Chartres

Chartres

Chartreslocated in the Centre-Val de LoireThe city of St. Moritz is rich in history and heritage. Known primarily for its majestic cathedral, it also offers a variety of tourist attractions and a charming surrounding region. In this article, we take a closer look at ChartresWe'll show you our main attractions, as well as the hidden treasures of the surrounding area.​

Description of the municipality of Chartres

Chartres is the capital of the department d'Eure-et-Loir and has a population of around 38,000. The town lies on a rocky promontory overlooking the River Eure, offering picturesque panoramas. Its historic center is a maze of cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and lively squares, reflecting a rich medieval history. The districts of the upper town, around the cathedral, and the lower town, along the Eure, form a remarkable architectural ensemble. ​

Notre-Dame de Chartres Cathedral

An emblematic symbol of the city, the Notre-Dame de Chartres Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is renowned for its exceptional stained glass windows, including the famous "Chartres blue", and its detailed sculptures. Built mainly in the XIIIᵉ century, the cathedral has stood the test of time, retaining much of its architectural integrity. Its two asymmetrical spires dominate the city and can be seen for miles around. ​

Sights in and around Chartres

In addition to the cathedral, Chartres and the surrounding area are brimming with places of interest:

  • The old town : Stroll through the medieval streets and discover the Place de la Poissonnerie, with its Maison du Saumon and Maison de la Truie qui File, examples of half-timbered architecture. ​

  • The Fine Arts Museum : Housed in the former episcopal palace, it boasts a rich collection of paintings, sculptures and objets d'art. ​

  • The Picassiette house : A singular work of art, this house is entirely decorated with mosaics made from broken crockery and glass. ​

  • The International Stained Glass Center : Located in the Loëns enclosure, it showcases the art of stained glass through exhibitions and workshops. ​

  • Maintenon castle : Twenty kilometers from Chartres, this château combines Renaissance architecture with French gardens.​

The region around Chartres

The Chartraine region, in the heart of the Beauce region, offers landscapes of cereal plains as far as the eye can see. This "breadbasket" of France is dotted with picturesque villages, Romanesque churches and mills. Nature lovers can enjoy walks along the Eure or in the surrounding forests. What's more, our proximity to the Loire Valley makes it easy to visit the region's famous châteaux.

The towns and villages around Chartreslocated in Eure-et-LoirThey offer a rich cultural and natural heritage. Here is a selection of the main towns nearby:

1. Maintenon (20 km away)

  • Maintenon Castle Former home of Madame de Maintenon, secret wife of Louis XIV.
  • Maintenon aqueduct Vestige of Vauban's unfinished project to supply Versailles with water.

2. Illiers-Combray (25 km away)

  • Land of Marcel Proust Illiers-Combray inspired "Combray" in In search of lost time.
  • Tante Léonie's house Museum dedicated to the writer.

3. Nogent-le-Rotrou (50 km away)

  • Château Saint-Jean Medieval fortress overlooking the town.
  • Perche Regional Nature Park Ideal for hiking and biking.

4. Dreux (35 km away)

  • Chapelle Royale Saint-Louis Orléans family necropolis.
  • Dreux Museum of Art and History Presenting historical and artistic collections.

5. Bonneval (30 km away)**

  • "Little Venice of Beauce A city criss-crossed by canals, with boat trips.
  • Saint-Jacques Church Remarkable religious heritage.

6. Châteaudun (45 km away)**

  • Châteaudun Castle One of the first Loire Valley châteaux, combining medieval and Renaissance styles.
  • Grotte du Foulon Fascinating geological site with marine concretions and fossils.

7. Auneau-Bleury-Saint-Symphorien (30 km away)

  • Château d'Auneau Former medieval fortress surrounded by beautiful parkland.
  • Farmers' market : Local products from the Beauceronne region.

8. Brou (35 km away)

  • Saint-Lubin Church Remarkable Gothic architecture.
  • Parc de loisirs du Perche Ideal for family activities.

9. Cloyes-les-Trois-Rivières (50 km away)

  • Base de loisirs de Cloyes Water sports activities and lakeside beach.
  • Saint-Georges Church XIIᵉ century religious building.

What to do in Chartres The best things to do and see

Chartresa regional city of art and history Centre-Val de Loireis famous for its majestic Notre-Dame CathedralBut it offers much more to its visitors. Whether you're ahistory, d'architectureof gastronomy or open-air walksHere are the best things to do in Chartres.

