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

Getting latest place information

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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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.