgrims in addition to use during Mass. Afterwards, enjoy a group dinner and rest before tomorrow’s day of exploration. (B, D)

Day 7 | Santiago de Compostela
This morning we will join other pilgrims and walk the last few miles of the Camino de Santiago to the Cathedral of St. James. Here we will celebrate Holy Mass and explore, ascending the stairs behind the altar to visit the crypt where the relics of St. James are preserved. Today we have the afternoon to ourselves to take in all that this beautiful place has to offer. (B)

Day 8 | Santiago de Compostela – Fatima
After breakfast we depart Santiago de Compostela and head to Fatima. Upon arrival we will join pilgrims from all over the world in the nightly procession and prayers. (B, D)

Day 9 | Fatima
Today we are in and around Fatima. We will visit the Chapel of the Apparitions, the Basilica with the tombs of Francisco, and Jacinta– Perpetual Adoration Chapel. In Aljustrel we will see the two homes of the little shepherds and then return to Fatima. In the evening, join pilgrims from all over the world in the nightly procession and prayers. (B, D)

Day 10 | Fatima – Santarém – Lisbon
After Holy Mass, we leave Fatima for our trip to Lisbon where we will visit the Basilica of St. Anthony, St. Jeronimos Monastery, and the famous Belem Tower. On our way south to Lisbon, we will stop in Santarém and the Church of St. Stephen, the place of the oldest known Eucharistic miracle on display since 1269 AD. Enjoy an exquisite farewell dinner together sharing our memories and experiences with one another. (B, D)

Day 11 | Lisbon – USA
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for return to the United States. (B)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Marian Shrines of France and Spain

Marian Shrines of France and Spain

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Marian Shrines of France and Spain

Paris | Lisieux | Mont St. Michel | Pontmain | Tours | Nevers | Paray-le-Monial | Ars-sur-Formans | Grenoble | La Salette | Avignon | Lourdes | Toulouse | Barcelona | Montserrat

>> One of our most popular itineraries, this program takes you from the heart of France, Paris, to Lisieux and Mont St. Michel, and south visiting several beautiful Shrines dedicated to Our Blessed Virgin, finally arriving in Lourdes for several days. Continue through the stunning Pyrenees Mountain range to Barcelona and Montserrat.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
|

“Spending that extra time we had for Vespers at Mont St. Michel Abbey was the highlight for me.”

–Craig C. 

Day 1 | USA – Paris
Depart the USA on your transatlantic flight where dinner and breakfast will be served.

Day 2 | Paris
Upon arrival your escort will welcome you to Paris, and bring you to your hotel. You are in one of the greatest cities in the world. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax and explore this marvelous city on your own if you have the energy. (D)

Day 3 | Paris
After breakfast we will see many famous landmarks including the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs–Élysées, and Place de la Concorde – one of the most beautiful squares in the world, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Palais du Louvre. Visit Rue du Bac for Holy Mass in the Chapel where Our Lady appeared to St. Catherine Laboure in 1830 giving her the Miraculous Medal. (B, D)

Day 4 | Paris – Lisieux
After breakfast we leave Paris and continue our tour toward Lisieux and the Basilica of St. Thérèse, one of the most influential saints of modern times. Explore this magnificent religious structure that was built in the 20th century. Before leaving, tour the ancient Cathedral of St. Peter and the Carmelite Convent. (B, D)

Day 5 | Mont St. Michel – Pontmain
Today visit Pontmain, where our Lady appeared to several young children during the Franco–Prussian War. Here Prussian troops stopped and turned around citing the ‘invisible Madonna’. Twelve days after the apparition of Our Lady of Pontmain, Mother of Hope, the peace treaty of Versailles was signed. Continue west and spend the afternoon at the beautiful Mont St. Michel Abbey. (B, D)

Day 6 | Tours – Nevers
After breakfast, depart to Nevers. Stop in Tours on the way to visit the 15th century Cathedral. In Nevers, we visit the convent of St. Gildard where the incorrupt body of St. Bernadette is located. After the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Bernadette, she joined this convent in Nevers where she died on 16 April 1879, at the age of 35. Her body was discovered completely intact in 1909 and is now on display for veneration. Saint Bernadette was canonized on 8 December 1933 by Pope Pius XI. (B, D)

