Question 1

What are the key historical sites to visit in Orleans?

Accepted Answer

During your 3.5-hour visit to Orleans, prioritize the magnificent Gothic Sainte-Croix Cathedral with its five soaring spires, the Maison de Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc's reconstructed home), and Place du Martroi with its impressive equestrian statue of Joan of Arc. Don't miss the medieval streets of the old town, particularly Rue Jeanne d'Arc leading to the cathedral, and the riverfront along the Loire. The MOBE natural history museum and the Hotel Groslot with its Renaissance architecture are also worth visiting if time permits.

Question 2

What makes Chateau de Blois special among Loire Valley castles?

Accepted Answer

Chateau de Blois stands out for featuring four distinct architectural styles in one complex, representing different periods of French history. During your 3-hour visit, you'll see the Medieval fortress, Gothic Louis XII wing, Renaissance Francis I wing, and Classical Gaston d'Orleans wing. The chateau is famous for its extraordinary spiral staircase in the Francis I wing and the royal apartments where King Henry III had his rival the Duke of Guise assassinated in 1588. Interactive exhibits and digital tablets bring the castle's dramatic history to life.

Question 3

How far are these cities from Paris?

Accepted Answer

Orleans is approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) southwest of Paris, with a driving time of about 1.5 hours. Blois is an additional 60 kilometers (37 miles) beyond Orleans, adding roughly 1 hour to the journey. Your private Daytrip driver handles all transportation logistics, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive through the Loire Valley countryside between destinations. The total round-trip driving time is approximately 5 hours.

Question 4

What is Orleans' connection to Joan of Arc?

Accepted Answer

Orleans' identity is deeply tied to Joan of Arc, who liberated the city from an English siege in 1429 during the Hundred Years' War. Your visit coincides with multiple Joan of Arc sites, including the cathedral she visited, her reconstructed house, and the Centre Jeanne d'Arc museum with interactive exhibits. If visiting during early May, you might witness the annual Joan of Arc Festival featuring medieval markets, parades, and historical reenactments commemorating the city's liberation.

Question 5

What are the best local culinary specialties to try in these cities?

Accepted Answer

In Orleans, sample local specialties including Cotignac d'Orleans (quince jelly sold in small wooden boxes), Orleans vinegar (the city was once France's vinegar capital), and Pithiviers (almond cream-filled pastry). Blois offers Loire Valley classics like rillettes (meat spread), goat cheese, and tarte Tatin (caramelized upside-down apple tart). Both cities produce excellent wines, with Orleans known for its white wines and Blois for its range of Touraine appellations. Local markets and bakeries offer quick authentic tastes.

Question 6

Is there a suggested route for exploring the historic center of Blois?

Accepted Answer

Maximize your 3-hour Blois visit by starting at the chateau in the heart of the old town. After touring the castle, take the stone staircase (Escalier Denis Papin) down to the lower town for magnificent views. Explore the medieval streets around St. Nicholas Church, visit the House of Magic (Maison de la Magie) across from the chateau if time permits, and stroll along the Loire River banks. This circuit covers the major highlights while enjoying the atmosphere of this charming riverside city.

Question 7

When is the best time to visit these Loire Valley cities?

Accepted Answer

April through October offers the most pleasant conditions for exploring both cities, with late spring (May-June) and early fall (September) providing ideal temperatures and fewer tourists than summer months. Orleans hosts the Joan of Arc Festival in early May with medieval reenactments, while Blois features the Son et Lumiere (Sound and Light) show projected on the chateau's facade on summer evenings. Winter visits can be charming with Christmas markets though some attractions may have reduced hours.

Question 8

How do day trips with Daytrip work?

Accepted Answer

Day trips offer travelers private round-trip transportation to popular sightseeing locations. One of our professional drivers will pick you up in a luxurious, climate-controlled car, take you to the site of interest, and wait for you while you explore before driving you back to your hotel.

Question 9

Will I have to wait around for the driver to return?

Accepted Answer

Your Daytrip driver will wait for you nearby for the duration of your exploration, meaning you’ll never have to wait for your return trip transportation to arrive. Your comfort and convenience are our top priorities, and we aim to close out your day trip with a return on your schedule.

Question 10

Can I customize the pickup and drop-off times?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You’re free to choose the pickup and drop-off times that work best for you. However, the time spent at the destination is fixed and cannot be changed.

Question 11

Are entrance tickets and tours included in the price?

Accepted Answer

The price of a day trip does not include any entrance tickets, guided tours, or meals you may partake in at your destination. The price covers round-trip transportation in a luxury vehicle with a professional driver who can provide local insights en route.

Question 12

How long will I have to explore?

Accepted Answer

Each sightseeing stop has a recommended duration that includes plenty of time to explore. However, it is possible to customize the time spent at each sightseeing stop at a later stage in the booking process to best fit your unique schedule.

Question 13

If my plans change, is the booking flexible?

Accepted Answer

Day trip bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours before your trip for a full refund, no strings attached. While the destination and stops are predetermined, it is possible to change your pick-up point, whether it is at your hotel or some other location within the city.

Question 14

Can I take a large group?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Day trips are fully customizable to suit the needs of any private group. From solo travelers to large families with children and even corporate groups, we are ready to create a bespoke itinerary that accommodates parties of all sizes. The price is dependent on the number of vehicles required to serve your group, and we also provide child seats.

Question 15

Will my driver speak English?

Accepted Answer

Your friendly, professional, local driver will speak English. Our drivers are happy to provide any local insight they can on the way to your destination and may be able to answer questions and provide tips for the best possible experience on your day trip.

Question 16

Can I request children’s car seats for the journey?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide car seats for children of all ages, which meet stringent safety standards and local legal requirements. You can even bring your own car seat. We also have handicapped-accessible vehicles available for a wide range of needs for our passengers. When booking your day trip, please specify the accommodations you will need.

Question 17

Can I pay securely online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Daytrip offers flexible payment options. We accept Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Ali Pay. You also can pay securely online with any major credit card, such as Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.

Question 18

How do I book?

Accepted Answer

Booking your day trip is as easy as our one-way and return trips! On the landing page of the day trip you’d like to take, simply select the date, pick up time, and how many adults and children will be on the trip. On the second page, you’ll fill in personal details, including any special requests, disability accommodations, and children’s car seats you may need. We are flexible too! You can change your exact pick-up location (hotel address, etc) up to 24 hours before your day trip.

Paris to Orleans and Blois: Private day trip

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