9 Best things to do in Chartres, France, in 1 day or more

Introduction

Chartres is a charming small town of around 38,000 residents, located just an hour from Paris. It’s the perfect stop on a French road trip or an easy day trip if you have extra time in the capital.

The historic city center is a delight to explore, with cobbled streets, timber-framed houses, and peaceful paths along the Eure River—ideal for a scenic walk.

Chartres is world-renowned for its magnificent cathedral, mostly built between 1193 and 1250. A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, it’s remarkably well-preserved and especially famous for its stunning stained-glass windows, most of which are the originals.

Getting there

Getting to Chartres is quick and easy, especially if you’re coming from Paris. The most convenient option is taking a direct train from Gare Montparnasse in Paris, which will get you to Chartres in just about an hour. Trains run frequently throughout the day, making it an ideal day trip.

If you’re traveling by car, Chartres is located roughly 90 km southwest of Paris. The drive takes around 1.5 hours via the A10 and A11 highways, and parking is available near the old town.

You can also reach Chartres by bus, but it’s generally slower and less convenient than the train

Check all your transportation options online — from buses to trains and ferries — it makes planning so much easier.

Moving Around

Chartres is a very walkable city, especially the charming old town and riverside areas. Most of the main sights—including the cathedral, the old town, and the banks of the Eure River—are within easy walking distance of each other.

If you’re staying longer or prefer a more relaxed pace, you can also rent a bike to explore the surroundings. The Filibus public transport system covers the wider area, but you likely won’t need it if you’re sticking to the historic center.

For an added touch of magic, don’t miss the Chartres en Lumières light show in the evening—it’s best enjoyed on foot as the whole town turns into an open-air art gallery.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

When to Visit

Chartres is a year-round destination, but the experience varies depending on the season. Whether you’re after mild weather, blooming landscapes, or festive evenings, each season brings something unique to this charming town.

• Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to visit Chartres. The city wakes up with blossoms, and the weather is mild, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). It’s also the beginning of Chartres en Lumières, the famous nightly light show that runs from April to October.
• Summer (June to August): Summer is warm and lively, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It’s peak tourist season, but Chartres never feels overwhelmingly crowded. Outdoor cafés, music festivals, and longer daylight hours make this a great time to explore the old town and stroll along the Eure River.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings cooler weather, around 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), and a golden hue to the city’s medieval streets. It’s quieter, and the light show continues until the end of October, making early fall a peaceful yet scenic time to visit.
• Winter (December to February): Winter is the quietest season, with temperatures from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). While it can be chilly, the cathedral and old town still have their charm—especially if you’re looking for a more tranquil, crowd-free experience.

Our tip: Plan your visit between April and October to experience Chartres en Lumières and enjoy the city at its most vibrant. Spring and early autumn offer the perfect balance of good weather and fewer crowds.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

Whether you’re planning a quick stopover or a romantic weekend getaway, Chartres has some great accommodation options for every budget. We recommend booking through Booking.com for the best deals and flexibility.

(€) Airbnb – Chambre privée 1, maison jardin, vue cathédrale: This is where we stayed, and honestly, it was one of our most memorable Airbnb experiences. The room is cozy, the garden is lovely, and the view of the cathedral from the house is just magical. On top of that, we had the chance to meet an incredible local host who shared stories about the city and made our stay feel special.

(€€) Residhome Chartres: A great mid-range option with modern, apartment-style rooms that are ideal if you want a bit more space and comfort. It’s located a short walk from the old town and the train station, making it super convenient for both exploring and arriving.

(€€€) Mercure Chartres Cathédrale: If you’re looking for a more luxurious stay right in the heart of Chartres, this is it. The rooms are elegant and comfortable, and some even offer direct views of the cathedral. Perfect for a special occasion or just to treat yourself.

