Lourdes - Discovering France

Travelling to Lourdes

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Lourdes, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Lourdes and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Lourdes, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Lourdes for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Lourdes

Lourdes is a small town located in the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains in southwestern France. It is known as one of the world's most famous pilgrimage destinations for Catholics. The town is home to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, which is a major attraction for religious tourists from all over the world. The sanctuary is built on the site where a young girl, Bernadette Soubirous, reported seeing visions of the Virgin Mary in 1858. In addition to its religious significance, Lourdes is also a popular tourist destination for its beautiful landscapes, spa resorts, and outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.

What to visit in Lourdes

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Lourdes, France: 1. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes: This is the most visited tourist attraction in Lourdes. The sanctuary is a famous Catholic pilgrimage site, as it is believed that the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette here in 1858. Visitors can explore the grotto where the apparition took place, attend mass, and visit several other religious sites throughout the sanctuary.
2. Château fort de Lourdes: This ancient castle sits atop a hill overlooking the town of Lourdes. It was originally constructed in the 11th century and has undergone several renovations over the years. Visitors can explore the castle, climb its towers, and enjoy panoramic views of the Pyrenees mountain range.
3. Maison Paternelle de Sainte Bernadette: This is the childhood home of Saint Bernadette, the girl who had the apparitions of the Virgin Mary. The museum features exhibits about her life and the history of Lourdes.
4. Musée de Cire de Lourdes: This wax museum depicts scenes from the life of Jesus and other religious figures. The realistic wax figures and sets make for an immersive experience.
5. Musée Pyrénéen: This museum displays the culture and history of the Pyrenees mountain region. Visitors can see traditional costumes, artifacts, and art from the area.
6. Le Petit Lourdes: This miniature park replicates the town of Lourdes on a smaller scale. Visitors can wander through the streets, see recreated versions of the sanctuary and other landmarks, and learn about the town's history and culture.
7. Pic du Jer: This mountain is accessible via cable car and offers stunning views of Lourdes and the surrounding countryside. There is also a restaurant at the top.
8. Grotte de Massabielle: This is the site of the apparition of the Virgin Mary to Saint Bernadette. Visitors can see the statue of Mary and the natural spring that is believed to have healing powers.
Overall, Lourdes is a beautiful and historically significant town with plenty of attractions for visitors of all interests.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Lourdes.

When to go on holiday to Lourdes

The best time to visit Lourdes depends on your personal preferences. The most popular time to visit Lourdes is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm and there are many events and activities to enjoy. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, with large crowds and higher prices for accommodations.
If you prefer a quieter visit, consider traveling during the shoulder season (April to May and September to October). During these months, the weather is still mild, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
It's also worth noting that Lourdes is a popular destination for religious pilgrimages, so if you are interested in attending these events, make sure to plan your trip accordingly.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Lourdes

There are several ways to get to Lourdes, France depending on your starting point. Here are some common options: 1. By Plane: Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrenees Airport is the closest airport to Lourdes, with regular flights to major cities in France and Europe. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Lourdes.
2. By Train: Lourdes has a well-connected train station with several daily trains from major cities in France, such as Paris, Toulouse, and Bordeaux. You can check schedules and book your tickets online on the French national rail website (SNCF).
3. By Bus: Lourdes is also accessible by bus. Eurolines and Flixbus have scheduled services from major cities in Europe to Lourdes.
4. By Car: If you prefer to drive, Lourdes is conveniently located near major highways. From Paris, take the A10 and A20 or A71 and A75 to Lourdes. The journey takes around 8-10 hours, depending on traffic.
I hope this helps!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Lourdes, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Lourdes

Sure, here are some typical foods of Lourdes, France, along with a short description: 1. Garbure: A rustic soup made with a variety of vegetables, ham, and beans. It is often served as a main dish.
2. Confit de canard: Duck confit, a dish made with duck legs that are slowly cooked in their own fat until they are tender and full of flavor.
3. Tarbais beans: These white beans are grown in the region around Lourdes and are often used in traditional dishes such as cassoulet.
4. Poulet à la moutarde: Chicken cooked in a creamy mustard sauce.
5. Gateau à la broche: A cake made by spinning the batter on a spit over an open fire until it is cooked and golden brown.
6. Pâté de foie gras: A rich, buttery pate made with finely ground duck or goose liver.
7. Tarte aux myrtilles: A blueberry tart, often made with fresh blueberries picked from the surrounding hills.
8. Truite des Pyrénées: Trout caught in the nearby Pyrenees mountains and served grilled or baked with herbs and butter.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Lourdes an expensive destination for tourists?

Lourdes, France can be considered an affordable destination for tourists. This is because many of the attractions and activities in the area, such as visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, are free of charge. Additionally, there are many budget-friendly accommodation options such as hostels and budget hotels, as well as affordable restaurants and cafes. However, prices may vary depending on the season and demand, so it's always wise to do some research and plan accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Lourdes

The best areas to look for accommodations in Lourdes would be near the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, which is the central attraction of the city. There are various hotels and lodgings located within walking distance of the sanctuary, such as Boulevard de la Grotte, Rue de la Grotte, Rue Bernadette Soubirous, and Avenue Peyramale. Additionally, depending on your preferences, you may also consider other areas in the city, such as Quartier de la Gare or Quartier des Halles, which are also conveniently located and offer a variety of accommodations.
You can check hotel prices at Lourdes here:
Booking.com

Is Lourdes a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Lourdes is generally a safe place for tourists. Like any tourist destination, it is important to remain cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas such as train stations and public squares. However, overall crime rates in Lourdes are relatively low, and the city has a strong police presence. It is always a good idea to take basic precautions such as keeping your valuables secure and being aware of any potential scams or pickpocketing attempts.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Lourdes.

What type of travelers will enjoy Lourdes the most?

Lourdes is a beautiful and spiritual destination located in the southwest of France. Travellers who are interested in religious pilgrimage or seeking a peaceful and serene environment will surely enjoy Lourdes.
Lourdes is not just a place for couples or young people looking for fun, but also for families who want to experience a unique and meaningful trip. Children and teenagers will be fascinated by the story of Bernadette Soubirous, the apparitions of Virgin Mary, and the holiness of the Lourdes Grotto.
Overall, Lourdes is ideal for any traveler who is interested in experiencing a religious pilgrimage, seeking peace and serenity, and exploring the fascinating history and culture of the region.

How to get around Lourdes

In Lourdes, you can move around by walking, taking a taxi, using the local bus system (TUL), or renting a bike or car. The town is small and most of the major attractions are within walking distance, but if you need to travel further, a taxi or bus would be more convenient.

What to see around Lourdes

Certainly! Here are a few nice places to consider for a day trip from Lourdes: 1. Gavarnie: Head to this small village in the Pyrenees and see the impressive Cirque de Gavarnie - it's a UNESCO World Heritage site and definitely worth a visit. 2. Pau: This pretty little city is just over an hour's drive from Lourdes and has a beautiful chateau, lovely parks and gardens, and a charming old town to explore. 3. Pic du Midi: Take a cable car up to the top of this mountain to enjoy stunning views of the Pyrenees, visit the observatory, and even have dinner at the restaurant at the summit. 4. Lac de Payolle: This lake is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and picnics, and it's only about 45 minutes' drive from Lourdes. 5. Tarbes: This bustling market town has a beautiful cathedral, several museums, and plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you entertained for the day. I hope that gives you some good ideas for your day trips from Lourdes!
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