14 Days

France & Italy Pilgrimage

In the Footsteps of St. Therese of Lisieux

Spiritual Director: Fr. Gary Caster

October 24 – November 4, 2024

*Optional Pre Tour to Lourdes :October 21 – 25, 2024

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France & Italy Pilgrimage

In the Footsteps of

St. Therese of Lisieux

Spiritual Director:

Fr. Gary Caster

October 24 – November 4, 2024

*Optional Pre Tout to Lourdes :
October 21 – 25, 2024

GC102424

· PARIS · LISIEUX · LOURDES · CHARTRES · ROME · ASSISI ·

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Book your trip now

· PARIS · LISIEUX · LOURDES · CHARTRES · ROME · ASSISI ·

On this Pilgrimage to Lourdes, Paris, Lisieux, and Rome you will deepen your faith and grow closer to God and the Saints. In Lourdes, you will learn of the life of St. Bernadette and her apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes. In Lisieux, you will be able to take a closer look into the life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux (The Little Flower) and her Family. The spread of devotion for her is one of the most impressive religious manifestations of our time. In Paris, venerate Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal and learn of St. Catherine Laboure. Leave France to finish your pilgrimage with 3 days in Rome, exploring the “The Eternal City”. Even experience a Papal Audience with the Holy Father. Visit important Catholic sites like the Holy Stairs, the minor Basilicas, and some historical sites like the Trevi Fountain. Tour the Catacombs in Rome, which are the world’s largest underground Christian burial site. Immerse yourself in the rich culture, art & cuisine of Italy on this Catholic Pilgrimage!

Any Questions? Contact Us:
Cara
Silvia
Dominic
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Terms & Conditions

Your trip includes

  • Round trip airfare from New York (JFK)
  • All airport taxes & fuel surcharges
  • Hotel accommodations: (or similar) in double occupancy
      ~ 2 nights: Oct 25 - 27: Grand Hôtel de l’Espérance, Lisieux, France
      ~ 2 nights: Oct 27 - 29: Pullman Paris Centre – Bercy, Paris, France
      ~ 3 nights: Oct 29 - Nov 1: Hotel Il Cantico or Starhotels Michelangelo, Rome, Italy
      ~ 3 nights: Nov 1 - 4: Giotto Hotel or Dal Moro Gallery Hotel, Assisi, Italy
  • Breakfast and Dinner daily
  • Wine with dinners
  • Transportation by air-conditioned motor coach
  • Assistance of local guide throughout
  • Whisper headsets
  • Mass daily & Spiritual activities
  • Escort throughout, Local guides for sightseeing and admissions fees as per itinerary
  • Luggage handling (1 piece per person)
Centrally located hotels or similar
Grand Hôtel de l’Espérance
Lisieux, France
Pullman Paris Centre - Bercy
Paris, France
Hotel Il Cantico
Rome, Italy
Giotto Hotel
Assisi, Italy
Pre Tour Hotels
Grand Hotel Moderne
Lourdes, France
Not Included
  • Lunches and Tips to guide and driver
Optional
Travel Protection

Providing you coverage for situations that may arise during your trip, including medical and dental emergencies, loss of luggage, trip delay, and so much more.

Cancel For Any Reason Waiver

A Cancellation Waiver – allowing you to cancel your trip and receive a refund anytime – up until 48 hours prior to departure.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Thursday, October 24: Depart from Chicago to Paris

Make your way to your local airport, where you will board your overnight flight to Paris. Meals will be served on board.

