Visiting Orleans
Orleans serves as the seat of the Loiret department and the Centre-Val-de-Loire region, acting as the major city closest to Paris. This university hub sits in an exceptional setting: the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is an approachable city that works perfectly for a weekend trip.
A history that leaves its mark
Orleans is defined by its past. Joan of Arc is the central figure here, as she helped liberate the city from English rule in 1429. To mark her role in the victory, tributes have appeared throughout the streets. Since 1974, the Maison de Jeanne d'Arc has housed a museum dedicated to the warrior. This timber-framed building in a medieval style reconstructs the life of Joan of Arc through exhibits and an interactive space. You will find more traces of this legendary figure at the place du Martroi, where her statue stands on horseback. Once a site of martyrdom and later a wheat market, the square is now a prime spot for a drink on a terrace. Stay for a meal to try local specialties, such as fruit macarons, Orleans vinegar, or Olivet pear brandy.
Well-being in Orleans
The relaxed pace of life in Orleans is visible on every corner. Locals gravitate toward the old town, with its recognizable Renaissance-style timber-framed houses. You must stop at the Hôtel Groslot, a 16th-century building. It served as a residence for Catherine de' Medici, a Protestant meeting place, and eventually the town hall. Do not miss the expansive, Gothic-style cathédrale Sainte-Croix, a designated historic monument. You can explore the city history through its stained glass and chapels. Culture seekers should head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts or take a short trip to the nearby Loire Valley chateaux. If you prefer the outdoors, rent a bike and ride the trails along the river. You can also explore the parc floral de la Source, the botanical garden, or the forêt domaniale d'Orléans, which is one of the largest forests in France.
When to go
Orleans is open to visitors year-round. While summer is ideal for enjoying the surrounding nature, there is plenty to do in every season. History buffs should plan their trip for June, during the Fêtes Johanniques, which are dedicated to Joan of Arc.
Getting there
Orleans is 75 miles from Paris, making it an easy trip from the capital by car (1 hour and 40 minutes via the A10). You can also reach the city by train from major cities across France (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 ?