Place du Martroi Orléans - a large building with a street and cars in front of it
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Place du Martroi Orléans

4.6
·491k reviews·Orléans, France

The vibrant heart of Orléans, featuring the iconic Joan of Arc statue, bustling cafes, and shops in a car-free, lively square.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Place du Martroi Orléans - a large building with a street and cars in front of it

Place du Martroi Orléans

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The vibrant heart of Orléans, featuring the iconic Joan of Arc statue, bustling cafes, and shops in a car-free, lively square.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A must-visit central square with a majestic statue and a lively atmosphere perfect for people-watching."

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TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the statue with the historic buildings as a backdrop for stunning shots.

☕ Relax at a Cafe

Take a break and people-watch from one of the many charming outdoor cafes.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Joan of Arc Equestrian Statue

Joan of Arc Equestrian Statue

Majestic bronze statue of the national heroine, a symbol of Orléans' spirit and history.

Vibrant Cafe Culture

Vibrant Cafe Culture

Sip coffee or enjoy a meal at one of the many outdoor cafes lining the square.

Bustling Market Days

Bustling Market Days

Experience the lively atmosphere of local markets held on the square.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Place du Martroi is the heart of Orléans, a car-free zone buzzing with life. Enjoy the cafes and shops, but be mindful of peak hours when it gets lively.

Joan of Arc's Presence

The iconic equestrian statue of Joan of Arc is central to the square's identity. Learn about her significance to Orléans before your visit for a richer experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Experience the lively buzz
Crowd
High
When
Market days (check local schedule)
Why
See local life in action
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the statue with the historic buildings as a backdrop for stunning shots.

☕ Relax at a Cafe

Take a break and people-watch from one of the many charming outdoor cafes.

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The square is car-free, making it ideal for leisurely strolls and exploration.

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Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the statue with the historic buildings as a backdrop for stunning shots.

☕ Relax at a Cafe

Take a break and people-watch from one of the many charming outdoor cafes.

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The square is car-free, making it ideal for leisurely strolls and exploration.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Place du Martroi Orléans for its central location, vibrant atmosphere, and the iconic Joan of Arc statue. It's a beloved spot for enjoying local cafes and experiencing the heart of the city. Some find it can get crowded during peak times, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.

What People Like

Iconic Joan of Arc statue
Lively cafe culture
Pedestrian-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Place du Martroi is centrally located in Orléans and is easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city center. If arriving by public transport, numerous bus lines stop nearby. For those driving, parking is available in nearby underground garages.

Absolutely! The entire square is pedestrianized, making it a pleasure to walk around and soak in the atmosphere. It's a great starting point for exploring the rest of Orléans.

From the Orléans train station, you can take a short bus ride (several lines go towards the city center) or enjoy a pleasant 15-20 minute walk directly to Place du Martroi.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Place du Martroi is a public square and is completely free to enter and explore at any time. There are no tickets required.

As a public square, Place du Martroi is open 24/7. However, shops and cafes surrounding the square have their own operating hours, typically from morning to evening.

Yes, the square is accessible at night and is often beautifully lit, offering a different, more tranquil ambiance. Cafes and restaurants may remain open late.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The most prominent feature is the magnificent equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, a powerful symbol of the city's history and resilience. The lively atmosphere with cafes and shops is also a major draw.

Definitely! The Joan of Arc statue provides a fantastic focal point. Try capturing it with the surrounding historic architecture or during market days for dynamic shots.

You'll find a mix of boutiques, souvenir shops, bookstores, and fashion retailers around the square, offering a pleasant shopping experience.

Public restrooms are not directly on the square itself, but you can usually find facilities in nearby cafes or shopping centers. It's advisable to use them when you patronize a business.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Place du Martroi is lined with numerous cafes, brasseries, and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, from traditional French dishes to lighter snacks and pastries. Outdoor seating is abundant.

Yes, there are many excellent bakeries and cafes around the square perfect for enjoying a coffee and a delicious French pastry. Look for local patisseries for the freshest treats.

While some establishments can be pricey, you can find more affordable options like crepes, sandwiches, or grabbing a quick bite from a bakery. Picnicking with items bought from local markets is also a great budget strategy.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Place du Martroi Orléans is a fantastic spot for families. Its car-free nature makes it safe for children to wander and explore. The equestrian statue of Joan of Arc can spark imagination and lead to fun historical discussions. Many cafes offer kid-friendly options like pastries and simple snacks.

Consider visiting during market days for an engaging sensory experience for children, with colorful stalls and interesting sights. The open space also allows for a bit of running around. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the city's ambiance without the stress of traffic.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

For solo travelers, Place du Martroi Orléans offers a perfect blend of historical significance and vibrant local life. The pedestrianized square is ideal for leisurely exploration and people-watching from one of the many cafes. It’s a safe and welcoming environment to soak in the Orléans atmosphere.

Strike up conversations with locals at a cafe, or simply enjoy the grandeur of the Joan of Arc statue at your own pace. It's an excellent starting point for discovering the rest of the city, with easy access to other attractions and public transport.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Joan of Arc

The Place du Martroi Orléans is dominated by its striking equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, a pivotal figure in French history and the patron saint of Orléans. Commissioned in 1855 and inaugurated in 1874, the statue by Gabriel-Vital Dubray commemorates her role in lifting the English siege of Orléans in 1429, a turning point in the Hundred Years' War. The square itself has been a central gathering point for centuries, witnessing numerous historical events and celebrations.

Visitors often feel a sense of awe and connection to history when standing before the statue. It's not just a monument; it's a symbol of the city's enduring spirit and independence. Many find it a powerful reminder of Orléans' rich past and its significance in shaping France. The statue is particularly impressive when viewed from different angles, especially during the golden hour when the light casts a warm glow on the bronze.

Beyond the statue, the Place du Martroi Orléans serves as a vibrant hub for daily life. It hosts regular markets, festivals, and public events, making it a dynamic space that constantly evolves. Whether you're admiring the historical monument or simply enjoying a coffee at a sidewalk cafe, the presence of Joan of Arc imbues the square with a unique and inspiring atmosphere.

Experiencing the Square's Atmosphere

The Place du Martroi Orléans is renowned for its lively and welcoming atmosphere, largely due to its status as a car-free zone. This pedestrian-friendly environment encourages leisurely strolls, people-watching, and spontaneous interactions. The square is framed by elegant Haussmannian buildings and historic architecture, providing a picturesque backdrop for any activity.

Cafes and brasseries with extensive outdoor seating are a defining feature of the Place du Martroi Orléans. Locals and tourists alike gather here to enjoy a coffee, a glass of wine, or a full meal, soaking in the sun and the vibrant energy of the city. During market days, the square transforms into a bustling marketplace, filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal goods.

Whether you're visiting in the morning for a quiet coffee, the afternoon for some shopping, or the evening to enjoy dinner under the stars, the Place du Martroi Orléans offers a quintessential Orléans experience. It's a place where history meets contemporary life, creating a memorable and engaging destination for all visitors.

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