Our Lady throughout the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany

by mpierz | Mar 1, 2017

The possibilities are endless!

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

Our Lady throughout the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany

>> Our Lady has appeared to many faithful throughout the years and she has appeared in some of the most beautiful places in the world. This pilgrimage will lead us to enchanting destinations of North-Western Europe. Traveling through deep woods and metropolitan cities, you will be amazed at God’s people and God’s nature. This will truly be the 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

|

“Having the time to visit these little villages along the way gave me the opportunity to really value the time we spent together”

–A. Emerson

Day 1 | USA – Amsterdam
Depart the USA for Amsterdam. Meals are served aboard your transatlantic flight.

Day 2 | Amsterdam
Upon arrival we will meet our escort and be transferred to our hotel. Depending on the time of arrival we will begin our city tour. Feel free to relax after your journey with a calm walk along the intricate canals or enjoy a coffee in a sweet café. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner with the group. (D)

Day 3 | Amsterdam
This morning we awake to adventure in this enchanting city. We have many exciting, beautiful, and historical sites to visit on our tour today. With an experienced guide we will visit the Anne Frank House, the Bible Museum, Museum Amstekring, Oude Kerk, Nieuwe Kerk, Westerkerk and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of All Nations. Our Lady of All Nations appeared to Ida Peerdeman in 1945 bringing messages and warnings to the world. We will have time to pray and celebrate Holy Mass in the presence of this magnificent image. This evening is free to explore and dine on your own. (B)

Day 4 | Amsterdam – Kevelaer
We pack our bags and leave this stunning city for a quaint country town. We are headed out of the Netherlands to Kevelaer, Germany, which is the largest place of pilgrimage in North-West Europe. Kevelaer has a rich history associated with Our Lady. Upon arrival we will celebrate Holy Mass in the Chapel of Glory. The Chapel of Glory is located in the Basilica with a stunning tower over 90 meters high. We will learn the about the history of this Chapel as well as visit other churches around town. This afternoon is free to walk around and shop until we meet for dinner as a group in a local restaurant to try our first taste of authentic German food. (B, D)

Day 5 | Kevelaer – Aachen
After a filling breakfast we head to another treasure of Germany, Aachen. Our drive will lead us through the weaving border of the Netherlands and Germany where we will gaze upon luscious green country side. Upon arrival in Aachen, you will have time to drop off your luggage and enjoy a lunch on your own while getting your feet wet in the city. After lunch the group will meet up to celebrate Holy Mass in the Cathedral of Aix-la-Chapelle. This Cathedral will expose you to beauty of magnificent measure as it was constructed under rule of the emperor Charlemagne. The late emperor also chose this Cathedral as his final resting place. We will continue our tour into the evening where we will enjoy a nice meal as a gr oup, already sharing the great memories we have created. (B, D)

Day 6 | Aachen – Banneux – Cologne
Start the day with a relaxing journey into the peaceful country of Belgium. Here we will visit a small town called Banneux. It is also known to the world as the “Lourdes of the North”. We will stop at the Shrine of Our Lady of Banneux where we will celebrate Holy Mass and have time for personal prayer and a visit to the healing waters located here. This apparition of Our Lady occurred in 1933 when the Virgin Mary appeared eight times to the young girl Mariette Beco. After a quiet afternoon we make our way back to Germany to visit the marvelous city of Cologne. Upon arrival we will dine as a group and rest for our next day in this magnificent city. (B, D)

Day 7 | Cologne
This morning we will enjoy a filling breakfast before heading to explore the wonders of the city. Cologne is unique in that it sits on both sides of the Rhine river. We start our morning celebrating Holy Mass in the Cologne Cathedral, the most iconic building in all of Western Germany. This Cathedral is home the Shrine of the Three Kings; it holds relics from the magi who visited the Holy Family after the birth of Jesus. After Holy Mass and exploration we head out to view some of the 12 Romanesque Churches that lie within Cologne’s city limits. Much of this city was destroyed during WWII and we will take a walk through history while exploring these Catholic Sites. This evening is free for you to enjoy dinner on your own. (B)

Day 8 | Cologne – Sablon – Ghent
We board our comfortable coach to travel to thee final country of this pilgrimage, Belgium. Our first stop is Sablon, a charming city that is home to the Church of Our Blessed Lady of Sablon. We will celebrate Holy Mass and afterwards stroll through the magical gardens of Petit Sablon. This afternoon we are free to go exploring in the Grand Sablon square before heading to Ghent where we will dine together and rest for the next day. (B, D)

