Orléans: 3 Days of French Fun on a Budget

Discover French charm and history on a budget-friendly trip to Orléans.

21 June 2023

Orléans, France is a charming city with a rich history that can be explored even on a limited budget. Visitors can wander through its picturesque streets, visit its many museums and churches, and enjoy its local cuisine and wine. Accommodations can be found at budget-friendly hotels or even through couchsurfing, allowing for a memorable yet affordable trip to Orléans.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Orléans on Foot

  • Start the day with breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, a bakery known for its organic bread and pastries
  • Walk along Rue Royale and admire the architecture of the 18th and 19th century buildings
  • Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses a collection of works by French and European artists
  • Take a break at Place du Martroi, a bustling square with a statue of Joan of Arc in the center
  • Enjoy dinner at La Péniche, a restaurant on a barge floating on the Loire River
  • Stay at Hotel d'Orléans, a budget-friendly hotel located in the city center.
Day 2

Château de Chambord and Wine Tasting

  • Take a day trip to Château de Chambord, a stunning Renaissance castle located about an hour from Orléans
  • Explore the castle's gardens and admire its architecture, which is a combination of French, Italian, and Gothic styles
  • Go on a wine tasting tour in Sancerre, a nearby town known for its white wine made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes
  • Have dinner at L'Adresse, a cozy restaurant known for its French cuisine with a modern twist
Day 3

Discovering the Loire Valley by Bike

  • Rent a bike and cycle along the Loire River, which is lined with charming villages and vineyards
  • Stop at Château de Meung-sur-Loire, a medieval castle that was once home to French kings
  • Visit the Parc Floral de la Source, a botanical garden with over 950 species of plants and flowers
  • Enjoy lunch at Le Bistrot de la Halle, a restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and delicious French cuisine
  • End the day with a stroll along the Loire River and watch the sunset over the water.
  • Stay at Adagio Access Orléans, a budget-friendly hotel with fully-equipped kitchens and a fitness center.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

A Day in Orléans: History, Magic, and Family Fun

Orléans, France, offers a delightful family-friendly getaway with rich historical charm and modern attractions. Explore the enchanting architecture and medieval streets of the city, while learning about the legendary Joan of Arc who played a significant role in its history. Enjoy boat rides along the Loire River, indulge in delicious French cuisine, and visit the Parc Floral de la Source for a fun-filled day with beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and water features perfect for the little ones.

Orléans, France: An Enchanting Family Adventure Awaits

A family-friendly trip to Orléans, France offers a delightful blend of history and fun activities. Explore the magnificent Cathédrale Sainte-Croix and the picturesque Château de Chambord, where kids can learn about French heritage. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Loire River, visit the Parc Floral de la Source, and indulge in delicious local cuisine at family-friendly restaurants.

The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Orléans, France

As a tourist in Orléans, you can explore the historic old town and take in the stunning Cathédrale Sainte-Croix. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Place du Martroi, with its many cafes and restaurants, before taking a stroll along the idyllic Loire river.

A Romantic Long Weekend in Orléans, France

Orléans, a quaint French city situated on the banks of the serene Loire River, is an ideal place for a romantic getaway. Explore the town's charming historical center, visit the majestic Orléans Cathedral and indulge in some delectable French cuisine at one of the many local restaurants. Take a stroll along the tranquil river banks, watch the sunset and fall in love all over again.