17 Top Catholic France Pilgrimage Sites You Should Visit
Looking for the most popular Catholic France pilgrimage sites to visit?
France is full of beautiful, holy places that Catholic families will love. From the famous Lourdes Grotto in the Pyrenees to historic churches in Paris, these sites are rich in both faith and history.
Whether you’re planning a pilgrimage or just want to learn more about your faith, these Catholic sites in France are worth a visit. Many even have nearby hotels, so it’s easy to plan your stay.
Some of these pilgrimage sites I visited back when I was still single, and one of them I was blessed to return to with my husband and kids. I’m hoping we’ll get to visit more as a family in the future!
Here’s a list of the most popular Catholic France pilgrimage sites to consider for your own pilgrimage — whether you’re traveling solo, with your spouse, or with kids in tow.
1. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in the French Pyrenees is one of the most beloved Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world — and it’s our family’s favorite. We try to visit at least once a year, and honestly, I wouldn’t mind going even more often!
This holy place is known for the miraculous spring and grotto where Our Lady appeared to St. Bernadette in 1858. The sanctuary includes several chapels and beautiful basilicas where you can attend Mass, pray the Rosary, go to confession, and spend time in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Millions of pilgrims come to Lourdes each year to pray, seek healing, and draw closer to Jesus through Mary. It’s peaceful, prayerful, and deeply moving.
Planning a trip to Lourdes?
Check out the detailed 3-Day Pilgrimage Itinerary to Lourdes, France with Kids.
And don’t forget to schedule time for quiet prayer and a candle lighting at the Grotto.
This post may contain affiliate links. This means that I get a small commission when you buy something by clicking through the links in this post at NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU. In other words, even if you go straight to their website, you will pay the same price. Read the full disclosure policy here.🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Hotel Eliseo – This was our accommodation on our family pilgrimage in 2023 and loved how close it is to the Grotto. Just a 1-3 minute walk to the left-side entrance (depending on your pace).
- Hotel Paradis – Another good option we’ve stayed on our first family pilgrimage in 2018. It’s spacious and comfortable for families, with helpful staff and pilgrim-friendly services.
Looking for more options? Here’s my curated list of family-friendly hotels near the Lourdes Grotto.
2. Chartres Cathedral
The Chartres Cathedral is one of the most stunning examples of Gothic architecture in the world — and it’s only about an hour southwest of Paris.
This beautiful church is home to the Sancta Camisa, a relic believed to be the veil worn by the Blessed Virgin Mary at Jesus’ birth. Inside, you’ll also find the famous Blue Virgin window, with Mary holding the infant Jesus in peaceful, radiant glasswork.
For centuries, pilgrims have come to Chartres to pray, attend Mass, and walk the historic labyrinth inside the cathedral. It’s still a deeply prayerful spot, full of history and devotion.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Mercure Chartres Cathédrale – A modern and comfortable hotel right across from the cathedral, perfect for families or couples on pilgrimage.
- Hotellerie Saint Yves – Located just steps from the cathedral. It’s quiet, simple, and popular with pilgrims.
3. Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle (Holy Chapel in English) is a breathtaking Gothic royal chapel located inside the heart of Paris. Built in the 13th century by King Saint Louis (Louis IX), it was designed to house his collection of holy relics — including the Crown of Thorns.
From the year 1248, the Crown of Thorns was safely held in Sainte-Chapelle until the French Revolution. Then, it was transferred to Notre-Dame de Paris in 1806 until 2019. It was rescued from the fire that destroyed part of the Cathedral and was moved to the Louvre Museum.
What makes this chapel truly special is its incredible stained glass windows, which cover nearly 75% of the walls. These windows show scenes from both the Old and New Testaments and are some of the most beautiful examples of medieval stained glass in the world.
