Lourdes:
Saint Bernadette & Our Lady of Lourdes

Lourdes : Saint Bernadette & Our Lady of Lourdes

Step into the sacred heart of Lourdes on this immersive walking tour, where faith, history, and miracles converge. Explore the life and legacy of Saint Bernadette Soubirous and experience the profound spiritual significance of Our Lady of Lourdes. Whether you are on a pilgrimage or simply discovering the stories that shaped this iconic town, this tour offers a deeply inspiring journey.

Tour Highlights

Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, the heart of devotion where Saint Bernadette Soubirous received visions of the Virgin Mary.
Experience the Grotto of Massabielle, the site of the miraculous apparitions, and witness the spring waters believed to have healing properties.
Explore the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a stunning Neo-Gothic cathedral built above the grotto, and learn about the life, courage, and faith of Saint Bernadette.
Attend the Candlelight Procession in the evening, a moving ceremony that draws thousands of pilgrims in prayer and song.
Stroll through the charming streets of Lourdes, where spiritual history meets French culture and hospitality.
Visit the Baths, where pilgrims immerse themselves in the spring waters seeking healing and renewal.
Conclude your visit with a moment of reflection and prayer at the Sanctuary, leaving inspired by Lourdes’ enduring message of faith, hope, and devotion.

More Information

Duration : 2 Hours

Tour Inclusions: Experienced tour guide, Entrance to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, Small group experience

Tour Exclusions: Personal expenses, hotel pickup, Food and drinks, Transportation to/from Lourdes, optional donations, Entrance Fees

Distance: Approximately 1.5 km

Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

Meeting Point: Please arrive 10 minutes early at the main entrance of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes (Grotto of Massabielle, 1 Rue du Bac). When facing the Sanctuary, meet your guide at the main entrance. See the Google map for directions.

Full Description

Lourdes : Saint Bernadette & Our Lady of Lourdes

Step into the spiritual heart of Lourdes on this immersive walking tour, where faith, history, and devotion converge. Your journey begins at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, the sacred site where Saint Bernadette Soubirous experienced visions of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Here, you’ll learn about her life, her unwavering faith, and the miraculous events that continue to inspire millions of pilgrims each year.

Next, visit the Grotto of Massabielle, where the apparitions occurred, and experience the profound sense of peace and devotion that fills this sacred site. Discover the miraculous spring waters, known for their healing properties, and understand the spiritual significance of Lourdes as one of the world’s most visited pilgrimage destinations.

Continue your tour with a visit to the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and the Rosary Basilica, marveling at the breathtaking architecture, stained glass windows, and sacred relics. Learn about the history of the Sanctuary and the ongoing tradition of processions, prayer services, and healing rituals that define Lourdes’ unique spiritual atmosphere.

Stroll through the town of Lourdes, where the charming streets are lined with shops offering religious souvenirs, devotional items, and local specialties. Pause at key landmarks such as the Boland Bridge, the Cachot, and other historical sites tied to Saint Bernadette’s life, reflecting on the enduring legacy of faith, hope, and devotion.

Your tour concludes back at the Sanctuary, providing a quiet moment for personal prayer, reflection, and gratitude. Leave with a deeper understanding of Lourdes’ sacred history, the miracles associated with Saint Bernadette, and the timeless power of Christian faith that continues to resonate across the world.

Religious Importance

Lourdes : Saint Bernadette & Our Lady of Lourdes

Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Pyrenees in southwestern France, the town of Lourdes is a beacon of Christian faith and pilgrimage. Millions of pilgrims and travelers are drawn here not only for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for its profound spiritual significance. Key sites include the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, where Saint Bernadette experienced visions of the Virgin Mary; the Grotto of Massabielle, the site of the miraculous apparitions; the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and the Rosary Basilica, both architectural and spiritual masterpieces; and the Stations of the Cross, which trace the path of devotion up the scenic hillside. Lourdes remains a center of prayer, reflection, and miraculous healing, attracting visitors from around the world.

The Apparitions of Lourdes (1858)

The most renowned event in Lourdes’ history occurred in 1858 when 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous witnessed a series of apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Grotto of Massabielle. These visions revealed messages of prayer, penance, and humility, leaving a lasting impact on the Catholic Church. The spring that Bernadette uncovered during the apparitions is said to possess miraculous healing properties, and the site continues to be a focal point for pilgrims seeking spiritual and physical renewal. Today, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes hosts processions, healing services, and daily masses, honoring the events that have made Lourdes one of the world’s most visited pilgrimage destinations.

