Lourdes travel guide

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Introduction to Lourdes

Lourdes is known for attractions like Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, Basilica of St. Pius X, and Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes. Travelers who visit this commune in Hautes-Pyrénées, France are often fascinated by the rich history and interesting culture it offers. We recommend taking the time to explore this town in France on foot and walk alongside the 13.2 thousand locals who live in Lourdes. For further insights into the town's events, traditions, and heritage, consult the official website of Lourdes.

Traveling to Lourdes is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Easily accessible from Tarbes–Lourdes–Pyrénées, Lourdes is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in France any time of the year. Before booking a flight to Lourdes, it's helpful to know that the town observes the UTC+01:00 time zone.

History of Lourdes

Lourdes, a small market town in the foothills of the Pyrenees, is world-renowned for its spiritual significance and healing waters. Its history is steeped in religious events. In 1858, a 14-year-old local girl named Bernadette Soubirous reported 18 visions of the Virgin Mary in the Grotto of Massabielle.

These apparitions were later recognized by the Catholic Church, transforming Lourdes into a major site of Roman Catholic pilgrimage and miraculous healings. Today, millions of pilgrims visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes annually, seeking faith, hope, and healing.

Despite the town's religious prominence, its history wasn't always so divine. Prior to the apparitions, Lourdes was a quiet, modest town known for its fortified castle, the Château Fort de Lourdes, which dates back to the 11th century and offers panoramic views of the town.

The town also played a crucial role in the 19th-century Franco-Prussian War, serving as a key transit point for soldiers and refugees. Today, Lourdes beautifully blends its rich history with its religious significance, making it a must-visit destination for both history buffs and spiritual seekers.

Top services in Lourdes

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Lourdes, France. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Lourdes, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to France. Check out the best things to do in Lourdes by browsing over 26 top-rated tours available to you in the town. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of places to stay and 7 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Lourdes with this travel guide.

Experience the best of Lourdes with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Lourdes from our free 24/7 customer support.

Continue reading this Lourdes travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the town of Lourdes!

Best time to visit Lourdes

The best time to explore Lourdes, France largely depends on your tolerance for crowds and preference for weather. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are often considered the most favorable seasons to visit. These months offer mild weather, perfect for exploring the town's religious sites and stunning landscapes. The town is less crowded during these periods, offering a more peaceful experience. However, if you're interested in participating in the annual pilgrimage, the Feast of the Assumption, plan your visit for mid-August. This event draws vast crowds, transforming the town into a vibrant hub of activity. For a unique winter experience, Lourdes in December provides a chance to witness the town's beautiful Christmas decorations and celebrations. While the weather is cold, it's not severe, usually ranging between 2-10°C. Remember to pack appropriate clothing and plan for shorter daylight hours. Ultimately, the best time to explore Lourdes is when it aligns with your travel preferences and interests.

Weather in Lourdes

Lourdes, located in the southwestern part of France, enjoys a temperate oceanic climate. The city experiences four distinct seasons, with each offering its unique charm. Summers (June to September) are warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. However, this season also witnesses occasional showers.

Autumn (October and November) is relatively mild but can be wet, as the city receives the most rainfall during this period. Winter (December through February) in Lourdes is generally cold, with temperatures often dropping to around 0°C. Snowfall is common in the winters, adding a picturesque charm to the city, but it may cause travel disruptions.

Spring (March to May) is a delightful time as temperatures rise gradually and the city comes alive with blooming flowers. The average temperature during spring ranges from 12°C to 17°C. Throughout the year, the city often experiences a cool breeze due to its proximity to the Pyrenees Mountains.

Local tip for visiting Lourdes

When visiting the serene city of Lourdes, our insider tip would be to participate in the nightly torchlight Marian Procession. Although it's known by tourists, many do not participate, assuming it's strictly for the religious or for pilgrims. However, locals insist that it's an incredibly moving experience for anyone, regardless of religious beliefs. The procession happens daily at 9 PM, starting from the Grotto and moving through the Sanctuary. It's a captivating sight with the flickering candles reflecting on the faces of the participants singing the Ave Maria of Lourdes. This local custom allows you to experience the spiritual side of the city and can be a deeply moving personal experience, making your visit to Lourdes truly unforgettable.

Learn more about France

With destinations such as Lourdes, a trip to France needs no further explanation. Spanning over 643,801 square kilometers, France is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, France has something to enchant every traveler.

In Lourdes alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, Basilica of St. Pius X, and Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes. Thus, a trip to France becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, France offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered. There's so much to explore and uncover in France.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about France and its offers.

What to see in Lourdes

Photo of Basilica Notre Dame in Lourdes.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Lourdes, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Lourdes offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Lourdes travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the town so special.

Top attractions in Lourdes

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Lourdes is more than just a wonderful town in France. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into France's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Lourdes is the unforgettable Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the town, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Lourdes. This remarkable attraction is located at 1 Av. Mgr Théas, 65100 Lourdes, France, and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 07:00-22:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Lourdes, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Lourdes, including the fascinating Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, Basilica of St. Pius X, Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes, Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen, and Church of Saint Bernadette.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the town map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Lourdes.

