Hotels in Orléans

Orléans: Where Timeless Elegance Meets Riverside Serenity

Nestled along the banks of the Loire River, Orléans is a captivating blend of history and elegance. Renowned for its stunning cathedral and rich heritage, the city offers vibrant museums and charming monuments that tell the tale of Joan of Arc. Stroll through the picturesque center, savor local cuisine at riverside cafés, or explore the enchanting countryside dotted with majestic châteaux. Ideal for a romantic weekend or a cultural escape, Orléans invites travelers to experience its unique charm, making it a must-visit gem in France. Discover the essence of this historic city, where every corner holds a story. For the best hotel rates in Orléans, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Orléans

Some of the best places to stay in Orléans are Barriere Saint Marc, Saran and Chambord. Orléans, Loiret, offers a mix of history and charm, making it a fantastic destination. Barriere Saint Marc is known for its serene parks, Saran for its family-friendly atmosphere, and Chambord boasts stunning châteaux and gardens. For accommodations, travelers can find a range of options, from cozy inns to modern hotels, ensuring comfort and accessibility. For first-time visitors, Chambord is ideal, providing a unique glimpse into French heritage and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy your stay in this beautiful region! These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Orléans:

1. Barriere Saint MarcOpens in a new window: Located in a culturally rich area, Barriere Saint Marc offers proximity to notable attractions such as the Zenith Orléans, Sainte-Croix Cathedral, and the House of Joan of Arc. This vibrant locale is perfect for those seeking a cultural immersion. For accommodations, consider Suite - Home Orleans SaranOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel that caters to business and pet travellers with amenities like meeting rooms and pet-friendly policies. Novotel Orléans St Jean de BrayeOpens in a new window is another excellent choice, also a 4-star hotel, featuring a 24-hour business center and similar pet policies. Lastly, Best Western Hotel d'ArcOpens in a new window, a 4-star option located in the city center, is ideal for those who want a blend of business and city-themed experiences.
2. SaranOpens in a new window: Saran boasts a rich cultural background with attractions like the Zenith Orléans and the House of Joan of Arc. It’s an ideal base for exploring the region's history. For lodging, authentic by balladins - Domaine MalarOpens in a new window offers a cozy stay with dining options and entertainment amenities, while La BoiseraieOpens in a new window, a charming Bed & Breakfast, caters to business travellers looking for a more personal touch.
3. ChambordOpens in a new window: Known for its romantic and cultural landmarks like the Château de Chambord and Château de Cheverny, Chambord is perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts. For accommodation, Relais des Trois ChâteauxOpens in a new window is a pet-friendly 4-star hotel that welcomes furry companions, while Fleur de LoireOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel, provides a romantic atmosphere with spa services and family-friendly amenities. Le Prieuré de BoulogneOpens in a new window offers adventure and wellness experiences, ideal for nature lovers and business travellers.

What to do in Orléans

Three days in Orléans offers a delightful mix of scenic river views, lush parks, and vibrant city life. Visitors can enjoy activities like boating along the river, relaxing in green spaces, or exploring charming shops. The city's rich history and cultural attractions make it a captivating destination for all travelers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Orléans:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Dog Educ, where you can engage with friendly pups and perhaps learn some training techniques. Afterward, wander over to Place St-Firmin, a charming square ideal for enjoying a coffee or a pastry at a local café while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Complete your day with a visit to the magnificent Château de Meung, where you can explore the beautifully preserved grounds and delve into the history of this stunning castle.
• Day 2: Start your exploration at the scenic Château de la Ferté-Saint-Aubin, known for its picturesque gardens and rich history. Next, head to the impressive Château de Sully-sur-Loire, where you can admire its grand architecture and learn about its historical significance. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Loire Marine Museum, where you can discover fascinating exhibits about the region’s maritime heritage and the important role of the Loire River.
• Day 3: Kick off at the iconic Château de Chambord, an architectural masterpiece set in a sprawling park. Take your time to admire the intricate designs and enjoy a leisurely walk around the estate. Next, journey to the enchanting Château de Chantecaille, where you can explore its beautiful surroundings and rich history. Conclude your day at the Archéovillage, where you can step back in time and experience the fascinating history of the region through interactive exhibits and reconstructed ancient structures.

5 tips to find a great Orléans hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Orléans on a budget is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are more affordable. If you're flying internationally, it's wise to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure the best rates. A stay of at least 1-2 days is recommended to fully enjoy the city's key attractions, such as the impressive cathedral and the beautiful riverfront. This makes for a budget-friendly trip that offers great value for money while exploring the rich history and culture of Orléans.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Orléans, exploring options on Hotels.com can lead you to great rates. Start by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you might find discounted hotel prices as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com for updates on flash sales and special promotions related to Orléans. This way, you’re more likely to catch fantastic offers and save on your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Orléans.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and nearby attractions in Orléans is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like trams and buses, or even walk to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Orléans and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Orléans

Here are some famous dishes in Orléans, Loiret, France:

• Coq au Vin: This classic French dish features chicken braised slowly in red wine, traditionally from the Burgundy region, but enjoyed throughout France, including Orléans. The dish is enriched with mushrooms, lardons, and aromatic herbs, creating a rich and hearty meal. It’s often served with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes, inviting a communal dining experience that reflects the warmth of French hospitality.
• Tarte Tatin: A delightful upside-down caramelized apple tart, Tarte Tatin is a specialty of the region. Made with buttery pastry and sweet, tart apples, this dessert is best enjoyed warm, often accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It showcases the French love for simplicity and indulgence, making it a perfect way to end a meal in Orléans' charming cafés.

Best time to go to Orléans

Orléans experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 39.6°F (4.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.2°F (20.1°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Orléans, April, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, October, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.