Museum Pic du Midi: A Celestial Experience in the Pyrenees
Reach for the stars at Europe's highest museum! Explore astronomy, history, and breathtaking Pyrenees views from the summit of Pic du Midi.
Perched atop the Pic du Midi de Bigorre in the French Pyrenees, the Museum Pic du Midi offers a unique blend of astronomical history and stunning natural beauty. Accessible by cable car, visitors can explore Europe's highest museum, a former observatory, and enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain range.
A brief summary to Museum Pic du Midi
- Bagnères-de-Bigorre, 65200, FR
Local tips
- Even in summer, bring warm clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen due to the high altitude and potential for rapidly changing weather conditions.
- Check the museum's schedule for special events, workshops, or stargazing evenings to enhance your visit.
- Book your cable car tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee your visit and potentially save money.
- Be aware of the altitude and take it easy upon arrival. Pace yourself to avoid altitude sickness.
- Consider visiting the nearby spa town of Bagnères-de-Bigorre to relax after your trip to the Pic du Midi.
Getting There
-
Car
From Bagnères-de-Bigorre, follow the D918 road towards La Mongie. The drive is approximately 15 kilometers. Upon arrival in La Mongie, follow signs to the Pic du Midi cable car station. Free parking is available for cars, camper vans and coaches. Be aware that parking may be regulated in winter for snow clearance.
-
Public Transport
Take a train to Bagnères-de-Bigorre from major cities like Toulouse or Tarbes. From the Bagnères-de-Bigorre train station, take the local bus (line 1) towards the Pic du Midi cable car station. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Ensure you check the bus schedule ahead of time for the latest timings. From April to November 2025, shuttle services are available from Tarbes and Argeles Gazost to Pic du Midi, with booking required for some routes.
-
Cable Car
The final ascent to the Museum Pic du Midi is via cable car from La Mongie. Purchase a return ticket, which costs from €34. The cable car ride is a 15-minute journey involving two cable cars with a change at Taoulet Intermediate Station. The cable car operates from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, with the last return from Pic du Midi at 5:30 pm. From July 5th to August 24th, the cable car operates from 9:00am to 4:30pm, with the last return visit at 6 pm. Note that the cable car is closed between 12:30pm and 2pm.
Discover more about Museum Pic du Midi
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pyrénées Expérience, glisse et aventure en montagne
4.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and exhilarating activities at Pyrénées Expérience, a top ski resort in the beautiful Pyrenees mountains.
Pyrénéance
10.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of the Pyrenees with Pyrénéance, your premier tour agency in Bagnères-de-Bigorre.
Aupres de Pyrene
14.2 km
Explore the literary charm of Aupres de Pyrene in Bagnères-de-Bigorre, a must-visit book store for every literature lover.
Amour des Pyrénées
14.4 km
Discover the enchanting hiking trails of Amour des Pyrénées in Bagnères-de-Bigorre, where nature and adventure await around every corner.
Porte d'Espagne
15.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Porte d'Espagne, a mountain pass in the French Pyrenees, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Pic Long
15.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pic Long, a majestic mountain peak in the Pyrenees, perfect for hiking, climbing, and enjoying stunning alpine views.
Suberpene
20.1 km
Experience breathtaking hiking trails and serene natural beauty in Suberpene, a hidden gem in Hèches, France, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Eglise Saint Saturnin d'Argelès-Gazost
21.2 km
Discover a 19th-century church in Argelès-Gazost with historical treasures and a story of faith and community spirit.
Town hall of Lourdes
23.0 km
Discover the charm of Lourdes at its historic Town Hall, a striking architectural gem and cultural hub in the heart of this captivating French town.
Ancien Presbytère
23.5 km
Visit the Ancien Presbytère in Lourdes, where Bernadette met with Father Peyramale, and discover a piece of Lourdes' spiritual history.
Pont Vieux
23.7 km
Experience the timeless beauty of Pont Vieux, a medieval bridge in Lourdes, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's rich history.
Chapelle de l'Annonciation
24.2 km
Discover a peaceful sanctuary in Lourdes, where art, history, and spirituality converge at the Chapelle de l'Annonciation.
Chapelle de la Crucifixion
24.2 km
A serene chapel near the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, offering a quiet space for prayer and reflection.
Grotte du Loup
24.6 km
Discover the natural beauty of Grotte du Loup near Lourdes, a former tourist spot now known for climbing and serene landscapes.
Pont d'Espagne
24.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pont d'Espagne, a stunning bridge and hiking paradise nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees mountains.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pic du Midi de Bigorre
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich astronomical history at Pic du Midi de Bigorre, a majestic peak in the French Pyrenees.
La Mongie
3.7 km
Discover La Mongie: Your gateway to thrilling slopes, breathtaking Pyrenean views, and unforgettable alpine adventures in the heart of the Grand Tourmalet ski area.