1. Visit Chartres Cathedral

Listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sitethe Notre-Dame de Chartres Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its incredible collection of stained glasshis labyrinth and its carved statues make it a must-see. Don't miss the climb to the tower for a panoramic view of the city.

Tip : Attend a show by Chartres en Lumières in the evening to see the cathedral illuminated!

2. Stroll through the old town

The historic center of Chartres is a real journey back in time with its cobbled streetsits half-timbered houses and its charming plazas. Stroll along the place Billarddiscover the Salmon House and admire the bridges spanning theEure.

Points of interest :

  • Visit place de la Poissonnerie
  • The banks of theEure with their old washhouses
  • Visit local markets to taste regional products

3. Discover the Maison Picassiette in Chartres

A place unique and unusual ! Visit Picassiette House is a work of art in itself, entirely decorated with mosaics made from pieces of crockery, glass and ceramics. A not-to-be-missed site for lovers ofart brut.

4. Explore the Centre International du Vitrail

Passionate aboutstained glass art ? Chartres, nicknamed the "capital of stained glass", boasts a international center dedicated to this ancestral art. Here you can discover exhibitions and even take part in workshops to learn the techniques of master glassmakers.

5. Enjoy a stroll along the Eure river

For a moment of relaxationborrow them towpaths on the banks of the Eure. On foot or by bike, it's an excellent way to discover the region. Chartres autrementin the heart of nature.

Good plan : Rent a pedal boat or canoe for an even more original experience on the water!

6. Admire Chartres en Lumières

Every evening from April to October, the city lights up with Chartres en Lumières. More 20 monuments are enhanced by lighting effects and projections. A fairytale show not to be missed!

Illuminated monuments :

  • Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral
  • L'Saint-Pierre church
  • Visit Chartres theater
  • The bridges and banks of theEure

7. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Chartres

Housed in the former bishop's palace, this museum exhibits paintings, sculptures and objets d'art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Among them are works by Chardin, Zurbarán and Vlaminck.

8. Taste local specialities

Visit Chartres gastronomy is well worth the detour! Here are a few specialities not to be missed:

  • Visit Chartres pâtéa pie of game emblematic
  • Visit Mentchikoffa confection made from chocolate and meringue
  • Visit local craft beer
  • Visit local cheeses

Where to eat? Try the Bistrot Racines or The Great MonarchThese are some of the best-known places to enjoy local dishes.

What to do in Chartres the vegetable market
What to do in Chartres the vegetable market

9. Take a trip to the surrounding area

If you have time, take the opportunity to discover around Chartres :

  • Maintenon castle  (20 km away): former residence of Madame de Maintenon, with magnificent formal gardens.
  • Illiers-Combray  (30 km away): the village that inspired Marcel Proust to write his famous novel In search of lost time.
  • The Perche Regional Nature Park  ideal for a getaway nature and discover percheron manors.

Frequently Asked Questions Chartres

What are Chartres' culinary specialities?

Chartres is famous for its specialties such as pâté de Chartres, a pie filled with game meats, and Mentchikoff, a confection made from chocolate and meringue.​

When is the best time to visit Chartres?

Spring and summer are ideal to visit Chartres, in particular because of the "Chartres en Lumières" event, which illuminates the city's monuments from April to September.​

How do I get to Chartres from Paris?

Chartres can be reached by train from Paris-Montparnasse station in around an hour. By car, take the A11 freeway.​

What are the major cultural events in Chartres?

Notable events include the International Organ Festival, the Fête des Vendanges and the Artisanales de Chartres. ​

Are there guided tours of Chartres Cathedral?

Yes, guided tours are available to discover the cathedral's history and secrets.​

What accommodation do we recommend in Chartres?

Chartres offers a wide range of accommodation, from charming hotels to bed & breakfasts. The Grand Monarque is a renowned local institution.

Can we visit the Picassiette house?

Yes, the Picassiette house is open to the public and is an unusual visit not to be missed.​

What restaurants are not to be missed in Chartres?

Bistrot Racines, at the foot of the cathedral, is renowned for its tasty cuisine and extensive wine list. ​

How bike-friendly is the city?

Chartres is gradually developing its infrastructure for cyclists, with cycle lanes and dedicated routes.​

EN
FR DE EN