Saint Bernadette Soubirous

Saint Bernadette Soubirous, born in 1844, was a humble and devout young girl who faithfully followed the messages given to her by the Virgin Mary. Despite initial skepticism and opposition, her visions were verified by Church authorities, leading to the construction of the Sanctuary and the recognition of Lourdes as a holy site. Canonized in 1933, Saint Bernadette’s life continues to inspire millions of pilgrims with her courage, simplicity, and unwavering faith. Visitors can explore the sites connected to her life, including her childhood home, the Cachot prison where her family lived, and the convent where she spent her later years.

Pilgrimage and Spiritual Tradition

Lourdes is more than a historic town; it is a living pilgrimage. Visitors retrace Bernadette’s footsteps, pray at the Grotto, and participate in processions that have been carried out for over a century. The town offers a place of spiritual reflection, healing, and community for those traveling from across the globe. From intimate personal prayer to grand celebrations, Lourdes continues to provide a timeless journey of faith, devotion, and miraculous hope for pilgrims of all ages and backgrounds.

Tips & Practical Notes

Dress Code: Dress with an appropriate dress code for religious sites
Walking & Terrain: The tour involves walking approximately 1.2–1.5 km over cobblestone streets, some gentle slopes, and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Weather & Clothing: Bolsena’s weather can vary—dress in layers and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially in warmer months.
Respectful Conduct: Many stops include sacred sites like the Basilica, catacombs, and chapels. Please maintain respectful silence and follow the guide’s instructions.
Photography: Photos are welcome except where restricted inside sacred areas. Please respect local customs and signage.
Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, please inform us before booking so we can assist or recommend alternatives.
Language: The tour is conducted in the selected at the reservation stage. Private or multilingual guide options are available upon request.
Health & Safety: Please follow any current health protocols. Inform your guide of allergies or medical needs.
Local Etiquette: Bolsena is a living community with religious traditions—please be courteous to locals and worshippers.
Kids: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
Minimum Participants: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon.
Weather Conditions: Our tours operate in all weather conditions; however, in the event of adverse or unsafe weather, the tour may be cancelled, rescheduled, or modified for safety reasons. In such cases, suitable alternative arrangements or remedies will be considered depending on the circumstances.
Personal Items: Carry light; a small bag or backpack for water, camera, and essentials is recommended.

Cancellation Policy

Full Refund: The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund
Time Zone: Local time is applied in the event of cancellation.
Changes: Any changes to be made before 24 hours to the departure
No Refund: Any changes or cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time will not be eligible for a refund.
Group Size: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon. A full refund will be provided if the tour is cancelled due to the minimum number of participants.
Tour Guide Availability & Language Limitations: We specialize in tours to uncommon and unique religious destinations that are often unavailable on standard tours. Due to limited local guide availability, the requested language may not always be available. In such cases, we will offer alternative options before rescheduling or cancelling the tour. If no alternatives are feasible, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled, with a full refund provided.
Pricing Considerations: We strive to offer competitive pricing, but in some cases, limited supplier availability may affect costs.
Our Mission: As a Catholic tour operator, our primary goal is to provide a meaningful spiritual experience. We focus on destinations that are rarely included in standard tours, ensuring your journey is both unique and spiritually enriching.

Visit Lourdes

Plan Your Visit to Lourdes

Discover the easiest ways to reach, stay, and enjoy Lourdes — a sacred pilgrimage destination in southwestern France, steeped in faith, history, and natural beauty. Travel times are approximate and may vary depending on schedules and traffic.

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Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.

Airport Meet & Assist Services

For a seamless travel experience, take advantage of Meet & Assist services available at major airports, including Toulouse-Blagnac, Pau Pyrénées, and Biarritz airports. A dedicated assistant will greet you, help with luggage, check-in, and security, ensuring a stress-free start or end to your pilgrimage. This service is ideal for first-time visitors or travelers seeking convenience.

By Air

Nearest Airports: Toulouse-Blagnac (TLS) – ~170 km | Pau Pyrénées (PUF) – ~120 km | Biarritz (BIQ) – ~160 km
Approx. 2–3 hours by car or taxi.
From each airport, rent a car or take a train to Lourdes city center.

