Basilica of the Immaculate Conception: A Spiritual Beacon in Lourdes
Discover the spiritual heart of Lourdes at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a stunning Gothic Revival masterpiece offering panoramic views and a serene atmosphere for reflection.
The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, often referred to as the Upper Basilica, stands majestically above the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, a beacon of faith and architectural grandeur. Completed in 1876, it's a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture, its soaring spire reaching towards the heavens. The basilica's serene atmosphere and stunning stained-glass windows create a deeply moving experience for pilgrims and visitors alike. Its construction was directly inspired by the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Saint Bernadette Soubirous, making it a central point of pilgrimage. The basilica's location atop the rock of Massabielle provides panoramic views of the surrounding Pyrenees mountains, adding to the spiritual ambiance. Whether you're drawn by faith, history, or architectural beauty, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception offers a profound and unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
- Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, Lourdes, 65100, FR
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-12 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-12 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-12 pm
- Thursday 7 am-12 pm
- Friday 7 am-12 pm
- Saturday 7 am-12 pm
- Sunday 7 am-12 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Dress respectfully when visiting the basilica; shoulders and knees should be covered.
- Take time to explore the surrounding Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, including the Grotto of Massabielle and the baths.
- Attend a Mass or service at the basilica to experience the spiritual heart of Lourdes.
- Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the basilica and the Lourdes apparitions.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Lourdes, such as the tourist information office on Place Peyramale, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is easily accessible by foot. Head east, following signs for the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes. The basilica is located within the sanctuary grounds, atop the rock of Massabielle, directly above the Grotto. The walk is uphill and takes approximately 10-15 minutes, passing various religious sites and shops. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Local buses in Lourdes provide access to the Sanctuary area. From the Lourdes train station, take bus line 1 or 2 towards the city center and get off at the 'Sanctuaires' stop. From there, follow the walking directions to the basilica within the Sanctuary grounds. A single bus fare costs approximately €1.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Lourdes. A taxi ride from the Lourdes train station or the city center to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, dropping you near the entrance to the basilica area, will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic and the specific starting point.
Discover more about Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Miraculous water of Lourdes
0.1 km
Experience faith and healing at the Grotto of Massabielle, where the miraculous water of Lourdes flows freely for pilgrims seeking solace and hope.
Church of Saint Bernadette
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A modern church in Lourdes, built on the site of the final apparition, offering a space for reflection and large gatherings.
Pont Vieux
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Experience the timeless beauty of Pont Vieux, a medieval bridge in Lourdes, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's rich history.
Grotte du Loup
0.8 km
Discover the natural beauty of Grotte du Loup near Lourdes, a former tourist spot now known for climbing and serene landscapes.
Ancien Presbytère
0.9 km
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Town hall of Lourdes
1.2 km
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Lourdes Woods
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Escape to the tranquility of Lourdes Woods: scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful retreat near the famous pilgrimage site.
Eglise Saint Saturnin d'Argelès-Gazost
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Observatory Midi Pyrénées
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Aupres de Pyrene
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Amour des Pyrénées
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Pyrénéance
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Les Amis du Parc National des Pyrénées (APNP)
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Statue of Danton
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Pic de Predouset
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
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Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
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Massabielle Grotto
0.1 km
Experience the spiritual heart of Lourdes at the Massabielle Grotto, where faith, healing, and history converge in a serene and awe-inspiring setting, drawing millions of pilgrims annually.
Grotte de Massabielle
0.1 km
Experience the spiritual heart of Lourdes at the Grotte de Massabielle, where faith, healing, and history converge in a serene and awe-inspiring setting, attracting millions annually.
Lourdes Baths
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Basilica of St. Pius X
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Museum of the Miracles of Lourdes
0.3 km
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Dormition of the Virgin Ukrainian Catholic Church
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Musée de Cire de Lourdes
0.6 km
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Point of view
0.7 km
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Molino de Boly / Casa natal de Bernardita
0.7 km
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Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen
0.8 km
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Maison Paternelle de Sainte-Bernadette
0.8 km
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Musée du Petit Lourdes
0.8 km
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Le Cachot
0.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Petit Fleur - Little Flower
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Asian Delices Food
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New Orleans Café
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Restaurant l' Ermitage
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Café Brasserie Les Brancardiers
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Restaurant La Belle Époque
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Rivierasol
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Restaurant Le Carrefour Café
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St PAUL CAFE
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Restaurant Africain CHEZ YACOU
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Pasta & Basta
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Joan of Arc Cafe
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Bar Made In Italy
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At King Albert
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Le Perchoir Lourdes
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Candle shop
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A la Grace de Dieu Anne Marie Michèle
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Store Foucauld The Father
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Coecilia/Lourdes-shopping.fr
0.2 km
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A la Grotte de Lourdes
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Librairie de la Grotte - la boutique officielle du Sanctuaire Notre - Dame de Lourdes
0.3 km
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Saint Patrick
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Le Coumely store
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Boutique Sainte Anne
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Magasin Soubirous
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L'Ermitage
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Magasin Euroself
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Palais Du Rosaire
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L'ex-voto
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Souvenirs
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Saint Honoré Café Brasserie
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L'EDEN Bar Brasserie
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The Limerick Irish Pub
0.6 km
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Show Case Time
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Le Navarre
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Le Phocéen
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Le Cardinal Bar Brasserie
0.9 km
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Café Brasserie Le Barcelonne
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Café Le Cantegril
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Bar des PTT
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Bar Toutatis
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La Pergola
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Bar d'Azun
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O Toulouse
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L'excuse
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
La Bamba
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The Munster Bar
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Bar De L'hotel De Ville
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Media cancha
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Field Of Golf Country Club De Bigorre
17.2 km
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URBAN CLUB
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Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Tarbes at Urban Club, where music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences await until dawn.
RG
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Experience the electrifying nightlife at RG Night Club in Tarbes, where music, dance, and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable night out.
Le W
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Durango
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New Red Lion
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La Noche
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Secret Club Formigal
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Nightclub - La Luna
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Arco Iris Disco Pub
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EL XALET DE VIELHA
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of El Xalet de Vielha, where music, dance, and the stunning Pyrenees create unforgettable memories.
