Visiting Orleans
Orleans serves as the capital of both the Loiret department and the Centre-Val-de-Loire region, standing as the major urban hub closest to Paris. This dynamic college town sits in the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a welcoming city that works well for a weekend getaway.
A deep historical footprint
Orleans is defined first and foremost by its history. Joan of Arc is the city's signature figure, having helped liberate Orleans from English rule in 1429. Tributes to her decisive role in the victory pop up all over town. Since 1974, the Maison de Jeanne d’Arc has housed a museum dedicated to the warrior. This superb medieval half-timbered residence traces her fascinating fate through exhibits and an interactive space. You will also find traces of this legendary figure on the place du Martroi, where her equestrian statue stands tall. Once a site of martyrdom and later a grain market, the square now serves as a prime spot to grab a drink on an outdoor patio. Sit down at a local restaurant to sample regional specialties like fruit-flavored macarons, Orleans vinegar, or Olivet pear brandy.
A strong sense of well-being in Orleans
An easygoing lifestyle makes itself felt on every street corner in Orleans. Locals are particularly fond of the old town, featuring highly recognizable Renaissance timber-framed houses. Make a point to stop at the Hôtel Groslot, a magnificent 16th-century building that served as a residence for Catherine de’ Medici, a Protestant headquarters, and a town hall. Do not miss the vast and striking Gothic cathédrale Sainte-Croix, designated a Historic Monument, where you can explore the city's rich past through its stained-glass windows and chapels. Culture enthusiasts can head next to the Musée des Beaux-Arts and plan excursions to nearby Loire Valley castles. Prefer the outdoors? Rent a bike and pedal along the river paths, or spend an afternoon strolling through the charming parc floral de la Source, the botanical garden, or the forêt domaniale d’Orléans, one of the largest state forests in France.
When to go
You can visit Orleans year-round depending on what you want to experience. Summer is ideal for enjoying the surrounding natural landscapes, but curious travelers will find plenty to do in any season. History buffs should plan their trip for early May to catch the Fêtes de Jeanne d’Arc, which mark the lifting of the siege on 8 May 1429.
How to get there
Orleans sits 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Paris, making it easy to reach from the capital by car in about 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A10 highway. You can also take the train from cities across France, with travel times running 3 to 4 hours from Nantes or Lyon.
Effectivement, on parle très peu d'Orléans pour ses attraits touristiques. D'ailleurs, je pense qu'il s'agit surtout d'une ville étape dans la route des Chateaux de la Loire. Qu'en penses-tu ?