THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN ORLÉANS
PLACE DU MARTROI
This central square in Orléans is the place to get in the mood before the start of the 10th stage the following day and to take advantage of many free events focusing on cycling and sport. These events are being organised by the city in conjunction with local clubs and associations.
THEMED GUIDED TOURS
Offered by Orléans Tourist Office and the Orléans art and history service.
www.tourisme-orleansmetropole.com
SAINTE-CROIX CATHEDRAL
One of France’s largest Gothic cathedrals, Sainte-Croix was built in 1287 and inaugurated on 8 May 1829. It has a long history: Joan of Arc prayed here, Henry IV launched its reconstruction in 1601, and Louis XIV financed the transepts that pay homage to him by displaying his motto and his sun. The magnificently carved woodwork in the choir and the stained glass windows recounting the story of Joan of Arc are among its treasures.
HÔTEL GROSLOT
Jacques Groslot, the town’s bailiff, had this house built during the Renaissance, and after the Revolution it became the Town Hall. The statue of Joan of Arc that adorns its porch was the work of Princess Marie d’Orléans. One of the most remarkable items is a wooden chest given by Louis XI to the canons of Saint-Aignan.
QUAIS DE LOIRE
Renovated in the early 2000s, the Loire quayside is a popular spot for walkers, sports enthusiasts and cyclists on the Loire à Vélo path. It provides a viewpoint over the natural heritage of the Loire and an exceptional setting for events such as the Festival de Loire, Europe’s largest gathering of river sailing (next edition in September 2025).
PARC FLORAL DE LA SOURCE
Created in 1963 as part of an ambitious urban development project, the Parc Floral, the Loiret’s leading tourist attraction, is a natural site on the edge of the Sologne hills and the Loire Valley plain. At its centre is the source of the Loiret. You can stroll through the plant collections and take advantage of the many events and activities on offer.
