Explore Orleans in 2024
20 unique experiences in Orleans and the Loire Valley for your extended weekends
Do you dream of getting away from it all? We understand that the need for a holiday can arise even after an exhausting homecoming. That’s why we invite you to enjoy unique experiences in Orleans and the Loire Valley, combining surprising adventure with moments of relaxation.
Make the most of the bank holidays and long weekends in 2024 in Orleans, with no fewer than 10 bank holidays on weekdays. Whether it’s the Easter weekend, the May bank holidays, the All Saints weekend or the 11 November bank holiday, we’ve put together some ideas for visits and activities to liven up your long weekends and help you get away from it all.
Discover our magnificent destination, where every moment becomes a memorable getaway. Treat yourself to uncompromising weekends galore, because you deserve them!
Easter weekend
Sunday 31th March and Monday 1st April
Easter in Orleans
Experience the magic of Easter in Orleans by taking part in an egg hunt or spring festivities! Unforgettable moments await you, filled with joy, discoveries and surprises for all the family.
Parc Floral de La Source
We look forward to seeing you at the Parc Floral de La Source over the Easter weekend. Bright colours, enchanting scents and family activities await you.
Must-see sites in Orleans
Come and discover the most important and remarkable places, sites and monuments when you visit Orleans! Around every corner, Orleans reveals treasures to be seen, admired, discovered or rediscovered.
Weekends in May
Wednesdays 1st and 8th May
Joan of Arc celebrations
Experience a medieval atmosphere in the historic centre of Orleans during the Joan of Arc Festival, one of the city’s flagship events.
Ascension Thursday: Thursday 18th May
Stand-up paddle on the Loire River
Explore the charms of the Loire on a stand-up paddle in Orleans! Glide over the waters while discovering the natural beauty of the region. An unforgettable water adventure awaits you!
Orleans by bike
Discover Orléans on two wheels and let yourself be seduced by the many cycling routes. Ride along its majestic riverbanks, explore its picturesque districts and enjoy a unique experience where the past meets the present with every pedal stroke.
Whit Monday: Monday 20th May
Sound and Light show at Orleans Cathedral
Discover the illuminated cathedral! A must-see event and a unique sensory experience, where history and architecture meet in a ballet of lights and music
A magical overnight stay on a traditional Loire boat
Contemplate a magnificent sunset and enjoy an unusual and magical night on the banks of the Loire!
Bastille Day weekend
Sunday 14th July
The guinguettes of Orleans
Discover the festive soul of Orléans by letting yourself be carried away by the authentic charm of the guinguettes, where good humour, intoxicating music and local flavours come together to create unforgettable moments.
Cocorico Electro
Join in the excitement of the Cocorico Electro festival in La Ferté Saint-Aubin. It’s a French-style party revisited, with a 17th-century château, French DJs, a light show and an exceptional fireworks display!
Between history and nature, the Loiret and its mills
Discover the timeless magic of the Moulins of Olivet on a walk where history mingles with nature, offering a picturesque journey to the heart of a preserved heritage and captivating landscapes.
Assumption weekend
Thursday 15th August
Trottxway scooter tour
Enjoy an original and fun experience with an all-terrain electric scooter, while discovering the heritage around Orleans! You’ll get a thrill and an adrenalin rush in just a few minutes.
Sailing on the Loire
Embark on an unforgettable experience along the Loire aboard one of its traditional boats. This is a natural and authentic adventure in the heart of an unspoilt environment steeped in history.
Castles around Orleans
Discover the majesty of the past as you explore the catles surrounding Orleans. Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of these architectural gems, witnesses to centuries of history and splendour.
A walk in Sologne at Domaine du Ciran
Explore the exceptional natural site of the Domaine du Ciran in the heart of the Sologne, where you can meet animals and enjoy the discovery trail, fun workshops, fishing course and play area.
Weekends in November
All Saints’ Day: Friday 1st November
Bright autumn colours at the Arboretum des Grandes Bruyères
Discover the splendour of nature as the trees change colour on a stroll through one of France’s most magnificent gardens, the Arboretum des Grandes Bruyères.
Halloween in Orleans
Get ready to shiver and feast in the bewitching spirit of Halloween, where mystery and magic mingle in the city’s historic streets. From a haunted trail to a fancy dress competition, immerse yourself in the spooky atmosphere of this Orléans celebration.
The 1918 Armistice: Monday 11st November
An unusual night in the Orleans forest
Let yourself be enchanted by an unusual night in one of Parenthèse‘s Tiny Houses, in the heart of the Orleans forest, an unforgettable experience.
Christmas weekend
Wednesday 25th December
Christmas market in Orleans
Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Orleans Christmas Market, in the heart of the historic centre.
Christmas at the castle
Immerse yourself in the magic of the festive season in the heart of the Loiret, where castles steeped in history are adorned in sparkling lights and magical atmospheres. Let yourself be carried away by the unique charm of these architectural gems.
Christmas carriage ride
Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride in Orleans during the festive season. Discover the charm of the illuminated historic streets from the comfort of a horse-drawn carriage decorated for Christmas. You’ll be sure to make some unforgettable memories!