Day 7 | Paray–le–Monial – Ars-sur- Formans – Grenoble
Leave Nevers for Grenoble. On the way we will stop in Paray–le–Monial to visit the Chapel of the Visitation to learn of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque’s visions of Christ and His Sacred Heart. Stop in Ars to pray before the body of Saint John Vianney, the Patron Saint of Priests. His body is incorrupt and entombed above the main altar in the Basilica. We then continue to Grenoble to overnight in the stunning French Alps. Dine and overnight in a splendid Chateau (B, D)

Day 8 | Day Trip to La Salette
Today we will spend time at the apparition site where Our Lady appeared to two shepherds in 1846 lamenting over the people’s disrespect for Sunday and their blasphemy. The Virgin Mary spoke of famine and rotting crops if the people did not repent. A famine occured and a spring began to flow at the site of the apparition. Spend the day visiting and praying in this beautiful Shrine. Dine and overnight in a splendid chateau. (B, D)

Day 9 | Grenoble – Avignon – Lourdes
Upon our departure from Grenoble en route to Lourdes we stop in Avignon, at the Palace of the Popes, where six papal conclaves were held during the 14th century. We arrive in Lourdes for the evening. (B, D)

Day 10 | Lourdes
We visit the Shrine and take a walking tour of places associated with the life of St. Bernadette, including the Grotto of Massabielle. This is the site upon which a beautiful lady, our Blessed Mother, proclaimed to Bernadette that she was the Immaculate Conception. We will also see the Cachot (formerly a jail) where Bernadette lived. The Basilica of St. Pius X, considered the world’s largest underground church, will also be part of the tour. There will be time in the afternoon for meditation and prayer, including an opportunity to bathe and receive the miraculous water of Lourdes. In the evening, we will participate in the Blessed Sacrament candlelight procession. (B, D)

Day 11 | Lourdes
After morning Holy Mass, free day to rest and experience Lourdes on our own. Time for private prayer. In the evening, we may participate in the Blessed Sacrament candlelight procession. (B, D)

Day 12 | Lourdes – Toulouse – Barcelona
Today we leave Lourdes for Barcelona passing by the foot of the beautiful Pyrenees Mountains, following along the Spanish Mediterranean Coast. We will stop in Toulouse and visit the Church of the Jacobins and its cloister, the burial place of St. Thomas Aquinas. We will also visit the Basilica of St. Saturninus in Toulouse. The first Bishop of Toulouse, was dragged to death in the streets in 250 AD for refusing to worship pagan gods. (B, D)

Day 13 | Montserrat – Barcelona
We begin our day with a morning trip to the Benedictine Monastery and Shrine of Our Lady of Montserrat following the pilgrimage taken by St. Ignatius Loyola to pray before the Virgin of Montserrat. After enjoying Escolanía, one of the oldest and most renowned boys’ choirs in Europe, sing “Salve Regina” and the “Virolai” (hymn of Montserrat) in the basilica we depart for a city tour of Barcelona. During the tour, we will have the opportunity to see La Sagrada Familia, the Basilica which began construction under Antoni Gaudi in 1882 and is still under construction today. (B, D)

Day 14 | Barcelona Departure to USA
After breakfast we begin our journey home, leaving Barcelona for the US with our beautiful memories to share with friends and family. (B)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Marian Shrines of Fatima, Spain, and Lourdes

Marian Shrines of Fatima, Spain, and Lourdes

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Marian Shrines of Fatima, Spain, and Lourdes

Lisbon | Santarém | Fatima | Salamanca | Alba de Tormes | Ávila | Burgos | Loyola | Lourdes

>> One of the world’s most beloved Shrines, Lourdes is a place to come for healing, peace, and true miracles. Since the Blessed Virgin revealed herself to Bernadette here in 1858, the Church has recognized many cures and miracles here. Our Lady tells us “I am the Immaculate Conception.”

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
|

“To be honest, before the trip I was worried it would be a little too fast paced. Once we got there and I saw how it really was, all my worries melted away, Thank you!”