Sainte-Chapelle is just a short walk from Notre-Dame Cathedral, so many pilgrims visit both on the same day. It’s located on the Île de la Cité, the historic heart of Paris, and is easy to reach by metro or on foot.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Hotel Europe Saint Severin – Great location near the Latin Quarter with family-friendly rooms and walkable access to the chapel and Notre Dame.
- Les Rives de Notre-Dame – A charming hotel right by the Seine, perfect for walking to Sainte-Chapelle and Notre Dame.
4. Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame de Paris (Our Lady of Paris) is one of the most well-known churches in the world — and for good reason. This stunning Gothic cathedral has stood in the heart of Paris for over 850 years and has long been a symbol of faith, beauty, and Catholic history.
Many visitors come to see the stained-glass windows, the impressive bell towers, and the tombs of French royalty. The cathedral once held the Crown of Thorns, believed to have been worn by Jesus during His Passion, before it was moved to the Louvre after the 2019 fire.
Even though Notre-Dame is still being restored, it remains a powerful place to pray, reflect, and appreciate the deep Catholic roots of France. It’s also a short walk from Sainte-Chapelle, so you can visit both holy sites in one day.
I first saw this beautiful church back in 2016 when I was an au pair in Denmark, and I hope to bring my family there someday soon.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Royal Saint Michel – Charming hotel with views of the cathedral and the Seine.
- Hôtel du Levant – A family-run hotel in the Latin Quarter, just a short walk from Notre-Dame. Comfortable, clean, and great for families.
5. Mont-Saint-Michel
Mont-Saint-Michel is one of the most unforgettable pilgrimage sites in France. This Gothic abbey sits on a rocky island just off the coast of Normandy and has been a holy place dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel since the 8th century.
For over a thousand years, pilgrims have traveled here — sometimes walking across the bay during low tide — to pray and honor St. Michael. The abbey church is perched high above a medieval village, and from the top, you can see miles of countryside and sea.
It’s a place full of history: during the French Revolution, the abbey was even used as a prison. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and still draws many pilgrims and travelers each year.
If you go, be sure to stay on marked paths, as the surrounding bay has strong tides and patches of quicksand. Guided tours are available and helpful, especially with kids.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Le Relais Saint-Michel – Offers great views of the island, with family rooms and a shuttle to the entrance.
- Auberge Saint-Pierre – Located right on the island, this charming inn gives you that “medieval village” feel and easy access to the abbey.
6. Basilica of Saint-Denis
The Basilica of Saint-Denis is a must-visit for those interested in both Catholic history and Gothic architecture. Located just outside of Paris, this basilica is known as the first Gothic church ever built, dating back to the 12th century.
It’s also the burial place of French royalty, including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. But even more important for pilgrims — it holds the tomb of Saint Denis, the patron saint of France and the first bishop of Paris.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained glass, peaceful chapels, and some of the most detailed stone carvings in any church in France.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Novotel Paris Saint Denis Stade Basilique – Family-friendly and just a short walk to the basilica.
- Ibis Saint-Denis Stade Ouest – A clean, affordable option with good access to the metro for Paris day trips.
7. Sanctuary of Our Lady of La Salette
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of La Salette is a peaceful Marian pilgrimage site tucked away in the French Alps, near the village of La Salette-Fallavaux.
In 1846, Our Lady appeared to two young shepherds, Maximin and Mélanie, with a message of repentance and conversion. Since then, this mountain sanctuary has become a special place of prayer and healing for pilgrims from around the world.
The site includes a beautiful basilica, the exact spot of the apparition, and several paths for quiet walks and Stations of the Cross in nature. It’s a wonderful place for both spiritual renewal and time in God’s creation.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- La Salette Sanctuary Guesthouse – Located right at the shrine, simple pilgrim lodging with meals and prayer services.
- Chalet Authentique – A cozy, alpine-style chalet located just a short drive from the sanctuary. Great for families or small groups looking for a peaceful stay close to nature.
8. The Sacre-Coeur Basilica
The Basilica of Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre is one of the most visited Catholic churches in Paris — second only to the Eiffel Tower! It’s dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and sits high on Montmartre hill, offering some of the best views of the city.