Things to do in Lourdes

Photo of view of the basilica of Lourdes in autumn, France.

You've explored Lourdes's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Lourdes. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Lourdes, or learning more about the town's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the town below.

Most popular experiences in Lourdes

A visit to Lourdes gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the town is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Historical Tours, Walking Tours, Hiking Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Lourdes, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant town. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Lourdes. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Lourdes offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Lourdes

In Lourdes, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 6 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

Lourdes also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Private Mead Taste Experience in Lourdes, for example, is the cheapest Wine Tasting Experience option in the town. This experience costs around 25 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Lourdes adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the town. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Lourdes right below.

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Discover the best things to do in Lourdes. Choose from 26 fantastic tours and activities available in the town.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Lourdes. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Lourdes.

What to eat in Lourdes

Lourdes, a charming city in southwestern France, is a culinary paradise showcasing the richness of French and Basque cuisines. The city center and market district are the best places to eat in Lourdes, offering a variety of gastronomic delights. Begin your culinary journey with 'Garbure', a hearty local soup with ham and cabbage, or 'Poule au Pot', a chicken dish simmered with vegetables. For a taste of the ocean, try the 'Chipirons', small squids typically cooked with ink and served with rice. For those with a sweet tooth, 'Gâteau à la broche', a spit cake, is a must-try. Street food lovers should not miss 'Piperade', a spicy scramble of tomatoes, peppers, and eggs. For a high-end dining experience, 'Le Parc' and 'L'Imperial' are renowned for their innovative interpretations of traditional dishes. Remember, the French dining etiquette is an integral part of the experience, so take your time to savor each dish. With its diverse range of culinary offerings, Lourdes promises an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Nightlife in Lourdes

Lourdes' nightlife is a unique blend of spiritual serenity and lively entertainment. Unlike the bustling night scenes of other cities, Lourdes offers a quiet charm that is deeply rooted in its religious heritage. The best area for bars in Lourdes is around Boulevard de la Grotte, where you will find a number of low-key establishments that offer a relaxed atmosphere. Try Bar Le Carrefour, famous for its warm hospitality and wide selection of local wines.

As the night deepens, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes becomes a beacon of serenity. Join the nightly torchlight Marian procession, an unforgettable experience that embodies the city's unique night culture. For a more upbeat experience, head towards the Casino de Lourdes, where you can indulge in games and live entertainment. Remember, Lourdes nightlife is about immersing yourself in a unique blend of tranquillity and fun, so take the time to enjoy and appreciate the unique offerings of this sacred city.

Best shopping in Lourdes

Lourdes, France, offers an enticing shopping scene that blends local craftsmanship with distinct fashion. Rue de la Grotte is the best place to go shopping in Lourdes, bustling with shops selling religious artifacts and souvenirs. Don't miss the opportunity to purchase the iconic Virgin Mary statues, or locally-crafted rosaries, which make for special keepsakes. Take a stroll down Boulevard de la Grotte where a plethora of boutiques offer the latest in French fashion.

Alternatively, visit the covered market, Marché Couvert, for a delightful range of local produce. Here you can buy delicious Pyrenean cheeses, cured meats, and French pastries. It's also an excellent opportunity to interact with local vendors, enhancing your shopping experience.

For those who prefer a mall-style shopping experience, Lourdes's Le Meridien shopping center offers a variety of stores. Practical information: Most shops in Lourdes observe a mid-day break, typically from 12:30 to 2:00 pm, so plan your shopping spree accordingly. With its rich assortment of shopping venues, Lourdes caters to the diverse interests and needs of tourists, ensuring a memorable shopping experience in this sacred city.

Best Free Things to Do in Lourdes

Journeying to the charming city of Lourdes, in the heart of France, need not be an expensive affair. Among the best free things to do in Lourdes is meandering through the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, a serene and spiritually enriching experience. This iconic pilgrimage site is home to the Grotto of Massabielle, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared. Another free and worthwhile activity is strolling along the River Gave, absorbing the natural beauty of the area. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic Lourdes Castle, its grounds are free to enter and provide spectacular views over the city. Next, take time to explore the local markets, where you can experience the vibrant culture and taste local cheeses and breads for free. Lastly, enjoy a peaceful walk through the city's well-preserved old town, complete with ancient architecture and quaint, cobblestone streets. These activities offer a rich, fulfilling, and cost-free experience of Lourdes, making your French vacation memorable and affordable.

Vacation packages in Lourdes

Photo of Chateau Fort on a cloudy sky background. Lourdes, Pyrenees, France.

Booking a vacation package to Lourdes means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Lourdes to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Lourdes also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Lourdes travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the town.

Popular types of vacations in Lourdes

The most popular way to experience Lourdes is by visiting the town as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in France. However, it is also common for travelers to go on holiday to Lourdes on both shorter and longer getaways to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe, you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in France, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across France, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Lourdes, there is a vacation package for you.

