ORLEANS & THE GATINAIS
Orléans and the Gâtinais is the serene heart of the Loire Valley, where history flows as freely as the river itself. This region blends the grand legacy of French royalty with the tranquil, verdant charm of its natural landscapes.
This is a land of inspiring stories, from Joan of Arc’s legendary exploits to the peaceful beauty of its forests and canals. It’s a place where iconic châteaux stand alongside gentle nature.
Most Popular Attractions
Orléans City Core
Cathédrale Sainte-Croix d’Orléans: A magnificent Gothic cathedral renowned for its stunning stained glass windows that depict the life of Joan of Arc.
Maison de Jeanne d’Arc: A museum and reconstruction of the house where Joan of Arc stayed during the Siege of Orléans in 1429.
Hôtel Groslot: A beautifully restored Renaissance mansion with a rich history, serving as Orléans’ former town hall.
Place du Martroi: The city’s main square, dominated by a large equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, serving as a central meeting point.
Musée des Beaux-Arts d’Orléans: One of France’s most important fine arts museums, housing a significant collection of European paintings and sculptures.
Hôtel Cabu: A notable Renaissance house that hosts the Orléans Museum of History and Archaeology, displaying artifacts from the region’s past.
Quai du Châtelet: A lively stretch along the Loire River, perfect for a leisurely stroll with views of traditional river boats.
Chateaus & Gardens
Château de Meung-sur-Loire: A striking medieval fortress and a Renaissance residence that has hosted numerous French kings and historical figures.
Château de la Ferté-Saint-Aubin: A classic brick and stone castle with beautiful grounds, offering a glimpse into 17th-century aristocratic life.
Parc Floral de la Source: A stunning public garden in the southern suburbs of Orléans, known for its diverse plant collections and a source of the Loiret River.
Château de Sully-sur-Loire: A fairytale-like moated castle at the start of the Loire Valley chateaus route, with impressive towers and a medieval keep.
Château de Saint-Brisson-sur-Loire: An imposing castle on the banks of the Loire, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
Towns & Countryside
Beaugency: A charming medieval town on the Loire River with a prominent abbey, a medieval bridge, and a historic keep.
Cléry-Saint-André: A small town famous for its Gothic basilica, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Cléry, which holds the tomb of King Louis XI.
Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire: A famous Benedictine abbey and a major pilgrimage site, renowned for its Romanesque architecture and mosaics.
La Brichette: An area of the Forest of Orléans known for its towering oak trees and serene hiking trails.
Pithiviers: A market town known for its delicious almond-and-cream pastry, the Pithiviers.
Loire à Vélo: The famed cycling route along the Loire River, offering scenic paths and a great way to explore the region’s towns and countryside.
Canal d’Orléans: A tranquil canal that runs through the countryside, offering opportunities for walking, cycling, and boating.
Natural & Rural Attractions
Parc Naturel Régional du Gâtinais Français: A regional natural park celebrated for its unique biodiversity, sandstone formations, and heather moors.
Forêt de Fontainebleau: A vast forest just north of the Gâtinais, famous for its climbing rocks, hiking trails, and the magnificent Château de Fontainebleau.
Cailleterie de Puiseaux: An area of the Gâtinais renowned for its traditional production of saffron.
Moulin de la Couée: A historic mill and museum showcasing the traditional way of life in the Gâtinais.
Miel du Gâtinais: The region’s famous honey, awarded a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), which you can find at local markets and honey producers.
Les Rochers de l’Éléphant: A unique rock formation within the forest, popular with climbers and hikers.
Sentier des Arbres Remarquables: A hiking trail that leads to some of the most impressive, ancient trees in the Gâtinais forest.
Towns & Villages
Montargis: Known as the “Venice of the Gâtinais,” this town is crisscrossed by canals and bridges and is famous for its praline chocolates.
Malesherbes: A small town with a charming castle and a beautiful church, located on the edge of the forest.
