Getting to Lourdes from Paris

Take the train. There are direct TGVs from Paris to Lourdes that make the trip in six hours. If you book well in advance (up to three months allowed) at tgv-europe.com, you can get a Prem's fare as low as €40.00. The standard 2nd class fare for a direct TGV is €99.00. For some departure times you'll need to make a minimum of one connection. The trip will take longer and you'll pay more for either a discount fare ticket or a standard fare ticket.

I went to Lourdes two years ago at the end of November. The basilica was almost empty so it is very easy to see everything and there were absolutely no lines. However, many many establishments (hotels, restaurants, shops) in the town of Lourdes were closed. It was cold and rainy so make sure you have a good jacket and a raincoat and umbrella and remember that in the winter it gets dark early. Lourdes is beautiful, the shrine, the town and the area. We flew in from London Stansted to Pau and took a train from Pau into Lourdes. We walked from the train station to our hotel, Hotel Majestic, and walked all over town. The shrine is not far, easily accessible on foot. No need for any transportation once you are in Lourdes unless you have difficulty walking. Make sure you visit the Fort Chateau at the top of the hill over Lourdes. The views from up there are wonderful. From Lourdes we took the train to Carcassone. Enjoy your trip.