–Karen G.

Day 1 | USA – Lisbon
Depart the USA for your overnight flight to Lisbon, Portugal. Dinner and breakfast will be served on board.

Day 2 | Arrive Lisbon
Dependent upon the time of our arrival in Lisbon, we may begin with a driving city tour, including the Basilica of the Star, Rossio Square and Commerce Square. We may also visit the Cathedral, St. Jerome’s Monastery and St. Anthony’s Church. We will check into the hotel and have the remainder of the day to rest after our long journey. This evening we enjoy a filling dinner together. (D)

Day 3 | Lisbon – Santarém – Fatima
Today we travel to Santarém and the Church of St. Stephen, the place of the oldest known Eucharistic miracle on display continually since 1269 AD. We celebrate Holy Mass and continue to Fatima where Our Blessed Virgin appeared to three children crying for peace. (B, D)

Day 4 | Fatima
Spend all day today in Fatima, the Little Chapel of the Apparitions, the Basilica, the site of Francesco and Jacinta’s graves, and the Hamlet of Aljustrel and Valinhos, where Our Lady appeared when the children returned from being falsely imprisoned. We will walk the Stations of the Cross along Via Sacra ending at the Chapel of Calvary, with a beautiful view of Fatima. Participate in the nightly candlelight procession. (B, D)

Day 5 | Fatima
We have the entire day free in Fatima for personal prayer, reflection, and Holy Mass. Again, join in the nightly rosary precession and prayers with thousands of other pilgrims. (B, D)

Day 6 | Fatima – Salamanca
Begin our trek northeast to Salamanca. Upon arrival we enjoy lunch in the city and later visit a few of its sights such as Plaza Mayor, the Baroque church of La Clerecía, Casa de las Conchas (House of Shells), the University, the Roman Bridge, San Marcos and San Martín chur ches. (B, D)

Day 7 | Salamanca – Alba de Tormes – Ávila – Burgos
Today we continue on to the village of Alba de Tormes where we visit the Carmelite Monastery where St. Teresa died and is buried. We celebrate Holy Mass and after some time to ourselves we continue to Ávila. This afternoon will be splendid visiting such a beautiful place devoted to the Doctor of the Church. Visit the Cathedral and San Vicente church, the Incarnation Convent and La Santa Monastery which is built upon the place where the Saint was born, and the San José Convent, the Saint’s first monastery. Later we continue to Burgos. (B, D)

Day 8 | Burgos – Loyola – Lourdes
Today we continue to the birthplace of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits. After Holy Mass we drive on through the stunning Pyrenees Mountains to Lourdes. (B, D)

Day 9 | Lourdes
Our group joins thousands of pilgrims from all over at one of the most frequented pilgrimage sites of the world. We visit the Shrine and take a walking tour of places associated with the life of St. Bernadette, including the Grotto of Massabielle. This is the site upon which a beautiful lady proclaimed to Bernadette that she was the Immaculate Conception. We will also see the Cachot (formerly a jail) where Bernadette lived. The Basilica of St. Pius X, considered the world’s largest underground church, will also be part of the tour. Enjoy private meditation and prayer, including an opportunity to bathe and receive the miraculous water of Lourdes. In the evening, we will participate in the candlelight procession. (B, D)

Days 10 | Lourdes
We have the entire day free in Lourdes for personal prayer, reflection, and Holy Mass. Again, join in the nightly rosary precession and prayers with thousands of other pilgrims. Tonight, enjoy our last group dinner together reflecting on our beautiful pilgrimage. (B, D)

Day 11 | Lourdes – USA
Today we say our farewells to Lourdes and transfer to a nearby airport for our flight home. (B)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Lourdes, Chateaux Country, and the French Riviera

Lourdes, Chateaux Country, and the French Riviera

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Lourdes, Chateaux Country, and the French Riviera

Paris | Chambord | Blois | Lourdes | Carcassonne | Cannes | Nice

>> Experience the grandeur of Paris, then on to the world’s most beloved Marian Shrine of Lourdes, and finally enjoy a few days of rest along the French Riviera.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
|

“This pilgrimage was a very special time I got to spend with my mother. We got closer to our heritage and to our faith. The historic sites and the daily Masses were the highlights of our tour, along with our visit with our family after the pilgrimage was done. Thanks again for your help to make that possible”

– Sylvia Grezak

Day 1 | USA – Paris
Depart the USA on your transatlantic flight where dinner and breakfast will be served.