Find the Best Flights – Book your flights with Expedia

By Train

Nearest Station: Lourdes Station (TGV & regional trains)
From Paris: ~6 hours (TGV direct) | From Toulouse: ~2 hours
Modern trains connect major French cities directly to Lourdes, making it easy for pilgrims to arrive comfortably.

Find the Best Trains – Book your Trains with Omio

By Car

Drive via scenic A64 motorway, connecting Toulouse, Pau, and Bayonne.
From Toulouse: ~170 km (~2 hours) | From Pau: ~120 km (~1.5 hours)
Parking is available near the Sanctuary and city center (both free and paid options).

Find the Best Rent a Car – Rent your car with Centauto

By Bus

Regional buses connect Lourdes with nearby towns and cities.
Timetables vary — check before traveling.

Find the Best Buses – Book your Buses with Omio

By Taxi / Private Transfer

Enjoy direct, comfortable transportation from airports or nearby cities.
Ideal for small groups or pilgrims with luggage.

Private Transfers – Book your private transfer with Welcome Pickups

On Foot / Locally

Lourdes is a walkable town.
All major sites — Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, Grotto of Massabielle, Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Rosary Basilica, and the Stations of the Cross — are easily reached on foot.

Where to Stay in Lourdes

Find accommodations within walking distance of the Sanctuary and historic center. Options range from boutique hotels to guesthouses and family-run B&Bs.

Hotels & B&Bs| Unique Local Stays

Find the Best Hotels – Book your Hotels with Expedia or Agoda

Find the Best Local Stays – Book your unique local stays with Homestay

Experiences & Activities

Make your pilgrimage unforgettable — explore nearby spiritual, cultural, and natural treasures, or extend your journey through the Pyrenees and southwestern France.

Book Tours & Activities

Find the Best Tours & Activities

Find tours & day trips on GetYourGuide
Explore cultural & religious tours on Viator

Travel Essentials

Prepare for a comfortable and safe visit to Lourdes.

Find the Best Travel Essentials

Find your travel accessories on Amazon
Find your Travel Insurance on Safty Wings
Find your local luggage storage on LuggageHero

Religious & Devotional Items

If you cannot visit Lourdes in person, bring a piece of its faith and history into your home. Explore authentic Catholic devotional items inspired by Saint Bernadette, Our Lady of Lourdes, and the Sanctuary’s traditions.

Find the Best Religious & Devotional Items

Find your Religious & Devotional Items on Amazon

Note:

All times, prices, and details are approximate and may change depending on seasons, schedules, or service updates. Always verify current travel information before booking.

Travel Tip

For the smoothest arrival, combine train travel with local taxis or a rental car — an ideal blend of convenience and flexibility.

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Personalized Tour Requests

Discover the places that matter most to you, even if you’re staying only a short time.
We create fully personalised pilgrimage routes and custom tours designed around your faith, interests and schedule. Whether you want to visit a sacred shrine, a historic basilica, a monastery on a hilltop, or a lesser-known religious site that few travellers reach, we’ll make it possible.

To help you save time, we can arrange private pickup from the airports, ports, Rail Stations or directly from your accommodation. Our team ensures you have direct, stress-free access to the religious destinations you may not have another chance to visit again.

Every itinerary is crafted with care: Private transfers to and from holy sites, Flexible schedules for prayer, reflection, and guided visits, Local experts to share history, spirituality, and traditions, Tailor-made tours for individuals, couples, families, or parish groups

If there’s a special tour or pilgrimage tied to a destination close to your heart, let us know — we’ll create a meaningful journey crafted just for you. Contact us to get a quotation for your personalised tour request.

Work With Us as a Tour Guide in Lourdes

We’re looking for licensed tour guides to collaborate with us in sharing the faith, history, and beauty of Lourdes. If you guide visitors through the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, the Grotto of Massabielle, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, or the Stations of the Cross, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact us.

Partner with Us

We’re always looking to collaborate with travel agencies, pilgrimage organizers, and Catholic organizations to bring faith-based tours to more pilgrims. Partner with us to offer authentic Catholic pilgrimage experiences, expand your offerings, and deliver unforgettable journeys to sacred sites.

Lourdes:Saint Bernadette & Our Lady of Lourdes