Lourdes , France

Private Guided History tour of Lourdes

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

The story of Bernadette Soubirous is unique, but its spiritual approach can also be combined with a cultural and historical perspective, which will help to appreciate the spirit of Lourdes.
Compared to standard city tours, this tour includes a visit to the medieval castle of Lourdes.
The guide will adapt to your preferences and make your trip to Lourdes a unique and unforgettable experience.

Available options

Lourdes Private tour

What's included

Services of a licensed/accredited guide.

Detailed itinerary

A tour that will take you to the world-famous grotto where the Virgin Lady appeared in 1858, and help you to understand from a cultural and historical point of view, the unique story of Bernadette Soubirous. We will then proceed to the different basilicas and to the fountains where you can fetch the holy water.

Entering the house where Bernadette was born, we will try to imagine what was the childhood of the Saint.

The place where the Soubirous family was living at the time of the apparitions in 1858. .

Regarding the second half of our discovery, the guide will suggest 2 options :

Option 1 : we will explore the upper part of the town and try to imagine how Lourdes was before the apparitions. We will then visit the medieval castle (Chateau Fort Musée Pyrénéen) and discover its charming little museum dedicated to the arts and traditions of the Pyrenees. The view from the castle towards the sanctuaries and the city is spectacular!

Regarding the second half of our discovery, the guide will suggest 2 options :

Option 2 : Spending more time on the sanctuaries to visit the basilicas + Visit of the Father's house (house that still belongs to the descendents of the Soubirous family).

What's not included

Entrance fee to the Castle (Château fort) 7,50 euros per person.

Entrance fee to the father's house (Moulin Lacadé) 2.50 euros per person.

castle

Father's house (Moulin Lacadé)

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

26 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

38 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour is up to 8 persons. In case of a few people, we may have to gather 2 groups together.

Meeting point

At the foot of the statue of Saint Joseph

Important notes

Only valid for the guided tour but not for the entrance to the castle of Lourdes (Chateau fort) to be paid by customers on the spot). Adults 7,50 euro/ 6-17 3,50 euro/ - 6 Free

About Lourdes

Lourdes is a small town in southwestern France, renowned worldwide as a major Catholic pilgrimage site. It is famous for the Marian apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes that occurred in 1858, attracting millions of visitors each year seeking spiritual healing and solace.

Top Attractions

Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes

The most famous pilgrimage site in Lourdes, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to Saint Bernadette in 1858. The sanctuary includes several chapels, the Grotto of Massabielle, and the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.

Religious Half day to full day Free (donations welcome)

Grotto of Massabielle

The cave where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to Saint Bernadette. Pilgrims come to pray, light candles, and seek healing.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

A grand basilica built in honor of the Virgin Mary, offering stunning views of Lourdes and the Pyrenees. The basilica is part of the larger sanctuary complex.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Rosary Basilica

A beautiful basilica adorned with mosaics depicting the mysteries of the rosary. The basilica is part of the sanctuary complex and hosts daily religious services.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Château Fort de Lourdes

A medieval castle offering panoramic views of Lourdes and the Pyrenees. The castle houses a museum with exhibits on the history of Lourdes and the region.

Historical 1-2 hours €7 (adults), €5 (children)

Pic du Jer

A scenic mountain peak offering breathtaking views of the Pyrenees and the surrounding countryside. Accessible by a funicular railway, it's a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.

Nature Half day €12 (round trip funicular ticket)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Garlic Soup

A hearty soup made with garlic, bread, and cheese, often served with a poached egg.

Dinner Vegetarian (check for cheese content)

Poule au Pot

A traditional French dish of chicken cooked with vegetables and herbs, often served with potatoes.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian by substituting the chicken with vegetables

Truffles

A delicacy in the region, often used in dishes like omelets or pasta.

Dinner Vegetarian

Canelés

Small, rum-flavored pastries with a soft center and caramelized exterior, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Pyrenees Mountain biking Rock climbing Spa treatments in Cauterets Strolling through the town center Enjoying a coffee at a local cafe Visiting museums and historic sites Attending religious services at the sanctuary

Best Time to Visit

June to August, and during major religious holidays

This is the busiest time in Lourdes, with warm weather and numerous religious events. The town is vibrant but crowded.

20-30°C (68-86°F) 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lourdes is generally safe for visitors, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any tourist destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use official taxi stands and confirm the fare before starting your journey

Getting there

By air

Toulouse-Blagnac Airport • 150 km (93 miles)
Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport • 20 km (12 miles)

By train

Lourdes Train Station

By bus

Lourdes Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient for getting around the town and to nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Not commonly used

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Boulevard de la Grotte Rue des Petits Fossés

Day trips

Tarbes

15 km (9 miles) • Half day

A nearby town with a rich history and cultural attractions, including museums, parks, and historic buildings.

Pau

45 km (28 miles) • Full day

A historic town with a rich past and beautiful architecture, including the Château de Pau and the Boulevard des Pyrénées.

Cauterets

30 km (19 miles) • Full day

A charming spa town nestled in the Pyrenees, known for its natural hot springs and hiking trails.

Festivals

Feast of the Assumption • August 15th Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes • February 11th Lourdes Christmas Market • Late November to early January

Pro tips

Visit the Grotto of Massabielle early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere
Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at the miraculous spring for free, refreshing water
Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the town's history and religious significance
Explore the surrounding Pyrenees region for stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities
Try local specialties like garlic soup and Canelés for a taste of the region's unique cuisine