Lourdes, France

Capital City

Lourdes is home to just 13,266 people, a far cry from the millions of pilgrims who descend on this Pyrenees town each year. The bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, with the local government struggling to manage the influx of visitors. And while the temperate climate is generally mild, sporadic winter freezes can send temperatures plunging to a bone-chilling -27°C. Yet despite these challenges, Lourdes remains a magnet for the devout, who come in search of miracles at the Sanctuary of Our Lady. For the faithful seeking spiritual renewal, this may be a worthwhile destination, but for the average traveler, the hassles may outweigh the rewards.