Explore the popular types of travel packages to Lourdes below. Click on any to delve into the details and effortlessly plan your dream getaway.

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Find vacation packages in Lourdes

Explore and compare vacation packages, each offering unforgettable journeys to the wonderful town of Lourdes. Be sure to act swiftly, as the best flights, hotels, and activities in Lourdes tend to fill up quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best travel deals in France. Your customized holiday package to Lourdes is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Lourdes

International travelers can fly to Lourdes by booking flights with Ryanair, Volotea, and easyJet, offering flights to Tarbes–Lourdes–Pyrénées. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Lourdes.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Lourdes, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Lourdes. Go to this page to compare all flights to Lourdes.

Find cheap flights to Lourdes

Photo of rosary Basilica in Lourdes, Hautes-Pyrenees, France.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Lourdes is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Lourdes. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the town. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Lourdes, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search, " and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Lourdes even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book, " and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Lourdes both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Lourdes

Travelers visiting Lourdes can easily access the town via Tarbes–Lourdes–Pyrénées, offering direct connection to 412 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Lourdes below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Lourdes and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Where to stay in Lourdes

Photo of River Gave de Pau in Lourdes, France.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a town as fantastic as Lourdes is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Lourdes usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Lourdes offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the town allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Lourdes and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Lourdes planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Lourdes, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in France can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Lourdes. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the town, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Lourdes.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Lourdes in the following sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Lourdes

A trip to Lourdes means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the town. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Lourdes provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all the choices available in the town, Appart'hôtel Saint Jean is one of the top picks of travelers in Lourdes. Appart'hôtel Saint Jean is a stay with an average rating of 2571 stars out of 5 from 4 guests. The vacation rental apartment is located at 1 Avenue du Paradis and boasts many great utilities, including air conditioning, bar, and free wi-fi.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Lourdes. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Lourdes, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Family Saint Vincent 4 pers gare lourdes wifi. For approximately 51 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Single Room at this popular vacation rental apartment, which also offers terrace, family rooms, and more.

Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Lourdes. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Lourdes

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Lourdes for the unique experience they provide. Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Lourdes provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Lourdes are created equal, finding the best in the town often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Lourdes.

The Belfry & Spa Hotel offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Lourdes. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Paradis, the top 4-star hotel in the town. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Lourdes, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Saint Etienne, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in Lourdes. Travelers are encouraged to book early, as these hotels quickly reach capacity. Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel in Lourdes by clicking the cards.

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Finding the perfect stay for your visit to Lourdes is made easy with our search tool. With just a few clicks, explore a range of available hotels and accommodations, complete with prices and amenities for easy comparison. Simply input your check-in and check-out dates, along with the number of guests and rooms needed. Start planning your trip to Lourdes effortlessly now!

Car rentals in Lourdes

Photo of the Chateau Fort de Lourdes, a castle in Hautes.

To navigate Lourdes effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 7 car rental companies in Lourdes, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Lourdes start at 44 EUR per day or 305 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Fiat 500 Electric. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Lourdes, starting at 32 EUR per day or 227 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Lourdes, France below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Lourdes

Renting a car in Lourdes is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the town at their own pace.

A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Lourdes, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Lourdes for your upcoming adventures in France below.

Search for car rentals in Lourdes

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful town of Lourdes. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Lourdes, France, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Lourdes

In Lourdes, you can enjoy a variety of convenient transportation options. The city is served by a network of public buses, managed by the 'Keolis Lourdes' company. These buses connect key destinations in and around Lourdes, offering an economical way to explore the city.

Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or found at designated taxi ranks. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, several companies offer car rental services. You can pick up a rental car at the airport or in the city.

For a unique local transportation experience, try the 'Petit Train de Lourdes.' This small tourist train provides a scenic and leisurely way to travel around the city's main attractions, providing a commentary on Lourdes' history and landmarks. Another local experience is the 'Funiculaire du Pic du Jer,' a funicular railway that takes you up to a stunning viewpoint over the city.

Popular destinations to visit after Lourdes

Photo of Lourdes is a major place of Roman Catholic pilgrimage.

The town of Lourdes is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in France. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that France has it all.

Each destination in France offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in France that are as magical as the town of Lourdes. The most popular travel destinations in France are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in France

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in France. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Lourdes

Photo of statue of Virgin Mary in the grotto of Lady of Lourdes, France.

Experience the authentic charm of France by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Lourdes. Explore other destinations around France with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Lourdes to other amazing locations in France, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in France for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Lourdes.

Popular domestic flights from Lourdes

Travelers in France can catch flights to domestic airports in Perpignan, Nantes, Marseille, Toulouse, and Rodez. Domestic flights in France are operated by 2 airlines, including Ryanair, and Volotea. There are around 15 scheduled flight routes operating to Lourdes on a weekly basis.

From Lourdes, travelers can book scheduled flights to 15 domestic destinations.

Search domestic flights from Lourdes

Traveling to another city or region in France? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Lourdes to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in France on the selected dates.

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