Region: Europe
Orleans is a relaxed, mid-sized historic city about an hour south of Paris by train, sitting on the Loire River at the gateway to the Loire Valley. With a beautifully restored medieval old town, a magnificent gothic cathedral, and rich Joan of Arc heritage, Orleans offers an authentic French lifestyle and excellent healthcare at prices well below Paris. The Loire Valley chateaux are right at your doorstep.
Climate type: temperate. Average temperature: 52°F (11°C).
Healthcare quality rating: 5/5. Safety rating: 4/5. Overall rating: 4/5.
Primary language: French. English proficiency: medium. Expat community rating: 3/5.
Long Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS): Requires proof of stable income (~1,500 EUR/month minimum), private health insurance, and accommodation. Renewable annually; path to permanent residency after 5 years. Access to France national healthcare (PUMA) after 3 months of residency.
Founded by the Romans as Cenabum and later renamed for emperor Aurelian, Orleans became one of medieval Europe most important cities. It is forever linked with Joan of Arc, who lifted the English siege of the city in 1429 - an event the city celebrates every year with a major festival. Orleans was also a center of French humanism and is home to one of the oldest universities in France.
Orleans signature confection - small round lozenges of bright red quince paste packaged in tiny round wooden boxes. Made since the Middle Ages from local quinces, sugar, and a touch of red coloring, cotignac was once a royal gift presented to French kings on their entry to the city. Today it is still made by traditional confectioners in Orleans and pairs beautifully with cheese, foie gras, or simply with a cup of tea.
Government, visa, healthcare, and cultural links for Orleans, France.
Connecting flights from major US cities to Paris, then a quick train to Orleans. Closest international airport is Paris CDG (about 1.5 hours by train).
Total travel time: ~10 hours total