France: Orleans

The beautiful city of Orleans in the Loire Valley is associated with Jeanne d’Arc, who saved the city from the English siege in 1429 after just nine days but was later betrayed and burned at stake by the English at only the age of 19. The restored 15th century timber house is one of the top attraction in the city, as is the old quarter full of even older beautiful timber houses, some clearly defying gravity and standing inclined like Pisa Tower. There are many grand architectural attractions, including the atmospheric Rue Jeanne d’Arc, square of Place du Martroi, several palaces, museum, cityhall, and an absolutely stunning cathedral