Orléans, the river city

Orléans is one of the oldest cities in France, nestled along the Loire. There, you can enjoy an authentic tourist experience, where history, Joan of Arc and the Loire have pride of place.

Visit ORLÉANS, “CITY OF ART AND HISTORY”

Orléans is the city of Jeanne d’Arc. Its reputation would not be the same without the famous Maid of Orléans, who helped to end the siege of the city on 8 May 1429. Don’t miss the Place du Martroi, where you can see a statue of Jeanne d’Arc (Joan of Arc) on her horse. You can also, and above all, enjoy the charm of this square, the city’s focal point. In fine weather, take advantage of the surrounding terraces and the gentle pace of life in Orléans.

Just a stone’s throw from the square, the Maison de Jeanne d’Arc also honours her, and, of course, there is a street named after her. And what a street it is! It leads directly to the Sainte-Croix Cathedral, a marvel of Gothic architecture that demonstrates the city’s rich heritage.

F. Delong – CRT Centre-Val de Loire

SAINTE-CROIX CATHEDRAL

Admire the facade (which is lit up at night) and the two impressive towers. Step inside and you will see the superb organs, which come from the Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire Abbey. As for the bells, they were made at the Bollée bell foundry, right near the city centre. Still in operation, it houses a museum that traces the manufacturing process of this essential ‘instrument’ that takes pride of place in our bell towers.

Three other museums are well worth a visit on your tour of Orléans.. At the Orléans Museum of History and Archaeology, admire a rare collection of bronze statues from the Gallo-Roman era, and at the Fine Arts Museum, you can see wonderful pastels, second only to those in the Louvre. And Orléans also has contemporary art – for that, head to FRAC Centre. The museum building, nicknamed “Les Turbulences”, is worth the trip alone!

Lastly, don’t miss the Groslot Hotel (and the statue of Joan of Arc), a charming red-brick town house with a magnificent Renaissance façade. Inside this unique venue, cosy lounges and gilded panelling make this private residence a must-see when visiting Orléans.

THE LOIRE: ORLÉANS’ BELOVED RIVER

The city has always been intimately connected its river. It was the source of Orléans’ rich history of trade: tapestries and paintings, slate from Anjou, salt and dried fish from the Atlantic, and much more travelled on this waterway. Not to mention the famous vinegar of Orléans, made from wine that arrived sour after a long journey. Every two years, the Loire Festival places the spotlight on the river and the activities that take place there. Every year, visitors can enjoy boat rallies, bargemen’s songs, concerts, street performances, fireworks displays and gastronomic delights. Open to all generations, the Festival de Loire invites you to spend some quality time with your family in a festive and friendly atmosphere.

Un Monde A Velo

STROLL THROUGH THE ORLÉANS CITY CENTRE

The centre of Orléans has been entirely renovated, featuring a large, newly paved pedestrian zone and dynamic lighting that enhances the boutiques of artisanal creators.

The redeveloped banks of the Loire are just as pleasant and an invitation to take a walk in nature… In fine weather and just a stone’s throw from the river, a visit to Orléans naturally includes the Place de Loire. It’s the ideal place for a drink or a bite to eat on the terrace. The guinguettes come out of hibernation and liven up the quays with lively musical performances. You can relax with a glass of Loire wine in your hand…

Don’t forget to include Orléans on your next Loire Valley itinerary – it’s definitely worth a visit!