Day 9 | Ghent – Bruges
This morning we start with Holy Mass in Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. This magnificent structure stands at 89m tall and features an original altar that is considered to be one of the most prominent works of art in all of Belgium. After Holy Mass and private prayer we make our way to the “Venice of the North”, Bruges. Bruges is home to beautiful canals that rival those of both Venice and Amsterdam. This afternoon you are free to enjoy a casual stroll in Bruges. Soak in the beauty of this city and enjoy dinner on your own. (B)

Day 10 | Bruges – Brussels
This morning we wake up and head to the last stop on our journey. We say goodbye to Bruges and travel the short trip to Brussels, the capital city of Belgium. While in Brussels we have a plethora of activates to choose from; we can visit the famous Manneken Pis or visit the Grand Palace. We can stroll along the main square and celebrate Holy Mass in the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with the group at a local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 11 | Brussels – USA
After breakfast, transfer to the local airport for your flight back to the USA. (B)

Learn about planning a trip

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

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

Our Lady of Fatima and Italy

by mpierz | Mar 1, 2017

The possibilities are endless!

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

Find your next destination

Our Lady of Fatima and Italy

>> Starting in Fatima and the Little Chapel of Apparitions, continuing to Rome, Assisi, and east to the Amalfi Coast, this is one of our most popular itineraries.

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

|

“I can't wait for next year's trip!”

–Emma S.

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 balance 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. 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, 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 – Lisbon – Rome – Orvieto – Assisi
After breakfast we head to the airport for our flight to Rome. Upon arrival, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Assisi. On the way to Assisi, stop in Orvieto to celebrate Holy Mass and explore the Orvieto Cathedral, a large 14th-century church dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Region of Umbria. Upon arrival in Assisi, enjoy dinner together and rest. (D) Day 7 | Assisi Today enjoy a full day in 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 and the Basilica of St. Clare to pray before the San Damiano crucifix from which Jesus told St. Francis to rebuild His church. Time to explore Assisi. This evening enjoy dinner in Assisi on your own. (B)

Day 8 | Assisi – Loreto – Lanciano – San Giovanni Rotondo
After breakfast we travel the absolutely stunning landscape of Italy to its eastern coast along the Adriatic Sea, stopping at the Holy House of Loreto, and in Lanciano on our way to San Giovanni Rotondo. We will pray at the Sanctuary of the Eucharistic Miracle in Lanciano where in the 8th century the host visibly changed to flesh and the wine visibly changed to blood when a monk doubted the presence of Our Lord in the Eucharist. Dinner and overnight in San Giovanni Rotondo. (B,D)

Day 9 | San Giovanni Rotondo – Monte Sant’ Angelo – San Giovanni Rotondo
Saint Padre Pio lived in San Giovanni Rotondo for 50 years. We will pray at his tomb, and see his uncorrupt body in the Shrine of Our Lady of Grace. Saint Pio is truly a miraculous being, known for his stigmata, mysticism and sufferings. In the afternoon we will travel to Monte Sant’ Angelo to visit the Grotto of Michael the Archangel, the very famous place where thousands, including many Popes, come seeking the protection of St. Michael the Archangel. (B,D)

Day 10 | San Giovanni Rotondo – Pompeii – Sorrento
After breakfast we depart for Naples. En route, we stop in Pompeii to see the ruins of a city buried by a catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in the year 79AD. Later we visit the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary. In the late afternoon we enjoy the scenery of the Bay of Naples from Sorrento. (B,D)

Day 11 | Capri – Rest Day
Today we take a boat ride to the famous island of Capri where we have a splendid day to take in the Mediterranean scenery and relax. (B,D)

Day 12 | Sorrento – Monte Cassino – Rome, Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, Catacombs of St. Callixtus
Today we make an early departure from Sorrento to Rome. Along the way we make a stop in Monte Cassino, the principle monastery of the Benedictine Order, founded by Saint Benedict around 530 A.D. Continue to Rome and visit the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls by the oldest Roman road, the Appian Way. Time permitting explore the nearby Domino Quo Vadis Chapel, the Baths of Caracalla, the Arch of Drusus, the Tomb of Cecilia Metella, and the catacombs of St. Callixtus. Late tonight we enjoy a delicious meal in our hotel together. (B, D)

Day 13 | Rome
We will tour St. Peter’s Basilica, including St. John Paul II’s tomb in Vatican City. Millions come every year to these breathtaking pilgrimage sites. This is the world’s largest Basilica, designed by architects such as Michelangelo and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. After lunch, we will tour the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s Room, and more. (B)

