Attractions and Places To See around Chartres - Top 20

Beyond the iconic Chartres Cathedral, the city's rich history is evident in its medieval streets. Wander through the Vieux Quartier (Old Town) with its charming squares and half-timbered houses, particularly along Rue Chantault and Rue du Bourg. Other notable historical churches include Église Saint-Pierre de Chartres, Église Saint-Aignan, and Collégiale St-André. Don't miss the 16th-century Clock Gate (Porte d'Horloge) or the 13th-century Maison Canoniale.

Chartres is renowned as the capital of stained glass. While the Chartres Cathedral itself is a primary example with its remarkably preserved windows, you can delve deeper into the art form at the Centre International du Vitrail (International Stained Glass Center). Housed in medieval cellars, it offers insights into the history, techniques, and magnificent works of stained glass.

Yes, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Chartres (Museum of Fine Arts) is located in the former Bishop's Palace. It features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts spanning from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, including works by French masters and religious art.

For a truly unique experience, visit Maison Picassiette. This extraordinary example of outsider art features a house and garden entirely covered in intricate mosaics made from millions of pieces of broken crockery, glass, and pottery by local resident Raymond Isidore. It's considered the second most visited attraction after the cathedral.

The picturesque River Eure winds through Chartres, offering peaceful walking paths along its banks. You can discover historic mills, charming bridges, and ancient washhouses. The Les Jardins de l'Évêché (Bishop's Gardens/Park), located behind the cathedral, also provide lovely green spaces and views of the town.

Yes, Chartres offers several family-friendly options. The L'Odyssée aquatic complex and ice rink is France's largest aquatic complex, featuring various pools and slides, alongside an ice rink. Many historical sites, including the Chartres Cathedral and the Vieux Quartier, are also suitable for families to explore. The River Eure paths are great for leisurely strolls.

The area around Chartres offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, gravel biking, and hiking. For example, there are moderate MTB trails like 'The finish line in Chartres – Saint-Piat Mill loop' and 'Saint-Piat Mill – Old aqueduct loop'. Hiking options include 'Trajan's Column loop' and 'Château de Méréville loop'. You can explore more routes on the MTB Trails around Chartres, Waterfall hikes around Chartres, and Gravel biking around Chartres guide pages.

From April to November, Chartres hosts Chartres en Lumières, a spectacular sound-and-light event that illuminates the city's landmarks, most notably the cathedral facade, with vibrant projections. This period offers a unique way to experience the city's architecture.

Yes, the city has several historical structures related to water. The Moulin et Pont Saint-Père is a historical watermill and bridge, classified as a historical monument, showcasing early engineering skills. The Saint-Piat Mill is another significant water-powered structure along the river.

Visitors frequently praise Chartres for its rich history and stunning architecture, particularly the cathedral's grandeur and its stained glass. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the medieval streets and the scenic walks along the River Eure. The city's ability to preserve its past while offering a pleasant, human-scale experience is often highlighted.

Yes, you can visit the Vieux Quartier for its charming atmosphere and the Vegetable Market, which is a historical square and a great place to experience local life and find fresh produce.

Approximately 20 km north of Chartres, you can visit Château de Maintenon. This historic château, which began as a medieval fortress, was later transformed into an opulent residence and is notably associated with Madame de Maintenon, King Louis XIV's secret wife. Its gardens are also illuminated during the summer.