Château-Landon: A medieval hilltop town with a picturesque setting and ancient buildings, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Ferrières-en-Gâtinais: A historic town with a beautiful abbey church and a charming town square.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the Loire River by Bike: Cycle along the famous Loire à Vélo route, which offers a picturesque journey through the heart of the Loire Valley, with numerous châteaux and vineyards along the way.
Visit the Maison de Jeanne d’Arc: Step into the reconstructed home of the iconic French heroine in Orléans, where she stayed during the siege of the city, and learn about her life and legacy.
Take a Saffron Tasting Tour: Discover the “red gold” of the Gâtinais. Visit a local producer to learn about the history and cultivation of saffron and participate in a tasting session of saffron-infused products.
Hike in the Gâtinais Français Regional Natural Park: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the diverse landscapes of this park, known for its honey, saffron fields, and unique rock formations that are a haven for rock climbers.
Admire Orléans Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning Sainte-Croix Cathedral, a gothic masterpiece whose construction spanned over six centuries. Climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city.
Learn About Local Honey Production: Visit the Maison du Miel (Honey House) in the Gâtinais to understand the beekeeping traditions of the region and sample the renowned Gâtinais honey.
Explore the Historic Center of Orléans: Wander through the charming pedestrian streets, from the bustling Place du Martroi to the half-timbered houses of the Rue de Bourgogne, and find boutique shops and traditional cafés.
Go Rock Climbing: The Gâtinais Français Regional Natural Park, with its sandy rock formations and boulders, is a lesser-known but fantastic spot for bouldering and climbing, reminiscent of nearby Fontainebleau.
Enjoy a Picnic at the Parc Floral de la Source: Relax in the beautiful botanical gardens of Orléans, which feature a butterfly house, a tropical aviary, and the source of the Loiret River.
Take a Traditional Boat Trip: Experience the Loire River from the water on a “toue cabanée,” a traditional flat-bottomed boat, to appreciate the river’s wild and untamed beauty.
Visit a Medieval Village: Travel to the charming, fortified village of Yèvre-le-Châtel, considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, and explore its cobbled streets and impressive ruins of a 13th-century castle.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Ideal: While Orléans is well-connected by train, a car is the best way to explore the rural beauty of the Gâtinais, allowing you the flexibility to visit remote saffron farms, honey houses, and picturesque villages.
Train: Orléans is a major hub for TER (regional) and Intercités trains, offering a fast and efficient connection to Paris (Gare d’Austerlitz). This is a perfect option for a stress-free day trip from the capital.
Bike is a Must: The region is a haven for cyclists, with the famous Loire à Vélo route passing directly through Orléans. Bike rental shops are plentiful in the city and surrounding towns.
Public Transport in Orléans: The city of Orléans has an efficient and modern public transport system (TAO) with two tram lines and a bus network, making it easy to get around the city itself. Tickets can be bought at tram stops or on the bus.
The Legacy of Joan of Arc: Orléans’s identity is inextricably linked to Joan of Arc. Her presence is felt throughout the city, from statues to street names. If you visit in early May, don’t miss the Fêtes Johanniques (Joan of Arc Festival), a week-long medieval festival.
Saffron and Honey: The Gâtinais is a protected designation of origin for both saffron (Safran du Gâtinais) and honey (Miel du Gâtinais). These local products are a point of pride and a must-try. Look for them at local markets and specialty shops.
The Loire, a Wild River: The Loire is the last wild river in Europe. Its unpredictable nature means its landscape is constantly changing. The riverbanks are a popular spot for walks, picnics, and admiring the traditional boats that line the shore.
Hidden Gems:
The Crypt of Saint-Aignan: Tucked away in Orléans, this 10th-century crypt is a quiet and atmospheric piece of early medieval history, with beautifully preserved frescoes.
The Potager des Flandres: Located in the village of Beaune-la-Rolande in the Gâtinais, this unique spot is a historical vegetable garden that recreates ancient cultivation techniques and displays rare species.
The Banks of the Loire: Escape the city center and walk or bike along the riverbanks to get a unique perspective on the city’s architecture and see local life unfold.
The Château de Chamerolles: This lesser-known Renaissance château near Orléans is famous for its beautiful gardens and a unique “Promenade des Parfums,” a museum dedicated to the history of perfumery.
Dining Times: Lunch is typically served from 12 PM to 2 PM, and dinner from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service, so plan accordingly.
Language: While English is spoken in most tourist areas, particularly in Orléans, a few basic French phrases will be greatly appreciated. Bonjour (hello), Merci (thank you), and Au revoir (goodbye) will go a long way.
Top Restaurants
L’Ardoise du Gâtinais [$25-$40] – Located in a charming old building in the heart of Montargis, this restaurant serves classic French dishes with a focus on local ingredients from the Gâtinais region.
La Table du Gâtinais [$30-$50] – A well-regarded spot in Montargis known for its regional Gâtinais specialties like duck terrine and honey-glazed pork, served in a cozy, rustic setting.
Auberge de la Biche aux Bois [$35-$55] – A traditional auberge in the village of Beaune-la-Rolande, famous for its hearty, classic French cuisine and an excellent selection of regional wines.
Le Lièvre Gourmand [$30-$50] – A popular restaurant in Orléans with a focus on traditional French brasserie fare, known for its generous portions and lively atmosphere.
Le Bacchus [$30-$50] – Situated near the cathedral in Orléans, this classic French bistro offers a menu of traditional dishes and an extensive wine list featuring Loire Valley vintages.
Le P’tit Bourguignon [$25-$40] – Despite its name, this Orléans restaurant is a local favorite for its traditional French cuisine and a warm, inviting atmosphere, with a great menu of classics.
Restaurant L’Estaminet [$25-$40] – A charming spot in the village of Pithiviers, known for its traditional regional dishes and a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere.
Au Don Camillo [$20-$35] – A popular brasserie in Orléans city center, offering a menu of traditional French dishes and a wide selection of local beers, perfect for a casual lunch.
Le Verre à Soif [$20-$35] – A rustic wine bar in Orléans that serves a curated menu of cheeses, charcuterie, and simple, delicious small plates, ideal for a relaxed evening.
L’Arche de Noé [$25-$45] – This restaurant in Orléans is housed in a unique building and is known for its traditional French cuisine, particularly its excellent fish dishes.
Restaurant Le Mangeoir [$25-$45] – Located in the heart of Orléans, this classic French bistro offers a menu of traditional regional specialties in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
La P’tite Cuisine [$25-$40] – A small, intimate restaurant in Orléans with a focus on traditional, homemade French dishes that change with the seasons.
L’Escale [$30-$50] – A traditional brasserie in the town of Gien, located by the Loire River, famous for its fresh, regional ingredients and classic French cooking.
Auberge de la Tour [$30-$50] – A well-regarded auberge in the Gâtinais countryside, known for its excellent traditional cuisine and a menu of regional specialties.
La Cave [$25-$40] – A cozy wine bar and restaurant in Orléans that offers a traditional menu of French classics and a great selection of local wines.
Restaurant L’Atelier [$25-$45] – A simple, classic French restaurant in the town of Malesherbes that serves traditional dishes with a focus on fresh, local produce.
Le Mastroquet [$25-$45] – This traditional French bistro in Orléans is a local favorite for its classic fare and a lively, welcoming atmosphere, popular with a younger crowd.
Restaurant La Crêperie du Gâtinais [$15-$25] – A casual and popular crêperie in the Gâtinais region that serves a wide variety of sweet and savory crêpes made with local ingredients.
Le Lift [$40-$60] – A modern and elegant restaurant in Orléans, known for its creative, contemporary cuisine and a refined dining experience.
La Dariole [$30-$50] – This restaurant in Orléans offers a modern take on classic French bistro fare, with an inventive menu that changes with the seasons.
Le P’tit Gars [$30-$50] – A modern bistro in Orléans that blends traditional French flavors with a creative, contemporary flair.
