Things To Do
in Orléans

Orléans, France is a charming city located along the banks of the Loire River. Rich in history, it is famously known as the city of Joan of Arc and boasts numerous historical sites and landmarks. The city combines a vibrant cultural scene with beautiful architecture, making it a delightful destination for travelers.

With its picturesque streets and lively atmosphere, Orléans offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Orléans
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Cathedral of Sainte-Croix, followed by a leisurely stroll through the historic Place du Martroi.

afternoon
:

Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts to admire its impressive collection of art, then enjoy lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional French restaurant before taking a relaxing evening walk along the Loire River.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Maison de Jeanne d'Arc to learn more about Joan of Arc's story.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Parc Louis-Pasteur, enjoying the gardens and perhaps a picnic.

evening
:

Explore the local nightlife by visiting bars and cafes in the lively Rue de la République area.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍕Pizza$10
🚍Public transportation ticket$2
🏨Hotel (per night)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Charming atmosphere with picturesque streets.
  • Variety of local cuisine and dining options.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Can be crowded during tourist season.
  • Some attractions may have limited English information.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Orléans

Visit one of these nice places.

Place du Martroi

A stunning square featuring the statue of Joan of Arc, surrounded by beautiful architecture.

Cathedral of Sainte-Croix

An architectural marvel, the cathedral's intricate details and towering spires make for breathtaking photographs.

Loire River Banks

The riverbanks provide a picturesque setting, especially at sunset, perfect for capturing the city's beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Orléans

Orléans offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring both traditional and modern French dishes that reflect the region's heritage.

Orléans Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tarte Tatin

A delicious upside-down caramelized apple tart that’s a local favorite.

Must-Try!

Rillettes

A spread made from pork that is slow-cooked and then shredded, often enjoyed on bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché des Halles

A vibrant market featuring fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Orléans experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with warm summers and cool winters. Average temperatures in July can reach up to 25°C (77°F), while January temperatures can drop to around 1°C (34°F). Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with spring and autumn being particularly wet.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting is essential; a simple 'Bonjour' upon entering establishments is expected.

Dining Manners

Keep your hands on the table during meals, but do not place elbows on the table.

Respecting Quiet Hours

Be mindful of noise levels in residential areas, especially during late hours.

Safety Guide

Safety

Orléans is generally safe for tourists, but basic precautions should be taken. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Orléans

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A service charge is usually included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer can be warm, with plenty of festivals and events, perfect for enjoying the vibrant city life.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for leisurely walks and photography.

Winter

Winter is cold, with festive decorations and holiday markets that create a charming atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Orléans at Night

Orléans boasts a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. The Rue de la République is particularly popular, featuring numerous establishments where you can enjoy local wines and cocktails. Live music and themed nights are common, making it a great place to socialize and experience the local culture after dark.

Hiking in Orléans

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Les Bordes Trail

A scenic trail along the Loire River, offering beautiful views and a moderate hiking experience.

Parc Naturel Régional de la Brenne

A bit further out, this regional park features a variety of trails through wetlands and forests, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Orléans by plane.

Tours Val de Loire Airport

Located approximately 100 km from Orléans, this airport offers flights to several domestic destinations and is accessible via train.

Getting Around

Walkability

Orléans is highly walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a short distance of each other. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian zones make it easy to explore the city at a leisurely pace. Biking is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes available.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Orléans, drawn by job opportunities and the vibrant cultural scene.

Students

With several universities and educational institutions, students make up a significant portion of the population.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is very popular in Orléans, with local teams competing in various leagues.

Basketball

Basketball has a strong following, with local clubs attracting enthusiastic supporters.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Orléans can be moderate, with congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses and trams, which are efficient and affordable. Many residents prefer cycling or walking to avoid traffic, especially in the city center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Orléans.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Orléans offer vegetarian dishes, though it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are becoming more common, it's recommended to inform the staff about dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Orléans is of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available. EU citizens can access public healthcare services, while travelers should ensure they have travel insurance for any medical needs. Pharmacies are common and usually have English-speaking staff.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide