Orleans Nightlife, France

The majority of the visitors who go to Orleans know two things before arriving there: Orleans is the birthplace of Joan of Arc and a gate to the Loire Valley, famous for its castles. But sightseeing is a daytime activity: when the night falls, it’s time to explore Orleans nightlife; this city is a port, after all, and there is no port without taverns, music and lots of fun.

Orleans Nightlife – Restaurants

There is nothing new to say about the French cuisine or French wines: they are known and appreciated worldwide. La Petite Folie, Les Antiquaires a Orleans, Les Fagots or Le Viking will give you a taste of what it is like to eat like a Duke of Orleans. If you still have a sweet tooth after such a feast, Le Creperie Bretonne, situated in the heart of the city, will enchant you with a rich selection of French pancakes (crepes). As you walk along the busy streets of Orleans at nightfall, who knows what other exotic flavor will catch your attention. It is a cosmopolitan city, so international cuisine is well represented by names like Les Delices de l’Orchidee (Asian/Thai), Mijana (Lebenese) or Pizeria Volpone (Italian).

Orleans Nightlife – Bars and Clubs

French wines or international cocktails can be enjoyed in locations like L’Absinthe, Paxton’s Head, Jamesson’s Pub or Le Gallion. French bars usually stay open until late and, just like in its American counterpart; Orleans is home to plenty of jazz bars (Le Saint Firmin) or piano bars (Paxton’s Head). Music concerts are hosted in places like: Campo Santo, L’Atelier, Le Ka, Le Petit Barcelone, Bel Air Club or O’Lodge. Some of these clubs have thematic nights, alternating dance nights with concerts and DJ sessions. With your energy level high up after a rich meal and a glass of good wine, a discotheque may be just the right place to end your descend into Orleans nightlife. Due to Orleans’ proximity to Paris, the 'City of Lights' can be considered, by those with extremely high standards, as an alternative to a night out in Orleans. (Paris Travel Guide and Paris Nightlife will provide more information on the subject.)

Orleans Nightlife – Soirees and Events

No matter if you are dining or just having a drink, a terrace in downtown Orleans is the right place to be: the agitation in the street gives the impression of a permanent celebration. But options are not limited to eating or going to a pub: you might as well go shopping, walking in one of Orleans many parks and gardens or along the quays, or even watch the local soccer team playing. In summer season, various local festivals add to your list of options: Fete de la Musique in June, Bastille Day in July, Open Air Cinema Festival in August and Festival de la Loire in September.