Destinations in France

Catholic Pilgrimage Destinations in France - Holy Sites, Shrines & Guided Tours

France holds a special place in Catholic history, offering pilgrims a profound journey of faith, tradition, and sacred heritage. Home to revered shrines, ancient cathedrals, and places of Marian devotion, the country welcomes visitors from around the world seeking spiritual renewal and cultural depth. From the miraculous sanctuary of Lourdes to the historic cathedrals of Paris and the peaceful sites of Lisieux and Mont-Saint-Michel, our guided tours invite you to discover both renowned and lesser-known holy places, creating a meaningful and enriching pilgrimage experience.

Top Pilgrimage Destinations in France

France hosts a remarkable array of Catholic sites, each with its own history, saints, and miracles:

Lourdes is one of the most important Marian pilgrimage destinations in the world. Pilgrims visit the Grotto of Massabielle and the basilicas of the sanctuary, seeking healing, prayer, and spiritual renewal inspired by the apparitions to Saint Bernadette.

Paris is a major center of Catholic heritage in France. Pilgrims explore Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sacré-Cœur Basilica on Montmartre, and other historic churches that reflect centuries of faith, devotion, and sacred art.

Lisieux is closely associated with Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus. Visitors come to pray at the Basilica of Saint Thérèse and visit her family home, discovering her “Little Way” of humility, trust, and love.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a remarkable medieval pilgrimage site rising from the sea. Dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, the abbey has drawn pilgrims for over a thousand years and remains a symbol of faith and perseverance.

Chartres is renowned for its magnificent Gothic cathedral and Marian devotion. Pilgrims are drawn to its sacred labyrinth, stunning stained glass, and centuries-old tradition of prayer and pilgrimage.

La Salette is a peaceful alpine shrine linked to Marian apparitions. Pilgrims visit the sanctuary seeking reconciliation, reflection, and spiritual renewal in a serene mountain setting.

Ars-sur-Formans honors Saint John Vianney, patron saint of parish priests. Pilgrims visit his shrine and basilica to learn from his life of prayer, humility, and pastoral dedication.

Paray-le-Monial is a key destination for devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Pilgrims visit the basilica and Chapel of the Apparitions, reflecting on the messages received by Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque.

Nevers – Shrine of Saint Bernadette See More

Cotignac – Sanctuary of Our Lady of Grace See More

Pontmain – Sanctuary of Our Lady of Hope See More

La Sainte-Baume – Grotto of Saint Mary Magdalene See More

Toulouse – Basilica of Saint-Sernin See More

Alençon – Shrine of Saints Louis and Zélie Martin See More

Le Puy-en-Velay – Cathedral of Our Lady of the Annunciation See More

Sainte-Anne-d’Auray – Basilica of Saint Anne See More

Map of France Pilgrimage Sites

Hidden Shrines & Sacred Places Beyond the Cities – While traveling beyond France’s major cities, discover authentic Catholic pilgrimage destinations rarely visited by tourists. This guide highlights sacred churches, Marian shrines, and monasteries tucked away in peaceful regions across the country.

Expatro Tours – Destinations Map (France)

List of Our Destinations in France

While better known for its royal history, Amboise holds Catholic significance through its chapel housing the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci. His Christian worldview is reflected in his art and search for divine order. Pilgrims appreciate the harmony of faith, beauty, and intellect present in this sacred resting place. Get a Tour Quotation

Amiens Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece housing what is believed to be the head of Saint John the Baptist. Pilgrims come to venerate this precious relic and marvel at the grandeur of a church built to honor the Word of God and prepare souls for heavenly worship. Get a Tour Quotation

Annecy is graced by the Basilica of the Visitation, where Saints Francis de Sales and Jane Frances de Chantal are enshrined. Their spiritual teachings on divine love, peace, and humility continue to guide the faithful. Pilgrims find in Annecy a serene center of gentle, Christ-centered devotion. Get a Tour Quotation