Day 2 | Friday, October 25: Lourdes - Paris - Lisieux (St. Therese - the Little Flower)

Today, you will enjoy breakfast before departing for Pau or Lourdes airport for your short flight to Paris. Upon arrival in Paris, visit and attend Mass at the magnificent Sacre Coeur Basilica that stands atop Montmartre Hill. The Basilica, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was originally built in 1914 as an act of penance for infidelity that France experienced during thattime. While on your visit, in addition to the extraordinary artwork and architecture that forms the Basilica, you will see the beautiful mosaic of the Risen Christ and the remarkable Grand Organ. Celebrate Mass at the Crypt that contains the Tombs of many notable Cardinals. Time permitting, you may have the opportunity during your free time to ascend a staircase to the Dome, where you will take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Paris. Following this visit, you will enjoy lunch on your own and depart for Lisieux. According to Pope Pius X, St. Therese of Lisieux was the “greatest saint of modern times.” Her extraordinary love for God and service to humanity will come alive as you walk in the great Saint’s footsteps. During your visit, you will see the beautiful Basilica of St. Therese and the magnificent mosaics and stained glass windows contained within. Dinner and overnight at your hotel in Lisieux.

Day 3 | Saturday, October 26: Lisieux - Landing Beaches - American Cemetery

Upon waking up in Lisieux, enjoying breakfast, you will pray and reflect upon the life of the beloved Saint and celebrate Mass. After Mass and following the visit to the Basilica, you will have the opportunity to view relics, clothing, and personal objects of St. Therese, when you visit her family home, Les Buissonets. Additionally, you will tour the Carmelite Convent, where she entered in 1888, currently entombed with her parents. This afternoon, you will transfer to Normandy Landing beaches. The Normandy landings were the landing operations, which took place on Tuesday, June 6th, 1944 (termed DDay) by the Allies, of Normandy, during World War II. As the largest seaborne invasion in history, the operation began the liberation of German-occupied northwestern Europe from Nazi control and contributed to the Allies’ victory on the Western Front. Continue to visit The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, a World War II cemetery and memorial in Colleville-Sur-Mer, Normandy, France, honoring the American troops that died in Europe during World War II. Many of the brave American soldiers of World War II got buried here, and it is encouraged to say a prayer in thanksgiving for their courage. Return to Lisieux for dinner and overnight.

Day 4 | Sunday, October 27: Lisieux - Chartres - Paris

This morning, your day begins with an early breakfast before we depart for Chartres, known worldwide for its massive Cathedral Notre Dame and its incredible stained-glass windows from the 12th and 13th centuries. The World Heritage site, UNESCO, calls the Cathedral “the high point of French Gothic art” and a “masterpiece” You will have some free time for lunch in the quaint town of Chartres. After lunch, we will continue to Paris to check-in at your hotel, followed by some free time before a delicious dinner and an overnight.

Day 5 | Monday, October 28: Paris - Miraculous Medal – Notre Dame Cathedral

Today, you will see the sights of Paris and visit two of the city’s holiest sites. We will start with the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, where we will celebrate Mass, after which we will have the opportunity to view the incorrupt body of St. Catherine Laboure. The Saint’s guardian angel led her to the chape, where the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to her. During the apparitions, Our Lady repeatedly instructed the making and purpose of the Miraculous Medal, as well as the green scapular. According to the Apparition, those who wear the Miraculous Medal and scapular will receive special protection and abundant graces. Continue on a panoramic tour, passing by iconic Parisian landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, the Arc de Triomphe, and the world-renowned Champs-Élysées boulevard. After lunch, we will visit one of the most famous churches in the world, the spectacular Cathedral Notre-Dame de Paris. Construction began on the cathedral in 1163, and it was completed in 1345 and awarded minor basilica status in 1805. It is famous for its relics of the Crown of Thorns and True Cross, its tradition of Lent Sermons, its Rose Windows and as the setting of Victor Hugo’s famous novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. After being severely damaged in a fire in 2019, the Cathedral was restored and reopened in 2024. Your busy day ends with a lovely meal and a comfortable overnight.

Day 6 | Tuesday, October 29: Flight from Paris to Rome

Welcome to Rome, “The Eternal City”. Upon arrival at Rome airport, collect your luggage in the baggage claim area, and continue to the Arrivals Hall, where we meet our driver. Following checkin group will meet and depart for Mass. Following Mass, you will attend a welcome dinner. After dinner, we will have the opportunity to walk to St. Peter’s Square as a group, for the Rosary (optional).

