Chartres Cathedral
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres
A masterpiece of French High Gothic cathedral architecture with the most completely preserved medieval stained glass. About an hour by train from Paris.
Chartres Cathedral lies about 80 km southwest of Paris. Its main structure was built between 1194 and 1220, making it a model of High Gothic architecture, and it was listed as a World Heritage Site in 1979. The cathedral retains more than 170 original stained-glass windows from the 12th and 13th centuries, famous for their distinctive 'Chartres blue.' Must-sees include the three giant rose windows and the sculptures of the Royal Portal on the west façade. The north tower can be climbed for a fee. The nave floor features a famous medieval labyrinth, and on certain days, such as Fridays, the chairs are removed so visitors can walk it. Entry to the cathedral is free; climbing the tower and visiting the crypt require tickets. From Paris Montparnasse station, take a TER train for about 1 hour to Chartres. The cathedral is about a 10-minute walk from the station. The lanes of the old town running downhill along the Eure River are also worth a stroll. Suitable for a half-day or full-day trip.
Opening hours
Daily 08:30–19:30 (visits restricted during religious ceremonies)
Nearby sights
- Monet's House and Gardens, Giverny
- Palace of Versailles
- Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye (National Archaeological Museum)
- La Défense & Grande Arche
- Fondation Louis Vuitton
- Trocadéro & Palais de Chaillot
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower