A breathtaking view of the Loire? An unforgettable stay in the footsteps of Joan of Arc? A relaxing afternoon at the spa after a bike ride?
We've selected the best addresses for a unique experience in Orléans.
In this article, you'll find: our advice on the best neighborhoods to stay in Orléans, our list of the best downtown hotels and a few bonuses.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Best hotels in Orléans: our 2 favorites
Before discovering our detailed reviews of each of the establishments we've selected, take a quick look at our 2 favorite addresses:
- Empreinte Hôtel & Spa, relaxed luxury on the quays of the Loire with a wellness area - Check photos and availability.
- Hotel Château du Rondon, a beautiful residence in the leafy district of Olivet for the perfect break 2 steps from Orleans - See prices, photos and availability
Where to stay in Orléans: best districts
Why stay in Orléans?
As the gateway to the Loire Valley, Orléans has reinvented itself. A City of Art and History, it boasts a magnificent pedestrian-only town center, dominated by Sainte-Croix Cathedral. Just 1 hour from Paris, it's the ideal base for exploring châteaux or cycling the Loire Valley.
With its timber-framed houses, landscaped quays and local gastronomy, the town is well worth a visit. Read our article on
Preferred neighborhoods
The town is on a human scale and most points of interest are within walking distance. For your stay, there are two main areas to choose from:
- Vieux-Orléans and Bords de Loire: This is the historic heart of the city, close to the Loire River and the Cathedral. The atmosphere is picturesque, with cobbled streets (such as Rue de Bourgogne) and an incredible concentration of restaurants. When you choose this neighborhood, you're choosing the charm and liveliness of the city center.
- Olivet and the banks of the Loiret: just 15 minutes to the south (accessible by car or streetcar), this is the agglomeration's garden city. The atmosphere is totally different: bucolic and soothing. You'll sleep on the banks of the Loiret River, dotted with mills and charming boat stations. It's the ideal option for a romantic stay in the countryside, yet still close to the city.
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.
1. Empreinte Hotel & Spa (romantic)
Why stay there?
Located directly on the banks of the Loire, theEmpreinte Hotel & Spa is ideal for couples! We were won over by the transformation of this historic residence into a resolutely modern and chic venue. The rooms are beautifully decorated ("Couture", "Urbaine" or "Eternelle") and many have a soothing view of the Royal River. Breakfast, made with fresh local produce, is a special moment...
Practical information
- District: Bords de Loire, Quais du Châtelet
- Restaurant: Champagne and spirits bar, snacking offer
- Parking: no, Halles-Châtelet parking lot (paid public parking) 50m away
- Facilities: Complete relaxation area (sauna, hammam, Jacuzzi) and varied treatment menu
- Ideal for: a romantic weekend
- Check photos and availability - and book now!
2. Hôtel de l'Abeille (charming)
Why stay there?
If you're looking for a soul, this is the place to set down your suitcases. The Hôtel de l'Abeille has been a local institution since 1903.
We were totally seduced by its "Grand Budapest Hotel" atmosphere: antique decor, period furniture, engravings on the walls and majestic staircase. It's a real trip back in time!
The green roof terrace is a hidden gem, offering a unique view over the rooftops of Orléans and the hotel's gargoyles.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: near Orléans train station
- Restaurant: Tearoom
- Family rooms: yes
- Parking: no
- PRM access: no
- Facilities: Rooftop garden, gift store
- Ideal for: those who love museum hotels and old-fashioned decoration
- Check photos and availability - and book now!
3. Urban Jungle Hotel (modern)
Why stay there?
Located on Rue de la République, Hôtel Urban Jungle lives up to its name. It's the trendy and dynamic option for downtown.
The decor focuses on plant life and modern design, creating a bubble of freshness in the middle of the city. We liked the functional, connected feel of the rooms, perfect for digital nomads or young couples.
The hotel also offers a well-equipped fitness area, rare for a downtown establishment of this size.
Practical information
- District: Hyper-centre (between Martroi and Loire)
- Restaurant: no, but small snack offer at reception
- Family-friendly: yes
- Parking: no (public parking lots nearby)
- Facilities : Sports hall
- Ideal for: a dynamic city-trip
- Check photos and availability - and book now!
4. Château du Rondon (quiet)
Why stay there?
Located in Olivet, just 15 minutes from the center of Orléans, this establishment is an enchanted interlude. Set in an 18th-century building, Château du Rondon offers the peace and quiet of the countryside on the outskirts of town.