Ars is the home and shrine of Saint John Vianney, patron saint of parish priests. Known for his tireless ministry and miraculous confessions, his incorrupt body is venerated by pilgrims seeking deeper faith and conversion. His holy example inspires priests and laity alike to greater love for Christ. Get a Tour Quotation

Autun Cathedral is famed for its Romanesque art, especially Gislebertus’ Last Judgment sculptures. Dedicated to Saint Lazarus, it invites pilgrims to reflect on eternity and the hope of resurrection. The cathedral is a place of beauty and meditation on divine mercy and judgment. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Avignon, the 14th-century seat of the Papacy, preserves the Papal Palace and a rich history of Church authority and reform. The city is also known for a Eucharistic miracle affirming Christ’s presence. Pilgrims visit to reconnect with the Church’s historical leadership and the enduring power of the Sacraments. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

The Shrine of Our Lady of Bargemon draws pilgrims to this quiet French village where Mary is venerated as a protector. The site is known for miracles and answered prayers. It’s a place of peace, ideal for Marian devotion and quiet reflection on her maternal care. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Our Lady of the Oak is a beloved Marian devotion in Bar-sur-Seine, where the Blessed Virgin is said to have appeared near an oak tree. A sanctuary now stands in her honor. Pilgrims come seeking Mary’s intercession for healing, protection, and deeper trust in her guidance. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Bayeux, known for its historic tapestry, also holds Catholic heritage in its cathedral and shrines. Pilgrims explore the faith dimension of medieval history and the Church’s role in culture and conflict. The cathedral serves as a testament to enduring Catholic presence in Normandy. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Bordeaux is part of the ancient Camino de Santiago and home to the tomb of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade. A Eucharistic miracle is also associated with the city. Pilgrims find in Bordeaux a convergence of missionary zeal, Marian devotion, and sacramental wonder. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Saint Anne d’Auray is the most important pilgrimage site in Brittany, where Saint Anne, mother of the Virgin Mary, appeared in the 17th century. Pilgrims come in large numbers to seek her intercession for families and vocations, honoring the grandmother of Jesus with love and devotion. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Notre Dame de Bon Voyage is a Marian church in Cannes dedicated to travelers. Historically visited by seafarers, it now welcomes pilgrims seeking protection for life’s journeys. The church stands as a symbol of trust in Mary’s guidance through both spiritual and physical travels. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

This quiet French town holds the grave of Servant of God Jérôme Lejeune, a geneticist and pro-life advocate. Pilgrims come to honor his witness to the dignity of human life and to pray for his canonization. His legacy inspires a Catholic response to science and compassion. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Chartres Cathedral is one of the most stunning Marian churches in Europe, dedicated to Our Lady and known for its relic of the Virgin’s veil. Pilgrims are drawn to its stained glass, architecture, and sacred presence, seeing it as a gateway to heaven and a triumph of Gothic faith. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Chateauneuf-de-Galaure was the home of Venerable Marthe Robin, a mystic who bore the stigmata and lived on the Eucharist. Pilgrims visit her room and foundation to seek healing and learn about redemptive suffering. Her life offers deep insight into the mystery of the Cross and divine intimacy. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Cîteaux Abbey is where the Cistercian Order was founded in 1098 by Saint Robert of Molesme. Its emphasis on simplicity, prayer, and manual labor inspired monastic reform across Europe. Pilgrims visit this sacred origin of contemplative renewal, drawn by the silence and spiritual depth of the Cistercian tradition. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Colmar holds deep spiritual allure through the Isenheim Altarpiece housed in the Unterlinden Museum. This masterpiece, depicting Christ’s suffering and resurrection, offers a profound meditation on redemption, drawing pilgrims into a visual experience of the Paschal Mystery. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Compiègne is where Saint Joan of Arc was captured in 1430. This historic town honors her sacrifice and steadfast faith with memorials and chapels, making it a powerful stop for those seeking to reflect on courage, martyrdom, and divine mission. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Conques is famed for the relics of Saint Faith, a young Christian martyr. Housed in the Romanesque Abbey Church, the golden reliquary is a treasure of faith and craftsmanship. This village, on the Camino de Santiago, draws pilgrims with its beauty and sacred history. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Cotignac is the only known site of apparitions by both the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph. Pilgrims ascend to the sanctuaries nestled in Provence’s hills to seek spiritual strength, healing, and deepen devotion to the Holy Family. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Corsica offers sacred serenity with its ancient chapels, mountain hermitages, and deep-rooted Catholic traditions. Pilgrims journey through this island’s natural majesty while honoring its patron saints and venerable history of faith in the Mediterranean. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Dardilly is the birthplace of Saint John Vianney, the Curé of Ars. Pilgrims visit his humble childhood home to trace the early roots of the patron saint of parish priests, whose holiness would go on to renew countless souls across France. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Dijon is home to the Shrine of Our Lady of Dijon and a rich Catholic heritage. This historic city blends Burgundian grandeur with enduring Marian devotion, making it a meaningful stop for pilgrims seeking deeper trust in Our Lady’s intercession. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Just off the coast of Cannes, Île Saint-Honorat is a haven of prayer where Cistercian monks have lived for centuries. The monastery, founded in the 5th century, invites pilgrims to step away from the world and into the silence of divine contemplation. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

