First visit
Orléans in 3 days: the complete itinerary for heritage, the Loire and gardens
A detailed three-day Orléans itinerary with heritage walks, Joan of Arc, museums, the Loire, gardens, ticket advice and seasonal alternatives.
18 min readOrléans · Loire Valley
Happy days begin in Orléans.
Life by the Loire, remarkable heritage, characterful streets and nature close at hand. Discover the city through its stories and seasons.
Orléans in 3 days: the complete itinerary for heritage, the Loire and gardensA city full of stories
From major landmarks to quieter discoveries: take time to look, understand and enjoy.
Orléans in 3 days: the complete itinerary for heritage, the Loire and gardens↗First visit
Plan a rewarding first visit, with time for landmarks and unhurried discoveries.
Sainte-Croix Cathedral in Orléans: the complete visitor guide to history, windows and the upper parts↗Heritage & culture
The cathedral, Joan of Arc, historic houses and collections: places to understand as well as admire.
17 min readSainte-Croix Cathedral in Orléans: the complete visitor guide to history, windows and the upper parts→18 min readJoan of Arc in Orléans: the complete history and walking guide to her House, windows and monuments→19 min readOrléans Old Town on foot: the complete walking route from historic streets to the Loire→
Joan of Arc in Orléans: the complete history and walking guide to her House, windows and monuments
The Loire riverbanks in Orléans: the complete guide to walks, bridges, boats and viewpoints↗Loire & gardens
River light, mature trees and gardens: another way to discover Orléans.
Parc Floral de La Source: the complete guide to gardens, the Loiret spring and a family visit
Where to eat in Orléans: restaurants, markets and local food↗Food & local finds
Loiret produce, markets and neighbourhood tables for a trip full of local flavour.
Castles near Orléans: the complete guide to Meung-sur-Loire, Beaugency and Chambord↗Around Orléans
Castles, smaller towns and Loire day trips to match your pace.
A journal of good days
Our latest in-depth guides to make the most of Orléans and the surrounding Loire Valley.
Heritage & culture
Sainte-Croix Cathedral in Orléans: the complete visitor guide to history, windows and the upper parts
A detailed guide to Sainte-Croix, from the nave and Joan of Arc windows to free entry, family resources and separately reserved climbs.
17 min readHeritage & culture
Joan of Arc in Orléans: the complete history and walking guide to her House, windows and monuments
Understand 1429 and explore Joan’s House, cathedral windows, public monuments and the Loire, with detailed routes, prices and seasonal exceptions.
18 min read
Heritage & culture
Orléans Old Town on foot: the complete walking route from historic streets to the Loire
A detailed Old Town loop through Martroi, Sainte-Croix, Pothier, Bourgogne, timber houses, Châtelet and the Loire, with maps and practical choices.
19 min readLoire & gardens
The Loire riverbanks in Orléans: the complete guide to walks, bridges, boats and viewpoints
Explore central quays, George V Bridge, the market and Parc de Loire, with boat prices, seasonal services, maps and practical walking advice.
18 min readLoire & gardens
Parc Floral de La Source: the complete guide to gardens, the Loiret spring and a family visit
Choose the right season, understand the Loiret spring and plan an unhurried half-day among gardens, water and family discoveries.
18 min read
Heritage & culture
Orléans Museum of Fine Arts: the complete guide to works, routes and admission
Chardin’s pastels, European painting and views of Orléans: choose a route, understand the collections and make time to look properly.
18 min read
Heritage & culture
Hôtel Groslot in Orléans: a complete visitor’s guide
Explore the Renaissance façade, reception rooms, garden and story of Francis II. Plan a considered visit with seasonal opening times, access advice, ceremonial closures…
22 min readFood & local finds
Where to eat in Orléans: restaurants, markets and local food
Explore Orléans through its riverside market, old-town restaurants, vinegar makers and quince sweets. A practical food guide with market days, direct restaurant links and…
22 min readAround Orléans
Castles near Orléans: the complete guide to Meung-sur-Loire, Beaugency and Chambord
Choose the right château, compare admission and plan a realistic day at Meung, Beaugency or Chambord, with or without a car.
19 min read