The Story of Lourdes Walking Tour offers an immersive journey into the rich spiritual history of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes. Guided by fluent English speakers, guests explore key sites like the Sanctuary and the birthplace of St. Bernadette, uncovering the profound significance that draws millions of pilgrims each year. Whether you’re a devout Catholic or simply fascinated by religious heritage, this accessible tour promises to leave you with a deeper understanding of Lourdes’ enduring legacy.

Key Points

The Story of Lourdes Walking Tour in English - Key Points

  • Guided walking tour of Lourdes highlighting St. Bernadette’s life and the history of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes since 1858.
  • Tour covers key sites including the Sanctuary, Rosary Square, Crypt, 3 Basilicas, Museum of St. Bernadette, and St. Bernadette’s birthplace and prison.
  • English-speaking tour guide provides personalized insights and engages participants with the significance of Lourdes as a renowned pilgrimage site.
  • Tour is wheelchair accessible, and participants have the option to reserve now and pay later.
  • Information on daily pilgrimage programs, such as Masses, Rosary Processions, and confessions, is included.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Story of Lourdes Walking Tour in English - Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour costs from $239.26 per group, accommodating up to 10 participants, and lasts for 3 hours.

The tour costs $239.26 per group for up to 10 participants and lasts 3 hours.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve now and pay later, allowing them to book without upfront payment.

The tour includes guided visits at the Sanctuary, Rosary Square, Crypt, 3 Basilicas, the Museum of St. Bernadette, and the birthplace and prison of St. Bernadette.

Participants will receive information on daily pilgrimage programs like Masses, Processions, Rosary, and Confessions.

Itinerary and Highlights

The Story of Lourdes Walking Tour in English - Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins at the Porte de Saint-Joseph and takes visitors to the main highlights of Lourdes. The 3-hour guided experience includes 1.5 hours at the Sanctuary, 30 minutes at the Museum of St. Bernadette, and a walking tour around Lourdes.

| Highlight | Duration |

| — | — |

| Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes | 1.5 hours |

| Rosary Square | – |

| Crypt | – |

| 3 Basilicas (including Underground Basilica) | – |

| Birthplace of St. Bernadette & Prison | – |

The tour provides insights into the life of St. Bernadette and the history of Lourdes since 1858, as well as information on daily pilgrimage programs.

Guided Experience

The Story of Lourdes Walking Tour in English - Guided Experience

A knowledgeable and passionate live tour guide, fluent in English, provides personalized tours adapted to clients’ needs.

They share insights into the life of St. Bernadette and the history of Lourdes since 1858.

The guide brings the story to life, tailoring the experience to the group’s interests and pace.

The guide brings the story to life, tailoring the experience to the group’s interests and pace.

Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the sanctuary’s significance and the profound events that unfolded here.

The tour guide’s expertise and engaging presentation ensure an enriching and memorable exploration of this iconic religious site.

Accessibility and Meeting Point

The Story of Lourdes Walking Tour in English - Accessibility and Meeting Point

Wheelchair-users can access the Lourdes Walking Tour, as it’s wheelchair accessible.

The meeting point for the tour is the main entrance to the Sanctuaries, near the Statue of St. Joseph. This convenient location allows participants to easily find the starting point and begin their guided experience.

The tour is designed to accommodate the needs of all visitors, ensuring an inclusive and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Whether you’re exploring the historic sites on your own or joining the guided tour, the accessibility of the Lourdes Walking Tour makes it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

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Preparation and Restrictions

Recommended items for the Lourdes Walking Tour include comfortable shoes, a sun hat, an umbrella, water, and rain gear.

These items will help you navigate the tour comfortably, regardless of the weather.

No pets are allowed on the tour, but guide dogs are welcome. Non-assistance animals aren’t permitted in the Sanctuaries.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring accessibility for all participants.

Daily Pilgrimage Programs

The Story of Lourdes Walking Tour in English - Daily Pilgrimage Programs

The Lourdes Walking Tour includes information on the daily pilgrimage programs at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.

The Lourdes Walking Tour provides details on the daily pilgrimage programs at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.

These programs provide visitors with a chance to enjoy the spiritual atmosphere of the site:

  • Daily Masses held at various basilicas throughout the day

  • Rosary Processions where pilgrims can join in praying the rosary

  • Confessions available with multilingual priests

  • Baths where pilgrims can participate in the traditional ritual of bathing in the healing waters

  • Special ceremonies and events that occur seasonally or on significant dates

The Life of St. Bernadette

The Story of Lourdes Walking Tour in English - The Life of St. Bernadette

Although St. Bernadette was born into a poor family in 1844, her life was anything but ordinary. From a young age, she experienced visions of the Virgin Mary at a grotto in Lourdes, France.

These visions led to the construction of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world. Bernadette later joined a convent, where she lived a simple life of prayer and service until her death in 1879.

Today, she’s revered as a saint, and her life story continues to inspire millions of visitors to the Lourdes Sanctuary each year.

The History of Lourdes Since 1858

Since the reported visions of the Virgin Mary by a 14-year-old peasant girl named Bernadette Soubirous in 1858, Lourdes has evolved into one of the most significant Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world.

Since 1858, the visions of the Virgin Mary by Bernadette Soubirous have transformed Lourdes into a preeminent Catholic pilgrimage destination.

Today, the town attracts millions of visitors annually who come to pray, take the healing waters, and witness the Rosary processions and Masses.

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes has expanded to include:

  • Three major basilicas

  • The Grotto of Massabielle

  • The Baths

  • The Stations of the Cross

  • The Museum of St. Bernadette

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Audio Guides Available for Self-Guided Tours?

The overview does not mention audio guides for self-guided tours. The tour is led by a live guide, and there’s no indication that audio guides are available for independent exploration of the sites. Visitors will need to join the guided tour to learn about Lourdes.

Is Photography Permitted Inside the Sanctuaries?

Photography is permitted inside the sanctuaries, but visitors are advised to be respectful and avoid disrupting religious services. Flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to preserve the sacred atmosphere.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but they’re not allowed to consume them inside the sanctuaries. It’s recommended to bring water and light snacks to keep hydrated and energized during the 3-hour walking tour.

Do I Need to Be Catholic to Attend the Pilgrimage Programs?

No, you don’t need to be Catholic to attend the pilgrimage programs at Lourdes. The programs are open to people of all faiths or no faith, as the site is a major spiritual destination for many.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for Additional Time With the Guide?

Yes, visitors can extend the tour duration for additional time with the guide. The tour company offers flexible options to accommodate individual needs and preferences at an additional cost per hour.

The Wrap Up

The Story of Lourdes Walking Tour offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the sanctuary’s profound history and spiritual significance. With personalized attention, the tour showcases key sites, including the birthplace of St. Bernadette, providing an accessible and engaging way to explore Lourdes’ heritage. This three-hour journey invites participants to connect with the site’s profound legacy and the remarkable life of the saint who witnessed the Marian apparitions.

You can check availability for your dates here: