13 Best Things To Do In Orleans France

Plan your trip to Orleans, France with our ultimate guide to the best things to do in the city. Explore attractions, events, and more!

Orleans, situated in the Loire Valley, is an ideal stop between Paris and the various chateaux that dot the region.

This little city has a lot to offer visitors, which is why I had to write about the greatest things to do in Orleans, France!

It is well known for its role in the Hundred Years War. The siege came to an end when Joan of Arc arrived. Joan of Arc only remained in the city for 10 days, but you’ll see her lasting mark.

It has a rich history, but there are other reasons why you should go!

We’ll show you the best things to do in Orléans, from visiting its gorgeous churches and colorful markets to enjoying leisurely strolls along the picturesque Loire River.

Where is Orleans France

The Loire River begins in the Massif Central, in southern France. It travels north until it reaches the great city of Orleans when it turns west towards the sea. Orleans is arguably best known as a city visited by Joan of Arc.

Orleans is the main city of the Centre region, located at the eastern extremity of the Loire Valley. Despite the fact that many buildings were destroyed during World War II, Orleans is currently a popular tourist and academic destination.

13 Best Things To Do In Orleans France

1. Pay respect at Cathedrale Sainte-Croix

If you’re in Orléans, make sure to see Cathedrale Sainte-Croix! It is a must-see attraction in Orleans, France.

It is a genuine municipal gem that will appeal to both architectural and history aficionados.

In addition to its extravagant architecture, Sainte-Croix has a unique collection of stained glass windows.

The cathedral has stunning iconography of a legendary heroine from French history, as well as other astonishing mysteries.

The cathedral is within a 22-minute walk from the Orléans train station. If you arrive by automobile, the cathedral on rue Saint Pierre Lentin offers 24-hour underground parking.

Entrance to the cathedral is free. On Wednesdays, guided 20-minute tours are available. Topics may be cultural or pertain to liturgical periods.

2. Visit the Joan of Arc House

Joan of Arc House is one of the highlights of a visit to Orleans, France. This beautiful half-timbered mansion is located in the center of Orleans.

It is a reproduction of the historic mansion where Joan of Arc lived during her mission to free the city.

Today, within the home, there is a multimedia room where you can view a documentary on Joan of Arc’s life.

It begins with her visions from God, how she led the warriors to victory in Orleans, her subsequent trial, and her tragic end of being burnt at the stake.

Visiting Hours:

April – September: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM / 2:00 PM – 6 PM

October – March: 2:00 PM – 6 PM

Keep in mind that is closed every Monday, and there are public holidays.

3. Tour Hotel Groslot

Hotel Groslot ranks high on the list of things to do in Orleans, France. It is positioned close to Cathedrale Sainte-Croix, a superb Renaissance building with a red brick front.

Following the French Revolution, the private mansion was repurposed into a public edifice, a town hall, which underwent significant changes. 

An expansion was created with the construction of two additional wings, and the decorations were extensively altered.

Today’s visitor may tour the VIP lounge, the former town council chamber, and the Mayor’s office, as well as the wedding hall, where François II died as a teenager in 1560.

Outdoors in the courtyard, there is a magnificent monument of Joan of Arc created by Princess Marie of Orleans in the nineteenth century, and if you look closely, you can find bullet wounds from the struggle for the liberation of Orleans.

4. Wander at Le Jardin des Plantes

This is among the top activities to enjoy in Orleans, France. Along the right side of the Loire, east of the modern Pont Joffre, the Society of Apothecaries established a botanical garden to grow medicinal plants.

Today, if the garden remains a pleasure garden, it is also a location for plant exploration and discovery.

Gardeners come here to test, try, watch, and test plants and flowering and care ways that are more environmentally friendly.

It has a carousel and a variety of activities for youngsters aged 10 and up. There are also stores that sell beverages, ice cream, and desserts.

5. Observe Place du Martroi

The square is ornamented with a statue of a young Joan of Arc in the middle of it. Many antique and contemporary structures surround the square.

Some cafés and businesses were open along the narrow streets. You can envision this site becoming a popular gathering spot for residents on Saturdays or when the weather is nice.

There are fountains to play in throughout the summer and a market for the holidays throughout the holiday season.

