The Pyrenees are the perfect mountain destination for spending the summer outdoors. One of the must-sees in south-west France is the town of Lourdes. Do you usually think of the town's religious character when you think of it? You're not wrong, but...! While these are interesting visits, there are many others that can be added to enhance your visit to the Hautes-Pyrénées. Whether as a couple, with friends or family, discover the 11 must-do activities in Lourdes. From religious buildings to outdoor activities and unusual visits, your vacation will be sure to be a spicy one!
1. Visit the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
Lourdes is a famous place in the Christian religion, since it was here that the Virgin Mary decided to make an apparition to Bernadette Soubirous. So it's only natural to find numerous religious edifices here, including the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a splendid structure proudly enthroned in the heart of the town. Also known as the Basilica Superior, it was blessed in 1871 and consecrated in 1876. Take time to admire the magnificent stained-glass windows depicting the story of the Virgin Mary, the Lourdes apparitions and many other highlights ofChristian history.
2. Stroll around Lourdes and discover its beautiful architecture
Discovering Lourdes isn't just for those in search of the town's unique spirituality. It's also possible to stroll through its streets and alleys, admiring the beautiful architecture of bygone days. From the rue du Baron Duprat to the rue du Bourg, not forgetting Lourdes' impressive town hall (surely one of the most beautiful in France), you'll never cease to be amazed.
Discover the charm of Lourdes by booking this 60-minute walk with a local.
3. Fill up on activities at Lake Lourdes
Surrounded by mountains and greenery, Lac de Lourdes offers a heavenly oasis for oxygenating in a dream setting. While a swimming area has been set aside, many other activities are possible. Fishing enthusiasts will be delighted, as will running fans. With its six kilometers of shoreline, Lac de Lourdes is a great place for jogging and walking. In summer, activities such as pedal-boating and paddle-boating (book your 1.5-hour supervised triphere ) are also possible on these peaceful waters.
For the more adventurous, get ready for an unforgettable half-day of rafting on the Gave de Pau river near Lourdes by booking here !
4. Contemplate the underground basilica of Saint Pius X, an unusual visit to Lourdes
Here's an unusual religious edifice, since it was dug underground! The underground Basilica of Saint Pius X covers an area of 12,000 m² and can accommodate no fewer than 25,000 people. With so many pilgrims to Lourdes, this capacity is often a necessity! This is the world's largest shrine, named in honor of Pope Pius X. In the crypt of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, you can see a mosaic medallion bearing the pope's image.
Book my guided walking tour of the sanctuary
5. The Grotte de Massabielle, at the origins of Lourdes
This is where it all began. In 1858, in Lourdes, the Virgin Mary appeared to Bernadette Soubirous at the Grotte de Massabielle, a previously unknown and rather obscure place. Between February and July, Bernadette experienced no less than 18 apparitions. This was all it took for the grotto to become a symbol of faith for millions of pilgrims, housing the spring discovered by Bernadette. Today, touching the rock is an essential gesture of faith for the faithful. It is also possible to drink the water from the grotto, and many people recovering from illness come here every year, in the hope that they too can benefit from a miracle.
6. The Pic du Jer, between caves and exceptional panorama
Another atmosphere, another setting for the superb Pic du Jer, a must-do in Lourdes for nature lovers. Board the Pic du Jer funicular, inaugurated in 1900, for a one-kilometer ascent with a 438-meter vertical drop. Once at the top, you can explore the highest caves in France, accessible since 1958. The guided tour lasts 40 minutes, revealing step by step 11 rooms with stalactites, stalagmites and a 45-meter-deep chasm . Spectacular!
Explore the magnificent Pic du Jer landscape with an electric mountain bike rental from Lourdes by booking right here!
7. Family cycling on the Véloroute du Piémont Pyrénéen
The roads of the Pyrenees are beautiful, and it would be a shame not to take advantage of them. The good news is that the V81 passes through here! It links the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean over 570 km, crossing six départements and two regions. Lourdes is at the heart of two stages: Lestelle-Bétharram/Lourdes (18 km) and Lourdes/Séméac (31 km).
The Lestelle-Bétharram/Lourdes route follows the Gave de Pau and the GR78, offering superb views of the Pyrenees. You'll pass through the Sanctuary of Bétharram and the village of Saint Pé de Bigorre, with a refreshing stop at the Grottes de Bétharram.
Good to know: the Lourdes/Séméac stage is more sporting, with a few climbs before heading out onto the plain towards Tarbes. Ready to take on the Tour de France?
8. Plunge into the past at the Château-fort de Lourdes
The basilicas aren't the only impressive buildings in town. The Château-fort de Lourdes stands out on its rocky outcrop, offering an incredibly rich immersion in history. Classified as a historic monument, it is also home to the fascinating Musée Pyrénéen, the museum of art and popular traditions of the Pyrenees. Fun tours, full of challenges and riddles, are also available for families.
