Lourdes Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Lourdes, France with this comprehensive travel guide that includes a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health information, and transportation logistics.


Introduction to Lourdes

Lourdes is a small town located in Hautes-Pyrénées, in the Occitanie region of France. It is popular for its religious significance, as it is believed that the Virgin Mary appeared to a peasant girl named Bernadette Soubirous in 1858. Since then, Lourdes has become one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. But Lourdes is not only a religious destination; it also boasts a rich culture, stunning natural scenery, and exciting outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Lourdes

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • The Grotto of Massabielle
  • Lourdes Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
  • The National Museum of Lourdes
  • The Chateau Fort de Lourdes

Natural Attractions of Lourdes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pic du Jer funicular
  • The Pyrenees Mountains
  • Lake Lourdes
  • Pont d’Espagne waterfall
  • Caves of Bétharram

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lourdes

  • The Chemin de la Mature - a path that follows the Gave de Pau river.
  • The GR 10 - a long-distance hiking trail that runs through the Pyrenees Mountains.
  • The Voie Verte des Gaves - a cycling path that links Lourdes to Cauterets.
  • The Col de la Croix Blanche - a challenging bike climb through the mountains.

Best Things to Do in Lourdes: Activities and Tours

  • Attend a mass or procession at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.
  • Take a guided tour of Lourdes’ historical sites and landmarks.
  • Go on a scenic train ride through the Pyrenees.
  • Brave the rapids on a white water rafting excursion.
  • Go skiing or snowboarding at the nearby ski resorts during the winter months.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lourdes

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive at Lourdes and visit the Sanctuary
Day 2 Hike the Chemin de la Mature
Day 3 Take a scenic train ride through the Pyrenees.
Day 4 Go white water rafting.
Day 5 Visit the National Museum of Lourdes
Day 6 Ski or snowboard at the nearby ski resorts
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Lourdes

Must-Try Dishes

  • Garbure - a hearty soup made with ham, vegetables, and cabbage
  • Cassoulet - a stew made with white beans, pork, sausages, and duck
  • Pintade - guinea fowl roasted with herbs and garlic
  • Foie gras - a local delicacy made from duck or goose liver
  • Gateau a la broche - a spit cake made with layers of pastry and sugar.

Local Beverages

  • Jurançon wine
  • Armagnac - a type of brandy distilled in southwestern France
  • Pousse Rapière - a cocktail made with orange liqueur and Armagnac

Where to Stay in Lourdes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Panorama
  • Hotel Roissy
  • Hotel Saint Sauveur
  • Hotel Continental
  • Hotel Eliseo

What to Buy in Lourdes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Rosary beads and religious memorabilia
  • Local honey
  • Pure wool garments and blankets
  • Pyrenees cheeses and cold cuts
  • Pottery and ceramics

Local Culture and Customs of Lourdes

  • Lourdes is a deeply religious destination, and visitors are expected to show respect at all times.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Many shops and restaurants close for the midday break, so plan accordingly.

Best Time to Visit Lourdes

Lourdes can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you’re interested in skiing or winter sports, visit between December and February.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lourdes

Do:

  • Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.
  • Respect religious customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
  • Be respectful and courteous to locals.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Speak loudly or disrupt the peace at religious sites.
  • Take photos without permission.
  • Visit during peak season without booking accommodations in advance.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lourdes

Lourdes is generally a safe destination, but visitors should stay alert and exercise caution, especially at night. Keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas.

Health in Lourdes

Visitors should take necessary precautions when traveling to prevent illnesses such as food poisoning and sunstroke. Tap water in Lourdes is safe to drink, but it is recommended to drink bottled water for extra caution.

Getting to Lourdes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lourdes

The closest airport to Lourdes is Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport (LDE), which is located 13 kilometers from the town center. Other nearby airports include Pau Pyrénées Airport (PUF) and Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS).

Bus Stations Near Lourdes

Lourdes has a bus station located in the town center, which connects to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Lourdes by train or by car.

How to Get Around Lourdes

The town of Lourdes is relatively small and can be easily explored on foot. Taxis and buses are also available for transportation within the town, and rental cars are available for those looking to venture further outside of Lourdes.

Where to Go Next from Lourdes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Pyrenees National Park
  • The city of Pau
  • The medieval village of Saint Bertrand de Comminges
  • The city of Toulouse
  • The wine region of Bordeaux

Conclusion

Lourdes is an incredible destination that offers something for everyone. From the religious significance and breathtaking natural scenery to the exciting outdoor adventures and rich culture, Lourdes is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor. Plan your trip with the help of this comprehensive travel guide and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Panoramic view of Lourdes with the Rosary Basilica. Panoramic view of Lourdes with the Rosary Basilica. Lourdes Train station Lourdes Train station The Massabielle grotto The Massabielle grotto The sanctuary of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary looking towards the Sorrowful Mysteries. Note the mosaic of Mary on top. The sanctuary of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary looking towards the Sorrowful Mysteries. Note the mosaic of Mary on top. Torchlight procession in Lourdes at sundown Torchlight procession in Lourdes at sundown