I know it might seem late to tell you about places to visit in France apart from Paris, but I am sure some of you are strictly team vacation in September! Which is honestly such a smart move, especially if you are traveling to Europe. It’s the beginning of autumn, so the weather is lovely, the light is gorgeous, and most importantly there are far fewer tourists!
The city I have for you today is Chartres. It’s less than an hour and a half away by car from Paris (and even faster by train from Gare Montparnasse, around an hour). If you are looking for an easy, peaceful getaway that gets you out of the Parisian hustle, here is how you can spend a perfect day exploring Chartres.
At a Glance: Planning Your Visit
- Vibe: Historic, peaceful cobblestone strolls, and architectural wonder.
- Location: Eure-et-Loir (Centre-Val de Loire region), southwest of Paris.
- Getting There: Direct TER train from Paris Montparnasse (~1 hr) or a 1 hr 15 min drive.
- Best Time to Visit: September to early autumn for crisp weather and calm streets.
- Must-Try: Sipping bubble tea while wandering along the lower town bridges.
1. Visit Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres
This was such a massive surprise for me. Everybody talks about Notre-Dame de Paris, but trust me: Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres is on another level.
The sheer height of the spires, the intricate Gothic stone carvings, and the remarkably preserved stained-glass windows, featuring the famous Chartres blue, will leave you speechless. Stepping inside feels like stepping straight into history. Take your time walking through the nave and admiring the labyrinth on the stone floor. If you are a believer like me, take a few quiet minutes to light a candle and say a prayer. The cathedral also houses a legendary relic: the Veil of the Virgin (Mary’s Veil).
2. Discover the Musée des Beaux-Arts
Right behind the cathedral, tucked inside the former episcopal palace, sits the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Even if you aren’t an extreme art fanatic, the setting alone is worth the stop. It houses lovely collections of paintings, sculptures, and tapestries, but the best part is the peaceful courtyard and the gardens just behind it, which offer sweeping panoramic views over the lower town and the valley below.
3. Stroll Along the Lower Town & Grab a Bubble Tea!
After feeding my soul with art and prayer, it was time for some flânerie, just wandering aimlessly through the old medieval quarters. Chartres is actually where I tried bubble tea for the first time, and I can’t tell you how satisfying it was! My favorite spot was Kimtea, an Asian tea shop just to the right of the cathedral. They serve the best bubble tea, definitely grab one to stay refreshed while you explore. There is something delightful about sipping a modern drink while admiring centuries-old streets.
One place I was really looking forward to visiting was Maison Picassiette. It is a bit far from the train station (about an hour’s walk), and since I only had a few hours, I had to skip it. If you have the extra time, though, it is definitely worth the detour!
Why You Should Add Chartres to Your French Itinerary
You don’t need an entire week to fall in love with French towns outside of Paris, a single day in Chartres gives you architecture, art, scenic walks, and the breathing room that big cities often lack.
Are you team autumn getaway or summer traveler? Have you ever visited Chartres or taken a day trip from Paris? Let me know in the comments below!
XO
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