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If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Chartres.
Chartres is a hidden gem waiting to be explored, a picturesque land of enchantment that promises to unravel a myriad of experiences that will leave you in awe.
Plan your trip carefully, as you are about to embark on a journey that will take you back in time, where the streets are lined with stories and the buildings speak volumes about the city’s rich culture and history.
Here are some of the top things to do in Chartres that will amaze you beyond your imagination.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Chartres:
1. Chartres Cathedral
Chartres Cathedral is a Gothic-style cathedral located in Chartres, France, about 80 km southwest of Paris.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate details of the cathedral’s façade, including its two towers and beautifully designed stained-glass windows.
The interior is equally impressive, with a spectacular nave and numerous chapels to explore.
Don’t miss: The famous labyrinth on the floor of the nave that represents the path to enlightenment, and the crypt that contains the remains of several saints.
Make sure to also check out the Chartres Light Show, a nighttime light show that illuminates the cathedral’s façade with colorful projections.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds, wear comfortable shoes for climbing stairs, and consider taking a guided tour for a more in-depth look at the history and significance of the cathedral.
Don’t forget to also explore the charming town of Chartres, which has many quaint cafes, shops, and museums to discover.
2. Maison Picassiette
Maison Picassiette is a unique and stunning example of outsider art, created entirely out of broken glass and ceramics by a single man, Raymond Isidore.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the entire property, including the house, chapel, and gardens, all of which are covered in intricate designs made of pieces of broken glass and ceramics.
The designs depict a wide range of subjects, including religious scenes, animals, and mythological figures.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a close look at the intricate details of the art, as well as the various mirrors and objects incorporated into the designs.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit on a sunny day to fully appreciate the vibrant colors of the glass and ceramics.
Additionally, plan to spend at least an hour at Maison Picassiette to fully explore the property and learn about Raymond Isidore’s fascinating story.
3. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Chartres
The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Chartres is an art museum located in the city of Chartres, France.
What to see or do: The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, and decorative objects from the 15th to the 20th century. Visitors can explore works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Ingres, and Rodin.
Don’t miss: The museum’s highlight is its collection of French paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries, featuring works by Nicolas Poussin and Jean-Baptiste Greuze.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Tuesdays and several holidays, so confirm opening hours before planning your visit.
4. Centre International du Vitrail
The Centre International du Vitrail is a museum and educational center dedicated to the art and history of stained glass.
What to see or do: Explore the museum’s permanent collection which showcases a variety of stained glass works from the Middle Ages to contemporary pieces. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits that allow visitors to create their own digital stained glass designs.
The center also offers workshops and guided tours.
Don’t miss: Visitors should not miss the chance to see the breathtaking stained glass windows of Chartres Cathedral, which is located just a short walk from the museum.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the museum’s website for information on workshops and events. The museum is closed on Mondays and some public holidays, so plan your visit accordingly.
For a unique experience, book a guided tour of Chartres Cathedral’s stained glass windows through the museum.
5. Jardins de l’Évêché
A beautiful public garden in Chartres, France.
What to see or do: Take a relaxing stroll in the greenery, admire the colorful flowers and plants, sit by the pond, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, or attend an outdoor concert.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic view of the Chartres Cathedral from the garden.
Insider travel tips: Visit the garden on a sunny day to fully appreciate its beauty and bring snacks or a picnic to enjoy by the pond.
The garden is free to enter and is open all year round, but check the schedule for seasonal events.
6. Église Saint-Pierre
Église Saint-Pierre is a historic Roman Catholic church located in the city of Chartres, France, known for its impressive Gothic architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning stained glass windows, including the rose window above the porte royal entrance. The beautiful sculptures and carvings throughout the church are also worth exploring.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the intricate wooden stalls in the choir, dating back to the 16th century. There is also a crypt underneath the church that is open to visitors.
Insider travel tips: Consider taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of the church.
7. Château de Maintenon
Château de Maintenon is a historic castle located in the town of Maintenon, just outside Chartres, France. It was originally built in the 12th century and has since been expanded and renovated over the centuries.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and grounds of the castle, which feature a large canal, a formal French garden, and a variety of trees and flowers.
Inside the castle, there are several rooms to discover, including the grand apartment of Madame de Maintenon, Louis XIV’s second wife.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a guided tour of the castle, as the guides are knowledgeable about the history and architecture of the building and can provide insights that might be missed otherwise.
Don’t miss the opportunity to walk along the canal, which offers stunning views of the castle and surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the summertime when the gardens are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant.
8. Musée de l’Electricité
A museum dedicated to the history of electricity and its impact on society located in Chartres, France.
What to see or do: Explore the interactive exhibits showcasing the evolution of electrical technology, including the first light bulbs and generators. Learn about famous inventors and their contributions to the field.
Experiment with hands-on displays such as tesla coils and Van de Graaff generators.
Don’t miss: The 19th-century generator room, a mesmerizing display of large machinery that powered the city of Chartres. The electrical expositions in the renovated industrial building.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend at least two hours at the museum to fully appreciate the exhibits. The museum is closed on Mondays and during certain holidays, so check the schedule before visiting.
Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
9. Les Béliers de Chartres
An annual light and sound show held in the Chartres Cathedral in France.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness the stunning display of lights and sounds that illuminate the cathedral’s facade and interior, highlighting its magnificent architecture and stained glass windows.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking finale where fireworks light up the sky above the cathedral, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to book tickets in advance as the event sells out quickly. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, and dress warmly as the event takes place outdoors.
10. Le Compa – Musée de la Malterie
Le Compa-Musée de la Malterie is a museum in Chartres, France dedicated to beer and malting.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the history and science of beer-making through interactive exhibits and hands-on displays.
There are also tours available of the museum’s on-site microbrewery, where you can witness the beer-making process in action and even sample some of the beer produced.
Don’t miss: The museum’s collection of antique beer-making equipment, including historic barley mills, mashing vats, and fermentation tanks.
Insider travel tips: Visit the museum’s website before you go – they often have special events and tastings available, so plan your trip accordingly.
Also, don’t miss the opportunity to buy some of the museum’s beer to take home with you!
11. Les souterrains de Chartres
The souterrains de Chartres, also known as the underground tunnels of Chartres, are a series of tunnels and galleries that run beneath the city of Chartres in France.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the unique underground structures, which include ancient aqueducts, storage spaces, and even traces of medieval houses.
The tunnels are often used as an unusual venue for art exhibitions and cultural events.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the impressive stone pillars and arches that support the underground spaces, as well as the remains of original frescoes and wall paintings that line the walls.
Insider travel tips: It can be cool and damp down in the tunnels, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket. Some of the tunnels can be narrow and cramped, so visitors with claustrophobia may want to skip this attraction.
Book a guided tour in advance to avoid disappointment.
12. Piste BMX Chartres
Piste BMX Chartres is a world-class BMX track located in Chartres, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness some of the world’s best BMX riders showcasing their skills on this track. BMX enthusiasts can also rent bikes and protective gear and try out the track for themselves.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to watch BMX competitions and training sessions taking place at the track. The excitement and adrenaline rush are truly exhilarating.
Insider travel tips: – The track is open to visitors for free.
13. Chapelle Saint-Éman
Chapelle Saint-Éman is a 12th-century chapel located within the city walls of Chartres, France. It was built in the Romanesque architectural style and features stunning frescoes.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the intricate frescoes that cover almost every inch of the chapel’s interior. The murals depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments, as well as the lives of various saints.
Don’t miss: The fresco of the Last Judgment on the chapel’s ceiling is particularly impressive, with its depiction of heaven, hell, and purgatory.
It’s also worth taking a closer look at the various details in the paintings, such as the clothes, architecture, and landscape.
Insider travel tips: – Admission to the chapel is free, but it’s only open on certain days and times. Check the schedule before planning your visit.
14. Musée de la Parfumerie et de l’Agriculture
Musée de la Parfumerie et de l’Agriculture is a specialized museum located in Chartres, France, dedicated to the history of perfume and agriculture.
What to see or do: The museum features a diverse collection of artifacts related to the world of perfumery, including antique perfume bottles, fragrance ingredients, and even reconstructed perfume laboratories.
Visitors can also learn about the history of agriculture in the region, with exhibits dedicated to farming and the development of local crops like wheat and grapes.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to experience a variety of different fragrance samples throughout the museum. The scents on display provide a sensory journey through the different fragrance families used over the years in perfume-making.
Insider travel tips: If you plan to visit the Musée de la Parfumerie et de l’Agriculture, be sure to check out the museum’s schedule in advance as it is often closed on Tuesdays and during the holidays.
Also, consider booking a guided tour to get a deeper understanding of the exhibits and the history of the region’s perfume industry.