Unusual track game on Christmas markets in Orleans

Traveling through Orleans during the holiday season often means wandering among twinkling lights, festive stalls, and the aroma of baked goods. This unusual Christmas market activity offers a fresh twist—combining a scavenger hunt with playful challenges, all set against the enchanting backdrop of the Loire Valley. While it’s not your typical sightseeing tour, it’s a clever way to add some laughter and surprises to your holiday break.

What makes this activity stand out? First, it’s interactive, turning a simple walk through the market into a game of discovery. Second, it’s flexible—you play when you want, with no fixed schedule. Third, you’ll get to capture moments on your smartphone, creating tangible memories. Of course, a potential downside is that some of the questions aren’t directly related to Orleans itself, which might feel a bit disconnected for history buffs. But if you’re after a lighthearted, family-friendly activity, this could be a real treat. It’s especially suited for groups seeking a playful, unconventional holiday experience that encourages laughter and teamwork.

Good To Know

• Interactive Christmas activity: Turn exploring Orleans’ markets into a fun treasure hunt.
• Flexible timing: Play whenever it suits your schedule within the Christmas period.
• Photo and video memories: Capture the fun directly on your smartphone.
• Group-friendly: Ideal for families, friends, or colleagues.
• Cost-effective: Under $50 for a two-hour adventure, perfect for small groups.
• No physical guide needed: Use your device and the provided app for an autonomous experience.

What to Expect From the Christmas Market Treasure Hunt in Orleans

This activity combines a mobile-based game with the vibrant setting of Orleans’ festive markets. Once booked, you receive a link to download the app along with a unique game code for your group. The game is designed to last around two hours, during which you’ll be free to explore at your own pace, completing missions as you go. The activity begins at Place du Martroi, a central spot brimming with Christmas cheer, and wraps up back there too.

The Core of the Experience: Missions and Challenges

Your main task is to score as many points as possible by completing themed challenges related to Christmas traditions, both in France and around the world. These tasks include answering multiple-choice questions, finding specific Christmas figurines (santon) at market stalls, or snapping photos of the “worst gift you could give.” Other challenges involve recording your New Year’s resolutions or singing altered Christmas carols under the big tree—tasks designed to spark giggles and good-natured competition.

One reviewer highlighted that the game’s questions are somewhat disconnected from Orleans itself, focusing more broadly on Christmas and its customs worldwide. While some found this “uninteresting,” others appreciated the global perspective, which added an educational twist. This diversity of questions keeps the activity lively but might leave city historians wanting more local lore.

The Benefits of a Self-Guided Urban Treasure Hunt

Playing at your own pace means you can linger over stalls, take photos, or skip missions if you’re pressed for time. The app’s design makes it straightforward to follow, and since the instructions and game scenario are sent in advance, there’s no confusion about what to do or where to go.

The Social Side: Fun with Friends or Family

Reviewers consistently mention how much they enjoyed sharing this activity with friends. One said, “Great unusual track game!! Very funny and nice with friends. An original discovery of Christmas markets, I recommend.” The game encourages lighthearted interaction, making it perfect for groups who want to laugh and bond amid the festive stalls.

Practical Considerations: Cost, Duration, and Accessibility

At $45.38 per group (up to 6 people), it’s an affordable outing that offers good value, especially considering the two-hour duration. You won’t need a guide or transport—just your smartphone and enthusiasm. The activity is suitable for most travelers, with reviews noting that service animals are allowed and the activity is accessible near public transportation.

How the Tour Plays Out

The adventure kicks off with clear instructions sent straight to your email. Once you arrive at Place du Martroi, you’ll scan your code and begin your personalized treasure hunt. The missions are spread across the illuminated streets and market stalls, making use of Orleans’ lively holiday atmosphere. The challenges are varied: some require quick thinking, others a bit of creativity.

While the challenge of avoiding questions not directly tied to Orleans can be a slight drawback, the activity’s overall charm lies in its interactive nature. You get to enjoy the sights while engaging in playful tasks, which can be a refreshing change from typical sightseeing.

What Reviewers Say About the Experience

• One commented, “The questions are not related to the city visited,” but recognized the activity’s fun element and appreciated the holiday spirit.
• Another reviewer called it “a beautiful activity with friends” and recommended it as a fun way to explore Orleans’ Christmas markets.
• A third summed it up as “a great experience, discoveries, fun”, emphasizing how much they enjoyed the mix of exploration and entertainment.

The End of the Journey

The game concludes back at Place du Martroi, where you can compare scores and share laughs about the most amusing challenges. The simplicity of the setup—just your smartphone and some cheerful company—makes it ideal for a casual, memorable outing.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This treasure hunt is best suited for small groups looking for a light, engaging activity that combines exploration and humor. It’s perfect for families with kids, friends on holiday, or colleagues seeking a convivial break from traditional tours. If you enjoy interactive, playful challenges and don’t mind some questions outside of the historical depth, it’s a fantastic way to add a different flavor to your Christmas market visit.

It’s also a good pick if you’re curious about Christmas traditions globally, as some questions and challenges tap into customs beyond France. However, if local history or detailed Orleans lore is your priority, this activity might feel a bit superficial.

Final Thoughts

This mobile treasure hunt on Orleans’ Christmas markets offers a fun, flexible, and affordable way to enjoy the holiday festivities. Its main strength lies in transforming a simple walk through the market into an engaging game filled with surprises, photos, and good humor. The activity’s design encourages social interaction, making it a memorable experience whether you’re with friends, family, or colleagues.

While some questions may seem disconnected from Orleans itself, the overall vibe is cheerful and lively, perfectly suited for those who want to inject some playful energy into their holiday traditions. The price point is reasonable for a two-hour activity that leaves you with plenty of photos and stories to share.

If you’re after an unconventional, interactive way to experience Orleans’ Christmas markets, this treasure hunt could be a delightful choice. Just bring your smartphones, wear your holiday spirit, and prepare for some laughs along the way.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, the challenges are generally light-hearted and fun, making it suitable for families with children who enjoy a game.

Do I need a guide or transport?
No, everything is self-guided. You only need your smartphone and the app provided in your instructions.

Can I play at any time during the Christmas period?
Yes, you are free to choose any day and time that works for you within the activity’s availability.

What do I receive after booking?
You get a link to download the app, instructions for your team, and a unique game code.

How long does the activity last?
It’s designed to last approximately two hours, but you can adjust your pace.

Is the activity accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point at Place du Martroi is near public transit options.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, they are permitted during the activity.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the app download, instructions, the game scenario, and a unique code per team.

What’s not included?
You need a smartphone with network access; the activity does not provide a physical guide.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This quirky Christmas treasure hunt in Orleans offers a playful way to enjoy the city’s festive atmosphere, perfect for groups wanting a memorable holiday adventure.