Day 2 | Paris
Upon arrival in Paris, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. You are in one of the greatest cities in the world. Remainder of the day is free to relax. Dinner and overnight in Paris. (D)

Day 3 | Paris
After breakfast we will see many famous landmarks including the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs–Élysées, and Place de la Concorde – one of the most beautiful squares in the world, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Palais du Louvre. Visit Rue du Bac for Holy Mass in the Chapel where Our Lady appeared to St. Catherine Laboure. Dinner and overnight in Paris. (B, D)

Day 4 | Paris – Chambord – Blois
After breakfast we leave Paris and continue our tour toward the city of Blois. We travel through the Loire Valley, the magnificent Chateaux Country. We will visit one of the most beautiful castles – Chateaux Chambord. Dinner and overnight in Blois. (B, D)

Day 5 | Blois – Lourdes
Today we travel through Bordeaux country to Lourdes, one of the Great Pilgrimage Shrines of the World, where the Virgin Mary appeared to Bernadette in 1858. In the evening, we will attend the candlelight procession in Lourdes. Dinner and overnight in Lourdes. (B, D)

Day 6 | Lourdes
After breakfast, a walking tour of places associated with the life of St. Bernadette, including the Grotto of Massabielle. This is the site upon which a beautiful lady proclaimed to Bernadette that she was the Immaculate Conception. We will also see the Cachot (formerly a jail) where Bernadette lived. The basilica of St. Pius X, considered the World’s largest underground church, will also be part of the tour. There will be time in the afternoon for meditation and prayer, including an opportunity to bathe and take the miraculous water of Lourdes. Again, in the evening, we will participate in the Blessed Sacrament procession and candlelight procession. Dinner and overnight in Lourdes. (B, D)

Day 7 | Lourdes – Carcassonne – Cannes
After we celebrate Holy Mass in the Grotto, we will depart for Cannes. On the way we will stop in the beautiful town of Carcassonne where La Cite, a preserved medieval walled town, lies high above the river. Dinner and overnight in Cannes. (B, D)

Day 8 | Cannes
Today is a day of leisure. Relax on the charming French Riviera. A day trip to the beautiful Monte Carlo in the small principality of Monaco is something you may want to do. Dinner and overnight in Cannes. (B, D)

Day 9 | Cannes
Another day of leisure in Cannes. Relax, shop, or take a day trip to Monte Carlo. Dinner and overnight in Cannes. (B, D)

Day 10 | Cannes – Nice – USA
After breakfast we leave for the airport in Nice to depart of the United States. (B)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Italy and Switzerland

Italy and Switzerland

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Italy and Switzerland

Rome | Assisi | Venice | Padua | Lugano | Locarno | Zurich

>> Jump into a pilgrimage of pure beauty and history with this journey through Italy and Switzerland. You will see some of the most metropolitan cities with a historic twist. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of Rome and then relax in the clear waters of Lake Lugano. From city centers to tranquil waters, this will be a pilgrimage of a lifetime.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
|

“For some reason I never thought of Switzerland as a pilgrimage destination. This is a hidden gem!”

–Eric S.

Day 1 | USA – Rome, Italy
Board your flight to Rome. Dinner and breakfast served during your transatlantic flight.