Day 14 | Ancient and Christian Rome – Colosseum, Roman Forum, Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Holy Staircase, Basilicas of St. John Lateran and St. Mary Major.
Today will be an intense day of Ancient and Christian Rome, one of the busier walking days as our tour bus cannot drive to every site we will be visiting. Begin with a visit to the famous monument of Ancient Rome – the Colosseum. We take you around and explain the history of the arena and the events that took place here, while you stand on the same spot as emperors, gladiators and the Roman mob. From here, go through the Roman Forum, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Continue to the Trevi Fountain, the Holy Staircase and Basilicas of St. John Lateran and St. Mary Major. This city tour is largely by foot and makes for a long day. Enjoy dinner on your own tonight in Rome. (B)

Day 15 | Rome – Papal Audience In the morning we will attend the Papal Audience and receive a Blessing by His Holiness the Pope in St. Peter’s Square. (Pending schedule of the Holy Father, subject to change at last moment). In the afternoon enjoy your last day free for shopping and leisure. You are in the Eternal City –one of the greatest cities in the world. Enjoy a final group dinner together tonight at a local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 16 | Rome – USA
After breakfast transfer to the airport in Rome for our flight home. Ciao Italia! (B)

Learn about planning a trip

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

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

Mexico: Experience the History of the Catholic Church

by mpierz | Mar 1, 2017

The possibilities are endless!

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

Find your next destination

Mexico: Experience the History of the Catholic Church

>> The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is celebrated on December 12th. In 1999, Pope Saint John Paul II, in his homily given during the Solemn Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, his third visit to the sanctuary, declared the date of December the 12th as a Liturgical Holy Day for the whole continent. During the same visit Pope Saint John Paul II entrusted the cause of life to her loving protection, and placed under her motherly care the innocent lives of children, especially those who are in danger of not being born.

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

|

“The pilgrimage was amazing, the beach was second best!”

–Harriot Jame

Day 1 | USA – Mexico City
Depart the USA for Mexico City. Meals are served aboard your flight. Upon arrival we meet our Escort and transfer to your hotel in Mexico City (D)

Day 2 | Guadalupe – Teotihuacán – Santiago de Tlatelolco – Mexico City
This morning through the Plaza of Three Cultures we visit one of the most historical churches in Mexico– Santiago de Tlatelolco. Continue to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe where we will celebrate Holy Mass in the main Basilica before the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Afterward, we go to the original church where we learn the history of Juan Diego and the Tilma, with its miraculous image of Our Lady. In the afternoon we head to San Juan Teotihuacán to see the famous archaeological site of the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon. Dinner and over night in Mexico City. (B, D)

Day 3 | Tlaxcala – Puebla
Today we have a fascinating day of history through the early church in Mexico, showing its Spanish roots and Indian culture. In Tlaxcala visit the place where St. Michael the Archangel appeared to Diego Lazaro in 1631. After lunch head to Puebla where we visit the Franciscan church of Puebla where the incorrupt body of Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio is preserved. After arriving from Spain, he became very wealthy in agricultural business and road building. He taught the local natives to cultivate the land and how to build agricultural tools. Late in life, Sebastian gave all of his wealth to the convent of Poor Clares, and joined the Order of St. Francis. Though already in his 70’s, he did not exempt himself from hard work and begging to support the Friars. We return to Mexico City for dinner and over night. (B, D)

Day 4 | Mexico City – Guadalupe – Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral – Holy Family Church (Bl. Miguel Pro) – Guadalupe
After breakfast, we will make our way to the famous main plaza of Mexico City, the Zócalo formally named the Plaza de la Constitución. We will visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and see the tomb of Bishop Zumarraga, the first Bishop of Mexico, known as the Protector of Indians. As we continue our journey learning about the history of Indians, and Mexican Christians we will arrive at the Holy Family Church in Mexico City. Pray at the tomb of Blessed Fr. Miguel Pro, the Jesuit martyr who having joined the Jesuits at a young age left Mexico in 1914 due to the tremendous anti–Catholic sentiment that reigned against the people by the government. He studied in Los Gatos, California until 1915 when he was sent to seminary in Spain. In 1925 he was ordained a Priest in Belgium and returned to Mexico. During this time of persecution, churches were closed and Catholics could only practice in hiding. Padre Pro clandestinely heard confessions, celebrated Holy Mass, and anointed the sick. In 1927 Bl. Pro was wrongly accused of an assassination attempt on the Mexican President. Moments before his execution, Blessed Fr. Miguel Pro forgave his executioners, and with his arms spread in the form of a cross he cried out ‘Viva Cristo Rey!’ This afternoon again visit Our Lady of Guadalupe with time for prayer and reflection. Tonight we enjoy a farewell dinner together before returning to the hotel for overnight. (B, D)
Option: Return to USA or Fly to Cancún for a few days of relaxation

