The Complete Travel Guide To Orléans, France

In addition to its historic center and numerous attractions, Orléans is best known for being liberated from the English by Joan of Arc in 1429. On La Place Charles de Gaulle, you can visit her house where she stayed during the siege of Orléans. The half-timbered house is traditional with medieval characteristics adorning the façade. As tribute to her bravery, the city inaugurated a museum in 1974 where you can discover Joan of Arc’s life throughout the years, thanks to different multimedia resources. You cannot miss her statue standing proudly on the main square, Place du Martroi. It is safe to say that you will see Joan of Arc everywhere in the city.

Much like its civil heritage, Orléans’ religious background is immensely strong and plays a huge part in France’s history. Cathedral enthusiasts will be ecstatic in Orléans, with La Cathédrale Sainte-Croix, Notre-Dame-de-Recouvrance…etc. The Saint-Croix Cathedral is a national treasure you must visit on your trip. It was first built during the 13^th century, however, after its partial destruction during the religious wars it was rebuilt during the 1800s. Pay attention to the details, especially the period rosettes commissioned by Louis the 14^th. You can spend hours discovering the exquisite details on the façades, uncovering the meaning behind the Latin inscriptions, and admiring the beautiful stained-glass windows.

Set on the busiest street of Orléans overlooking the cathedral, L’Orangerie is a charming and small Italian restaurant. Simple, warm and cozy decor welcomes you in an intimate atmosphere. A bar is at the entrance of the bistro and you must cross a small bridge to reach the restaurant area. The menu is brimming with effortless yet tasty dishes at a very reasonable price, including a variety of homemade pizzas. L’Orangerie is the perfect lunch spot for a casual gathering between colleagues, friends, or family.

Aptly named, Ver di Vin mixes the owner’s two passions: traditional French cuisine and wine. The dishes are meticulously prepared with organic products and superbly displayed, including: half-cooked duck foie gras au naturel, French black truffle and pasta with poultry soup with mushrooms…etc. The best part of this underground restaurant? Their prize-winning wine list. Pair your dish with one of the 24 wines offered. Located in the historical town center in a 15^th century vaulted cellar, the restaurant is defined as atypical. Ver di Vin is a great address placed in a magical setting!

Situated in the busy heart of Orléans, within walking distance of the main square and the mall, Hôtel de l’Abeille is ideally located to visit the city and its surroundings. Since its construction in 1903, the hotel has been managed by generations of the same family which adds to its classic French charm. Decorated with vintage trinkets and mural prints, time seems to have stopped in the 20^th century. As you explore the common areas of this establishment, be sure to spot the symbolic decorations of Napoleon and Joan of Arc. Spacious, comfortable, and offering many useful amenities; the hotel may be simple but it is truly a charming gem worthy of a few peaceful nights of sleep. Enjoy the complimentary breakfast on its rooftop terrace for a breathtaking morning view of Orléans!

This charming four-star hotel is royally located in front of the chateau. The two main neighborhoods of Versailles encircle this hotel: Notre-Dame, where you can discover the local market, its cathedral, shops, and the more historical district of Saint-Louis. In this area, explore the antique shops, and historical monuments. The great thing is that you won’t even need a car, as everything can be done by foot or bicycle. The interior and exterior architecture of the hotel will blow you away. It is the ideal place to come and unwind! Relax at the sauna, work out in the fitness room, eat with a view in the Alcôve restaurant, decompress at the lounge bar, and rest in one of 152 rooms!

Eve’s grandparents live in Orléans and visits them annually.