Private guided tours of Lourdes / Walking tour

Lourdes , France

Private guided tours of Lourdes / Walking tour

Active

(56 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our guides are expert and work for many years to welcome pilgrims and visitors from all over the world. We are local guides and we provide tailor made guided tours including the not-to-be-missed places : the grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, the fountains and the baths, where anyone can experience the healing waters.
Through the architecture of the basilicas, your guide will tell you about the religious history of this world-famous marian site. You will probably be amazed by the size of the underground basilica dedicated to Pope Pius X, where 25,000 people can attend a mass.
You will also follow in the footsteps of Bernadette Soubirous, the aged fourteen girl who saw our Lady at the grotto in 1858. Her birth place and the former jail where she lived during the events are included in your private guided tour.

Available options

Private guided tours of Lourdes

What's included

Professional guide

Pick up from your hotel or the railway station for the walking tour

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

Our accredited guide will meet you at the lobby of your hotel or at the railway station and will accompany you during all the tour, explaining what you'll see at each level.

During the tour, your guide will show you the birth place of Bernadette Soubirous, the aged fourteen girl who saw our Lady at the grotto in Lourdes.

You will also visit the "Cachot" , the former jail where Bernadette Soubirous was living at the timing of the apparitions.

You will see the font where Bernadette was baptised in our parish church.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

40 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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