Orléans, France: The Ultimate 5-Day Budget Trip

Experience the charm of Orléans without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Orléans, France is a charming city located in the Loire Valley that is perfect for exploring on a limited budget. Visitors can wander the historic streets, visit the impressive cathedral, and sample delicious local cuisine without breaking the bank. For budget-friendly accommodations, hostels and budget hotels are available throughout the city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Welcome to Orléans:

  • Check-in at Hotel Marguerite a charming hotel in the city centre that won’t break the bank
  • Stroll through Place du Martroi and admire the grand statue of Joan of Arc
  • Enjoy a cup of coffee and a croissant at Café Liegeois, a local favourite
  • Visit the striking Gothic-style Orléans Cathedral
  • Immerse yourself in local history at the Hôtel Groslot, an elegant Renaissance townhouse
Day 2

Art and Culture:

  • Explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts, home to an impressive collection of artwork
  • Learn about local history at the Musée Historique et Archéologique
  • Take a guided tour of Maison de Jeanne d'Arc, the house where Joan of Arc lived
  • Attend a show at the Théâtre d'Orléans, a beautifully restored theatre from the 19th century
  • Indulge in French cuisine at Les Enfant Terribles, a trendy restaurant with an artistic vibe
Day 3

Discovering the Loire Valley:

  • Visit the Château de Chambord, a magnificent castle built in the 16th century
  • Wander through the beautiful gardens of Parc Floral de la Source
  • Taste the local wines at Maison des Vins de Chécy
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch by the Loire River
  • Catch a sunset view of the city from the panoramic terrace of the Tour Saint-Paul
Day 4

Nature and Adventure:

  • Rent a bike and ride along the Loire River
  • Hike through the forest of Orléans and explore its wildlife
  • Take a boat tour of the Loire River and see the city from a different perspective
  • Go horseback riding at the Centre Équestre du Val d'Orléans
  • Grab a quick bite at Le Petit Café, a quaint café that serves delicious sandwiches
Day 5

Last Day in Orléans:

  • Discover the La Ferté-Saint-Aubin Château, a stunning castle with beautiful gardens
  • Shop for souvenirs at the lively Place du Châtelet market
  • Visit the nearby town of Saran and its Parc des Expositions
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Le Bistrot de l'Echanson, a cosy restaurant offering traditional French cuisine
  • Take one last walk through the historic streets of Orléans before heading back home.

Length of stay

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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.

Destination

Orléans

Welcome to the city known for its picturesque canals, charming architecture, and notoriously difficult-to-pronounce name (good luck with Orléans!). Prepare to fall in love with this quaint and quirky destination.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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