Are you planning a trip to Lourdes, the famous pilgrimage site in southern France? With its rich history and stunning natural beauty, Lourdes is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. However, recent events have left many travelers wondering if Lourdes is open for tourism.
The Impact of COVID-19
Like many other destinations around the world, Lourdes has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The French government imposed strict lockdown measures in March 2020 to curb the spread of the virus. While restrictions have since been relaxed, there are still some limitations on travel and tourism in place.
Current Travel Restrictions
As of September 2021, France is allowing tourists from certain countries to enter with either a vaccination certificate or a negative COVID test. However, travelers from countries that are considered high-risk may face additional restrictions or quarantine requirements.
- Travelers from non-EU countries must provide proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure.
- Unvaccinated travelers from EU countries may be required to self-isolate for seven days upon arrival.
- Travelers from high-risk countries must provide proof of essential travel and may be required to quarantine for up to ten days.
Lourdes-Specific Restrictions
While travel restrictions apply across France, Lourdes itself has implemented additional measures to protect visitors and locals alike. These include:
- Mandatory mask-wearing indoors and outdoors in crowded areas.
- Social distancing measures in place at key tourist sites such as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.
- Limits on visitor numbers at some sites to prevent overcrowding.
The Future of Tourism in Lourdes
Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, there are signs that tourism in Lourdes is starting to recover. In June 2021, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes reopened to visitors after being closed for several months. While visitor numbers are still lower than pre-pandemic levels, there is hope that this will change as travel restrictions continue to ease.
Planning Your Trip
If you are planning a trip to Lourdes, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest travel advice and restrictions. Make sure you check the entry requirements for France and any additional regulations that may apply to your home country.
When you arrive in Lourdes, be prepared to follow local guidelines on mask-wearing and social distancing. Keep in mind that some tourist sites may have limited capacity or require advanced booking, so it’s a good idea to check ahead before you go.
The Bottom Line
While travel restrictions and COVID-19 measures have impacted tourism in Lourdes, the city is still open for visitors who are willing to follow the rules and take precautions. With its rich history and natural beauty, Lourdes remains a popular destination for those looking for a spiritual or cultural experience. So if you’re planning a trip to France, don’t hesitate to add Lourdes to your itinerary!