St. Thérèse of Lisieux, often called “The Little Flower”, is one of the most beloved saints in Catholic tradition. Known for her “little way” of holiness, she lived a short but profoundly impactful life, leaving behind spiritual writings that continue to inspire millions. Pilgrims from around the world travel to Lisieux, France, to trace her footsteps, seeking to grow closer to God through her simple yet powerful example. Walking the Way of St. Thérèse is both a spiritual and cultural journey, inviting visitors to encounter her story in the very places where it unfolded.

Discovering Lisieux: The Heart of the Pilgrimage

The pilgrimage begins in Lisieux, a charming town in Normandy where Thérèse spent most of her life. Visitors are immediately immersed in her world. The Basilica of St. Thérèse, completed in 1954, is one of the largest churches built in the 20th century and a central stop on the pilgrimage. The basilica houses relics of the saint and beautiful mosaics depicting scenes from her life and spirituality. Spending time here allows pilgrims to reflect on her message of trusting God with childlike faith.

Another must-see site is Les Buissonnets, the family home where Thérèse lived from the age of four until she entered the Carmelite convent. The house has been preserved as a museum, with personal items and furniture that tell the story of her childhood. Walking through her bedroom, visitors are reminded of the quiet suffering and deep faith that shaped her character from a young age.

The Carmelite Convent: Where the Little Way Was Lived

For many pilgrims, the highlight of the journey is visiting the Carmel of Lisieux, the convent where Thérèse became a cloistered nun at the age of 15. Here she lived out her “little way” — doing small acts of love with great devotion — until her death at 24. The chapel at the convent holds her final resting place. Pilgrims often spend time in prayer before her tomb, asking for her intercession and reflecting on her words from Story of a Soul, her spiritual autobiography that has inspired countless readers.

The convent also features exhibits with Thérèse’s handwritten manuscripts, photographs, and personal effects, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of her life of humility and service.

Following Her Steps Beyond Lisieux

While Lisieux is the primary destination, the pilgrimage can extend beyond the town. Nearby Alençon, where Thérèse was born in 1873, is home to the house of her parents, Saints Louis and Zélie Martin. Their canonization in 2015 added another layer of meaning for pilgrims, who can reflect on the powerful example of faith-filled family life.

Some pilgrims also take time to explore Normandy’s countryside, reflecting on the beauty of creation that inspired Thérèse’s spirituality. The quiet roads and fields are ideal for moments of personal prayer and contemplation, aligning with her belief that God reveals Himself in the simple, everyday moments of life.

The Spiritual Message of the Little Way

More than a historical journey, following the Way of St. Thérèse is a deeply personal spiritual experience. Her “little way” teaches that holiness is not reserved for extraordinary acts but can be found in doing ordinary things with extraordinary love. This message resonates with pilgrims who come seeking encouragement in their daily struggles.

Many find that walking where Thérèse lived and prayed helps them internalize her approach to faith. Her example challenges visitors to trust God fully, embrace simplicity, and love generously — no matter their vocation or life circumstances.

Planning Your Pilgrimage

Those considering a Catholic pilgrimage to France, specifically to Lisieux, will find that it is easily accessible from Paris. The town offers hotels, guesthouses, and even retreat centers for pilgrims wishing to stay overnight. For a deeper experience, many groups choose to participate in daily Mass, guided tours, or prayer services available at the basilica and convent.

Spring and summer are popular seasons for visiting due to the pleasant weather, but autumn brings fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for quiet reflection. Regardless of the season, traveling on a group tour ensures that you will fully explore each site with expert guidance along the way.

A Journey of Renewal

Walking the Way of St. Thérèse is more than a trip — it is a journey of renewal. Whether you are a lifelong devotee of the Little Flower or newly discovering her story, spending time in Lisieux offers an invitation to rediscover faith in a fresh and personal way. Pilgrims often return home with a renewed sense of hope, a deeper trust in God, and a commitment to live out their own “little way.”

St. Thérèse once wrote, “I will spend my heaven doing good on earth.” Pilgrims who walk in her footsteps often feel the truth of that promise, experiencing her presence and guidance along the way.