Day 5 | Mexico City – Cancún
After breakfast we transfer to the airport in Mexico City for our flight to Cancún. After a short 2 hour flight arrive in the beach resort city of Cancún wher e we are transferred to our all–inclusive beach get– away resort. Enjoy the beach for the next few days! (B, D)

Day 6 and 7 | Cancún All–Inclusive Resort (Wyndham Maya, Royal Sands, or similar)
Enjoy a few days relaxing on the beach, sipping on unlimited drinks, and delighting yourself with various dining options available all day long. (B, D)

Day 8 | Cancún departure for USA
After breakfast we transfer to the airport in Cancún for our flight home. (B)

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: Enjoy an additional 3 nights at your all– inclusive resort!

Learn about planning a trip

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

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

Medjugorje, Budapest, Poland

by mpierz | Mar 1, 2017

The possibilities are endless!

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

Find your next destination

Medjugorje, Budapest, Poland

Medjugorje | Budapest | Zakopane | Wadowice | Kraków

>> On June 24, 1981, six children in the little town of Medjugorje (in former Yugoslavia) began to experience what they said were ‘apparitions’ of the Blessed Virgin Mary who entrusted them with ‘secrets’ and other messages of peace, prayer, and conversion. Some of the now adult visionaries continue to receive these messages almost daily. Although the Church has not yet affirmed the ‘apparitions’, thousands of Catholics come here every year.

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

|

“A surreal and blessed experience, Thank you”

– Ramona McKenzie

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

Day 2 | Medjugorje
Upon arrival in the Republic of Croatia, meet your guide and transfer to the country of Bosnia and Herzegovina where we will stay in privately owned pensions (hotels) in the village of Medjugorje. If time permits, we will have an orientation walk from the hotel to the St. James Church. (D)

Day 3 | Medjugorje
In the morning, we will attend a Holy Mass in St. James Church. Following the Holy Mass, we will spend time in silent prayer at this very peaceful place where it is said Blessed Virgin Mary appeared for the first time to six children on June 24, 1981. We may choose various activities while in Medjugorje. One may climb to the Hill of Apparitions or Mount Krizevac (Cross Mountain); join villagers in prayer of the Rosary, etc. (B, D)

Day 4 | Medjugorje – Budapest
After breakfast and Holy Mass at St. James Church, we depart Medjugorje for our scenic drive through the former Yugoslavian countryside to Hungary and its beautiful capital, Budapest. (can be replaced by flight from Split.) The famous Danube River separates the hills of “Buda” and the plains of “Pest”, highlighting an interesting comparison of old and modern cultures. (B, D)

Day 5 | Budapest
In the morning, enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Budapest. See the many graceful bridges that cross the Danube connecting the former cities of Buda and Pest. Our tour includes all the main attractions: the Royal Palace, the Parliament Building, Castle Hill, Coronation Church, Heroes’ Square, and Gellert Hill. Afternoon time for shopping and coffee. (B, D)

Day 6 | Budapest – Zakopane
Following breakfast, we depart Budapest and head for Zakopane. On our way we will enjoy the picturesque landscape of Slovakia. Late in the afternoon we arrive in Zakopane, a resort town high up in the scenic Tatra Mountains of Poland. (B, D)

Day 7 | Zakopane
Full day in Zakopane, where Pope Saint John Paul II would recreate as a young priest and on until Pope. When cardinal, someone mentioned it might be inappropriate for a man of his position to ski. He replied that it was only “unbecoming for a cardinal to ski badly.” Zakopane is the center of age–old Highlander culture. Going through town, you will see all sorts of people; holiday–makers, hikers and colorful market vendors enjoying the pure mountain air and magnificent vistas. Need a break? A cable care can whisk you away to Mount Gubalowka for a splendid view of the valley below. This afternoon you have a chance to shop for local folk art. In the evening, we have a group dinner with folklore show. (B, D)

Day 8 | Zakopane – Wadowice – Kraków
Today we depart for Kraków. On the way we will visit Wadowice, the birthplace of Pope Saint John Paul II. After Mass in the church where Karol Wojtyla was baptized in 1920, we will tour a museum dedicated to the Saint in the building where his family home was. Later we continue to Kraków, the former capital of Poland. (B, D)

