Things To Do
in Lourdes
Lourdes sits at the foot of the Pyrenees as one of the world’s most visited Catholic pilgrimage sites. Its sanctuaries—the grotto, basilicas, and candlelit processions—draw visitors from every corner of the globe. Beyond the religious aura, the town blends medieval streets, gardens, and mountain scenery into a peaceful gateway to the Pyrenees.
The atmosphere is welcoming, reflective, and deeply rooted in faith and tradition.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Lourdes and check into your hotel, taking a moment to soak in the serene atmosphere of this pilgrimage site. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and coffee. Familiarize yourself with the surrounding area by taking a stroll through the charming streets.
Post lunch, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, where you can explore the Basilica of St. Pius X and the Grotto of Massabielle. Reflect on the significance of this sacred site as you admire the stunning architecture and tranquil surroundings. Join fellow pilgrims and light a candle, offering a moment of peace and contemplation.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant for dinner, indulging in regional specialties such as duck confit or ratatouille. Afterward, you can participate in the torchlight procession, a beautiful and moving experience that many pilgrims cherish. End the evening with a peaceful walk along the river, soaking in the ambiance of Lourdes at night.
Start your day with an early breakfast and head to the Sanctuaries for morning mass. After the spiritual service, spend time visiting the various chapels and shrines within the Sanctuaries. Take advantage of the quiet morning to reflect and meditate in this sacred environment.
After lunch, consider joining a guided tour that takes you deeper into the history and significance of Lourdes. Explore the exhibits at the Lourdes Museum, which provide insight into remarkable healings and the stories of past pilgrims. Additionally, take some time to shop for souvenirs and traditional religious items in the local shops.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, where the ambiance is enhanced by soft music and candlelight. Later, find a scenic viewpoint to watch the sunset over the high peaks surrounding Lourdes. Reflect on your day while savoring the peacefulness that envelops the town at dusk.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍷Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $40-80 |
| 🛏️One-night hotel (mid-range) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class religious site with a serene mountain backdrop
- Compact town is easy to explore on foot
- Gateway access to the Pyrenees for day hikes and scenic drives
- Rich history and welcoming locals
- Can be crowded during major pilgrim events
- Nightlife options are limited compared to bigger cities
- Some religious sites require modest dress and quiet conduct
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la Grotte?" - Where is the Grotto?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
Places to Visit in Lourdes
Visit one of these nice places.
The glowing façades of the Basilica and Rosary Basilica offer dramatic photo opportunities with pilgrims and candlelight in the evenings.
Intimate religious site and river views; captures devotees, streams, and the tranquil riverbank setting.
Historic fortress with elevated vantage points over the town and Pyrenees backdrop; ideal for panoramic shots.
Moderate promenades with reflections of the mountains and the town’s historic bridges.
A dramatic overlook of Lourdes valley; the funicular ride plus a short hike yields sweeping mountain vistas.
Food in Lourdes
Lourdes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick ham and vegetable soup with cabbage and potatoes, a warming Gascon staple often found in local bistros.
Must-Try!
Duck leg slow-cooked in its own fat, typically served with potatoes and vegetables.
Pan-seared duck breast, usually complemented by seasonal sides and sometimes fruit sauces.
A chicken dish with peppers, tomatoes and onions, reflecting Basque influence common in the Pyrenees region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Covered market offering fresh produce, cheeses, charcuterie, and regional specialties; ideal for a light lunch or picnic ingredients.
Casual stalls offering crepes, pastries, and light bites perfect for pilgrims and visitors on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and behave respectfully; remove hats in sacred spaces and observe quiet conversations and candle-light rituals.
Polite French greetings are appreciated: say 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and use 'S'il vous plaît' and 'Merci' routinely.
Queue patiently in lines for entry to sanctuaries and shops; avoid rushing, especially around religious ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Lourdes
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included in restaurants, but rounding up or leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service is common in tourist areas.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy for markets and smaller shops; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm days and active pilgrimage crowds; carry water, sunscreen, and a light layer for cooler evenings; afternoon rain is possible in the mountains.
Milder days with colorful foliage in the surrounding hills; pack a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings; trails are generally accessible.
Cool to cold with occasional snow in higher areas; some trails may be icy; carry appropriate footwear and layers; churches remain open for services.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for outdoor strolls and short hikes; rain showers can occur, so bring a compact rain layer.
Lourdes at Night
Hiking in Lourdes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short climb from the summit area offering panoramic views over Lourdes and the Pyrenees.
A classic Pyrenean valley with dramatic cliffs and waterfalls; longer hike or scenic drive from Lourdes.
Scenic lake area with gentle to moderate hikes suitable for a relaxed day in the mountains.
Airports
How to reach Lourdes by plane.
Close to Lourdes, with seasonal and some year-round flights; easy ground transfer to the town.
Larger regional airport about an hour from Lourdes; connects to several major cities.
Major international hub within a few hours’ drive or train ride; convenient for international travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A broad international mix of pilgrims visiting the Sanctuary and Grotto.
Residents of Lourdes and nearby towns with a strong regional cultural identity.
Visitors from across France and abroad seeking nature, culture, and religious sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in the region with strong local and national followings.
Nearby resorts in the Pyrenees offer winter sports within a short drive.
Numerous trails in the valley and surrounding mountains suit all levels.
Scenic routes along valleys and climbs through mountain passes attract cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lourdes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many menus can accommodate vegetarians with cheese, legumes, and vegetable dishes; ask for clarification on stock and sauces.
Gluten-free options are available in several restaurants; communicate dietary needs clearly and look for local salads, grilled meats, and vegetables.