Here are all your accommodation options in Chartres

What to Eat

Chartres may be small, but it has some truly unique local flavors you shouldn’t miss. Whether you’re wandering the old town or sitting down at a local café, here are a few regional specialties to try during your visit:

• Mentchikoff: A sweet local treat, this delicate confection has a chocolate center coated in a thin shell of Swiss meringue. It’s as light as it is rich—perfect with a coffee break in the old town.
• Pâté de Chartres: For a true taste of local tradition, try this savory game pie. Typically made with wild meats like venison or pheasant, it’s wrapped in a buttery crust and often served during festive occasions.
• L’Eurélienne: This craft beer is brewed just outside Chartres and was awarded the title of “Beer of the Year 2000.” Made in Eure-et-Loir, it’s a must-try for beer lovers looking to taste something local.
• La Baguette Rétrodor: A true staple of the region, this baguette is made from additive-free flour sourced from the finest Beauce wheat. It’s crusty, golden, and the perfect companion to local cheeses or a picnic by the Eure River.
• Chartres Honey: If you’re looking to bring something home, grab a jar of local honey. Produced in the nearby countryside, it captures the floral essence of the region and makes for a sweet souvenir.

From sweet to savory, Chartres offers a delicious taste of regional France—so make sure to explore its bakeries, markets, and traditional restaurants.

Tip: We never travel without our DJI Mini 3 PRO drone anymore — it’s totally worth having to capture places from a whole new perspective.

Things to do in Chartres

Discover the Château de Maintenon and Its Majestic Aqueduct

Just 20 minutes from Chartres by car or train, the Château de Maintenon is a hidden gem that combines elegance, history, and architectural wonder. Over the centuries, this splendid castle has evolved from a fortified medieval stronghold into a refined aristocratic residence, full of charm and character.

One of its most striking features is the grand aqueduct built by Vauban in the 17th century, originally designed to supply water to the fountains of Versailles. While it was never completed, its impressive arches rising above the gardens create a truly unforgettable sight.

Here are all your accommodation options in Chartres

Explore the Majestic Chartres Cathedral

Chartres Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Chartres, is one of the most remarkable Gothic landmarks in France. This Roman Catholic cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of Chartres and has stood as a symbol of devotion and architectural brilliance for centuries.

Built mostly between 1194 and 1220, the cathedral rises on a site that has hosted no fewer than five churches since the 4th century. Its unique blend of High Gothic and Romanesque styles, combined with an exceptional state of preservation, makes it truly awe-inspiring.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral is hailed as “the high point of French Gothic art” and a “masterpiece.” From its soaring spires to its breathtaking stained-glass windows—many of which are original—Chartres Cathedral is an unmissable highlight of any trip to the region.

Visit the Jardins de l’Évêché

Take a relaxing stroll through the Jardins de l’Évêché, the charming little garden just behind Chartres Cathedral. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful break, offering sweeping views over the rooftops of the old town and the surrounding countryside. Whether you want to sit in the shade, admire the landscape, or snap a few photos, this tranquil garden provides a lovely pause during your exploration of the city.

Stop by the Marché aux Légumes & Wednesday Organic Market

Located in the heart of the old town, the Marché aux Légumes is a historic square that comes to life on market days. While it’s not open every day, it’s the perfect place to start your stroll through Chartres’ medieval streets.

On Wednesday evenings, don’t miss the small organic market where you’ll find local produce, artisanal products, and a cozy, authentic atmosphere. Whether or not the market is in session, the area remains a lively and charming spot to explore.

Discover the Ruins of Porte Guillaume and Walk Along the Eure

Although the historic Porte Guillaume was destroyed and its reconstruction is still pending, the site remains an atmospheric place worth visiting. Once one of the main gates into the city, it now stands as a reminder of Chartres’ medieval past.

From here, you can begin a peaceful riverside walk along the Eure, a lovely way to soak in the natural beauty of the area and admire charming houses that line the riverbank. It’s a great starting point for exploring the quieter, more scenic side of Chartres.

