Things To Do
in Orly
Orly is a suburban commune just south of Paris in the Île-de-France region, offering quick access to the capital while maintaining a quieter, residential feel. It sits beside its major international airport, providing a practical gateway for travelers and ease of transit into central Paris. The town blends leafy parks, convenient transport links, and a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere that suits first-timers and return visitors alike.
With easy day trips to Parisian sights and nearby natural areas, Orly offers a practical base for exploring the region without the bustle of a big city center.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming Orly Church, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. After exploring the church, stroll through the quaint streets of the historic center, taking in the local shops and cafes. Enjoy a fresh croissant and a cup of coffee at a nearby café while soaking in the morning sun.
After lunch, delve into the history of Orly by visiting the local museum, where you can learn about the town's rich past and cultural heritage. Spend some time walking along the banks of the Seine, perhaps stopping for a picturesque photo opportunity. As the afternoon progresses, consider visiting a local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample some traditional French delicacies.
As the sun sets, find a cozy bistro for dinner, where you can savor classic French dishes like coq au vin or ratatouille. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, where you can appreciate the charm of Orly at night. End your evening with a glass of wine at a local wine bar, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk in Parc de la Plage, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and peaceful surroundings. Breathe in the fresh air as you explore the park's walking trails, taking time to appreciate the beautiful landscaping and serene lakes. Stop by a small café within the park for a breakfast of fresh fruit and yogurt while enjoying the morning sounds of nature.
After a relaxing morning, spend your afternoon at the park engaging in outdoor activities such as cycling or rollerblading along designated paths. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Consider renting a paddleboat to explore the water and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
As dusk falls, find a spot in the park for a leisurely picnic dinner, taking advantage of the natural beauty around you. After your meal, take a moment to watch the sunset, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Conclude your evening with a quiet walk back to your accommodation, listening to the sounds of the evening wildlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🚇One-way public transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $120-200 |
| 🥖Grocery basket or bread loaf | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to Paris and major sights from Orly
- Strong transport links and walkable neighborhoods
- Rich dining scene with bakeries, bistros, and markets
- Parks and nearby nature for day trips
- Can be crowded in peak seasons and around central Paris
- Prices can be high in tourist areas
- Travel times from Orly can be longer during peak hours compared to staying in central Paris
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Pouvez-vous m'aider ?" - Can you help me?
- "J'aimerais réserver une table" - I would like to reserve a table
Places to Visit in Orly
Visit one of these nice places.
Elegant bridge with gilded statues and views of the Seine; best at sunset for warm light and reflections.
Iconic Eiffel Tower vantage with sweeping views and reflective pools; ideal for classic cityscape shots.
Cobbled stairs and a hilltop vantage point offering panoramic city views and artistic energy.
Charming riverside streets with quaint façades, perfect for tranquil street photography.
Formal lawns, fountains, and statues bathed in light during late afternoon; ideal for portrait and nature shots.
Food in Orly
Orly Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple breakfast pairing found in most boulangeries; flaky, buttery pastry with rich chocolate or plain butter layers.
Must-Try!
A timeless bistro dish featuring a tender steak plus crispy fries, often served with a simple herb butter or peppercorn sauce.
A vegetarian-friendly stewed vegetable dish from the broader French kitchen, featuring peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and tomato, typically served as a side or main.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market in Paris with fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and ready-to-eat bites ideal for a quick, tasty lunch.
Pedestrian market street near the Eiffel Tower offering cheese, charcuterie, fruit, and prepared snacks perfect for a picnic.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite bonjour when entering shops; say au revoir when leaving. Use basic phrases to show courtesy.
Say please and thank you; avoid speaking loudly in public spaces; queue patiently in shops and cafes.
French is preferred, but many staff in tourist areas speak English; attempting simple phrases is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Orly
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (service compris). If you’re pleased with the service, tipping 5-10% is typical for good service when a service charge isn’t included.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is handy for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days and outdoor events; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. Expect crowds around major sights and fountains.
Mild to cool days with golden light; great for photography and outdoor walks with fewer crowds.
Short daylight hours and chilly air; indoor attractions shine, and Christmas lights add sparkle to city centers.
Pleasant temperatures with blooming gardens; ideal for outdoor activities, but occasional showers are possible.
Orly at Night
Hiking in Orly
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Urban forest with lakes, ponds, and easy-to-mile loop trails near Paris.
Rural scenery with rolling hills, forested paths, and villages to explore.
Regional park offering longer hikes with scenic viewpoints and heritage sites.
Airports
How to reach Orly by plane.
A major international gateway just south of the city; quick transport links to Orly town and central Paris via RER or tram.
France’s largest airport located northeast of Paris; a hub for international flights with easy train connections to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix of families, professionals, and international residents due to proximity to Paris; multilingual communities are common.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in France with local clubs and public viewing in bars during major tournaments.
Public courts and clubs around Paris offer clay and hard-surface play; seasonal leagues and social tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Orly.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Parisian bistros and markets; look for ratatouille, salads, and cheese boards, and don’t hesitate to ask for meat-free preparations.