Orléans, France Travel Guide: Castles, Joan of Arc & Loire Valley Charm
- Kelsey Kirgo
- Nov 5, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Lucky for me, my husband hails from this fantastic and underrated French city, giving me a chance to experience its charm regularly! Nestled on the northern banks of the Loire River, Orléans, France is a destination where cobbled streets echo with centuries of history yet pulse with youthful energy. Often overlooked in favor of Paris, Orléans is the perfect gateway to the Loire Valley, one of France’s most enchanting regions.
Why Visit Orléans, France?
Because it has everything travelers love about France—history, architecture, wine, art, and local culture—without the overwhelming crowds of Paris. From Joan of Arc’s legacy to riverside cycling trails and nearby Loire Valley châteaux, Orléans is a hidden gem for travelers seeking authentic French experiences.
Where to Stay in Orléans & the Loire Valley
Finding the right hotel is part of the magic when traveling through the Loire Valley. Here are four exceptional stays that combine French charm with modern comfort:
Set along the Loire River in the heart of Orléans, Empreinte Hotel blends contemporary style with river views and spa relaxation. It’s a chic retreat within walking distance of historic sites, making it the perfect base for exploring the city.
✨ Kirgo Travel tip: Book through us to enjoy our industry partnerships, insider perks, and a seamless stay.
Just steps from the Château de Chambord, this boutique hotel offers a whimsical mix of nature, art, and history. With its forest surroundings and design-forward rooms, it’s ideal for travelers seeking both culture and tranquility.
✨ Kirgo Travel tip: We’ll secure the best available room types and help weave your Chambord visit into a broader Loire itinerary.
Nestled in the vineyards near Château de Cheverny, this elegant countryside estate features thermal spas, fine dining, and a commitment to wellness. It’s an indulgent escape in the heart of wine country.
✨ Kirgo Travel tip: Ask us about wine-focused itineraries that pair beautifully with your stay at Les Sources de Cheverny.
This beautifully restored château offers the grandeur of the Loire with the intimacy of a boutique spa retreat. Surrounded by countryside, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a romantic and relaxing experience.
✨ Kirgo Travel tip: We’ll handle every detail of your château stay, from transfers to spa bookings, so you can fully unwind.
A City of Saints and Stories
At the heart of Orléans’ identity is its most iconic heroine: Joan of Arc. Known as La Pucelle d’Orléans, she liberated the city from English siege in 1429. Her story is celebrated across Orléans:
Maison de Jeanne d’Arc – a museum dedicated to her life and myth
Cathédrale Sainte-Croix d’Orléans – where stained glass windows depict her legacy
Fêtes de Jeanne d’Arc (May) – an annual festival with medieval parades, pageantry, and history
Joan of Arc’s presence makes Orléans one of the most historically significant cities in France.
Historic Streets & Squares
Despite its medieval roots, Orléans feels vibrant and modern. The most popular squares to visit are:
Place du Martroi – the city’s lively square, crowned with a Joan of Arc statue
Rue de Bourgogne – lined with half-timbered houses, cafés, and indie boutiques
Musée des Beaux-Arts d’Orléans – featuring masterpieces by Velázquez, Delacroix, and Corot
Here, past and present blend seamlessly, making Orléans perfect for both history lovers and modern travelers.
Cycling & Outdoor Adventures: The Loire at Your Feet
Orléans is part of the Loire à Vélo cycle route, a 900-kilometer trail connecting vineyards, castles, and charming riverside towns.
Whether you:
Rent a bike for a day trip
Embark on a multi-day Loire Valley cycling adventure
…the landscapes will feel like stepping into a watercolor painting.
Orléans as a Launchpad to the Loire Valley
Staying in Orléans makes exploring the Loire Valley castles (châteaux) easy. Within an hour, you can visit:
Château de Chambord – Renaissance masterpiece with 440 rooms and ties to Leonardo da Vinci
Château de Blois & Château de Cheverny – steeped in royal drama and architectural splendor
Château de Sully-sur-Loire – less crowded, moated, and just 45 minutes away
With over 300 castles in the Loire Valley, Orléans is the ideal home base for exploring France’s royal heritage.
Where to Eat in Orléans, France
Foodies will love Orléans’ culinary scene. Some top restaurants include:
Studio 16 – a chic brasserie with 1950s flair at Place du Martroi
Brin de Zinc – quirky décor, jazzy tunes, and a relaxed atmosphere
Pair your meal with local Loire Valley wines, and you’ll understand why this region is beloved by French locals.
Plan Your Trip to Orléans, France
Whether you're dreaming of a Joan of Arc history tour, a cycling trip along the Loire River, or castle-hopping in the Loire Valley, Orléans offers it all—without the tourist crowds.
✨ Why Orléans? Because it's where French history meets riverside beauty, castles meet cozy cafés, and travelers discover a quieter, more authentic side of France.
🌊 Extending your trip? Pair your Loire Valley adventure with a few days on the stunning Île de Ré—check out our Île de Ré, France travel guide for sun-soaked beaches, cycling paths, and France's best oysters.
📍 Ready to experience Orléans, France for yourself? Let's design your perfect Loire Valley trip—from charming hotels to castle day trips. Contact Kirgo Travel today to start planning!
Comments