Shrines of France

You’re on your way to France, where centuries of faith and history shape every corner of the landscape. As your overnight flight carries you across the Atlantic, your pilgrimage begins to take form — leading you toward the Pyrenees and onward to Lourdes, one of the country’s most meaningful places of prayer and devotion.

Welcome to France. After arriving in Toulouse, travel onward to Lourdes, the major pilgrimage site set against the foothills of the Pyrenees. As arrival times vary, no sightseeing is scheduled this afternoon. Settle in, take a quiet walk, or begin your personal reflections. This evening, gather with your Tour Manager and fellow travelers to connect and mark the beginning of your spiritual journey together.

Begin the morning with Mass,* followed by a guided walking tour that traces the life of St. Bernadette. Stand where her story unfolded — from her birthplace to the baptismal font that shaped her early faith. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to wander Lourdes at your own pace, returning to the Sanctuary for quiet reflection. As evening falls, join the Marian Procession,** then gather for dinner and shared conversation.

Following morning Mass,* today is yours to embrace Lourdes in your own way. Return to the Sanctuary for prayer, light a candle, or spend time in quiet reflection. If you wish, join an optional excursion to the historic town of Pau and the dramatic underground chambers of the Grottes de Bétharram, carved by time and water beneath the Pyrenees.

This morning, experience daily life in France aboard a high-speed train bound for Paris. From there, travel by coach into Normandy, arriving in Lisieux — a town forever linked to St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus. Known for her quiet devotion and enduring influence, her presence is felt throughout the town. Settle in for a 3-night stay, giving you time to connect deeply with this place of pilgrimage.

This morning, a local guide introduces you to Lisieux through the life of St. Thérèse, who was lovingly called the “Little Flower.” Visit the Carmelite Convent where she entered religious life, then continue to Les Buissonnets, her family home. Later, visit the Basilica of St. Thérèse and attend Mass.* This evening, savor French cuisine at a local restaurant, reflecting on the simplicity and strength of her message.

This morning, honor history at the Normandy American Cemetery, where rows of white crosses and Stars of David overlook the sea. Continue to Omaha Beach, standing where Allied forces landed on June 6, 1944. In Arromanches-les-Bains, see the remains of Mulberry Harbour, a vital lifeline of the liberation. By afternoon, return to Lisieux, carrying the weight and meaning of the day with you.

Travel to Paris this morning, the final city of your pilgrimage. Upon arrival, visit the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal on Rue du Bac, where Marian devotion continues to draw pilgrims from around the world. Attend Mass,* then continue to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure, offering time to reflect as Paris unfolds around you.

Paris stands as one of the world’s great cities — layered with history, faith, and moments that have shaped centuries. Begin your day early with Mass at Notre-Dame Cathedral,*** where devotion and artistry meet beneath its soaring arches. Later, see the city unfold during a leisurely Seine River cruise, passing landmarks that define Paris. By afternoon, a local expert leads you to Montmartre to visit the Basilica of the Sacré Cœur,*** set high above the streets below. Step inside for reflection, then take in sweeping views across the city. This evening, gather with your fellow pilgrims for a farewell dinner, marking the meaningful close of your spiritual journey.

Your pilgrimage comes to a close today. As you depart for home, carry with you the places, prayers, and moments of reflection that shaped your journey — and the connections made along the way.