Discover Orléans: 4 Days, Budget-Friendly Fun!

Experience the charm of Orléans without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Orléans, known for its rich history and Joan of Arc connections, can be enjoyed on a budget. Start by exploring the historic old town and its enchanting cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses. Alternatively, take advantage of the free museums and art galleries, or watch the world go by at Place du Martroi, complemented with a budget-friendly coffee from one of the many cafes.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Orléans!

  • Check in at Hotel Burgevin, a cozy and affordable hotel in the city center.
  • Start your day with a visit to Orléans Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
  • Wander around the charming old town, filled with colorful buildings and picturesque streets.
  • Take a break at La Parenthèse, a delightful café with great coffee and pastries.
  • End your day with a traditional French dinner at Au Suprême, a local favorite known for its fresh ingredients and friendly service.
Day 2

History and Art

  • Explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts, home to a wonderful collection of art from the 15th to the 20th centuries.
  • Visit the Musée Historique et Archéologique, to learn about the history of Orléans and its role in French history.
  • Take a stroll along the Loire River, where you can admire the beautiful scenery and historic bridges.
  • Enjoy lunch at Le Petit Louet, a cozy bistro with excellent food and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Spend the afternoon at the Parc Floral de la Source, a lovely park with beautiful gardens and walking trails.
Day 3

Wine Tasting and Shopping

  • Take a short train ride to Sancerre, a charming wine village known for its delicious Sauvignon Blanc.
  • Visit Domaine Vacheron, a family-run winery producing some of the best wines in the region.
  • Explore the village and its many shops, where you can find everything from local cheeses to handmade crafts.
  • Have lunch at La Tour, a cozy restaurant with excellent food and a great wine list.
  • Return to Orléans in the evening and have a light dinner at L'Epicerie Comptoir, a trendy bistro serving small plates and delicious wine.
Day 4

The Great Outdoors

  • Take a bike ride along the Loire River, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air.
  • Visit the Parc Pasteur, a peaceful park with plenty of green space and walking trails.
  • Have lunch at Café Crème, a delightful café serving delicious sandwiches and salads.
  • Visit the Parc Floral de la Source again to see the park's magnificent butterfly house.
  • End your day with dinner at La Table des Charmettes, a charming restaurant with excellent food and a relaxing atmosphere.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Orléans by plane is to fly to Paris and then take a train to Orléans. The nearest major airport to Orléans is Paris Orly Airport (ORY), which is located approximately 120 km away. From Orly, you can take a train from Paris Austerlitz station to Orléans station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.

Car

The best way to get to Orléans by car is to drive from Paris. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic. There are several car rental companies located at Paris Orly Airport if you need to rent a car.

Train

The best way to get to Orléans by train is to take the high-speed train (TGV) from Paris. You can take the TGV from Paris Montparnasse station to Orléans station, which takes approximately 1 hour. Alternatively, you can take a regional train from Paris Austerlitz station to Orléans station, which takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Orléans by boat, as the city is not located near any major waterways. However, you can take a boat tour on the Loire River from nearby cities such as Tours or Blois, which are both located approximately 1 hour away by car or train.

Bus

The best way to get to Orléans by bus is to take a FlixBus from Paris. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes and there are several departures per day from Paris Bercy station.

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