what Is The Best Time to Visit Lourdes, France?

Lourdes, France, is a sacred pilgrimage site in the pyrenees mountains that is famous worldwide due to the apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858. It welcomes millions of pilgrims all year round.

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is open 24/7, making it possible to visit at any time. However, choosing the best time to go depends on various factors like weather, crowds, budget, and religious events.

For families, particularly those traveling with young children, timing can make a big difference in the overall experience.

In this post, I’ll share the pros and cons of each season, my personal recommendations, and the best times to visit Lourdes for a smooth and meaningful pilgrimage.

For a more structured pilgrimage experience, check out my 3-Day Pilgrimage Itinerary to Lourdes, France with Kids.

A wide view of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France, featuring a crucifix and statues in the foreground with the basilica's spire rising against a clear blue sky. The scene is framed by lush green trees and rolling hills, evoking a peaceful and sacred atmosphere.

Lourdes as a Year-Round Destination

Lourdes is one of the most visited Marian Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world, drawing millions of visitors annually. While the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes remains open all year, the experience of visiting the sanctuary changes depending on the time or month of the year due to:

Tourist seasons (high vs. low seasons)
Weather conditions
Availability of hotels, restaurants, and shops
Special religious events and feast days

Below, we’ll break down the best time to visit Lourdes based on different considerations.

Peak Pilgrimage Season (Easter to October) – The Busiest Time

The main pilgrimage season in Lourdes runs from Easter to October, with July and August being the busiest months due to summer vacations.

Pros of Visiting During Peak Season

✅ Full availability of hotels, restaurants, and transportation

✅ Large, organized pilgrimage groups from all over the world

✅ Candlelight processions and major Mass celebrations are in full schedule

✅ Warmer weather, making outdoor activities more comfortable

Cons of Visiting During Peak Season

❌ Higher costs for flights, hotels, and accommodations

❌ Crowds—Long lines at the Grotto, Holy Baths, and other sacred sites

❌ Summer months can be very hot, which might be uncomfortable for young children

Who Should Visit During Peak Season?

Families who want to experience Lourdes in its most vibrant and faith-filled atmosphere
Pilgrims who don’t mind crowds and queue and prefer attending large religious ceremonies and special events
Travelers looking to participate in organized group pilgrimages

For those planning a pilgrimage during the busy season, my FAQs About Visiting Lourdes with Kids covers essential tips to navigate the crowds effectively.

Off-Season (November to Early April) – Fewer Crowds, Lower Costs

If you prefer a quieter and more affordable pilgrimage, the off-season is the best time to visit. The winter months (December to February) see a drop in visitors, making Lourdes a peaceful and reflective place. However, some businesses close for the season, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Pros of Visiting During the Off-Season

✅ Fewer crowds, making it easier to pray and reflect at the Grotto and participate in the evening torchlight procession

✅ Cheaper travel and accommodations (hotels and flights are more affordable)

✅ Cooler temperatures, which some may find more comfortable

✅ Easier access to Masses, Holy Baths, and religious sites

Cons of Visiting During the Off-Season

❌ Some hotels, restaurants, and shops close for the winter

❌ Colder weather (especially in December–February)

❌ Fewer organized group pilgrimages and processions

Who Should Visit During the Off-Season?

Pilgrims looking for a quiet, peaceful experience
Families who prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind colder weather
Budget-conscious travelers who want lower prices on flights and hotels

Personal Experience:

We love visiting Lourdes, France as a family, once a year of possible. We went on 2018 for the first time as a family whrn our firstborn was 10-months old.

We had another quick visit during the pandemic in 2020, this time with the new addition to our family, our 2nd son who was less than a year old. The Sanctuary was so empty, and Lourdes in general. There were very few people roaming around.

Then our next visit was originally planned for 2121, but due to COVID-19, we had to reschedule. So, we reschedule it for October 2022, but my husband and I got hit with Covid,so, we had to reschedule it again. We tried rebooking for December, but our hotel was already closed for the winter.

A family of four sits on a curb in a grassy area near the Sanctuary of Lourdes, with the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary visible in the background. The parents and two young boys are smiling and dressed in warm clothing, enjoying a sunny day. The tree-lined path and the historic sanctuary enhance the serene and picturesque setting. A family of four sits on a curb in a grassy area near the Sanctuary of Lourdes, with the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary visible in the background. The parents and two young boys are smiling and dressed in warm clothing, enjoying a sunny day. The tree-lined path and the historic sanctuary enhance the serene and picturesque setting. A family of four sits on a curb in a grassy area near the Sanctuary of Lourdes, with the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary visible in the background. The parents and two young boys are smiling and dressed in warm clothing, enjoying a sunny day. The tree-lined path and the historic sanctuary enhance the serene and picturesque setting.

Finally, we moved our pilgrimage to Holy Week in April 2023, but we arrived on a Monday and left on a Thursday since huge crowd starts arriving on Good Friday. Check out the post I wrote, if you want a detailed 3-day pilgrimage itinerary in Lourdes.

Then, we came back at the end of August to the first 2 days of September in 2024 to attend the congress of the community where we belong.

For family-friendly hotel recommendations, see my 11 Best Hotels Closest to the Grotto of Massabielle.

The Best Time to Visit Lourdes with Kids (Personal Recommendation)

For families traveling with young children, I personally recommend visiting in November, late March, or early April (before Good Friday). Here’s why:

Still in the off-season, meaning fewer crowds
Milder temperatures, not too hot or too cold
Easier access to the Grotto and other sites
Cheaper hotels and flights compared to peak summer months

Since we are not a cold-loving family, we try to avoid deep winter months. As a tropical mom from the Philippines, I prefer warm weather, so our visits to Lourdes is always planned around these considerations.

Though Lourdes is mainly a pilgrimage site, but it’s also a family-friendly destination even for non-Catholics. Check out my detailed post about things to do and see in Lourdes with kids, if you’re a non-Catholic family planning to visit Lourdes.

Key Events and Special Times to Visit Lourdes

A group of pilgrims in wheelchairs, assisted by volunteers, gathered in front of the arches of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in Lourdes, France. The bright blue chairs stand out against the historic stone structure, symbolizing the site's dedication to serving the sick and disabled.

If you are planning your trip around a specific spiritual event, here are some of the most significant ones:

1. Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes (February 11)

Special Masses and celebrations honoring Our Lady’s apparition to St. Bernadette
Cold weather, but less crowded than summer pilgrimages

2. Holy Week and Easter

A deeply spiritual time with special Masses and processions
Expect larger crowds

3. Summer Candlelight Processions (June–September)

One of the most beautiful spiritual experiences in Lourdes
Very crowded, especially in July and August

For those interested in the historical and spiritual significance of Lourdes, my Our Lady of Lourdes Apparition Story to St. Bernadette provides a deeper understanding.

Summary: Choosing the Best Time Based on Your Preferences

Factor	Peak Season (Easter–Oct)	Off-Season (Nov–Early April)
Crowds	Very busy, especially July-August	Quiet & peaceful
Weather	Warm, ideal for processions	Cooler (mild in Nov & March/April)
Prices	Higher	Lower
Hotel Availability	Everything open	Some hotels & restaurants closed
Best for Families	If you want big events & processions	If you prefer a calm, relaxed visit

Final Thoughts On The Best Time To Visit Lourdes, France

Lourdes is a beautiful and sacred destination no matter when you visit. However, choosing the right time depends on your preferences for crowds, budget, and weather.

For families with kids, I recommend visiting in November, late March, or early April for a peaceful, affordable, and comfortable experience. But whether you go in peak season or the off-season, Lourdes remains a place of faith, healing, and deep spiritual connection.

Have you been to Lourdes? When did you visit, and how was your experience? Let me know in the comments!