Day 7 | Wednesday, October 30: Rome: Papal Audience - Trevi Fountain – Pantheon - Basilica of St. John the Lateran – Holy Stairs -Basilica of St. Mary Major

This morning we attend the Papal Audience in St. Peter’s Square or at the Audience Hall. The Audience is celebrated each Wednesday by His Holiness, Pope Francis (pending the papal schedule). Next Trevi Fountain area for some free time and lunch (on own). This afternoon, visit the oldest of the four major Basilicas in Rome, the Archbasilica of St. John the Lateran, the cathedral church and seat of the Bishop of Rome. Cross the street to the very steps that lead up to the praetorium of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem which Jesus climbed on His way to trial during his Passion. Holy Mass will be celebrated by our priest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, dedicated to Our Blessed Mother. Dinner and overnight.

Day 8 | Thursday, October 31: Rome: St. Peter's Basilica - Vatican Museum - Appian Way - Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls -Catacombs

Today we tour St. Peter’s Basilica, built on the site where St. Peter the Apostle was martyred. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to view Michelangelo’s Pieta sculpture, pray at the tombs of Pope Benedict XVI and St. John Paul II. Next you will visit the Vatican Museum, where you can see the Tapestry Gallery, Raphael Rooms, and Sistine Chapel. After lunch, continue down the Appian Way, one of the earliest roads built in ancient Rome to the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls and the Catacombs. Dinner and overnight in Rome.

Day 9 | Friday, November 1: Rome – Orvieto – Bolsena - Assisi

We leave Rome and travel North through the Umbrian Hills to Orvieto. This incredible town sits on a volcanic high rock formation. Here we visit one of the most beautiful and most renowned Cathedrals in Italy. Because of its strategic location, it’s Christian history officially started in 1004, but, Orvieto was built over preexisting Etruscan era cave tunnels dating back 2,500 years, which some historians believe Christians used to celebrate Mass when Christianity was forbidden. Next we visit nearby town of Bolsena and Cathedral housing the corporeal of the Miracle of the Eucharist which took place in 1262. Here we celebrate Mass. Continue to Assisi the hometown of St. Francis and St. Clare. Upon arriving check-in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. Retire to your room for a restful night’s sleep.

Day 10 | Saturday, November 2: Assisi In the Footsteps of St. Francis and St. Clare

As you visit the birthplace of St. Francis, you will become captivated as the atmosphere has not changed since St. Francis began his ministry, in the early 13th-century. You will start your tour at the St. Francis Basilica, visit his tomb of St. Francis, and have the opportunity to view a series of frescoes depicting his life, along with a few of the saint’s possessions. Followed by a visit to the Santuario Della Spogliazione where Blessed Carlo Acutis’ tomb is placed. Carlo is the first millennial to be declared Blessed who loved the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. From there, you will continue on a walking tour through this picturesque town, including the birthplace of St. Francis, and end with a tour of the Church that honors St. Clare, the foundress of the Poor Clare Sisters. This Saint followed the teachings of St. Francis very closely by also living a life of poverty and humility. Enjoy some free time on your own – you may take this time for additional prayer, shop in the many gift shops or enjoy a nice lunch. After lunch, you will board the bus, which will take you outside of the walls of Assisi, to the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels. This is where St. Francis spent most of life. This Basilica is made up of two structures, both of which you will visit. The first structure, is the “Porziuncola”, which is where St. Francis founded his order of the Friar Minor (Franciscans). The second, is the “Capella del Transito”, which is the place of St. Francis’ death. Duringyour time here, you will have the opportunity to visit the beautiful Rose Garden where St. Francis and other friars lived, as well as the cave where the Saint retired to pray. Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight.