We liked the contrast between the proximity of Olivet's shops and the serenity of the hotel's wooded grounds. The classic, well-cared-for décor reinforces the impression of sleeping in a family home rather than a standard hotel.
Practical information
- District: Olivet, 20min south of Orléans by car
- Food & beverage: no, but the breakfast is exceptional
- Family rooms: yes (it is also possible to rent the entire house for 9 people)
- Parking: private and free
- Facilities: beautiful, quiet, green estate with sunny terrace
- Ideal for: couples seeking peace and greenery
- Check photos and availability - and book now!
Do you love château life? Read our article on the châteaux-hotels of the Loire Valley!
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Sleeping between the Loire castles and Orléans
Do you have a car and want to travel around Orléans? The town is ideally located in the center of the Loire Valley. Here are three strategic options for sleeping at the foot of the châteaux, while remaining less than 45 minutes from the center of Orléans.
5. Le Pigeonnier de la Farge (bucolic)
Why stay there?
Are you ready to do a little driving to experience a magical night? Chaumont-sur-Tharonne in the Sologne region, about 1 hour's drive south of Orléans, hides a rare gem. Le Pigeonnier de la Farge isn't just a hotel, it's an authentic restored pigeon house.
We loved the absolute peace and quiet, the rustic wood-panelled rooms and the heated swimming pool, ideal for sunny days! It's the ideal complement to a city break in Orléans to discover the surrounding castles...
Practical information
- Location: Chaumont-sur-Tharonne (Sologne), 1 hour from Orléans, in the heart of the Sologne forest
- Type: Charming gîte
- Catering: a bar is available on site
- Parking: free on site
- Facilities: large heated outdoor swimming pool, games available, bike hire
- Ideal for: nature lovers
- Check photos and availability - and book now!
6. Relais de Chambord (luxury)
This 4-star establishment boasts 55 rooms and suites, including 15 with a superb view of the Renaissance Château de Chambord. Sleeping here means the privilege of seeing the monument without the crowds, at sunset or in the early hours of the morning.
The establishment combines contemporary architecture respectful of the site with absolute comfort. This is the romantic stage par excellence.
Practical information
- Location: 50m from Chambord castle (45 min south-west of Orléans).
- Type: 4 star hotel, Smart Luxury Hotel
- Family rooms: yes
- Catering: yes, restaurant Le Grand Saint Michel (French cuisine)
- Parking: Pay on site
- Ideal for: lovers of unique experiences
- See prices, availability and book now!
7. Hotel La Porte des Châteaux (3 stars)
Just 20 minutes from Orléans, Meung-sur-Loire is home to one of the oldest châteaux in the Loire Valley. Hotel La Porte des Châteaux is ideally located in a verdant setting.
It's an excellent compromise: you're in a quiet location, close to Orléans, and on the direct route to Blois and Chambord. The hotel restaurant is also a very good local restaurant.
Practical information
- Location: Meung-sur-Loire (20 min west of Orléans).
- Catering: Carrousel restaurant (French cuisine)
- Family rooms: yes
- Parking: private and free
- Facilities: spa, fitness center, meeting room, large garden with table soccer
- Ideal for: company seminars or group breaks
- See photos, prices and availability.
8. Hotel Burgevin (3 stars)
Let's change direction and head east of Orléans! Sully-sur-Loire is famous for its imposing medieval fortress surrounded by a moat. The Hôtel Burgevin, a tastefully renovated former coaching inn, is just a stone's throw from the château.
We love its "family home" atmosphere, exposed beams and authenticity. It's the ideal starting point for exploring the wilder part of the Loire.
Practical information
- Location: Sully-sur-Loire (45 min east of Orléans).
- Catering: coffee and snacks on site
- Family rooms: yes and PMR access
- Parking: private and free
- Ideal for: cycling enthusiasts with many trails in the area
- See photos, prices and availability.
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
Other accommodation options in Orléans
If our favorites are sold out, or if you prefer the independence of an apartment, Orléans has a great rental offer.
Here are a few alternatives we've spotted:
- Cosy apartment with pool table: See prices, photos and availability
- The house next door, a luxurious townhouse:See prices, photos and availability
- Chalet Olivet, a haven of peace by the river: See prices, photos and availability
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley
Other places to explore
Practice
