Orléans doesn’t get the love it deserves.

Everyone rushes to Tours or Amboise for their Loire Valley fix, but Orléans?

It’s quietly sitting there with incredible architecture, a lively student vibe, and way fewer tourists crowding the streets.

I’ve been back multiple times now, and each visit reveals something new—a hidden street, a perfect restaurant, a Christmas market that makes the whole city glow.

This guide covers the best things to see and do in Orléans, from its cathedral to its riverside promenades, plus where to eat and stay.

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Is it worth it to visit Orléans in France?

Ok, I will be honest, this is not the best city you will visit in France. There are other places in the Loire Valley, like Tours, that are better options for spending a few days.

Sadly, much of Orléans was destroyed during the war, so the old town is quite small. You can see everything in about two hours.

But still, those 2 hours are worth it! Just look at the photos bellow !

Orléans is also a much cheaper place to stay in the Loire Valley. It’s closer to some castles than Tours or Blois, and getting there from Paris is very easy, just take a 1.5-hour train.

Where to Stay in Orléans

We visit often, as my family in law leaves in the area. So we actually stayed in a lot of places in town. But these are the ones that are worth it.

My Top Apartment Picks

The Haussmanian-Style Apartment

Last time I stayed in this stylish apartment that looks like it belongs in Paris. I loved the decorations, everything was cool and tidy, with that classic French elegance.

The only downside? It’s on the ground floor. If people pass by, they can peek inside. But it’s a calm street, so it wasn’t a huge issue.

I wouldn’t pick this one in winter when it gets dark fast outside (without light reflecting on the windows, you feel more exposed being inside). Also, being an old building, it gets cold.

But it’s really well situated, close to the old town while still easy to find parking.

The 3-Room Family Apartment

Last year in 2025, we stayed in this 3-room apartment with my family. (3 rooms in France means 2 rooms + 1 livingroom)

Another great find, with simpler decoration but an excellent price for its location right in the middle of town—just 2 minutes from Place du Martroi.

Best Hotels in Orléans

If you prefer hotels over apartments, these are the best options in town:

• Hôtel d’Orléans – Classic French charm, central location
• Empreinte Hôtel – Modern boutique hotel, eco-friendly
• Hôtel de l’Abeille – Budget-friendly, still comfortable

But you can compare all the prices in town using this map:

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Best Things to See and Do in Orléans

Rue de la Poterne: My Favorite Perspective

One of the most beautiful streets in Orléans, with a perspective that ends at the Loire River.

It also has beautifully timbered houses. One in particular caught my eye—crooked beams, pastel-colored plaster between the timber frames, flower boxes in the windows. It looked like it had been standing there for 500 years and planned to stand for 500 more.

The way the street slopes gently downhill toward the river, the cathedral visible in one direction and the Loire in the other—it’s perfect.

Rue Royale: Orléans’ Grand Boulevard

You’re now standing at one of the city’s gateways.

As you arrive via the George V Bridge, a grand perspective opens up straight ahead—all the way to Place du Martroi.

This is Rue Royale, a street that was created following the construction of the new bridge.

It’s lined with boutiques, coffee shops, and beautiful covered galleries. Think of it as Orléans’ answer to the Champs-Élysées, but more manageable and way less touristy.

Place du Martroi: The Heart of Orléans

This is the big square in Orléans, the one you’ll keep coming back to.

In winter, the big Christmas market takes place here, transforming the square into a festive wonderland. In summer, restaurant terraces spill out onto the pavement, and the whole place buzzes with life.

At the center stands the iconic equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, Orléans’ most famous daughter.

It’s impossible to visit this city without feeling her presence everywhere.

Sainte-Croix Cathedral: Gothic Magnificence

Magnificent and resembling both Notre-Dame de Paris and the Cathedral of Reims, Sainte-Croix is Orléans’ crown jewel.

The façade is stunning with all those flying buttresses, the intricate stone lacework, the massive towers reaching toward the sky.

At Christmas, they project Christmas shows on it at night. The whole cathedral comes alive with moving images and colors. It’s magical.

Even if you’re not religious, step inside. The stained glass, the soaring vaulted ceilings, the sense of history—it’s worth it.

Campo Santo: A Medieval Cemetery Turned Cultural Space

To your left, you’ll see a large grassy cloister framed by elegant arcades—this is the Campo Santo.

It was once the city’s main cemetery, dating all the way back to the 12th century. Now it’s listed as a historic monument.

The arcades you see today were added in the 15th and 17th centuries.

During the annual Joan of Arc festivities, local craftspeople set up shop under them for the medieval market. These celebrations—known as the Johannine festivals—have been held every year in Orléans for over five centuries, marking the city’s liberation on May 8, 1429.

Back in the day, the festivities were mainly processions featuring various trades and guilds. Today, it’s a vibrant mix of history and pageantry: costume parades, historical reenactments, light and sound shows, medieval markets, and sacred music.

One highlight is the selection of a young woman from Orléans to play Joan of Arc for the year.

Nearly every president of the Fifth Republic has attended. Since 2018, the event has officially been recognized as part of France’s intangible cultural heritage.

Hôtel Groslot: Where Kings Once Stayed

The stunning Hôtel Groslot was built in the 16th century by Mr. Groslot himself, who served as the king’s bailiff.

That meant he was the king’s local representative, there to remind the bishops, lords, and town officials who was really in charge.

So it makes sense that he wanted a home that reflected his status. And he got one, grand enough to host royal guests like Charles IX and Catherine de Medici.

The red brick façade, the elegant proportions, the historical weight of the place—it all comes together beautifully.

Saint James Chapel and the Hôtel Garden

The Hôtel Groslot gardens offer a unique perspective and a peaceful spot to admire the rear façade of the Hôtel Groslot.

With its neatly kept lawns and the cathedral’s towers rising in the background, it’s picture-perfect. Definitely worth a photo or two.

It’s one of those quiet corners where you can catch your breath between all the sightseeing.

Hôtel Cabu: Renaissance Elegance and Ancient Treasures

Just across the square, you can admire what is often considered the most beautiful Renaissance building in Orléans.

This elegant mansion was originally built around 1550 by lawyer Philippe Cabu. In 1862, the city acquired it with the goal of creating a home for its historical museum.

Today, the museum is best known for its remarkable Neuvy-en-Sullias treasure—an extraordinary collection of Gaulish and Roman bronze statuettes.

If you’re into archaeology or just appreciate beautiful old buildings, this is a must-stop.

Hôtel des Créneaux: Orléans’ First City Hall

That 16th-century façade you’re admiring, with its elegant mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles, is truly a gem!

As its name suggests, this is the Hôtel des Créneaux—Orléans’ very first city hall.

The architectural details are exquisite. Take your time looking at the carved stonework, the windows, the way light plays across the façade.

the last remaining medieval library in France

On one side stands the current Loiret Prefecture. On the other, take a look at the old carved doorway, that’s the entrance to the Thesis Hall.

The name might not mean much at first, but this place has quite the legacy.

It was not only Orléans’ first university but also the last remaining medieval library in France. Built in the 15th century by Pope Clement V, the Thesis Hall became famous throughout France and beyond.

Over the years, it welcomed an incredible list of students, including Erasmus, John Calvin, Molière, Rabelais, Charles Perrault, and La Bruyère.

Today, the building houses the Archaeological and Historical Society of Orléans.

And the best part? It’s free to visit.

Place du Châtelet: Timber-Framed Beauty

A square that came to life in the 1880s to make way for four large metal halls built to house the city’s wholesale market.

Back then, this was the bustling commercial heart of Orléans, with over 40 shops clustered around the market halls.

I love the buildings here with the timbered façades. They have that authentic medieval look that somehow survived modernization.

House of Jean d’Alibert: A Renaissance Survivor

It’s one of the rare 16th-century homes in this area that wasn’t torn down during the construction of the market halls.

Built around 1560 for a wealthy merchant, the house was designed following the layout of the medieval building it replaced. That makes it a precious window into what Orléans might have looked like during the Renaissance.

When I was visiting last time, it was beautifully decorated for Christmas. I actually thought this was the best Christmas decoration in town.

The façade alone is worth stopping for !

Rue du Boeuf Sainte-Croix: The Street You Almost Miss

A cute little street easily missed but with colored houses with timber wood and a perspective over the cathedral.

It’s one of those Instagram-perfect spots where every angle looks like a postcard.

Don’t rush through. stop, look up, admire the details.

Joan of Arc House: Great Outside, Disappointing Inside

Amazing building from the outside but sadly disappointing interior.

The house itself is stunning : half-timbered, beautifully preserved, with that distinctive medieval architecture. The corner turret, the overhanging upper floors, the carved wooden details—it all screams “historical significance.”

Inside, though? It only had a room with video projections about the life of Joan of Arc, who was really important for the region.

I expected more, honestly. But it’s still worthy of a picture stop.

Church of Saint-Aignan: Understated Beauty

Often overlooked in favor of the cathedral, Saint-Aignan has its own quiet charm.

The church dates back to the 9th century, though it’s been rebuilt and restored over the centuries.

If you have time, step inside. The atmosphere is peaceful, almost meditative—a nice contrast to the busier tourist sites.

Jardin de la Charpenterie: For the Views, Not the Garden

Walk up here to see perspectives like the street before this and the view over the Loire River.

The garden itself is not that special, just a small green space with some benches.

But Rue de la Charpenterie has beautiful timbered and colored houses too. It’s the neighborhood, not the garden, that makes it worth the detour.

The House on Rue Coligny: Hidden Gem

There’s this one house on Rue Coligny that stopped me in my tracks.

I don’t even know its official name, but the façade was gorgeous—Renaissance-era stonework with intricate carvings, perfectly preserved.

Sometimes the best discoveries are the ones you weren’t looking for.

Loire River Banks: A Promenade Orléans Should Be Proud Of

The Loire River banks today make a beautiful promenade, one of which Orléans should be proud.

For example, the one in Tours is not that beautiful. (Sorry, Tours.)

