Orléans

A historic city on the Loire River famous for its association with Joan of Arc and its beautiful cathedral, featuring impressive Renaissance architecture alongside medieval landmarks. It offers excellent museums, vibrant street life, and serves as another major gateway to the Loire Valley region.

Things to do

• Cathédrale Sainte-Croix — A stunning Gothic cathedral rebuilt after Protestant destruction, featuring ornate interior decoration and stained glass windows that dominate the city's skyline.
• Basilica of Joan of Arc — A modern church built on the site where Joan of Arc was executed, containing beautiful modern stained glass and a peaceful crypt dedicated to the saint.
• Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts) — Houses an impressive collection spanning from medieval times to contemporary art, including works by Watteau and Boucher in a Renaissance-era building.
• Old Town (Vieux Orléans) Walking Tour — Wander through charming medieval streets with half-timbered houses, Renaissance mansions, and boutique shops in the historic quarter near the cathedral.
• Loire River Riverside Promenade — A scenic walking path along the Loire River offering views of the historic bridges, gardens, and access to riverside cafés and parks.
• Maison de Jeanne d'Arc — A reconstructed medieval house museum documenting Joan of Arc's life and her connection to Orléans through artifacts and historical exhibits.

Food to try

• Pâtés d'Orléans — Local pâtés made with pork and liver, traditionally produced by specialty butchers and served as an appetizer with crusty bread.
• Andouillettes à la Orléanaise — Spiced pork tripe sausages grilled and served with mustard, a classic charcuterie dish dating back centuries in this region.
• Loire Valley wines — Crisp white wines from nearby vineyards, particularly Sauvignon Blancs and Chenin Blancs, available in local wine bars and shops.
• Cotignac d'Orléans — A medieval quince paste candy wrapped in paper and sold as a traditional souvenir, dating back to the 15th century.
• Pike Quenelles (Quenelles de Brochet) — Delicate oval dumplings made from pike fish, traditionally served in cream sauce as a regional Loire Valley specialty.

Local customs & good to know

• Joan of Arc reverence — The city celebrates Joan of Arc deeply with annual festivals and ceremonies, particularly on May 8th, so expect references throughout and respectful behavior at her memorial sites.
• Loire Valley gateway etiquette — Orléans serves as a base for wine tasting and château tours, so it's common to arrange day trips; many locals can recommend the best routes and tasting rooms.
• Afternoon café culture — French leisurely café tradition is strong here; expect lunch to be the main meal and dinner to start later, with locals lingering over coffee or wine at outdoor terraces.
• Festival season — The city hosts Fêtes de Jeanne d'Arc in May and various summer cultural festivals, so check local schedules as these heavily influence city atmosphere and availability.