The capital of the Centre-Loire Valley region in northern France, Orleans is a city best known as the setting for the historical events surrounding the life of the famous religious martyr Joan of Arc (Maid of Orleans). The city, while not traditionally considered a holiday destination, has plenty to recommend it, with attractions ranging from nature to manmade sights from both past and present.

Culture seekers will find plenty to keep their attention in Orleans, with everything from art to history to explore. The Fine Art Museum is a must for anyone with an interest in aesthetics, while the Museum of History and Archaeology will not disappoint visitors who are enthusiastic about the events of the past. The Joan of Arc house, meanwhile, is one attraction that few who visit the city miss.

With the scenic river Loire running through the middle of the city, Orleans is a destination with no shortage of natural assets, making it a popular place for those with a penchant for outdoor activities. The river itself provides canoeing and fishing opportunities, while back on dry land there are some good spots to enjoy pursuits such as camping or walking.

A busy city centre offers an excellent array of shopping outlets, giving visitors the chance to pick up wine and edible products that have been made locally or designer clothing and accessories of both French and international origin. After a shopping spree, visitors can stop for lunch or dinner at any of the many excellent dining establishments on offer.

The city provides good selection of accommodation options, among which are well-known names such as Holiday Inn and Novotel, as well as a myriad of smaller independently owned establishments. Booking ahead is a sensible option if you plan of visiting in the high season (June, July and August).

Orleans has its own airport, but as it’s a small local facility the majority of visitors from overseas fly into one of Paris’ airports and then transfer by train, bus or hire car. Once in Orleans, visitors not renting cars can make use of buses and trams for getting around.

As a part of Centre-Loire Valley region, Orleans experiences a maritime climate, with temperatures generally lower than those of the south of France and rain more prevalent. Summer is the best time to take a holiday in the city, as this is when the warmest weather occurs. The average temperature in the summer months of July and August is 18°C; however, daily highs can climb into the mid-20s (°C), offering some good conditions for getting out and about and enjoying sightseeing and other activities.

The winter in Orleans can be miserable at times, with the season bringing its share of rain and seeing temperature averages drop to around 5°C. You can visit Orleans at this time, but you’d need to pack both warm and waterproof clothing to make the best of it. Spring and autumn are more moderate seasons, when daytime temperatures are often pleasant enough to make outdoor pursuits a possibility. Mornings and late evenings can be cool so a jacket or a sweater is necessary in these seasons.