Here you’ll find a restaurant on a boat, other boats moored along the bank, children playing, and even wild fauna like wild ducks just in the center of the city!

It’s the perfect place for an evening stroll, especially at sunset when the light turns everything golden.

Street Art by Mifamosa: Keep Your Eyes Open

Just a quick heads-up as you reach the corner of Rue de Bourgogne and Rue Parisie—take a look around and you might spot a little surprise!

Local street artist Mifamosa is known for blending wordplay with mosaics, scattering his witty, playful pieces across his hometown.

His unique style has gained fans far beyond Orléans, and you’ll find his art all over the city—so keep your eyes peeled!

It adds a modern, creative layer to all that medieval history.

Rue de Bourgogne: Where Locals Come Alive

This is the restaurant and bar street with a lively atmosphere, always full of locals enjoying their evening.

It’s where Orléans stops being a museum and becomes a living, breathing city.

I loved the Paul et Juliette Restaurant here. We had dinner with our friends and it was an exquisite 3-course meal for €42.

The vibe on this street is perfect—not too fancy, not too casual. Just good food, good wine, and good conversation.

The Bric-à-Brac Shop: A Harry Potter Moment

There’s this one shop on Rue de Bourgogne that looks like it came straight out of Harry Potter.

It’s crammed floor to ceiling with antiques, curiosities, old books, vintage trinkets.

Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth poking your head in just to experience the atmosphere.

George V Bridge: Where It All Begins

The very first bridge to cross the Loire at Orléans dates all the way back to the Gallic period.

Over the centuries, a series of wooden bridges stood in this same spot. Then, in the 12th century—imagine this—they built the first stone bridge across the river, using islands in the middle of the Loire as support points.

One of those islands even housed a hospice!

The bridge you see today is named after King George V and serves as one of the main gateways into the city.

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Where to Eat in Orléans

Best Restaurants

Paul et Juliette – My favorite new discovery. French cuisine with a 3-course meal. Finesse et goût. My best crème brûlée in all of France!

Donna Mia – A new Italian restaurant in Orléans that became a local hype. Great for pizza and pasta when you need a break from French food.

L’Hibiscus – My brother-in-law is the chef here, so of course I have to recommend it! But seriously, the food is excellent.

La Dariole – Cozy bistro with traditional French dishes done right.

Oh Terroir version Fast Good – Good for casual meals and drinks. Fast-good concept (like a fast food but with local ingredients).

Best Brunch Spots

Maison Canelle – Great brunch with sweet and savory options.

Mame Brunch Café – Vegan brunch, surprisingly delicious even for non-vegans.

Fancy Treat

Le Kiosque by Christophe Hay – Expensive and fancy cakes. If you’re celebrating something special or just want to splurge, you can try this one. Though, I’ll admit, you might love it or hate it, depending on your luck !

If You Visit in Summer

Do one of the guinguettes along the river! These are open-air riverside cafés/restaurants with a festive atmosphere—very French, very fun.

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How to Get to Orléans

Orléans is incredibly easy to reach, especially from Paris.

By Train

The fastest and easiest option. Direct trains from Paris Austerlitz station take about 1 hour. It’s perfect for a day trip or as a base for exploring the Loire Valley.

Check schedules on SNCF or Omio.

By Car

About 1.5 hours from Paris via the A10 motorway. Having a car gives you more flexibility to explore surrounding châteaux and villages.

I recommend comparing rental prices on DiscoverCars.

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Including Orléans in Your Loire Valley Trip

Orléans is one of the four best bases for exploring the Loire Valley, along with Tours, Amboise, and Blois.

Why choose Orléans?

• Less touristy than Tours or Amboise
• Excellent train connections to Paris
• More affordable accommodation
• Authentic local atmosphere
• Easy access to eastern Loire châteaux

Nearby Châteaux to see on a day trip from Orléans:

• Château de Chambord (50 km) – The most iconic Loire château
• Château de Cheverny (55 km) – Elegant and beautifully furnished
• Château de Blois (60 km) – Royal residence with incredible history
• Château de Sully-sur-Loire (45 km) – Medieval fortress on the water

Suggested Itinerary:

• Day 1: Explore Orléans (following this guide!)
• Day 2: Visit Chambord and Cheverny
• Day 3: Blois and surrounding area
• Day 4: Head west toward Tours/Amboise region

Orléans makes an excellent starting point, especially if you’re coming from Paris. You can ease into the Loire Valley experience without the tourist crowds, then work your way through the more famous sites.

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Final Thoughts

Orléans surprised me.

I came expecting a quick stop—just another Loire Valley city to check off the list. But it won me over with its authenticity, its blend of history and modern life, its refusal to be just a tourist destination.

The best things to see and do in Orléans aren’t just the monuments and museums. It’s also sitting at a café on Rue de Bourgogne watching locals greet each other. It’s walking along the Loire at sunset. It’s discovering a perfect timbered house on a street you weren’t even looking for.

Come for Joan of Arc. Stay for the crème brûlée at Paul et Juliette.

And if you time it right—May for the festivals or December for the Christmas markets—you’ll see Orléans at its absolute best.

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FAQ