9. Discover Lourdes on board the Little Tourist Train
Aboard the Petit Train Touristique, you'll discover the town over a 7.5 km stretch in good spirits. The main sites are presented to you, but even better, you can stop to visit them. All you have to do is get back on the Little Train later! This is a great opportunity to discover the town's various museums, such as the Musée de la Cire or the Musée du Petit Lourdes.
10. Family cycling on the Lourdes greenway
The Voie Verte des Gaves, a 17-km route linking Lourdes to Pierrefitte-Nestalas, is ideal for a family bike ride. It runs along the Gave de Pau at the foot of the Pyrenees, offering magnificent scenery along the way. In complete safety, you can reach sites such as the Château-Fort de Lourdes, the Parc Animalier des Pyrénées and the Pic du Jer. It's the ideal place to get a breath of fresh air, while exercising in a dream setting. You can discover the beauty of the Pyrenees at your own pace, without having to rush: enjoy!
11. Take a break in the fresh air at Ferme du Bon' Air
From four-horned sheep to miniature goats and dwarf zebu, discover an unusual farm in Lourdes! At La Ferme du Bon'Air, animal passion is everywhere, promising a magical time for children. As well as petting the animals, there's plenty of entertainment and tastings on offer. Play areas are also available for children, to ensure they have a 100% enjoyable time.
Petit Futé Tip
Adopt the lourdes Pyrenees City Card when you arrive, to discover the town's various sites and activities at a low price. It gives you access to over 15 sites and activities in and around the town, including the Petit Train touristique.
Discover the most popular things to do in Lourdes:
Where to stay in Lourdes?
Lourdes' hyper-center is concentrated in a fairly small area, making it easy to reach the various sites on foot. The town has also adapted its infrastructure for people with reduced mobility.
- The cheapest
The atmosphere is simple but effective at the Hôtel du Château-Fort, ideally located in Lourdes. Free parking is available at this budget hotel, book here.
- The most beautiful
Discover the luxurious chic of the Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Spa NUXE . From the spa to the semi-gastronomic restaurant, there's nothing but pleasure to be found in this beautiful hotel, which you can book here.
- Top of the range
Ideally located in the heart of the city center, the Belfry boastsa spa and an excellent restaurant. Resolutely contemporary, the decor is a pure marvel. Book this superb hotel in Lourdeshere .
Free things to do in Lourdes
Visiting the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes, the Grotte de Massabielle or the Basilique Saint-Pie X won't cost you a thing. Without necessarily being pious, these free visits are a great opportunity to better understand the rich history of Lourdes.
Relaxing at Lourdes lake won't cost you a thing either, unless of course you book a water sports activity. Sunbathing, swimming, walking and jogging are all free! The same goes for the Véloroute and the voie verte.
What to do in Lourdes as a family?
We'll come back to this again and again, but the lake at Lourdes is ideal if you're visiting this pretty corner of the Pyrenees as a family. Cycling is a great way to discover the surrounding countryside, and above all: without risk! A visit to the Château-fort de Lourdes is also a great idea. In addition to the beauty of the site, there are a number of activities on offer for younger visitors. It's even possible to dress up at the entrance: kids will love it!
The Pic du Jer funicular and the town's Petit Train will also keep them entertained. What about continuing your trip with some white-water sports on the Gave de Pau? Lasting memories guaranteed! The Bon'Air theme park is also a great place to visit with young children. From 2 to 7 years old, children will have a wonderful day full of excitement.
Finally, head to the Tourist Office to discover Randoland. This treasure hunt is a fun way for children aged 4 to 12 to discover Lourdes. The clues lead you to playful situations, so you can learn about the history of the area while having fun.
Discover the Pont d'Espagne and the Cirque de Gavarnie ona day trip from Lourdes, bookable here. Visit the village of Cauterets and learn how berlingots are made.
What to do in Lourdes in winter
You can do just about anything in Lourdes in winter, except of course a dip in the lake! The Sanctuary and the various pilgrimage sites remain open. Want to warm up? Visit the Halles de Lourdes every morning to stock up on local produce. The Château-fort de Lourdes also remains open in winter, offering a great family outing and a chance to discover the history of the site.
Finally, you can head out of town to the Hautacam ski resort. On the program: skiing, snowshoeing and tobogganing - in other words, a paradise for families!
How about a mountain vacation for your next vacation? If the Hautes-Pyrénées are superb in winter, they're equally magnificent in summer. How about spending the summer in a mountain resort like Tourmalet? You won't regret it! Take advantage of your stay to discover some of the 21 must-do places in the Pyrenees, including Le Pic du Midi, Payolle and the Cirque de Gavarnie. Want to go even further? Discover the best things to do in Occitanie, a region as varied as it is vast: there's no shortage of things to do!
