Dating in Orléans, following in Joan’s footsteps

Place du Martroi, the beating heart of the city

At the centre of Orléans, Place du Martroi unfolds its paving stones around the equestrian statue of Joan of Arc. Café terraces liven up fine days and locals meet here almost instinctively. The view opens onto Rue Royale, lined with elegant arcades, which runs down to the Loire. A first drink shared here, in the shade of the plane trees, lays the first words of a budding encounter.

Around Sainte-Croix Cathedral

Sainte-Croix Cathedral raises its finely carved towers above the rooftops: few Gothic buildings in France are so delicately worked. A few steps away, the Hôtel Groslot and its flowered garden offer a gentle pause, while Joan of Arc’s House tells of the city’s liberation in 1429. Rue Jeanne-d’Arc, laid out in the 19th century, offers a magnificent perspective to walk together at dusk.

Rue de Bourgogne and the old quarters

Along Rue de Bourgogne, restaurants and bars follow one another in timber-framed houses mellowed by the centuries. People chat freely here, put the world to rights and laugh late. The surrounding lanes hide inner courtyards and quiet little squares. On Lyad, members from Orléans share their favourite addresses; it is up to you to find someone to push the door with.