Things to discover in Lourdes

Settled in the southwestern France, Lourdes is one of the most popular places in the world for a pilgrimage. Each year, millions of tourists visit its religious sites. Either visiting Lourdes for a pilgrimage or just for an unforgettable vacation, Lourdes is best visited with family. Find out the eight best things to do in Lourdes, France.

Visit the most religious place in Lourdes: The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is the main reason tourists from all over the world come to visit Lourdes. You must not miss this one, since it is the most religious site in Lourdes. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is a must-visit. St. Bernadette Soubirous experienced her first vision in 1858 in the grotto, the spot for pilgrimage.

Next-door to the Basilica, this grotto is a pilgrim hot-spot, with visitors in line for half the day to wait to dip themselves in the freezing pool or to light a candle just outside.

Enjoy the most breathtaking view of Lourdes from Funiculaire du Pic du Jer

This 950m mountain dominates Lourdes, providing an unforgettable panorama over the town and mountains. You can descend on foot or by mountain bike, following marked trails.

Wonder at the Château-Fort De Lourdes

The fortress of Lourdes is the town’s only major secular attraction, on top of a rocky outcrop on the edge of the city. The ascent is a steep, but short and rewarding walk.

Maison Paternelle de Bernadette

This location is another place where Bernadette and her family lived later on in their life. It is said that they lived there after 1858 when the apparitions occurred. The house has been restored and is now a museum related to the family. You can even see Bernadette’s old bedroom. During much of the time that the family lived in this home, Bernadette was living in the nearby convent. This is considered to be her mother’s home while Le Cachot, the more popular shrine was the home of her father.