Family-Friendly Fun: 3 Days in Orléans on a Budget

Discover the enchantment of Orléans, where history meets family fun!

19 July 2023

Orléans, France is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the charming medieval city center and discover the rich heritage of Joan of Arc at the Maison de Jeanne d'Arc museum. Enjoy boat rides along the picturesque Loire River and visit the Parc Floral de La Source, a beautiful botanical garden with playgrounds and family-friendly activities. With its welcoming atmosphere and family-oriented attractions, Orléans promises an unforgettable vacation for all ages.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Medieval Marvels

  • Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Orleans Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that will make your jaw drop and your soul sing.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Rue de Bourgogne, admiring the charming half-timbered houses and vibrant street art.
  • Indulge in a delicious lunch at Maison de Jeanne, where traditional French cuisine meets modern culinary wizardry. Bon appétit, mes amis!
  • Get lost in time at the Maison de Jeanne d'Arc, a quirky museum dedicated to the fearsome French heroine. Unleash your inner warrior!
  • End your day with a leisurely boat ride along the Loire River, soaking in the tranquil beauty of Orleans as the sun slowly sets.
Day 2

A Tapestry of Art and History

  • Immerse yourself in art at the Museum of Fine Arts, where masterpieces from Van Gogh to Monet whisper their secrets to eager ears.
  • Grab a bite to eat at Le Sechoir, a funky little restaurant housed in a repurposed industrial building. Their gourmet burgers are mind-blowing!
  • Journey back in time at the Royal Castle of Blois, just a short drive away. Lose yourself in the grandeur of kings and queens past.
  • Channel your inner wine connoisseur with a visit to Domaine de la Grange, a renowned winery where the nectar of the gods flows freely.
  • End the day with a whimsical evening at La Scène, a lively theater that showcases the best of local talent. Prepare to be entertained!
Day 3

Riverside Rambles and Culinary Capers

  • Start your day with a delightful picnic on the banks of the tranquil Loire River. French cheese, baguettes, and laughter are a must!
  • Discover the hidden gems of Orleans on a guided walking tour, where charismatic locals will regale you with tales of the city's past.
  • Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Les Quatre Vents. Prepare for a symphony of flavors!
  • Visit the House of Joan of Arc, a quaint museum that offers a glimpse into the life and legend of this revered French icon.
  • End your stay with a leisurely bike ride along the Loire River, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the French countryside.

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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Family-Friendly Fun: 3 Days in Orléans on a Budget

Orléans, France is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the charming medieval city center and discover the rich heritage of Joan of Arc at the Maison de Jeanne d'Arc museum. Enjoy boat rides along the picturesque Loire River and visit the Parc Floral de La Source, a beautiful botanical garden with playgrounds and family-friendly activities. With its welcoming atmosphere and family-oriented attractions, Orléans promises an unforgettable vacation for all ages.