6. Go to The Orleans Museum of Fine Arts

You’re entering a museum right adjacent to the Sainte-Croix d’Orléans cathedral, and it has all the makings of a terrific one!

Whatever your creative inclination, you will be intrigued. On the mezzanine floor, for example, 19th-century treasures complement a figurative landscape ranging from Neoclassicism to Romanticism, academism to realism.

National-scale temporary exhibits are also available on a regular basis, as are lecture series as well as children’s workshops.

Adult admission is $8.58, while children pay $4.29.

7. Satisfy your palate with Local Delights

Try the wine vinegar, which is ideal for salads, dips, and marinades.

They even create their own brand of mustard here! Mustard seeds are steeped in wine vinegar before being processed into mustard.

So why not try it? Or, better yet, you may sample some of these gastronomic wonders in meals at numerous eateries across the city!

8. Explore Parc Floral de la Source

The Parc Floral de la Source, located a few kilometers south of Orleans’ town center, is one of the city’s most spectacular attractions. The gardens are today regarded as one of the most magnificent in France.

We recommend that you allow at least a couple of hours for a comprehensive visit, especially if you are a garden aficionado, bringing children, or planning a picnic!

Although there are several more things to do at the Parc Floral de la Source, the gardens are the main features.

You should remember that an entry fee of $6.43 per adult is required at the time of arrival.

9. Head to CERCIL- Museum-Memorial of the Children of Vel D’HIV

The Museum-Memorial has a museographic trail that uses archives, materials, and images to tell the tale of internees in these three camps.

Exhibits record the expulsion and act as a touching monument to the children. A full English pamphlet is provided.

It is open every day except Saturday. The entry charge is $4.29, or $2.14 if reduced. You may also book a 10-person group guided tour for $32.16.

Practical Info:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 02 38 42 03 9

10. Entertain Yourself at Hotel CABU – Museum of History and Archeology of Orleans

The Museum of History and Archeology of Orleans offers a premier experience in Orleans, France.

Housed in a magnificent Renaissance hotel erected for Philippe Cabu, the courtyard facade is structured on three levels and embellished with a beautiful ornamentation with three stacked orders.

The museum is located in the Cabu Hotel, one of the city’s most outstanding Renaissance landmarks, and contains Neuvy-en-Sullias’ treasure.

It also features objects and artwork that evoke Joan of Arc’s and Orleans’ histories.

The admission fee is $8.58 for single attendees and $4.29 for groups of ten or more.

Practical Info:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 02 38 79 25 60

Tip: It is free on the first Sunday of each month.

11. Discover the Collegiale Saint-Pierre-le-Puellier

This twelfth-century church, the oldest in Orleans still standing, offers around 10 temporary exhibitions each year in its vaults.

The space is designed to bring together a variety of current artistic methods. It is available to local organizations and artists of national or worldwide repute.

Guided tours are offered by inquiries. Closed on Mondays, but accessible Tuesday through Sunday from 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM.

12. Make your way to The Loire

The Loire, France’s greatest river, runs from east to west through Orleans, providing a constant spectacle for visitors. Since 2000, UNESCO has classified it as a World Heritage of Humanity.

Just in Orleans, along the Royal River, you may experience the beauty and secrets of a river that has always captivated people.

After your river tour, you may explore the Loire Valley!

A variety of factors contribute to the Loire Valley’s distinct character. The Loire River and the surrounding area have fed the grapes that produce Loire wines, as have the people who have established a distinct cultural identity throughout time.

13. Catch Sight of the Hidden Parks and Gardens

With its abundance of both private and public gardens, forested alleyways, and Loire River natural vegetation, Orleans emphasizes its identity as a garden city.

The best-known attractions are the Pasteur Park, the Floral Park, and the Plant Garden. However, there are several hidden jewels in the city center.

They are discovered by the walker at a square curve, concealed behind a building’s high walls, or at a street corner.

Some parks you can find include:

• Berthe Morisot Park
• Jacques Boucher Garden
• Pasteur Park
• Bishop’s Garden
• Floral Park

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Orleans France

I hope I included something that piques your interest!

From the remains of Joan of Arc’s legacy to the quiet beauty of the Loire River, Orléans offers both history and peace.

I’d love to hear about your favorite places in Orléans and any hidden treasures you uncovered along your journey!