This beautiful white church was built in the late 1800s as a symbol of faith and hope, especially during a time when France was turning away from the Church. Its unique Neo-Byzantine architecture, huge dome, and peaceful prayer spaces make it a meaningful stop for any Catholic traveler.
Inside, you’ll find stunning mosaics, stained glass, and one of the largest organs in France. You can also climb to the top for an unforgettable view of Paris.
This was another Catholic Church I visited in 2006 when I was an au pair in Denmark and would love to return with my family one day soon.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Hotel Montmartre Sacré-Coeur – A budget-friendly hotel just a short walk from the basilica. Simple, convenient, and great for pilgrims.
- Le Matissia – A modern apartment-style stay with kitchenettes, perfect for families wanting more space and comfort during their Paris pilgrimage.
9. Basilica of Sainte-Thérèse of Lisieux
The Basilica of Sainte-Thérèse in the town of Lisieux is one of the most loved Catholic pilgrimage sites in France. It’s dedicated to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, also called The Little Flower, who is known for her deep love of God and her “little way” of humility and trust.
Saint Thérèse was a Carmelite nun and a Doctor of the Church, and her autobiography Story of a Soul has helped so many grow closer to Jesus through simple, everyday holiness.
The basilica is beautiful — full of mosaics, chapels, and peaceful spaces for prayer and reflection. Pilgrims come to Lisieux from around the world to ask for Saint Thérèse’s intercession and to learn from her childlike faith.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- The Ermitage Sainte-Thérèse – Located next to the basilica, this pilgrim guesthouse is simple, quiet, and perfect for prayerful stays.
- Manoir de l’Évêché et Spa – An aparthotel-style stay with modern comfort, spa amenities, kitchenettes, and free parking. It’s a short walking distance from the basilica and ideal for families wanting extra space.
10. Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal
The Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal is a special pilgrimage site in the heart of Paris. In 1830, Saint Catherine Labouré, a young French nun, received visions of the Blessed Virgin Mary right here.
Our Lady asked Catherine to have a medal made — now known as the Miraculous Medal — with the prayer:
“O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.”
Today, the chapel draws millions of pilgrims each year who come to pray, light candles, and venerate the medal. It’s a peaceful place tucked away on Rue du Bac and a must-visit for anyone devoted to Our Lady.
This chapel is high on my personal list — especially since my husband and I started wearing the Miraculous Medal after learning about it from Heather, my favorite Catholic mom youtuber. I’d love to visit one day with our kids!
11. Basilica of Saint-Sernin
The Basilica of Saint-Sernin in Toulouse is one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe and an important Catholic pilgrimage site in southern France. It’s dedicated to Saint Saturnin (also called Saint Sernin), the first bishop of Toulouse, who was martyred in the 3rd century for his faith.
Built in the 11th and 12th centuries, this basilica is known for its beautiful Romanesque style, impressive size, and peaceful prayer spaces. The church was built on the site of Saint Sernin’s tomb, and his relics still rest there, drawing pilgrims from all over.
One unique feature is the ambulatory, a walkway behind the altar lined with chapels honoring various saints — perfect for quiet prayer and reflection.
Saint-Sernin is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites linked to the Camino de Santiago. In fact, the Santiago Cathedral in Spain was designed with inspiration from this very church.
Planning to walk the Camino someday?
Check out our family experience of walking the last 5km of the Camino de Santiago with our kids. Or planning to visit Santiago de Compostela with kids soon? Click the link to read my detailed post about it.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Hotel Albert 1er – Family-friendly and walkable to the basilica and city center.
- Le Grand Balcon Hotel – A comfortable, classic stay close to pilgrimage routes and historic sites.
