Orléans

As you have realised, Orléans is a great place for a family holiday or a get-together with friends in a City Break gite in the city centre. Couples and solo visitors can enjoy a stay at one of the pretty B&Bs in the city which has a long tradition of hospitality.

Sight-seeing in Orléans

Now only an hour from Paris, Orléans has come a long way from the ancient Gallic town, historic capital of Clovis and city famously freed from the clutches of the English by Joan of Arc in 1429. Explore the city by walking from Place to Place (square to square). The Place du Martroi at the heart of the city has been totally redeveloped around the statue of its heroine.

A short walk through the arches of the Rue Royale to the east, the Place du Général de Gaulle overlooks the two tramways, symbols of the city’s modernity, facing Joan of Arc’s house, while to the west lies the Place Sainte Croix and the historic cathedral.

Walk past restored Renaissance buildings, like the 16th century Hôtel Groslot, through the pedestrianised medieval district with its host of colourful, half-timbered houses to the Place de la Loire.

Orléans, the banks of the Loire

The Place du Châtelet and Place de la République in the Bourgogne district are lively spots by day and night with local markets and shops, restaurants and bars.

The city has many unusual art venues like the FRAC regional centre for contemporary art and architectural research. It also has a full programme of festive events in the parks and gardens beside the river Loire and on the river itself (Festival de Loire).

Not far from Orléans

The Parc Floral de la Source is an absolute must to visit, 10km from the city at Orléans-la Source,.