The Abbey of Fontgombault is a beacon of contemplative life, renowned for its faithful adherence to the Latin liturgy and Gregorian chant. Pilgrims come to encounter the beauty of sacred silence and the timeless rhythm of monastic prayer. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Nestled in the Provençal hills, La Garde Freinet hosts a Marian shrine known for peace and scenic devotion. Pilgrims ascend its paths to honor the Virgin Mary, seeking her maternal protection amidst nature’s splendor. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

La Louvesc honors Saint John Francis Regis, a tireless Jesuit missionary to the poor and outcast. The sanctuary invites pilgrims to embrace his example of service, charity, and pastoral zeal in the remote mountain villages of France. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

High in the French Alps, La Salette is the site of Mary’s 1846 apparition, weeping for a world drifting from God. Pilgrims journey to this dramatic setting to renew their hearts through prayer, penance, and reconciliation. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Nestled near Nice, the Shrine of Our Lady of Laghet is famed for miraculous healings and centuries of Marian devotion. Pilgrims light candles, give thanks, and entrust their hopes to the Virgin at this serene and beloved retreat. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Notre-Dame du Laus is a peaceful sanctuary where Mary appeared to Benoîte Rencurel for over 50 years. Known for confessions and healing, it’s a place where grace flows quietly, beckoning pilgrims to rediscover a hidden gem of Marian devotion. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

The Abbey of Le Barroux, home to Benedictine monks, offers a profound encounter with liturgical tradition amid lavender fields and vineyards. Pilgrims are drawn by solemn chant, ancient rites, and the quiet joy of a life consecrated to God. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

High in the Sainte-Baume mountains, pilgrims hike to the cave where tradition holds Saint Mary Magdalene spent her final years in penitence and prayer. The sacred grotto remains a powerful place of conversion and contemplation. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

At LeBlanc, the Little Sisters Disciples of the Lamb offer a rare and radiant witness. This unique monastery welcomes women with Down syndrome who follow a religious vocation, inspiring pilgrims with their joy, purity, and spiritual beauty. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Le Puy-en-Velay is a cornerstone of Marian devotion in France and the historic starting point of the Camino de Santiago. Pilgrims visit the towering cathedral and volcanic rock shrines, seeking Mary’s blessing before their sacred journey. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

In 1947, four schoolgirls in L’Île-Bouchard witnessed an apparition of the Virgin Mary calling for prayer and the salvation of France. This humble chapel has since become a place of childlike faith and national intercession. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Home of Saint Thérèse, Lisieux draws millions who seek simplicity, humility, and childlike trust. Pilgrims visit the Carmel, her childhood home, and the grand basilica celebrating her “Little Way” to holiness. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Lourdes is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world. Here, Mary appeared to Bernadette Soubirous, offering healing and hope. Pilgrims immerse in the waters, light candles, and join processions under the loving gaze of the Immaculate Conception. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière stands high above Lyon as a sign of faith and national gratitude. Dedicated to the Virgin for saving the city from destruction, it invites pilgrims to celebrate God’s providence and Mary’s maternal care. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Notre-Dame de la Garde watches over sailors and the city from her hilltop perch. Known as “la Bonne Mère,” she’s the spiritual guardian of Marseille, drawing pilgrims to her shrine for protection, hope, and healing. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Meaux, once the seat of Saint Fiacre and a medieval center of evangelization, offers pilgrims a blend of solemn Gothic beauty and deep historical resonance. The cathedral and quiet cloisters invite reflection on centuries of Christian faith. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Rising like a vision from the sea, Mont Saint-Michel has inspired pilgrims for over a thousand years. This majestic abbey, once accessible only by tides, reminds visitors of heaven’s mystery and the strength of monastic witness. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Birthplace of Saint Louis-Marie Grignion de Montfort, this town is a focal point for those devoted to total consecration to Mary. Pilgrims come to deepen their Marian spirituality and discover the legacy of a true apostle of the Rosary. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Nancy’s religious heritage shines through its ornate churches and Marian devotion. Pilgrims admire the Sacred Heart Basilica and the city’s baroque splendor, reflecting a faith rich in beauty and historical depth. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Saint Bernadette’s incorrupt body lies in Nevers, where she lived in prayer and service after Lourdes. Pilgrims come to honor her quiet sanctity and draw close to the humble soul who saw the Virgin Mary. See More Details or Get a Tour Quotation

Hidden in the peaceful hills, Neotréable offers pilgrims a retreat into silence and solitude. This Marian sanctuary is cherished for its tranquility and natural beauty, providing a sacred space for contemplation and inner renewal. Get a Tour Quotation

Along the Normandy shores, pilgrims reflect on both the D-Day landings and enduring Catholic faith. Chapels and cemeteries honor lives lost for liberty, blending remembrance with prayers for peace and divine mercy. Get a Tour Quotation

Tucked into the Auvergne mountains, the Basilica of Orcival houses a revered Virgin statue known for miracles. With its pure Romanesque architecture, this quiet sanctuary calls pilgrims to awe, veneration, and stillness. Get a Tour Quotation

Here, Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque received visions of Christ’s Sacred Heart, igniting a worldwide devotion. Pilgrims flock to this humble town to rekindle love for Jesus’ mercy and to draw from the fire of His divine heart. Get a Tour Quotation

Paris is a spiritual capital, with sacred landmarks such as Sacré-Cœur, the Miraculous Medal Chapel, and Saint-Sulpice. Pilgrims walk the same paths as saints and martyrs, immersed in centuries of Catholic beauty and grace. Get a Tour Quotation

In this small village, the Virgin appeared to Estelle Faguette in 1876, delivering messages of trust and healing. Pellevoisin remains a quiet yet powerful pilgrimage site, known for the scapular of the Sacred Heart. Get a Tour Quotation

Saint Germaine Cousin, once mistreated and disabled, became a model of holiness. Her humble life in Pibrac inspires pilgrims to find grace in suffering and to trust in God’s providence for the lowly. Get a Tour Quotation

With roots in early Christianity, Poitiers boasts churches linked to saints like Hilary and Radegund. Pilgrims explore this ancient stronghold of orthodoxy and devotion, where martyrdom and learning shaped the Church’s course. Get a Tour Quotation

Founded in 1114, Pontigny Abbey remains a haven of Cistercian purity and peace. Once sheltering exiled saints like Thomas Becket, it draws pilgrims seeking monastic silence and the wisdom of sacred tradition. Get a Tour Quotation

In 1871, Mary appeared to children in Pontmain, bringing comfort during wartime despair. This apparition, though silent, gave powerful hope. The sanctuary remains a refuge for those burdened by conflict or fear. Get a Tour Quotation

Founded by Saint Dominic in 1206, Prouilhe is the cradle of the Dominican Order and the Holy Rosary. Pilgrims come to this sacred site to honor the origin of a devotion that has transformed countless lives through prayer and contemplation. Get a Tour Quotation

In 1652, the Virgin Mary appeared to a young shepherdess in Querrien, asking for a chapel in her honor. This Breton shrine remains a peaceful place of healing and prayer, attracting pilgrims devoted to Mary’s maternal care. Get a Tour Quotation

Perched dramatically on a cliff, Rocamadour is home to the Black Madonna and centuries of miracles. Pilgrims climb its steep steps in penance and devotion, drawn to this medieval jewel and the powerful intercession of Our Lady. Get a Tour Quotation

This spiritual sanctuary, though lesser known, is a place of Marian devotion centered on the title “Rosa Mystica.” Pilgrims come for inner healing and to offer reparation, drawn by Our Lady’s call to prayer and purity. Get a Tour Quotation

Honoring Saint Anne, the mother of Mary, this shrine arose after apparitions in the 17th century. Beloved in Brittany and beyond, it invites pilgrims to honor the Holy Family’s roots and seek Saint Anne’s powerful intercession. Get a Tour Quotation

This grand abbey along the Loire is believed to house the relics of Saint Benedict, father of Western monasticism. Pilgrims enter its ancient nave to reflect on a legacy of prayer, work, and divine order. Get a Tour Quotation

Set against the Pyrenean backdrop, this striking cathedral honors Saint Bertrand, a reforming bishop. Pilgrims are drawn by its mountain majesty and the call to holiness in high and hidden places. Get a Tour Quotation

Saint-Gilles is the starting point for a major pilgrimage route to Santiago. The abbey houses the tomb of Saint Gilles, a hermit known for miracles and mercy, making it a vital spiritual threshold. Get a Tour Quotation

This town enshrines the tomb of Saint Louis-Marie Grignion de Montfort, champion of total Marian consecration. Pilgrims gather at his resting place to deepen their devotion to Mary and embrace his fiery spirituality. Get a Tour Quotation

Tradition holds that Saint Mary Magdalene is buried here in the crypt of the great basilica. Pilgrims venerate her relics and reflect on her love for Christ, honored as the first witness to the Resurrection. Get a Tour Quotation

Saint-Pern honors the legacy of Saint Jeanne Jugan, founder of the Little Sisters of the Poor. Pilgrims are inspired by her deep compassion and care for the elderly, reflecting Christ’s love for the vulnerable. Get a Tour Quotation

Once a medieval monastic center, Solignac has returned to life with new monks restoring prayer and craftsmanship. Pilgrims find peace in its Romanesque church and the quiet revival of Benedictine tradition. Get a Tour Quotation

The towering Strasbourg Cathedral, with its intricate astronomical clock, draws pilgrims to marvel at divine craftsmanship. A place of silent wonder and Catholic witness on the Rhine’s edge. Get a Tour Quotation

This town venerates Saint Martha, sister of Mary and Lazarus, believed to be buried here. Pilgrims come for miracles, to honor her hospitality, and to seek her intercession against fear and evil. Get a Tour Quotation

Toulouse enshrines Saint Thomas Aquinas, one of the greatest theologians in Catholic history. Pilgrims honor his wisdom and seek clarity of mind and faith before his tomb. Get a Tour Quotation

Famous as the city of Saint Martin, Tours celebrates his legacy of charity and evangelization. Pilgrims walk in the footsteps of the Roman soldier turned bishop and saint. Get a Tour Quotation

Troyes is known for its Gothic churches and deep ties to Cistercian reform. Pilgrims experience a rich blend of medieval art, spirituality, and the contemplative wisdom of Saint Bernard’s era. Get a Tour Quotation

Home to the Chapelle du Rosaire, designed by Henri Matisse, Vence merges modern art with Marian devotion. Pilgrims encounter a vivid space of light, color, and contemplation dedicated to Our Lady. Get a Tour Quotation

Nestled among vineyards, Verdelais is a historic Marian shrine in the Bordeaux region. Pilgrims gather to honor the Virgin in a place where nature and grace meet. Get a Tour Quotation