Day 9 | Kraków
In the morning we will visit the Shrine of the Divine Mercy in Łagiewniki, dedicated by Pope Saint John Paul II, where St. Faustina Kowalska lived and died. Then we continue our city tour of Kraków, which includes the Old Town, Cloth Hall, Wit Stwosz’s acclaimed altar masterpiece at St. Mary’s Church, Jagiellonian University and Wawel Castle and Cathedral – all remarkable symbols of Poland’s national identity. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. In the evening we will enjoy a delicious farewell dinner with wine. (B, D)

Day 10 | Kraków Departure for USA
In the morning, transfer to the airport in Kraków for your flight home. (B)

Learn about planning a trip

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 the Alps

by mpierz | Mar 1, 2017

The possibilities are endless!

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

Find your next destination

Marian Shrines of the Alps

>> Dive into the ultimate journey of the Alps! Experience the culture of Bavaria and many incredible Marian Shrines all while overlooking the stunning landscapes of the Alps. This special program is a favorite among clergy and the faithful who look for new experiences after having visited the more common pilgrimage destinations of the Holy Land, Lourdes, Fatima, etc.

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

|

“What a great experience, a wonderful educational opportunity to enhance one’s knowledge of the foundation of Christianity. I applaud you, Mark, for your tireless energy and willingness to do whatever it took to make every single person’s experience a positive one. We wish you continued success!”

– Mary Elizabeth Jones

Day 1 | USA Departure to Prague
Depart the USA for Prague. Dinner and breakfast are served aboard your flight.

Day 2 | Prague
Today we arrive in Prague, the Czech Republic’s capital and largest city. We enjoy dinner together and take the afternoon to relax after a long flight. (D)

Day 3 | Prague
After breakfast we begin to explore Prague. We will celebrate Holy Mass, pray and learn of the statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague. We will visit the Church of Our Lady Victorious, the Old Town, Lesser Town, St. Nicholas Church, Strahov Monastery, Wenceslas Square and the St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George Basilica and Loreto Church. This evening, enjoy a splendid dinner together. (B, D)

Day 4 | Prague – Altötting – Salzburg
Today we leave the Czech Republic for Germany’s most visited pilgrimage destination: Altötting. This is the oldest Shrine to Mary in Germany and the Black Madonna. Our Lady of Altötting is credited with a long history of miraculous healing. Pope Saint John Paul II visited here in 1980. Afterwards we continue to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart. (B, D)

Day 5 | Salzburg
The medieval city of Salzburg has several sites in store for us, from St. Peter’s Churchyard and the Archbishop’s Residence to the Nonnberg Convent of Benedictine Nuns and the Fortress Hohensalzburg. We will also visit the Schloss Hellbrunn Castle to enjoy its beautiful Baroque architecture and ‘trick fountains’. (B, D)

Day 6 | Salzburg – Mariazell – Vienna
Today we journey through the Alps to Austria. Our highlight will be Mariazell, one of Europe’s most visited Shrines. Pope Saint John Paul II visited here in 1983 to see the ’Lady Chapel’. It is here in 1157 that a Benedictine Monk named Magnus was walking in a forest and came to a large rock he could not pass. He prayed to Our Blessed Virgin who then split the stone in two, allowing him to pass. Magnus built a chapel here, and it was made larger and rebuilt several times after. After Holy Mass we continue to the capital of Austria, Vienna. (B, D)

Day 7 | Vienna
Our pilgrimage continues in Vienna where we visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the miraculous image of Our Lady of Mariapocs. The image of the Blessed Virgin wept before hundreds of witnesses in 1696. We will visit the Schonbrunn Royal Palace and Hall of Mirrors where Mozart played for many important figures. We will also see the Church of St. Charles Borromeo and Otto Wagner’s Stadtbahn pavilions. (B, D)

Day 8 | Vienna – Budapest
Today we drive to Budapest. On the way we stop at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Gyor, where an image of Our Lady is found which came originally from Ireland. The image was brought to Gyor when Ireland was invaded and priests were being killed. The image of Our Lady wept tears of blood on St. Patrick’s Day in 1697. We continue to Budapest. (B, D)

Day 9 | Budapest
We explore the city of Budapest, the Basilica of St. Stephen, and head out to visit the miraculous image of Our Lady of Remete, which has cured many ailing pilgrims. Pope John Paul II prayed before the image in 1991. (B, D)

Day 10 | Budapest Departure to USA
After breakfast we transfer to the airport in Budapest for our flight home. (B)

Learn about planning a trip

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

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