Bords de Loire: The Soul of Orléans
Discover the heart of Orléans along the Bords de Loire: a historic waterfront offering scenic strolls, vibrant culture, and a deep connection to the river's legacy in the Loire Valley.
The Bords de Loire, or banks of the Loire River, offer a captivating experience in Orléans, France. This area is more than just a scenic waterfront; it's the historical and cultural heart of the city, reflecting its deep connection to the Loire, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll along the redeveloped quays, admire the diverse architecture, or relax at a guinguette (riverside bar) during the warmer months. The riverbanks provide a perfect respite after exploring the historic city center, offering picturesque views and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Bords de Loire is a must-visit destination that encapsulates the essence of Orléans. The area provides a refreshing escape and a unique perspective on this historic city, making it an essential part of any visit to Orléans.
A brief summary to Bords de Loire
- Bourgogne, Orléans, 45000, FR
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the Loire Festival (every two years) to witness a spectacular gathering of traditional river vessels and enjoy various festivities.
- Rent a bike and explore the Loire à Vélo cycle route, which offers scenic views of the river and surrounding countryside.
- Enjoy a picnic along the riverbank, especially during sunset, for a memorable experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Cathédrale Sainte-Croix, walk north towards the Place du Martroi, then continue north-east, following the signs for the Loire River. The riverbanks are a short 5-10 minute walk from the city center. As you approach the river, you'll see the Quai du Châtelet, a central access point to the Bords de Loire.
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Public Transport
From Gare d'Orléans, take Tram A towards Hôpital de la Source and get off at the De Gaulle stop. From there, walk north-east for about 5 minutes towards the river. Alternatively, several bus lines serve the city center; check the local TAO network for the most convenient route to a stop near Place du Martroi, then walk towards the river.
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Driving
If driving, parking is available at several car parks near the city center and the Bords de Loire. Car Park Les Halles Châtelet (43 place du Châtelet) and Car Park Les Halles Charpenterie (Place de Loire) are both conveniently located. Parking rates typically start at €0.60 per 15 minutes, with daily rates around €18.80. Evening rates (6 PM to 5 AM) are around €3. Weekly rates are also available for approximately €38.
Discover more about Bords de Loire
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pont George V
1.1 km
Discover Pont George V in Orléans: a historic bridge offering stunning views, rich history, and a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
Comité Régional du Tourisme du Centre - Val de Loire
1.4 km
Plan your Loire Valley adventure with expert advice and resources from the official regional tourism board in Orléans.
My Loire Valley
1.6 km
Explore the enchanting My Loire Valley, where stunning châteaux, picturesque landscapes, and exquisite French cuisine await every traveler.
Restes de l'ancien pont de Meung-sur-Loire
17.8 km
Discover the serene remains of an ancient bridge in Meung-sur-Loire, a testament to history and engineering along the Loire River.
Relais de Chambord
43.8 km
Experience Renaissance luxury at Relais de Chambord, a boutique hotel offering breathtaking views and unparalleled access to Château de Chambord.
Observatoire Loire
53.4 km
Explore the ecological and cultural wonders of the Loire River at this engaging museum and tour center.
Le Loir-et-Cher en Val de Loire
55.1 km
Explore the heart of the Loire Valley. Your gateway to châteaux, culture, and unforgettable experiences in Loir-et-Cher.
Loire High Water Marks
55.7 km
Discover the historic Loire High Water Marks in Blois, a breathtaking landmark that showcases the power of nature and rich cultural heritage of France.
Denis Papin Monument
55.7 km
Discover the Denis Papin Monument in Blois: a tribute to a visionary inventor with panoramic views from an art-adorned monumental staircase.
Château d'Étampes
62.5 km
Explore the ruins of Château d'Étampes, a medieval royal castle, and discover the unique Tour de Guinette, a testament to French history.
Halle de Milly-la-Forêt
69.5 km
Discover the historic Halle de Milly-la-Forêt, a 15th-century market hall hosting weekly markets and events in the heart of a charming French town.
Château de Chaumont
72.2 km
Discover the enchanting Château de Chaumont, a stunning blend of history, art, and nature along the picturesque Loire River.
Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire
72.3 km
Explore a Loire Valley gem where history, art, and innovative gardens create an unforgettable cultural experience.
Le Port de Chaumont-sur-Loire
72.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Le Port de Chaumont-sur-Loire, a charming riverside attraction in the heart of France's Loire Valley.