Station de La Mongie
4.2 km
Experience exhilarating skiing and breathtaking views at Station de La Mongie, a premier ski resort in the stunning French Pyrenees.
Pic du Midi Observatory
4.3 km
Experience the wonders of the universe at Pic du Midi Observatory, a breathtaking mountaintop destination in the French Pyrenees.
Téléphérique du Pic du Midi de Bigorre
4.3 km
Discover breathtaking views and adventure at Téléphérique du Pic du Midi de Bigorre, the iconic cable car in the heart of the French Pyrenees.
Adour Ânes Pyrénées
7.1 km
Explore the Pyrenees' Lesponne Valley with gentle donkey treks, offering a unique and memorable outdoor adventure for all ages near Bagnères-de-Bigorre.
Payolle-Campan
12.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Payolle-Campan, a perfect destination for outdoor adventures and serene nature escapes in the French Pyrenees.
Regional Nature Reserve of Aulon
14.0 km
Discover the Aulon Regional Nature Reserve in the Pyrenees: a blend of stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich pastoral heritage.
Tom Rafting Cauterets
16.9 km
Experience thrilling white-water rafting and canoeing adventures in the heart of the French Pyrenees with Tom Rafting Cauterets!
Musée des Cagots
17.9 km
Discover the poignant history of the Cagots, a marginalized people of the Pyrenees, at this unique museum in Arreau.
The Eagles of Aure
18.1 km
Discover majestic eagles, hawks, and owls in their natural habitat at this unique Pyrenean sanctuary dedicated to bird of prey conservation.
Gouffre d'Esparros
18.5 km
Discover a breathtaking subterranean world in the French Pyrenees, adorned with stunning aragonite crystals and unique geological formations.
Pyrenees Travel
19.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of the Pyrenees in Saint-Savin, your gateway to stunning landscapes and unforgettable adventures.
Parc national des Pyrénées
19.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Parc National des Pyrénées, a gem in the heart of the French Pyrenees.
Thermes d'Argelès-Gazost
20.7 km
Discover relaxation and rejuvenation at Thermes d'Argelès-Gazost, a serene thermal spa in the heart of the Pyrenees, perfect for wellness seekers.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant du Pic du Midi
0.0 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Restaurant du Pic du Midi in the heart of the Pyrenees.
Le Schuss
4.1 km
Experience the authentic flavors of France at Le Schuss in Bagnères-de-Bigorre—where culinary delight meets local charm.
Chez Louisette - Auberge du Lienz
7.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine amidst stunning mountain scenery at Chez Louisette - Auberge du Lienz in Barèges.
Le Jardin des Brouches
14.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Le Jardin des Brouches in Bagnères-de-Bigorre – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and elegance.
L'Assiette de Juliette
14.2 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at L'Assiette de Juliette in Bagnères-de-Bigorre - a true culinary delight.
Restaurant La Table du Cinq
14.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Table du Cinq in Bagnères-de-Bigorre, where exquisite dishes and warm hospitality await every visitor.
Les Aryelets
15.8 km
Discover the essence of French cuisine at Les Aryelets in Aulon—where every dish tells a story.
Restaurant l'Arbizon
18.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and gourmet hamburgers at Restaurant l'Arbizon in charming Arreau - a culinary delight amidst stunning mountain views.
Auberge Le Bouic
18.6 km
Discover authentic Southwestern French cuisine at Auberge Le Bouic, where tradition meets taste in Ayros-Arbouix.
Restaurant of France
19.4 km
Savor authentic French cuisine in Sarrancolin's charming Restaurant of France—where culinary tradition meets modern dining.
Restaurant de France
19.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in Sarrancolin at Restaurant de France—where every meal tells a story amidst stunning mountain views.
Hôtel Restaurant Le Viscos · Saint-Savin
19.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and warm hospitality at Hôtel Restaurant Le Viscos in Saint-Savin - A culinary haven in the heart of France.
Erassens - table pyrénéenne
20.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Erassens in Sailhan, where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking Pyrenean landscapes.
La Table d'Ayzi
21.0 km
Discover La Table d'Ayzi: A premier destination for authentic French cuisine in Argelès-Gazost.
RESTAURANT DES PETITS POIS SONT ROUGES
21.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine amidst the stunning backdrop of Argelès-Gazost at Restaurant des Petits Pois Sont Rouges.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ANETO Sports
10.3 km
Discover ANETO Sports in Beaudean for all your cycling and skiing needs, offering rentals, gear, and expert advice in the heart of the Pyrenees.
Le comptoir des souvenirs Dupouy Ines
13.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Le Comptoir des Souvenirs Dupouy Ines in the charming village of Esquièze-Sère.
La Boutique Artisanale
13.7 km
Discover the essence of the Pyrenees at La Boutique Artisanale, where local craftsmanship meets unique gifts for every traveler.
Espritdespyrenees.com
14.1 km
Explore the unique vintage clothing and sewing treasures at Esprit des Pyrénées in Bagnères-de-Bigorre, a must-visit for fashion lovers.
Pyrénées & Artisanat (La caverne curieuse)
14.1 km
Explore Pyrénées & Artisanat: a hidden gem in Bagnères-de-Bigorre featuring exquisite handicrafts, leather goods, and unique baby clothing.
Mohair of Aulon in Pyrénées
15.7 km
Experience the beauty of mohair production at Mohair of Aulon, a charming farm in the breathtaking Pyrénées, where craftsmanship meets nature.
Désirs futiles- maison des lys
18.0 km
Explore the artistry of Désirs Futiles in Arreau, where photography, jewelry, and fashion come together in a charming boutique experience.
Savons d'Aure
18.1 km
Explore Savons d'Aure in Arreau for unique artisanal soaps and toiletries, showcasing local craftsmanship and natural ingredients.
LA FILATURE DE LAINE
19.5 km
Explore the artistry of wool weaving at La Filature de Laine in Sarrancolin, a charming destination for unique textiles and local craftsmanship.
Val d'Arizes
19.8 km
Explore Val d'Arizes: A beautiful blend of artisanal craftsmanship and serene landscapes in the heart of Cieutat, France.
Le Patou
19.8 km
Explore Le Patou in Saint-Lary-Soulan for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and a taste of the French Pyrenees.
Côté Montagne Saint lary
19.8 km
Discover unique local gifts and home goods at Côté Montagne, your perfect souvenir stop in the heart of Saint-Lary-Soulan.
Cycl'in Pyrénées
20.9 km
Experience the thrill of cycling in the majestic Pyrenees with Cycl'in Pyrénées, offering rentals, repairs, and expert guidance for all cycling enthusiasts.
Le Sherpa des Pyrénées
21.6 km
Discover adventure at Le Sherpa des Pyrénées, your premier destination for sporting goods in Cauterets, nestled in the stunning Pyrenees.
DOUCEURS DES PYRENEES
22.8 km
Discover artisanal charcuterie and local dairy delights at Douceurs des Pyrénées in Lortet, a paradise for food lovers seeking authentic flavors.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
L'Etape du Berger
2.9 km
Explore the flavors of the French Pyrenees at L'Etape du Berger, a cozy restaurant offering traditional cuisine and stunning mountain views.
Bar Le Ti' Pic
13.8 km
Experience Luz-Saint-Sauveur's vibrant spirit at Bar Le Ti' Pic, where cozy ambiance meets delightful local drinks in the heart of the Pyrénées.
L'excuse
14.0 km
Experience the cozy ambiance and vibrant atmosphere at L'excuse, the perfect bar in Bagnères-de-Bigorre for a relaxing drink after exploring.
Chez DD
19.2 km
Discover the heart of Vielle-Aure at Chez DD, a cozy bar offering local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists.
Au balcon
19.9 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Au Balcon, where French cuisine meets a cozy wine bar in the heart of Saint-Lary-Soulan.
Bar d'Azun
21.3 km
Discover the inviting atmosphere of Bar d'Azun, a charming bar in Argelès-Gazost, perfect for drinks and local flavors after an adventurous day.
Skibar
21.5 km
Discover the charm of Skibar in Cauterets, where cozy atmosphere meets delightful drinks and light bites amidst stunning mountain views.
LA PIQUE LONGUE
21.6 km
Experience a delightful fusion of fine wines, delicious tapas, and cozy tea moments at La Pique Longue in Cauterets.
La Pergola
22.7 km
Discover the cozy charm of La Pergola in Lourdes, where delightful drinks and welcoming ambiance await every visitor.
Bar Toutatis
23.2 km
Discover the exquisite wines of Bar Toutatis in Lourdes, where every sip tells a story of tradition and taste.
Café Brasserie Le Barcelonne
23.3 km
Experience the warmth of French hospitality at Café Brasserie Le Barcelonne in Lourdes, where delicious cuisine meets charming atmosphere.
Café Le Cantegril
23.3 km
Discover the charm of Café Le Cantegril in Lourdes, where delicious cuisine and a warm atmosphere await every traveler.
Le Cardinal Bar Brasserie
23.4 km
Discover the local charm at Le Cardinal Bar Brasserie in Lourdes, a cozy spot for drinks and light bites amid the city's rich heritage.
Bar des PTT
23.5 km
Experience the charm of Lourdes at Bar des PTT, a cozy bar and café offering delightful drinks and local flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Le Phocéen
23.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Le Phocéen, a tapas bar in Lourdes offering authentic Spanish cuisine and a cozy atmosphere perfect for social dining.
