Visit Orleans

Now, you’re standing in the heart of ancient Orléans, right where the city stood during the Gallo-Roman era. Archaeological digs here have backed up claims made centuries ago by Benedictine monks, who believed they had uncovered stones from ancient pagan buildings. Read more

You’re now standing in front of the Church of Saint-Aignan, dedicated to one of the city’s most legendary figures. Saint Aignan is remembered for his brave stand against none other than Attila the Hun. After laying waste to cities like Metz and Reims, the Huns marched toward Orléans. At the time, Orléans was a major city Read more

The banks of the Loire have been beautifully redesigned, offering the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll along the river. With benches, lounge chairs, floating pontoons, and historic boats gently swaying in the current, the Châtelet quays have become a favorite place to unwind. Read more

Following the example of several major cities in France and around the world, Orléans decided to create its own emblem — a bold, simple “O” standing three meters tall, designed by artist Jean Dubrana. The very first one was unveiled in 2017 on Place du Martroi Read more

You’ve now arrived at Place du Châtelet, a square that came to life in the 1880s to make way for four large metal halls built to house the city’s wholesale market. Read more

Just a quick glance to your right — see that beautifully sculpted façade? You’re looking at the House of Jean d’Alibert. It’s one of the rare 16th-century homes in this area that wasn’t torn down during the construction of the market halls. Read more

To your right, you’ll see the George V Bridge. The very first bridge to cross the Loire at Orléans dates all the way back to the Gallic period. It connected Rue du Lin — just behind you — to the Saint Marceau district on the opposite bank. Read more

Bridges — whether ancient or modern — always offer the perfect vantage point to take a step back and admire the view. From here, you’re treated to two stunning scenes. On one side, the untamed banks of the Loire stretch out before you, with the sleek silhouette Read more

You’re now standing at one of the city’s gateways. As you arrive via the George V Bridge, a grand perspective opens up straight ahead — all the way to Place du Martroi. This is Rue Royale, a street that was created following the construction of the new bridge. It was designed by Jean Hupeau, the engineer behind the bridge Read more

You’ve just arrived at the small but charming Place Louis XI. Now, Louis XI might not be the most famous among France’s many kings named Louis, but he had a real fondness for Orléans and spent time living here during his reign. Read more

Yes, that 16th-century façade you’re admiring, with its elegant mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles, is truly a gem! As its name suggests, this is the Hôtel des Créneaux — Orléans’ very first city hall. Over the centuries, the building has worn many hats: Read more

Just across the square, you can admire what is often considered the most beautiful Renaissance building in Orléans. This elegant mansion was originally built around 1550 by lawyer Philippe Cabu. In 1862, the city acquired it with the goal of creating a home for its historical museum. Read more

Alright, let’s dive right into the atmosphere. Here in Orléans, the star of the show is Jehanne — or as you probably know her, Joan of Arc. You know the story: during the Hundred Years’ War, she lifted the siege of Orléans and cleared the way for Charles VII to be crowned the rightful King of France. Read more

Just over to your right is Place de la République. As you’ll notice, it doesn’t have the feel of one of those old squares that slowly evolved over time. That’s because it was actually created in the 19th century, when a block of houses was cleared to make way for the new Rue Jeanne d’Arc. Read more

As you stand here on Rue Jeanne d’Arc, looking straight ahead to the majestic Sainte-Croix Cathedral, you're taking in one of the most iconic views of Orléans. It didn’t happen by chance! This breathtaking perspective is the result of years of ambitious urban planning—six entire streets were demolished to create this perfectly aligned view. Read more

You're now standing in front of the stunning Groslot House, built in the 16th century by Mr. Groslot himself, who served as the king’s bailiff. That meant he was the king’s local representative, there to remind the bishops, lords, and town officials who was really in charge. Read more

The hotel gardens offer a unique perspective and a peaceful spot to admire the rear façade of the Groslot House. With its neatly kept lawns and the cathedral’s towers rising in the background, it’s a picture-perfect setting — definitely worth a photo or two. Read more

As you leave the Campo Santo behind, take a moment to soak in the breathtaking view of the cathedral’s north façade. It’s truly magnificent, with its intricate rose window and the central spire soaring 114 meters into the sky.Take a closer look at the rose window Read more

Now that you’ve seen it from every angle, let’s take a moment to talk about the remarkable Sainte-Croix Cathedral. The story begins all the way back in the 4th century, at the dawn of Christianity in Orléans. Back then, the first church on this site was said to house a fragment of Christ’s cross Read more

In a city full of straight lines and right angles, it’s always surprising to come across something round — like the building in front of you. This is the Protestant Temple of Orléans, and it’s one of the very few round Protestant churches in all of France. Inspired by classical architecture, Read more