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What to do in Orleans? Selection of the best activities and leisure

Orléans, crossed by the Loire, is a former royal city 1h30 from Paris. In the Loiret and near Renaissance castles such as Chambord, Cheverny or Blois, the city is a landmark for lovers of history and activities of all kinds.

Let’s not forget also Joan of Arc, whose statue that has become a symbol of the city sits enthroned on the Place du Martroi. Georges V Bridge, Sainte-Croix Cathedral, Charlemagne Island… There is a lot to discover in the air, on land or on the water in Orléans!

Fly in the Loiret sky

The Loiret is ideal for discovering the Orléans region but also the Renaissance castles . During a first flight in a helicopter, for example, a striking aerial activity, you take off for a first-rate show!

In the sky, you can see Orléans with the Sainte-Croix d'Orléans cathedral, the statue of the "Maid of Orléans" but also a little further on the Château de Charbonnière and the Loire.

In the surroundings, the famous castles, precious heritage of an exceptional architectural era:Chambord, Cheverny, Chenonceau, Amboise , Chaumont… Seen from the sky, these are marvels to capture absolutely!

Discover the Loire by boat

By boat

Even if it means sailing on the largest wild river in Europe , might as well do it in style! Orléans sees the Loire cross it, it's perfect to fill up on leisure! This is the opportunity to sail on it, aboard a vintage ship.

Astonishing boat like the toue sandpit, or traditional in futreau, it's up to you to choose the water ride you want to do. Quietly led by the skipper, you follow a guided course with comments and anecdotes made by the latter.

Cradled by the Loire, you discover the quays of the city but also Charlemagne Island or the Jardin des Plantes. A relaxing walk in the heart of French history !

By canoe-kayak

In a smaller boat but for as much fun, you embark on a canoe for two or a solo kayak . Quiet on the water, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the current.

Predefined circuits allow you to ‘explore the banks of the river and the remains of the city over time. From a leisure center, here you are paddling to keep up with the sailor's nerve!

You can also go on the Loiret, you will discover the castles of the region along the river. It all depends on your route, but in any case, sail on the Loire or the Loiret , it's an experience to test!

Cycling

As in Paris the capital, you have many monuments to discover. Certain sites in Orléans are not to be missed:the House of Joan of Arc, the Groslot hotel, the cathedral or even the Georges V bridge .

By electric bike or bicycle taxi, you will criss-cross the streets and quays of the city to explore the buildings under a new face. There are multiple routes, some staying in Orléans and others going to the castles of the Loire for example.

You even have an edition every year, the Vélotour d’Orléans where you stroll through monuments, sports venues, musical stages and administrative buildings... By bike! Rather unusual and original, isn't it?

Escape the escape game in time

Orléans is also the seat of a trendy urban activity:the escape game. This life-size escape game immerses you in a fictional reality where you must solve puzzles and raise the mystery of history .

Detectives, secret agents, scientists, pirates or other roles, you are in a team treasure hunt. The objective:to escape in less than 60 minutes thanks to all the skills of the group.

The game master can guide you but you are alone todetermine the outcome of the game . The clock is ticking fast ⏱, you'll have to be alert to find the clues in the room. Ready for the adventure behind closed doors?

Orléans, the History of France and many activities

Orléans is a city where water activities are diverse, thanks to the Loire and the Loiret, but it is also the starting point for exploring the Loire castles at altitude .

If you like good food, we can also recommend that you go for a gourmet weekend with dinner in a nearby hotel. Land of history and oenology with Loire wines, you will not miss the subtle aromas of grape varieties and local specialties.

It will always be possible to go for a walk or bike ride in the city of Orléans, to discover some secrets of History!