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Chartres travel guide
Where to stay in Chartres
Chartres is a city located in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France, known for its stunning cathedral and old town. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Chartres for an unforgettable experience.
Old Town
Stay in the heart of Chartres' old town, where you can admire the charming half-timbered houses and winding cobbled streets. This area is perfect for those who want to be close to the city's major attractions, including the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Maison Picassiette.
Saint-Pierre
Located just south of the old town, Saint-Pierre is a quiet neighbourhood with a mix of residential and commercial properties. It is an excellent option for those who want to stay in a peaceful area while still being within walking distance of the city centre. You will find some great local restaurants and cafes here.
La Madeleine
Located to the west of the old town, La Madeleine is a residential neighbourhood that offers a more relaxed pace of life. Here you can find a mix of apartments and houses, making it a great option for families or groups of friends traveling together. It's also close to the train station, so it's easy to get around the city and explore the surrounding area.
La Cathédrale
Stay near the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres, one of the most famous landmarks in France. This area is perfect for those who want to be close to the city's major attractions while still enjoying a peaceful stay. You can find some great accommodation options here, including hotels and apartments with stunning views of the cathedral.
Centre Commercial Barjouville
Located to the north of Chartres, Centre Commercial Barjouville is a commercial area with several shopping malls, restaurants and cafes. It's a great option for those who want to stay in a modern area with easy access to amenities. You can find some great hotels and apartments here that offer excellent value for money.
Fun facts about Chartres
Chartres is a charming city located in France's Centre-Val de Loire region, with a rich history and many interesting facts. Here are some fun facts about Chartres that you may not know:
Chartres Cathedral is one of the best-preserved Gothic cathedrals in Europe
The Chartres Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It was constructed between 1194 and 1250 and is famous for its stained glass windows and sculptures. The cathedral is also home to the Sancta Camisa, a tunic believed to have been worn by the Virgin Mary during the birth of Jesus.
Chartres is known for its annual Festival of Lights
Every year in late April, Chartres hosts its Festival of Lights, where the city is illuminated by thousands of candles, lamps, and lanterns. The festival celebrates the return of spring and the awakening of nature, and visitors can enjoy concerts, street performances, and other cultural events.
Chartres is famous for its blue cheese
The town of Chartres is known for its blue cheese, which is made from cow's milk and is aged for several weeks. The cheese has a distinctive blue mold and a rich, creamy texture. It is often served with bread and wine and is a popular souvenir for visitors to the city.
The city has a rich literary history
Chartres has been home to many famous writers over the years, including Victor Hugo, who wrote Les Miserables, and Marcel Proust, who wrote In Search of Lost Time. The city has a rich literary tradition and is home to many bookstores and libraries.
Chartres was an important pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages
Chartres was an important pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages, and many people traveled to the city to see the Sancta Camisa and other relics. The city was also an important center of trade and commerce and was known for its fairs and markets.
Discovering hidden gems in Chartres
Chartres is a charming town in central France, known for its stunning cathedral. However, the town has more to offer than just this iconic landmark. Here are some hidden gems in Chartres that will make your trip unforgettable.
Exploring the Old Town
The old town of Chartres is filled with narrow streets, quaint houses, and lovely gardens. Take a stroll and admire the beautiful architecture, or sit down at a local cafe for a coffee and people-watching.
Visit the Maison Picassiette
This unique house is a must-see for art lovers. It is covered in mosaics made from broken ceramics, glass, and other materials. The result is a dazzling display of colors and patterns that will leave you in awe.
The International Stained Glass Centre
Chartres is famous for its stained glass, and this center is the perfect place to learn about the history and techniques behind this art form. You can also see some stunning examples of contemporary stained glass.
The Lower Town
The lower town of Chartres is often overlooked by tourists, but it has a lot to offer. Take a walk along the Eure River, or visit the local market to sample some delicious French produce.
The Museum of Fine Arts
This museum is housed in a beautiful 18th-century building and has a collection of over 12,000 works of art. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary paintings, there is something for everyone here.
Family-friendly activities in Chartres
Chartres is a charming town with a rich history and plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained. Here are some of the best family-friendly activities to do in Chartres.
Explore the Chartres Cathedral
Visiting the Chartres Cathedral is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Chartres. This impressive cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. Kids will be amazed by the stunning stained glass windows and the intricate details of the sculptures.
Visit the Maison Picassiette
The Maison Picassiette is a unique and whimsical house that is covered in mosaics made of broken glass and pottery. Kids will love exploring this colorful and quirky house and seeing all the different designs and patterns.
Take a Walk Along the Eure River
The Eure River runs through the center of Chartres and is a lovely place to take a stroll with the family. There are several parks along the river where you can have a picnic or play some games. You can also rent a boat and take a leisurely ride down the river.
Discover the Chartres Labyrinth
The Chartres Labyrinth is a fascinating maze that is located inside the Chartres Cathedral. Kids will love walking through the labyrinth and trying to find their way to the center. The labyrinth is also a great way to teach kids about medieval symbolism and history.
Visit the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum in Chartres is a great place to take the family on a rainy day. The museum has a large collection of fossils, minerals, and taxidermy animals. Kids will love exploring the different exhibits and learning about the natural world.