12. Church of the Jacobins
The Church of the Jacobins is another special place for Catholic pilgrims located in Toulouse, especially those who love the Dominican saints. It was built in the 13th century by the Dominican Order (also called the Jacobins in France) and is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
This church is also where you’ll find the relics of Saint Thomas Aquinas, one of the greatest theologians in Church history. He studied and taught in this very place, and it’s believed he even wrote parts of his Summa Theologiae here.
Inside, the church has gorgeous stained glass, peaceful side chapels, and the unique “Palm Tree” pillar — a tall, branching column in the nave that reminds visitors of the Tree of Life.
Whether you’re a theology lover or just want a quiet spot to pray in Toulouse, this church is well worth a visit.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Hotel Albert 1er – Family-friendly and walkable to the basilica and city center.
- Le Grand Balcon Hotel – A comfortable, classic stay close to pilgrimage routes and historic sites.
13. Saint Gildard Convent
The Saint Gildard Convent in Nevers, France, is a very special pilgrimage site — it’s where Saint Bernadette Soubirous spent her final years and where her incorrupt body rests today.
Saint Bernadette, known for the apparitions of Our Lady in Lourdes, entered religious life after those events and lived quietly at this convent until her death in 1879. Her body was exhumed multiple times during her cause for canonization and was found incorrupt each time. Today, she rests in a glass reliquary inside the convent chapel — a place of peace and deep reverence.
The convent also includes a museum about Saint Bernadette’s life, with her personal items, and you can visit the room where she lived. The grounds include gardens, chapels, and quiet places for prayer.
This is definitely on my personal priority list — after Lourdes and the Miraculous Medal Chapel — because I would love to venerate St. Bernadette and see her incorrupt body. It would be a dream come true for me since I already know about her story and Lourdes growing up (though not as much details) because I was part of the Confraternity of Our Lady of Lourdes (COLL) in our village.
🛏️ Recommended stay:
- Espace Bernadette – The convent itself offers accommodations for pilgrims, with simple rooms, meals, and chapels for prayer. It can host up to 200 people and has 24/7 facilities open to the public.
14. Basilica of Saint-Martin
The Basilica of Saint-Martin in Tours is dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, one of the most well-loved saints in France. He was a Roman soldier turned bishop, known for his humility and generosity — especially the story where he cut his cloak in half to share with a beggar.
The current church was built in the 19th century on the site of an older one destroyed during the French Revolution. Its neo-Byzantine architecture, detailed carvings, and peaceful interior make it a beautiful place to pray and reflect.
One of the highlights of a visit is the tomb of Saint Martin, located in the crypt. The basilica also has frescoes, stained glass, and a small museum that tells the story of his life and the history of Tours.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Hotel Saint Jean – A cozy, budget-friendly hotel just a short walk to the basilica.
- Oceania L’Univers Tours – A comfortable stay in the city center, great for families exploring Tours.
15. Basilica of Saint-Remi
The Basilica of Saint-Remi in Reims is one of the most important Romanesque churches in France and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also the largest Romanesque church in northern France, known for its beauty and history.
The basilica is dedicated to Saint Remi, the bishop who baptized Clovis, the first Christian king of the Franks, in the 5th century. That moment is often seen as the beginning of Catholic France.
Inside, you’ll find 12th-century frescoes, stained glass windows, and peaceful chapels. The relics of Saint Remi are kept in a stunning gold and silver shrine, which many pilgrims come to venerate.
Though it was badly damaged in World War I, the basilica has been lovingly restored and is a must-see for anyone visiting Reims — especially for Catholic travelers wanting to connect with France’s early Christian roots.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Le Cathédrale – A spacious, two-bedroom apartment-style stay with modern comforts like a full kitchen, free Wi‑Fi, and a balcony. It’s just a 2‑minute walk from Reims Cathedral — perfect for families wanting extra space and flexibility.
- Hotel des Arcades – A charming 3-star hotel in the heart of Reims, just a 5‑minute walk from Reims Cathedral. Guests praise its quiet location, helpful staff, and good breakfast.