Day 11 | Sunday, November 3: Assisi - Gubbio - Assisi

Drive to Gubbio, the medieval town with a visit of St. Francis Church, where you will be celebrating Mass. After Mass, visit a town that seems painted onto the hill, a succession of backdrops against which towers and houses stand out, all embraced by walls. The town had been freed by St. Francis from a terrible and fierce wolf who afflicted it. After lunch (on your own). Return to Assisi, some time for prayers, reflections and shopping. Farewell dinner and overnight in Assisi.

Day 12 | Monday, November 4: Return flight from Rome to Chicago

Heartfelt farewells to Assisi as leave by motor coach and transfer to the Rome Fiumicino airport for our return flight home

*206 Tours Disclaimer:
Occasionally local religious and national holidays, weather, traffic conditions and other events may necessitate changes in the sequence of events or the missing of certain events/places. Though every effort will be made to follow the itinerary, it should be considered as an indication, rather than a contract of events and places to be visited.


Optional Pre Tour
to Lourdes

October 21 – 25, 2024
  • Pre Tour hotel accommodations:
      ~ 3 nights: Oct 22 - 25: Grand Hotel Moderne, Lourdes, France
  • Breakfast and Dinner daily
  • Wine with dinners
  • Transportation by air-conditioned motor coach
  • Assistance of local guide throughout
  • Whisper headsets
  • Mass daily & Spiritual activities
  • Escort throughout, Local guides for sightseeing and admissions fees as per itinerary
  • Luggage handling (1 piece per person)

Anticipated Daily Itinerary:
Day 1 | Monday, October 21: Depart for Lourdes

Make your way to your local airport, where you will board your overnight flight(s). Meals will be served on board.

Day 2 | Tuesday, October 22: Arrive Lourdes

Upon arriving at Pau or Toulouse airport, make your way to the baggage claim area and collect your luggage.

Proceed to the arrival hall, where you be greeted by your tour guide and/-or driver. Embark on the scenic drive to Lourdes. Check-in to your hotel, and then relax or explore before dinner. Following dinner, you will have free time to pray the Rosary and to attend the candlelight procession. (April-October only). These processions are lit by candlelight and guided by the Most Holy Rosary. Following this prayerful experience, you will return to your hotel.

Days 3 & 4 | Wednesday & Thursday, October 23 & 24: Lourdes

Over the next two days, you will stay in a small town, nestled within the Pyrenees Mountains. During your time in Lourdes, you will pray and meditate in a site of Our Lady’s apparitions. Our Lady first appeared to Bernadette in 1858, and announced herself as “The Immaculate Conception”, near the Grotto of Massabielle. During the first two apparitions, little Bernadette prayed the Rosary with Our Lady and left without any exchange of words. During the following apparitions, Our Lady emphasized God’s love for us, penance, and the necessity of performing acts of penance for sinners. Throughout your time in Lourdes, you will have the opportunity to attend Mass at the Grotto, where Our Lady appeared to Bernadette; watch a video presentation that explains in detail, the story of Lourdes; participate with the gesture of the miraculous spring ; Wash your hands, wash your face and drink the water. Finish with a short prayer: Our Lady of Lourdes…Pray for us St. Bernadette…Pray for us Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee Additionally, you will have the opportunity to experience Christ’s unconditional love, as you meditate upon the “lifesize” Stations of the Cross that overlook the Grotto of Massabielle. In Lourdes, you will walk in and meditate upon the footsteps of St. Bernadette. Your group will have the opportunity to see Boly Mill, the birthplace of St. Bernadette, and the “Cachot,” an abandoned prison where Bernadette’s impoverished family lived. Each evening following dinner, you will have an opportunity to attend the candlelight procession and the Rosary, before a restful overnight.

Day 5 | Friday, October 25: Lourdes - Paris

Meet Your group this morning and continue to Lisieux

Why Book “With Airfare” from 206 Tours

Would you like to arrive earlier or stay later?

Let us know at the time of registration if you would like to arrive earlier, or stay later, than the scheduled tour dates, and pending availability, we will change your airline reservations accordingly, additional fees may apply. Pre- and/or post-stays at the hotel will cost an additional fee. These options should be available to you when registering online, or simply contact us: sales@206tours.com

Book your trip now

$500.00 Deposit is due at the time of Registration

*If within 90 days prior to departure, Full Payment is due at time of Registration.

About your trip

About Lourdes:

She came for you and for everyone of us! 6 million pilgrims come to Lourdes each year and 10,000 visit this site daily. At the foot of the Pyrenees mountains in southwestern France, nestled between the spectacular mountain river, Gave de Pau, is Lourdes, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the World. Lourdes is the birthplace of St Bernadette to whom Our Lady appeared in 1858 near the Grotto of Massabielle. Our pilgrimage and tour of Lourdes includes visits to the sanctuary and the Basilica of St Pius X, the world’s largest underground Church. Drink from the spring that the Virgin directed Bernadette to locate at the base of the Grotto, which has flowed uninterrupted since 1858. Wash yourself in the baths where hundreds of miraculous cures have taken place. Contemplate Christ’s Passion as you pray the unique three-dimensional Stations of the Cross. Attend the blessing of the sick, and participate in nightly candlelight processions requested by Our Lady. Daily Mass, and Mass at the Grotto on Sunday will be followed by a video presentation telling the miraculous story of Lourdes. Visit Lourdes and experience a spiritual journey from which many have claimed healing and conversion.

About Lisieux & Paris:

Visit town of Lisieux, the home of St Therese whom Pope Pius X called “the greatest saint of modern times” Visit Paris and all its wonderful sights like Notre Dame Cathedral and Sacre Coeur, see the sights as the Eiffel Tower, L’Arc de Triomphe, and drive through the Champs Elysees. Mass at Shrine of the Miraculous Medal.

About Rome:

Rome has been one of history’s most powerful and important cities, along with home to the Roman Catholic Church, the Pope, and the site of the Vatican City. First built in 337, St. Peter’s Basilica lies over the tomb of St. Peter. Contained within is a vast array of the most beautiful artwork ever assembled, reflecting the immensity, beauty, vastness, majesty, glory and awesomeness of God.
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Options and upgrades

About your trip

About Lourdes:

She came for you and for everyone of us! 6 million pilgrims come to Lourdes each year and 10,000 visit this site daily. At the foot of the Pyrenees mountains in southwestern France, nestled between the spectacular mountain river, Gave de Pau, is Lourdes, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the World. Lourdes is the birthplace of St Bernadette to whom Our Lady appeared in 1858 near the Grotto of Massabielle. Our pilgrimage and tour of Lourdes includes visits to the sanctuary and the Basilica of St Pius X, the world’s largest underground Church. Drink from the spring that the Virgin directed Bernadette to locate at the base of the Grotto, which has flowed uninterrupted since 1858. Wash yourself in the baths where hundreds of miraculous cures have taken place. Contemplate Christ’s Passion as you pray the unique three-dimensional Stations of the Cross. Attend the blessing of the sick, and participate in nightly candlelight processions requested by Our Lady. Daily Mass, and Mass at the Grotto on Sunday will be followed by a video presentation telling the miraculous story of Lourdes. Visit Lourdes and experience a spiritual journey from which many have claimed healing and conversion.

About Lisieux & Paris:

Visit town of Lisieux, the home of St Therese whom Pope Pius X called “the greatest saint of modern times” Visit Paris and all its wonderful sights like Notre Dame Cathedral and Sacre Coeur, see the sights as the Eiffel Tower, L’Arc de Triomphe, and drive through the Champs Elysees. Mass at Shrine of the Miraculous Medal.

About Rome:

Rome has been one of history’s most powerful and important cities, along with home to the Roman Catholic Church, the Pope, and the site of the Vatican City. First built in 337, St. Peter’s Basilica lies over the tomb of St. Peter. Contained within is a vast array of the most beautiful artwork ever assembled, reflecting the immensity, beauty, vastness, majesty, glory and awesomeness of God.
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Any questions?  Contact Us:
Cara
Silvia
Dominic