A former royal city on the banks of the Loire, Orléans is a regional capital that combines rich history with a relaxed way of life. This city on a human scale has a charming tree-lined quayside that welcomes walkers, cyclists and events all year round. We loved the authentic atmosphere of this city marked by the story of Joan of Arc.
In this article, we share 8 reasons to visit this city, along with photos and tips.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Orléans worth a visit?
Orléans is well worth a visit, with its impressive cathedral and fascinating history linked to Joan of Arc. We enjoyed strolling along the quays of the Loire, perfect for strolling and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The town also boasts a fine selection of museums, pleasant natural areas and local culinary specialties, offering a real taste of the richness of the Loire region.
Here are just some of the reasons to visit Orléans. You'll also soon be able to discover our selection of the city's best attractions.
Reason 1 - For its special relationship with Joan of Arc
The figure of Joan of Arc is omnipresent in Orléans, from the majestic statue that dominates the Place du Martroi to the Rue Jeanne d'Arc, the main thoroughfare that proudly bears her name. The Maison de Jeanne d'Arc, meanwhile, is showing a short film retracing the Hundred Years' War and La Pucelle's arrival in Orléans. The town's attachment to its heroine culminates in the "Johannine Festivities" at the beginning of May, when historical shows, processions in period costume and entertainment take visitors back to the 15th century. We were touched by the popular fervor that surrounds these festivities, a living testimony to a collective memory that is still vibrant.
WHERE TO STAY IN Orléans
Downtown
Enjoy the city, its restaurants and beautiful architecture.
- Hotel Urban Jungle - prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel L'Empreinte - view prices, pictures and availability
In the countryside around
Charming locations near or 45 minutes from Orléans
- Hotel Le Pigeonnier de la Farge - prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Château du Rondon - prices, pictures and availability
See our reviews of the best hotels in Orléans (coming soon)
Reason 2 - For its historical heritage
When you visit Orléans, you won't want to miss the Cathédrale Sainte-Croix, an imposing Gothic edifice whose spires soar skyward. In addition to its flamboyant facade, the church boasts a rare collection of stained glass windows and a collection of Joan of Arc paintings. Just a stone's throw away, the Hôtel Groslot, a magnificent Renaissance townhouse, is an exceptional example of 16th-century civil architecture. You'll discover its red brick and white stone facades, typical of the period, as well as its richly decorated interiors.
Reason 3 - For its old town
The old town of Orléans unfurls its charm through a labyrinth of unspoilt streets. We strolled along the Rue de Bourgogne, the main thoroughfare through the historic town center, packed with lively shops. Renaissance stone and timber-frame houses line adjacent streets such as Rue de la Poterne, Rue de la Charpenterie and Rue de l'Empereur. You'll love these colorful façades full of character. The area is also home to a number of restaurants with shady terraces, where you can enjoy a meal in fine weather.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
- Think aboutfull insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Reason 4 - For the banks of the Loire
The banks of the Loire are one of Orléans' major assets. We spent a long time strolling through these pleasantly landscaped areas, inviting you to contemplate and relax. The Quai du Châtelet offers magnificent views of the royal river, especially at sunset. In the summer months, the guinguettes (dance halls) move in and liven up these areas with their convivial terraces. Enjoy the local lifestyle and the ballet of the toues (traditional Loire boats) - more info here.
Reason 5 - For its museums and cultural institutions
Orléans' cultural offering is rich and varied, offering a comprehensive panorama of art, history and major contemporary issues. The Musée des Beaux-Arts boasts a remarkable collection of European paintings from the 15th to the 20th century, while the Frac Centre-Val de Loire focuses on architecture and contemporary design. MOBE, the Orléans Museum for Biodiversity and the Environment, clearly raises awareness of current ecological challenges. The Hôtel Cabu, home to the Musée d'Histoire et d'Archéologie, features works and objects retracing the history of the town and that of Joan of Arc. Finally, the CERCIL - Musée Mémorial des enfants du Vel d'Hiv offers a poignant place of remembrance dedicated to the Shoah.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Reason 6 - For its green spaces and nature walks
Orléans offers superb green getaways, ideal for recharging your batteries and enjoying a soothing natural setting. Right in the heart of the city, Parc Pasteur is a veritable urban lung, appreciated for its vast lawns, pond, statues and family atmosphere. A 15-minute drive away, the Parc Floral de La Source is a splendid green setting with the "Jardin Remarquable" label, featuring irises, a rose garden, a butterfly hothouse, mineral and plant areas in a carefully staged setting. Nearby, the Promenade des Moulins d'Olivet offers a bucolic stroll along the Loiret, punctuated by mills, majestic trees and peaceful landscapes.
Reason 7 - For its culinary specialties
Orléans gastronomy reveals authentic flavours rooted in tradition. Les Cafés Jeanne d'Arc has been perpetuating the art of roasting for over a century, while Maison Martin-Pouret makes its famous Orléans vinegar using ancestral know-how, inherited from the Maîtres Vinaigriers who once refined wines that had fermented while being transported down the Loire. Orléanais wines, whether red, white or rosé, are the perfect accompaniment to local meals. And for a sweet touch, don't miss the cotignac, a delicate quince jelly presented in little boxes bearing the effigy of Joan of Arc.
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Reason 8 - For its roots in the Loire Valley
Orléans is an ideal gateway for exploring the chateaux of the Loire Valley. We took advantage of this privileged location to explore the region and discover some remarkable homes. Less than 30 minutes away by car, the Château de la Ferté Saint-Aubin seduces with its elegance and moats bathed by the River Cosson, while the Château de Meung-sur-Loire is perfect for a family visit. We were also charmed by the Château de Chamerolles, famous for its thematic museum that traces the history of hygiene and perfumes from the Renaissance to the present day, offering an original and instructive experience.
DISCOVER Orléans
- Things to do in Orléans - coming soon
- Where to stay in Orléans: best hotels - coming soon
- Where to eat in Orléans: best restaurants - coming soon
- Visit Orléans Cathedral - coming soon
Some disadvantages of a trip to Orléans
The tourist influx
Orléans can be very busy during the Fêtes de Jeanne d'Arc or the Fêtes de la Loire. The city center, especially around the cathedral and Place du Martroi, comes alive and the quays fill up quickly. To take full advantage of the calm and beauty of the area, we recommend visiting outside these periods. Find out more on the official website of the City of Orléans by clicking here.
The weather
The weather in Orléans follows the typical variations of the Loire Valley. Winds can be cool on the banks of the Loire, even in spring, and summers, although generally warm, can see unexpected stormy showers. Autumn is cooler, but pleasant and peaceful. In winter, temperatures are chilly and the city enjoys a very calm atmosphere. We therefore advise you to bring appropriate seasonal clothing to make the most of your outings.
How to get to Orléans
Orléans is well served by car, train and public transport:
- By car: Orléans is easily accessible from several major French cities via the A10 from Paris or Bordeaux, the A71 from Clermont-Ferrand, and the N20 and N60 trunk roads. The city is well connected and offers plenty of parking to make the most of the city center.
- By public transport: The TAO network makes it easy to get around the city by bus and streetcar. The bus station is also home to REMI coaches, which run between Orléans and the surrounding towns, making excursions in the region a breeze.
- By train: The connection with Paris is fast and convenient, with a journey time of 1h to 1h30 from Gare d'Austerlitz. Orléans has 2 train stations: Orléans Centre, in the heart of the city, and Orléans-Les Aubrais, on the outskirts, linked to the center by tramway in 20 minutes.
See the available schedules and book your train tickets now.
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley
Other places to explore
Practice