Here are all your accommodation options in Chartres

Visit the Saint-Pierre Church, a Hidden Gem of Chartres

Classified as a historical monument since 1840, the Saint-Pierre Church was once part of the Saint-Père-en-Vallée abbey, with origins dating back to the 7th century. It became a parish church in 1803 and has been a quiet witness to centuries of local history. With its Gothic architecture, beautiful stained-glass windows, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s a must-see spot just outside the bustling city center.

And let’s be honest—visiting churches in France is almost a travel activity on its own. Each one seems more magnificent than the last, and Saint-Pierre is no exception.

Experience the Magic of Chartres en Lumières

One of the most iconic things to do in Chartres—if Covid-19 restrictions allow—is to explore Chartres en Lumières, a spectacular light show that transforms the city. From April to December, over 20 monuments and sites across the city center are illuminated every evening with creative and colorful light projections.

Walk around at your own pace after dark and watch Chartres come alive—from the Cathedral to bridges, museums, and hidden corners. It’s a magical experience that makes this already charming town feel even more special.

Visit La Maison Picassiette

Step into one of Chartres’ most unique and artistic places—La Maison Picassiette. This extraordinary house is a masterpiece of naïve architecture, entirely decorated with colorful mosaics made from broken ceramics, glass, and cement.

Created by Raymond Isidore, a humble municipal worker who once swept the city’s cemetery, the house reflects years of personal dedication and vision. Known as “Picassiette” (literally “plate stealer”), Isidore spent decades transforming his modest home into a dazzling mosaic-covered work of art—inside and out.

A visit here is not only visually stunning, but also deeply inspiring. It’s a reminder of how passion and creativity can turn even the simplest life into something unforgettable.

Here are all your accommodation options in Chartres

Discover the Bel-Air Trompe-l’Oeil Frescoes

Head to the Bel-Air district in the north of Chartres to admire an open-air art gallery like no other. Spread across 4,000 m² of building facades, the Bel-Air trompe-l’œil frescoes are an impressive visual journey through the region’s heritage and culture.

Created by the artists of Cité-Création, the 16 massive panels are painted in stunning detail, each one illustrating one of four central themes: the history of Chartres, its agricultural roots in the Beauce region, its technological evolution, and its local traditions.

Wandering through this neighborhood feels like flipping through the illustrated pages of a living storybook. It’s a fantastic way to experience a different side of Chartres—creative, modern, and deeply proud of its identity.

Itinerary

To fully enjoy Chartres, you’ll want to set aside a full day. From grand castles to glowing cathedrals, this small town has an incredible amount to offer in just 24 hours.

Morning:

• Château de Maintenon: Start your day with a visit to this stunning Renaissance castle just 20 minutes from Chartres. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and a striking aqueduct, it’s the perfect way to dive into the region’s history.
• Les Fresques de Bel Air: On your way back to the city, stop by the Bel Air district to admire the 4,000 m² of trompe-l’œil frescoes. These giant murals tell the story of Chartres and the Beauce region in a truly original way.

Afternoon:

• Chartres Cathedral: One of the best-preserved Gothic cathedrals in France, with breathtaking stained-glass windows and UNESCO World Heritage status.
• Jardins de l’Évêché: Just outside the cathedral, take a break in these peaceful gardens with sweeping views over the lower town.
• Marché aux Légumes + Organic Market (Wednesday evenings): Walk through the heart of the old town and soak in the local atmosphere. Even if the market isn’t open, the square is a charming place to explore.
• Porte Guillaume: Although the historic gate was destroyed, the area along the Eure River is perfect for a scenic stroll.
• Église Saint-Pierre: Visit this lesser-known gem, a Gothic-Romanesque church with origins dating back to the 7th century.
• Maison Picassiette: End your daytime sightseeing with a visit to this one-of-a-kind mosaic-covered house, entirely created by Raymond Isidore using broken ceramics and glass.

Evening:

• Chartres en Lumières: After sunset, follow the illuminated trail that lights up more than 20 landmarks across the city. From April to December, this magical light show transforms Chartres into a living work of art.

Here are all your accommodation options in Chartres