Hôtel Groslot Orléans
Explore free historical interiors, art, and the Joan of Arc statue at Hôtel Groslot, Orleans' former mansion and current City Hall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Hôtel Groslot Orléans
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore free historical interiors, art, and the Joan of Arc statue at Hôtel Groslot, Orleans' former mansion and current City Hall.
"A free, quick, and fascinating glimpse into Orleans' rich history with friendly staff."
✅ Free Admission!
Entry is free! Just state your country at reception. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture memories, but remember: no flash photography inside. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Magnificent Furniture
Interior rooms
Admire well-preserved 16th-century furniture that transports you back in time.
Catherine de' Medici Painting
Main hall
A striking painting depicts Catherine de' Medici learning of her son's death.
Joan of Arc Statue
Courtyard
A statue commemorates Joan of Arc, a reminder of Orleans' historical significance.
Saint Jacques Chapel
Garden
A small, charming chapel nestled within the tranquil garden grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry & Potential Waits
Quick Visit, Rich History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Free Admission!
Entry is free! Just state your country at reception. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture memories, but remember: no flash photography inside. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Potential Wedding Delays
Weddings can occur, so be prepared for a short wait. :wedding:
🗣️ English Spoken
Friendly reception staff speak English and are very helpful. :microphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Free Admission!
Entry is free! Just state your country at reception. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture memories, but remember: no flash photography inside. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Potential Wedding Delays
Weddings can occur, so be prepared for a short wait. :wedding:
🗣️ English Spoken
Friendly reception staff speak English and are very helpful. :microphone:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through historic rooms and a garden. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Hôtel Groslot for its free admission and the opportunity to see well-preserved historical interiors and art. The friendly staff and the iconic Joan of Arc statue are also highlights. Some note that the number of rooms to view is limited, and potential waits due to wedding ceremonies can occur.
"Not too many rooms to see but the ones accessible are great."
Luis Gonçalves
"I’m a big fan of rooms, and Hôtel Groslot has a whopping 6 of them! They were so great that we left fully satisfied after having seen 5 of them. I’m sure the remaining one is also very epic though.
There is a very big mirror in the entrance which, depending on your self-confidence, can make or break the experience. Ours was definitely elevated!
In case it doesn’t for you, fret not, because the receptionist is very kind and their helpful cheeriness will surely brighten your mood again.
PS: We couldn’t meet Joan of Arc, but that’s ok. We think she has moved out."
Jesse Schweizer
"The Hôtel Groslot is an interesting glimpse into the old mansion and is city administration, going back many years. The building is quite interesting and beautifully designed. We loved the architecture and the paintings were great. The large painting of Catherine Medici learning of the death of her son is amazing."
Louis and Elaine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hôtel Groslot is centrally located in Orleans, making it easily accessible on foot if you're already in the city center. Public transport options like buses and trams also serve the area. Parking can be challenging in the historic center, so consider public transport or walking.
Yes, Hôtel Groslot is situated in the heart of Orleans, close to many other historical sites and the Loire River. It's a convenient stop when exploring the city's landmarks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Hôtel Groslot is completely free! You just need to mention your country of origin at the reception.
While specific hours can vary, it's generally open during typical daytime hours. It's advisable to check locally or inquire at the reception, especially if planning a visit during holidays or for specific events.
No, booking in advance is not necessary as entry is free. However, if a wedding ceremony is taking place, you might need to wait for it to conclude.
Yes, photography is permitted inside Hôtel Groslot, but please refrain from using flash to protect the historical artifacts and artwork.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Hôtel Groslot offers a glimpse into historical living with several beautifully furnished rooms, impressive paintings like the one of Catherine de' Medici, and a courtyard featuring a statue of Joan of Arc. The garden also has a small chapel.
Most visitors find that 20-30 minutes is sufficient to explore the accessible rooms, courtyard, and garden. It's a relatively quick but rewarding visit.
While children can visit, the appeal might be limited to their historical interest. The main draw is the architecture, furniture, and art. The garden offers a bit of space to move around.
Information about formal guided tours is not widely advertised. However, the reception staff are friendly and can provide basic information.
The statue in the courtyard commemorates Joan of Arc's historical connection to Orleans. It serves as a reminder of the city's pivotal role in French history, and has survived a bomb attack from 1944.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Hôtel Groslot itself does not have a restaurant or cafe. However, being in the city center, there are numerous cafes, brasseries, and restaurants nearby to choose from.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the historical building to preserve its condition. There are no specific rules mentioned, but it's common courtesy.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is allowed inside Hôtel Groslot, but flash is strictly prohibited to protect the delicate artworks and furnishings.
The grand mirror in the entrance, the well-preserved furniture, the Catherine de' Medici painting, and the Joan of Arc statue in the courtyard are popular photo subjects. The garden also offers picturesque views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for interesting details in the furniture or imagine life in the past. The friendly English-speaking staff might also be able to offer simple explanations. Since flash photography is not allowed, ensure your phone or camera is ready for quick, flash-free shots. It's a good way to introduce children to French history in a low-pressure environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding city center on foot, as many other attractions are nearby. Since there are no dining facilities, you can save money by packing a picnic to enjoy in a nearby park or choosing one of the many affordable local eateries. The short duration of the visit also means it won't take up a significant portion of your day, leaving ample time for other free or low-cost activities.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay attention to the architectural details and the stories behind the artifacts. The Joan of Arc statue is a key historical marker, connecting the site to a pivotal figure in French history. The fact that the building has endured through centuries, including surviving wartime damage, adds to its historical narrative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Orleans' Past
Inside, visitors can explore a limited number of rooms that showcase magnificent pieces of furniture in excellent condition. These interiors provide a vivid impression of how affluent residents lived centuries ago. The presence of significant artworks, such as the striking painting of Catherine de' Medici, adds another layer of historical and artistic value to the experience. The friendly reception staff, who often speak English, enhance the visit by providing context and answering questions.
The exterior and grounds are equally noteworthy. The courtyard features a statue of Joan of Arc, a powerful symbol of Orleans' resilience and history, which has even survived past bomb attacks. Adjacent to the courtyard is a small, charming chapel of Saint Jacques, offering a moment of quiet reflection. The garden provides a pleasant space to stroll and appreciate the historical ambiance of the Hôtel Groslot.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
Photography enthusiasts will be pleased to know that pictures are allowed inside, but with a crucial caveat: no flash. This rule is in place to preserve the integrity of the historical artifacts and artwork. Popular subjects for photos include the grand mirror in the entrance hall, the ornate furniture, and the Joan of Arc statue in the courtyard. The overall visit is typically brief, with most people spending around 20 to 30 minutes to see the main attractions.
For those looking to make the most of their visit, comfortable shoes are recommended as you'll be walking through various rooms and the garden. The staff at the reception are consistently praised for their kindness and helpfulness, with many visitors appreciating that they speak English, making communication easy. While there are no dining facilities within Hôtel Groslot, its central location means numerous cafes and restaurants are just a short walk away.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit