Journey in the Lourdes of the 19th Guided Tour

Lourdes , France

Journey in the Lourdes of the 19th Guided Tour

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About this experience

Travel back in time to the Lourdes of 1884 and let yourself be guided by Violette, a lavender who does not have her tongue in her pocket!

Walk the busy streets of this Pyrenean city transformed by the miracle of the Apparitions of 1858 and the shudders of the Industrial Revolution, which has become a mystical crossroads where pilgrims and travellers from all over the world converge. You will stroll through the historic district of Lourdes, near the Garnavie Tower, below the Castle (outside only), and near the Father's House of St Bernadette and the Moulin de Boly.

Soak up the excitement of popular neighborhoods through Violette's anecdotes. Through the anecdotes, learn about the city’s transformations and their impact on the lives of its inhabitants, the beginnings of pilgrimages and the echoes of a sometimes turbulent past. A historical immersion in the soul of a Lourdes in full metamorphosis!

Available options

Journey in the Lourdes of the 19th Guided Tour

What's included

2-hour guided tour led by a lecturer in period costume.

Detailed itinerary

To begin, you will pass by the Garnavia Tower, the only survivor of the impressive fortified belt that had a dozen towers and door-towers in the 17th century.

Then you will be guided to the Moulin Lacade, the paternal home of Sainte Bernadette.

Your costume guide, Violette, will then take you to the Moulin de Boly, Bernadette's birthplace, on January 7, 1844. We will not visit this house during this visit.

You will also visit the historic districts of Lourdes.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

PMR access on request

Meeting point

The meeting will be at the Halle covered passage, Place du Champ Commun, Lourdes. You will easily recognize your guide by his period costume.

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