Orléans Bound: A 4-Day Family Adventure on a Budget!

Discover the enchantment of Orléans, France - a captivating family adventure awaits!

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Orléans, France offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and fun activities for everyone. Explore the beautiful historic center and visit the iconic Orléans Cathedral, where Joan of Arc was declared a saint. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the picturesque Loire River or immerse yourself in the interactive exhibits at the Maison de Jeanne d'Arc museum. With its charming ambiance and kid-friendly attractions, Orléans promises an unforgettable vacation for the whole family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploring the Old Town

  • Check into Hotel des Cedres, a charming family-friendly hotel with cozy rooms and a lovely courtyard.
  • Start your exploration at Place du Martroi – Orléans' vibrant central square adorned with a striking statue of Joan of Arc.
  • Wander through the narrow medieval streets of Rue de Bourgogne, lined with charming shops and cafes.
  • Visit the Cathédrale Sainte-Croix, an imposing Gothic masterpiece with stunning stained glass windows.
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at Le Gambetta, a traditional French brasserie where you can savor escargots or duck confit.
  • End the day with a relaxing bike ride along the Loire River, taking in the breathtaking views.
Day 2

Château Hopping in the Loire Valley

  • Embark on a day trip to the majestic Château de Chambord, a fairytale castle showcasing Renaissance architecture.
  • Marvel at the castle's intricate details and vast gardens, feeling like royalty as you explore the halls.
  • Stop for lunch at La Cave, a charming restaurant near the castle, serving delicious local specialties.
  • Continue your château adventure with a visit to Château de Blois, known for its stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles.
  • Take a scenic drive through the picturesque vineyards of Sancerre, making a pit stop for wine tasting at Domaine Henri Bourgeois.
  • Return to Orléans and treat your taste buds to a mouthwatering dinner at La Parenthèse, an intimate restaurant known for its modern French cuisine.
Day 3

Discovering Orléans' Historic Past

  • Start the day with a visit to the Maison de Jeanne d'Arc, a museum dedicated to the city's heroine, Joan of Arc.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Quai du Châtelet, a charming promenade dotted with cafes and lined with medieval timber-framed houses.
  • Explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts, housed in a former bishop's palace, showcasing an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures.
  • Break for lunch at Le Petit Saint-Jean, a cozy creperie offering an array of mouthwatering sweet and savory crepes.
  • Visit the Parc Floral de la Source, a beautiful park boasting stunning gardens, water features, and a charming butterfly house.
  • Enjoy a dinner at L'Envie des Mets, a cozy restaurant where you can indulge in traditional French cuisine with a modern twist.
Day 4

Immersing in Nature and Local Flavors

  • Take a scenic drive to the Parc Naturel Régional de la Brenne, known as "The Land of a Thousand Lakes."
  • Explore the park's diverse habitats, spotting rare bird species and enjoying tranquil walks through marshlands and forests.
  • Picnic amidst the picturesque scenery, savoring delicious local cheeses, baguettes, and a bottle of Loire Valley wine.
  • Visit the charming town of Meung-sur-Loire, home to a magnificent medieval castle and beautiful 12th-century gardens.
  • Enjoy a delightful dinner at Les Toqués, a family-friendly restaurant offering a delightful mix of French and international cuisine.
  • End the day with a leisurely stroll by the Loire River, admiring the sunset and reflecting on the enchanting memories made in Orléans.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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Discover Orléans: 4 Days, Budget-Friendly Fun!

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.