Wine Trotters, private wine tours Loire Valley
75.6 km
Experience the exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes of Loire Valley with personalized tours from Wine Trotters. A journey through France's wine heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gobelets en céramique
0.6 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Gobelets en céramique, a unique ceramic cup attraction in the heart of Orléans, France.
Cercil Museum - Memorial Children Du Vel D'hiv
0.6 km
Reflect on history at the Cercil Museum in Orléans, a memorial to the children of Vel d'Hiv, offering poignant exhibits and educational resources on the Holocaust.
Cathédrale Sainte-Croix d'Orléans
0.7 km
Discover centuries of history and architectural grandeur at the Cathédrale Sainte-Croix d'Orléans, a magnificent Gothic masterpiece with stunning stained glass and royal connections.
Statue of Jean Calvin
0.8 km
Discover the Statue of Jean Calvin in Orléans, a tribute to the Reformation leader and a symbol of the city's rich religious history and intellectual heritage, reflecting his time studying law here.
Campo Santo
0.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Orléans' Campo Santo, a historic cloister transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, hosting events amidst stunning medieval arcades near the iconic cathedral.
Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Orléans
0.8 km
Discover masterpieces from the 15th to 20th centuries at Orléans' Musée des Beaux-Arts, home to an exceptional collection of European paintings, sculptures, and pastels.
Balade bateau Orléans
1.0 km
Experience the stunning views of Orléans on the Loire River with Balade Bateau Orléans, your gateway to unforgettable sightseeing tours.
Parc Pasteur
1.1 km
Escape to Parc Pasteur in Orléans: A historic green space with stunning sculptures, remarkable trees, and family-friendly attractions, perfect for a relaxing day out.
Petit Train Touristique d'Orléans
1.1 km
Explore Orléans in a unique way with the Petit Train Touristique, a charming train ride through the city's rich history and stunning architecture.
Statue de Jeanne d'Arc
1.2 km
Equestrian statue of Joan of Arc in Orléans, a symbol of French courage and faith, standing tall in Place du Martroi, commemorating her pivotal role in liberating the city.
Fête Des Chats
1.3 km
Experience the charm of Fête Des Chats in Saint-Jean-le-Blanc, where cat lovers unite for joy, education, and community engagement in a cozy haven dedicated to feline companionship.
MOBE - Muséum d'Orléans pour la Biodiversité et l'Environnement
1.3 km
Explore the wonders of biodiversity at Orléans' Muséum d'Orléans pour la Biodiversité et l'Environnement, a modern museum with interactive exhibits for all ages, fostering environmental awareness.
Base de loisirs de l'Île Charlemagne
1.7 km
Discover Île Charlemagne: Orléans' premier recreation destination offering sandy beaches, water sports, adventure activities, and scenic nature trails for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
FRAC Centre
1.7 km
Explore the intersection of art and architecture at FRAC Centre-Val de Loire in Orléans, featuring radical designs, thought-provoking exhibitions, and a dynamic cultural program.
OLIVET
4.0 km
Discover Olivet: A charming French town near Orléans with a rich history, picturesque river landscapes, and a tranquil escape into the heart of the Loire Valley.
Essential places to dine
La Table - Christophe Hay et Loïs Bée
8.5 km
Savor exquisite French cuisine at La Table - Christophe Hay et Loïs Bée in Ardon, where every dish tells a story of culinary artistry.
La Grande Tour
12.9 km
Experience exquisite French fine dining at La Grande Tour in Saint-Ay - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
L'Ovale de Loire
17.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and warm hospitality at L'Ovale de Loire in Meung-sur-Loire, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Le Relais Louis XI
17.9 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at Le Relais Louis XI in Meung-sur-Loire – where history meets modern elegance for dining and romantic getaways.
À la maison
18.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at À la maison in Meung-sur-Loire, where every dish reflects culinary passion and local flavors.
Au Clos des Vignes
21.0 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Au Clos des Vignes in Baule - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Le Relais Du Château
25.1 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Le Relais Du Château in Beaugency—where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.
Restaurant la rôtisserie des moines
25.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant la rôtisserie des moines in Beaugency – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Le P'tit Bateau
25.2 km
Experience fine dining at Le P'tit Bateau in Beaugency - where traditional French cuisine meets modern elegance.
Restaurant Chez Henri II Beaugency
25.2 km
Experience the essence of French gastronomy at Restaurant Chez Henri II in beautiful Beaugency.
La bouchée
25.2 km
Savor exquisite French cuisine at La Bouchée in Beaugency, where tradition meets taste in a cozy atmosphere.
Epicerie Fine-Made in Loire
25.3 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at Epicerie Fine-Made in Loire, where local flavors meet charming ambiance.
Restaurant Les Pieds sous la Table d'Adeline
25.4 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant Les Pieds sous la Table d'Adeline in Beaugency – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Le Bistrot du Coin
30.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Bistrot du Coin in Saint-Laurent-Nouan – where tradition meets taste in a cozy atmosphere.
Le Rhinocéros
36.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Rhinocéros in Saint-Laurent-Nouan—where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Endees
37.8 km
Discover the art of fragrance at Endees, where exquisite perfumes and personalized service await every scent enthusiast.
Côté Style
88.1 km
Discover unique fashion and quality clothing at Côté Style, your go-to clothing store in Nogent-le-Roi for a stylish shopping experience.
La Tour d'Or Blanc de J.M. Othoniel
88.2 km
Explore La Tour d'Or Blanc de J.M. Othoniel, a captivating cultural landmark in Amboise, France, blending contemporary art with historical charm.
Tour de l'Horloge
88.4 km
Discover stunning views and rich history at the Tour de l'Horloge in Amboise, a must-see observation deck overlooking the Loire River.
Un Coin de France Sarl
88.5 km
Explore culinary treasures at Un Coin de France Sarl, a kitchen supply store in the heart of Amboise, offering quality tools for every chef.
Touraine Voyages
88.7 km
Explore the enchanting Loire Valley with Touraine Voyages, your expert travel agency in Amboise for personalized tours and unforgettable experiences.
Carré Sénart
92.3 km
Discover Carré Sénart: A shopping paradise in Lieusaint with diverse stores, delicious dining, and exciting entertainment options.
Cultura
93.4 km
Discover a vibrant cultural hub in Saint-Doulchard, where art, crafts, music, and more come together in a unique shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Garden Ice Café
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Garden Ice Café, the perfect spot for tourists in Orléans.
La brasserie du Four à Briques
3.3 km
Experience the best of local craft beers and a cozy ambiance at La Brasserie du Four à Briques in Saint-Pryvé-Saint-Mesmin.
Restaurant L'atypique Orléans - Karaoke - Soirées Dansantes
4.8 km
Dive into a vibrant atmosphere of karaoke, dance, and delicious cuisine at Restaurant L'atypique in Orléans for an unforgettable night out.
Sarl The Black Pearl
4.8 km
Sarl The Black Pearl: Experience the finest seafood in La Chapelle-Saint-Mesmin, where culinary excellence meets a welcoming atmosphere.
O langue d’Oc
6.6 km
Experience the essence of Languedoc at O langue d’Oc, a charming bar and brewery in Olivet, offering craft beers and local delicacies in a vibrant setting.
Bar du Mail
7.2 km
Experience the local culture at Bar du Mail, a cozy bar in Saint-Hilaire-Saint-Mesmin offering drinks, snacks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mouss’bat
11.4 km
Experience the artisan craft of brewing at Mouss’bat, a charming brewpub in Chaingy, where every sip tells a story.
Les Tourelles
16.0 km
Explore the authentic French experience at Les Tourelles, a charming bar tabac in the heart of Huisseau-sur-Mauves, perfect for relaxation and local culture.
Le Tandem Café-Vélo
18.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of cycling and culinary delights at Le Tandem Café-Vélo in Meung-sur-Loire, where local flavors meet bike-friendly services.
Bar de la Haute Croix
18.6 km
Experience the authentic charm of Meung-sur-Loire at Bar de la Haute Croix, a cozy bar tabac with local flavors and a friendly atmosphere.
V and B Baule
19.6 km
Discover V and B Baule, a vibrant bar and wine cellar perfect for tasting local wines and craft beers in a cozy atmosphere.
Le Baulois
20.9 km
Discover the local charm at Le Baulois, a cozy bar and tobacco shop in Baule, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Le P'tit Mess
23.4 km
Experience local charm at Le P'tit Mess, where drinks, games, and good company come together in Messas.
La cabane de Loire
24.9 km
Discover the charm of La Cabane de Loire, a cozy bar and snack bar along the scenic Loire River in Beaugency, where local flavors meet picturesque views.
Au coin du Pont
25.1 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Beaugency at Au Coin du Pont, where great drinks and picturesque views come together for an unforgettable night.