Day 2 | Rome
Upon arrival in Rome, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. You are in the Eternal City – one of the greatest cities in the world. Remainder of the day is free to relax. Enjoy a group dinner tonight at your hotel. (D)

Day 3 | Rome
In the morning we attend the Papal Audience and receive a Blessing by His Holiness the Pope in St. Peter’s Square. (Pending schedule of the Pope, subject to change at the last moment). In the afternoon, we tour the city including famous monuments of Rome such as the Trevi fountain, the Piazza Novona, Basilica of St. John Lateran and St. Mary Major. We will also visit the Vatican Museums and celebrate Holy Mass at the altar of Pope St. John Paul II. Enjoy dinner on your own this evening. (B)

Day 4 | Rome – Assisi
After a filling breakfast this morning we pack for our trip to Assisi. On our way out of the city, we visit the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls by the oldest Roman road, the Appian Way. Later in the afternoon we arrive in Assisi. We will settle into our hotel and have a nice meal together. (B, D)

Day 5 | Assisi
Today we have a full day to enjoy the peaceful and tranquil village of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis. Visit St. Mary of the Angels Basilica, St. Francis’ Porziuncola, and Capella Del Transito. Pray in the Shrine, inspired by Giotto’s frescoes of the life of St. Francis. Visit the monastery of the Basilica of St. Clare to pray before the San Damiano crucifix from which Jesus told St. Francis to rebuild His church. Time to ourselves to explore Assisi. (B)

Day 6 | Assisi – Padua
After breakfast we travel the absolutely stunning landscapes of Italy as we head to the quaint city of Padua. Upon arrival we will have a guided tour of Padua. We will visit the Basilica and tomb of St. Anthony. We will celebrate Mass in the Basilica along with time for private prayer and reflection. In front of the Basilica you will see Donatello’s famous statues. Enjoy a group dinner and overnight in Padua. (B, D)

Day 7 | Padua – Venice
In the morning we will head towards our destination of Venice. Upon arrival we will enjoy a half day guided sightseeing tour of this alluring city. We will take a boat to St. Mark’s Square and see the Venetian-Byzantine Basilica of San Marco, Palace of the Doges, and The Bridge of Sights. In the afternoon take free time for shopping and coffee. We will have a group dinner tonight in an Italian restaurant with great good and fine wines. (B, D)

Day 8 | Venice – Lugano
This morning we say ciao to Italy and hello to the Italian community of Lugano in Switzerland. The scenic drive between these cities will offer breathtaking views of the countryside. While approaching Lugano, we will see both Lake Como and Lake Lugano, some of the most stunning lakes in the world. These two lakes are known for having the Alps as their backdrops which provides a truly remarkable sight. This afternoon you are free to explore this gorgeous city and return to the group for dinner. (B, D)

Day 9 | Lugano
We will spend the whole day touring all that Lugano has to offer. Walking through town we have the opportunity to visit the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, the Church of Santa Maria degli Angioli and the Church of San Rocco. After a leisurely lunch the group will take a boat tour around Lake Lugano, soaking in all of the God’s beauty. This evening enjoy dinner on your own. (B)

Day 10 | Lugano – Locarno
We leave the mystifying city of Lugano for another treasure of the Swiss Alps, Locarno. Locarno is situated in the Southern Alps and provides a small town atmosphere. While here we will see the Astrovia Locarno which is a scale model of the Solar System. We are also visiting the Madonna del Sasso which is where the Virgin Mary appeared to the Franciscan Bartolomeo d’Ivrea in 1480. The rest of the afternoon can be spent in prayer and peaceful relaxation. The group will gather for a delicious meal featuring food from the local region this evening. (B, D)

Day 11 | Locarno – Zurich
Today we head to the last stop of our pilgrimage, Zurich. Zurich shows us a different side of Switzerland, the German side. Switzerland is home to very diverse cultures but the main thread between them all is their devotion to the Catholic Church. We have left the countryside for Zurich, a buzzing international hub. Before arrival in Zurich we stop in Einsiedeln to visit the Einsiedeln Abbey where we learn the history of Saint Meinrad. After prayer and reflection we continue on to Zurich where we share a dinner before having a free evening. (B, D)

Day 12 | Zurich
This morning we hit the city. Our guide will take us all around this metropolitan hub. We will visit many beautiful churches including the Liebfrauen. Our guide will also show us the Opera House, Botanical Gardens and other historical sites. We will take a walk along the river learning of the history of this city. This evening the group will share our last meal together before our travels the next day. (B, D)

Day 13 | Zurich – USA
After breakfast we will depart for the airport to take our flights back to the USA. (B)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com