Overview
Chartres is a beautiful medieval town in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France, famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral and well-preserved old town. It offers a rich historical experience with its timber-framed houses, museums, and charming streets.
Chartres Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Gothic cathedrals in France, known for its impressive stained glass windows and architectural details.
Location
Address
Chartres, Centre-Val de Loire
Neighborhood: City Center
Coordinates
48.450000, 1.483300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better light for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
- • spring flowers
- • gardens in bloom
summer
- • outdoor concerts
- • extended hours
autumn
- • fall foliage
- • harvest markets
winter
- • holiday lights
- • Christmas markets
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Check cathedral dress code
- Visit on a weekday
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (lots of walking)
- • uneven surfaces in old town
Medical facilities: first aid available at tourist office
Payment Information
Accepted
credit cards, cash (Euros)
Currency
Euros
Typical Costs
Dress Code
modest clothing for cathedral (shoulders and knees covered), comfortable walking shoes, flat, comfortable shoes, shorts, sleeveless tops in cathedral
Booking Tips
- • at least 1 week for peak season
- • official website or authorized vendors
- • 48 hours in advance for full refund
- • available for cathedral
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Chartres Tourisme
Size: 35 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Event calendar, Tickets
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes, Public squares
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafes
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Paris Orly Airport (ORY)
Distance: 80 km
Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
From City Center
Distance: within the city
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich history, beautiful architecture, vibrant local culture
Historical Significance: Chartres Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and has been a pilgrimage site for centuries
Insider Tips
- Best croissants are at Boulangerie Pâtisserie Bourgoin
- Free entry to cathedral before 9 AM
- Best views from the cathedral towers
Local Recommendations
- • Try local specialty 'Pâté de Chartres'
- • Visit the Saturday market for fresh produce
- • Explore the nearby countryside
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: French, English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Chartres Cathedral facade
Best Time: Golden hour (sunset)
Tips: Wide-angle shots
Result: Stunning Gothic architecture
Old Town streets
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Capture cobblestone streets and timber-framed houses
Result: Charming medieval atmosphere
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Chartres Museum of Fine Arts
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Museum
Chartres Gardens
Distance: 500m
Walking: 8 min
Type: Park
Museum of the Good Grains
Distance: 400m
Walking: 6 min
Type: Museum
Eure Valley
Distance: 15 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Nature
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit the towers for panoramic views"
- "Don't miss the stained glass windows"
- "Try local pastries"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
9
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
Free (cathedral), €10-€15 (towers, crypt, museums)