Chartres

A medieval city dominated by the spectacular Gothic Chartres Cathedral, famous for its intricate stained glass windows and architectural mastery. The cathedral is one of the finest examples of French Gothic design and a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws pilgrims and architecture enthusiasts worldwide.

Things to do

• Chartres Cathedral — Explore the 12th-century Gothic masterpiece renowned for its 176 stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes and the famous blue glass known as 'Chartres blue.'
• Cathedral Crypt Tour — Descend into the largest crypt in France beneath the cathedral to see Romanesque architecture, ancient chapels, and the Well of the Saints.
• Old Town Medieval Streets — Wander the narrow cobblestone streets of Vieux Chartres lined with half-timbered houses, antique shops, and art galleries in the historic quarter.
• Musée des Beaux-Arts — Visit this fine arts museum housed in the former bishop's palace to see medieval tapestries, Renaissance paintings, and artifacts related to the cathedral.
• Chartres Cathedral Labyrinth Walk — Walk the medieval labyrinth pattern inlaid on the cathedral floor, a spiritual pilgrimage path that reflects medieval Christian symbolism.
• Pont de Mainvilliers — Cross this picturesque footbridge over the Eure River for scenic views of the cathedral and charming riverside mills and gardens.
• Maison Picassiette — Tour this whimsical folk art house decorated entirely with colorful ceramic mosaics and reclaimed tiles, a unique outsider art masterpiece.

Food to try

• Pâté de Chartres — A traditional pâté made with pork, liver, and local spices wrapped in pastry, a regional specialty that has been produced in Chartres since the Middle Ages.
• Mentchikoff Cake — A layered sponge cake with chocolate, almond cream, and fondant icing that is the signature sweet treat of Chartres, sold in local patisseries.
• Crêpes with Local Cider — Enjoy thin crêpes filled with ham, cheese, or Nutella paired with authentic dry cider from the Île-de-France region at traditional crêperies.
• Terrine de Chartres — A rich meat terrine combining pork, game, and offal with brandy, representing the hearty peasant cooking tradition of the Beauce region.
• Market Fresh Produce at Marché Marchand — Visit the lively covered market in the old town to sample local cheese, mushrooms, and seasonal vegetables from Beauce farmers.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly for the cathedral — While not strictly enforced, visitors should wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees as the cathedral remains an active place of worship and pilgrimage.
• Cathedral entry fees apply — Access to the cathedral interior requires a small donation or entry fee, with separate charges for the tower and crypt tours.
• Attend a pilgrimage — Chartres is a major pilgrimage destination; visiting during Easter, Whitsunday, or summer pilgrimage seasons offers authentic spiritual atmosphere and larger crowds.
• Explore on foot — The medieval city center is compact and best experienced by walking; most major sites and restaurants are within a 15-minute walk of the cathedral.