Orléans

Lying 120 kilometres south of Paris, on the banks of the Loire, Orléans was where Joan of Arc defeated the English, freeing the city on 8 May 1429. Let Ouibus take you to discover this city. Begin with the Place du Martroi, with its monumental statue at the centre, this pleasant square is lined with restaurants with tables on the pavement: the perfect place to sit and take in the atmosphere. Learn all about the prestigious history of Orléans, reflected in its architecture. Don’t miss the city’s Roman wall, the Gothic cathedral of Sainte-Croix, the Georges V bridge spanning the Loire, and the red brick Hôtel Groslot dating from the 19th century. Orléans is anxious to promote its great heritage and yet it also manages to look towards the future, embracing the winds of change with its numerous urban amenities and the tram network which makes it an easy and pleasant city to get around. In the centre of town, you’ll find attractive streets and beautiful views everywhere you look. Stop to admire the architecture in Rue de la Bretonnerie or rue d’Escures. Explore the banks of the Loire by bike, using the public cycle hire scheme, Vélo +, and in late September, you can admire all the boats that gather on the river. Don’t leave the city without seeing the Frac building, Les Turbulences. This ultra modern building houses the regional contemporary art collection, including important works of art and fascinating architectural models. Before climbing aboard the Ouibus once before, there’s just time for a selfie in front of the half-timbered house where Joan of Arc lived.