16. Sanctuary of Saint John Vianney
The Sanctuary of Saint John Vianney (also known as Sanctuary of Ars) is located in Ars-sur-Formans, a quiet village in eastern France. It’s dedicated to Saint John Vianney, the humble parish priest who served in Ars for over 40 years and is now the patron saint of all parish priests.
Known as the Curé d’Ars, Saint John Vianney was famous for his deep love for the Sacrament of Confession, his powerful sermons, and his simple but holy life. Thousands came to him for spiritual direction during his lifetime, and many still visit today to ask for his intercession.
The sanctuary includes the church where he preached, his tomb, and his former home, which has been preserved with his personal items and relics. It’s a peaceful and prayerful place to visit, especially for anyone connected to parish ministry or simply wanting a quiet retreat.
17. Le Puy Cathedral
The Cathedral of Notre-Dame du Puy is a beautiful Romanesque church in Le Puy-en-Velay, located in south-central France. It’s known for its unique design — two mismatched bell towers, detailed carvings, and a dramatic front façade that makes it stand out.
Inside the cathedral is the beloved Black Madonna, a dark wooden statue from the 10th century that many believe has healing powers. Pilgrims come from around the world to pray before her and ask for Our Lady’s intercession.
Le Puy Cathedral is also the starting point of the Via Podiensis (Le Puy route), one of the most popular French routes of the Way of St. James. If you’re planning to walk part of the Camino, this is where many begin.
🛏️ Recommended stays:
- Maison Fontanile – A charming aparthotel-style stay with a full kitchen, free parking, Wi‑Fi, and a great location just a 10-minute walk from the cathedral and Santiago pilgrimage route
- Hôtel et Restaurant Le Regina Le Puy-en-Velay – A family-friendly option close to the cathedral, with cozy rooms and helpful staff.
Final Thoughts On The Best Pilgrimage Sites in France
France is full of beautiful places where Catholic families can pray, reflect, and grow closer to God. From Lourdes to Chartres, Mont-Saint-Michel to Lisieux, these pilgrimage sites offer more than just history — they invite you into a deeper relationship with Christ and His Church.
Whether you’re lighting a candle in Lourdes, walking the Camino from Le Puy, or kneeling before the tomb of a saint, these holy places leave a lasting impression on the soul. Along the way, you’ll also find quiet chapels, stunning architecture, local traditions, and maybe even a chance to hear a choir sing.
Whether you’ve already made a pilgrimage or are just beginning to plan your first one, France is a wonderful place to explore your faith as a family.
Have you visited any of these Catholic pilgrimage sites in France?
Or are there ones you’re dreaming of seeing someday? Share your stories or plans in the comments — I’d love to hear them!
Read More About Other Catholic Travel Destinations:
Top 19 Most Visited Catholic Shrines in the World
17 Top Catholic Pilgrimage Sites in Europe
15 Most Popular Catholic Pilgrimage Sites in Spain
19 Famous Catholic Pilgrimage Sites in Italy
Explore The Amazing Catholic Sites in Rome: A Catholic Guide to Rome
CATHOLIC TRAVEL RESOURCES
Looking to book your next pilgrimage? Feel free to use these resources that are tried and tested by my family.
If you book your next family, solo, or couple trip anywhere via the link below or with any of the hotel/travel links on the website, you’ll get the best deal available and I will get a small commission (without any extra cost to you– the prices direct to the websites and via the links here are the same) which will help me in maintaining this site.
Book your accommodation: You can find the best prices on hotels with these providers: Booking.com (my favorite) if you are exploring Europe, Agoda if you are visiting Asia, and TripAdvisor if you are going anywhere else. If you prefer apartment rentals, find the cheapest prices with VRBO.
Book your excursions : Save time and enjoy a hassle-free excursion by hiring professional guides thru GetYourGuide or Viator.
Book your car/transportation: Get the best car rental deals by booking at least one month in advance with DiscoverCars.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.