Côté Terrasse [$35-$55] – A stylish and modern restaurant in Orléans with a beautiful terrace, known for its inventive cuisine and a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Le P’tit Gavroche [$30-$50] – A creative and playful restaurant in Orléans that offers a modern take on classic French dishes, with a focus on local produce.
Le 300 [$30-$50] – This modern bistro in the heart of Orléans is known for its creative tapas-style dishes and a great selection of local wines.
O Grains de Sel [$25-$45] – A creative restaurant in Orléans that offers a menu of inventive, contemporary French cuisine in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Le Molière [$30-$50] – A modern restaurant in Orléans that blends traditional French cooking with a creative touch, offering a unique and flavorful dining experience.
Le Bœuf sur le Toit [$35-$55] – A chic and modern bistro in Orléans, known for its creative menu and a great selection of high-quality meats.
Le Bouillon [$25-$45] – A modern and lively bistro in Orléans that offers a menu of creative, contemporary French dishes in a bustling atmosphere.
Au Cœur du Goût [$30-$50] – A modern and innovative restaurant in Orléans that offers a creative take on classic French cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
L’Atelier des Saveurs [$35-$60] – A well-regarded modern restaurant in Montargis that blends traditional Gâtinais flavors with a creative, contemporary flair.
Le Kiosque [$25-$45] – A modern and creative restaurant in Orléans that offers a menu of inventive dishes in a unique and stylish setting.
Le P’tit Bocal [$30-$50] – A small, creative bistro in Orléans that offers a menu of modern French dishes and an excellent selection of local wines.
L’Alchimiste [$35-$60] – A creative and modern restaurant in Orléans that offers a playful and high-quality take on classic French cuisine, with a focus on seasonal products.
L’Aromate [$60-$100] – A fine dining restaurant in Orléans, known for its refined and creative cuisine and a tasting menu that changes with the seasons.
L’Éclat [$70-$120] – This high-end restaurant in Orléans offers a sophisticated and elegant dining experience, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and a refined menu.
La Table d’Hervé [$80-$130] – A well-regarded fine dining restaurant in Orléans that offers a tasting menu of creative and innovative French cuisine.
Le L’Orangerie du Château de la Bussière [$70-$110] – A beautiful high-end restaurant located in a castle in the Gâtinais region, known for its elegant setting and refined French cuisine.
Restaurant La Laurendière [$60-$90] – A fine dining restaurant in the Orléans countryside, known for its elegant atmosphere and a menu of creative, seasonal dishes.
Le P’tit Loire [$50-$80] – This high-end restaurant in Orléans is known for its sophisticated take on traditional French dishes and a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Restaurant L’Ours [$60-$100] – A fine dining restaurant in Orléans that offers a refined and creative menu with a focus on high-quality meats and a sophisticated atmosphere.
Le Grand Hôtel de la Poste [$50-$80] – A high-end restaurant in Montargis, known for its elegant setting and a menu of refined, classic French dishes.
L’Antidote [$60-$100] – A fine dining restaurant in Orléans that offers a unique and inventive tasting menu with a focus on high-quality, local produce.
La Table des Saveurs [$70-$120] – A high-end restaurant in Orléans that offers a sophisticated and elegant dining experience with a focus on refined, creative cuisine.
Le Marché de Pithiviers [$15-$25] – Not a single restaurant, but a weekly market in Pithiviers with numerous food stalls and small vendors selling local cheeses, charcuterie, and other regional specialties.
Les Halles Châtelet [$15-$30] – A food market in the heart of Orléans with numerous food stalls and small restaurants, perfect for a casual lunch or a quick snack.
L’Atypik [$25-$40] – A quirky and unique restaurant in Orléans that offers a menu of inventive and creative dishes in a relaxed and unconventional setting.
La Pâtisserie de Cyril [$15-$25] – A famous pastry shop in Montargis that serves delicious local specialties like praline roses, as well as other pastries and cakes.
La Fromagerie de l’Abbaye [$20-$35] – A cheese shop in Orléans that also serves a curated menu of cheese and charcuterie boards, along with a selection of local wines.
