Banks: 10:00 to 17:00, Tuesday to Saturday
Post Offices: 08:00 to 16:00, Tuesday to Saturday
Government Offices: 09:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday
Business Centres: 09:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday
Shops: 09:00 to 20:00, Monday to Friday

There are few safety risks for visitors to Lourdes, as it is quite a secure destination. It is a good idea, however, to stay clear of deserted areas after dark and to avoid walking alone late at night. Visitors should also be sure to safeguard their wallets, purses and any valuables when visiting tourist attractions, as pickpockets tend to frequent these spots.

220 volts AC, 50Hz; two-round pin plugs are in use.

City hospitals or clinics in Lourdes should be able to provide for any medical needs that arise during your visit. EU nationals should carry their European Health Insurance Card in order to receive treatment at no charge or at a discounted rate. Pharmacists can offer advice for the treatment of minor ailments, but a doctor’s prescription is required for most medications.

Emergency services: 15

French is the official national language and the most predominantly spoken language in Lourdes although many locals speak the Hautes-Pyrénées dialect.

The official national currency in France is the euro (EUR). One euro (€1.00) comprises 100 cents.

Visitors entering France are permitted to import the following goods without incurring duty: 200 cigarettes or the equivalent in cigars or loose tobacco; 2 litres of still wine, 2 litres of fortified or sparkling wine and 1 litre of spirits having an alcohol content of 22 per cent; 50g of perfume or 250ml eau de toilette; and additional other good with a total value of not more than €175.

The French tend to be more conservative than other Europeans in business affairs and dining. When dining out guests are expected to display good table manners, as well as to dress smartly. In fact, dressing well is expected whenever you are in public, and beachwear and shorts are considered proper attire for the beach, not the street. The French have a fondness for wine, and the Lourdes region produces some of the best. Public drunkenness, however, is frowned upon.

Nationals of other EU countries need only an ID card to enter France. Nationals of non-EU countries may require a visa, and if so, it must be obtained before arriving in France. Applications for visas should be made at a French embassy or consulate in your home country.

The local tourist office, or Office de Tourisme, provides visitor information, attraction brochures and maps of the area. Phone: +33 5 62 42 77 40. Information on local religious attractions is available at Forum Information, which handles all inquires regarding Catholic sites. Phone: +33 5 62 42 78 78.