Le Bar à Vins d’Orléans [$20-$35] – A popular wine bar in Orléans with a great selection of local Loire Valley wines, served with simple and delicious small plates.
L’Envers du Décor [$30-$50] – A hidden gem in Orléans with a unique and quirky atmosphere, known for its creative and inventive menu.
Le Petit Bouchon [$25-$40] – A charming and cozy bistro in Orléans that offers a menu of classic French dishes with a focus on traditional, rustic fare.
La Trattoria [$20-$35] – A popular Italian restaurant in Orléans that offers a unique and diverse dining experience with a menu of classic Italian dishes.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Le Délirium Café Orléans: This bar is located in the heart of Orléans, offering a massive selection of craft and international beers on tap and a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out.
Le 398: A chic and modern cocktail bar in the city center of Orléans, known for its creative drinks and sophisticated ambiance, ideal for a refined evening.
Le Club: This intimate speakeasy-style bar in Orléans is a hidden gem. Located near the banks of the Loire, it offers expertly crafted classic cocktails in a cozy setting.
Le Bar de la Marine: Situated along the scenic Loire River in Orléans, this bar provides a relaxed atmosphere and a great view, perfect for an evening drink.
Les Innocents: A stylish bar found in the historic center of Orléans. It’s known for its inventive cocktail menu and its unique, trendy decor.
L’Endroit: This cocktail bar in Orléans, a short walk from the cathedral, is celebrated for its excellent service and its wide array of spirits and signature drinks.
La Tête dans les nuages: A rooftop bar in Orléans that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. A great spot to enjoy a cocktail at sunset.
Le Garage: A themed cocktail bar in the heart of Orléans’s old town, featuring a unique, retro-garage aesthetic and a menu of innovative drinks.
Le Lift: Located in a quiet square in Orléans, this bar is known for its friendly staff and a selection of both classic and new cocktail creations.
Le Bar de l’Hôtel d’Orléans: Found in a historic building in Orléans, this elegant hotel bar offers a luxurious setting for enjoying a quiet drink.
L’Impasse: A cozy and welcoming bar in Orléans’s historic quarter. It’s a great place to discover local beers and creative cocktails.
Le Rive Droite: Just across the river from the main city, this Orléans bar offers a great view and a relaxed atmosphere, a nice escape from the central bustle.
Le Gâtinais Lounge: Located in the town of Montargis, this lounge bar is a comfortable place to relax with a drink after exploring the “Venice of the Gâtinais” with its canals and bridges.
Le Saint-Germain: A classic, no-frills bar in Montargis, perfect for a casual drink and a chat with locals.
Le Verre à vin: Found in the town of Gien, this wine bar also offers a selection of cocktails in a traditional French setting.
Le Nova Club: One of the most popular nightclubs in Orléans, located near the city center, known for its high-energy atmosphere and a mix of mainstream and electronic music.
L’Établi Club: Situated in Orléans’s vibrant nightlife district, this club is a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a mix of house, techno, and disco music.
La Péniche: A unique nightclub on a barge docked on the Loire River in Orléans, providing a memorable party experience with different music genres and themed nights.
Le Pavillon: A large and well-known nightclub just outside the city center of Orléans, featuring multiple dance floors and a variety of music, from R&B to electro.
Le Chic: Located in Orléans, this club is known for its glamorous atmosphere and a mix of commercial and international music.
Le Studio: A smaller, more intimate club in the heart of Orléans, popular with students and known for its friendly vibe and diverse music selection.
L’Envers du Décor: A versatile venue in Orléans that transitions from a bar to a lively club as the night progresses, known for its eclectic music programming.
L’Underground: A club in Orléans’s old town that focuses on alternative and underground music, attracting a more niche crowd.
Le Montargis Club: One of the few dedicated clubs in Montargis, offering a lively spot for dancing and drinks on the weekends.
L’Usine à Gaz: While primarily a live music venue in the countryside of the Gâtinais, this spot sometimes transforms into a club after concerts, offering a unique party experience.