How to get to Chartres

Chartres is a picturesque historic city in France that invariably attracts travellers with its unique atmosphere and world-renowned Gothic architecture. The city's hallmark is its famous cathedral, which captures the imagination with its sheer scale and magnificent stained-glass windows.

If you are considering how to get to Chartres, an extensive transport network is at your service: you can comfortably travel here by train, bus, or car, enjoying the views of the Centre-Val de Loire region. This is an excellent destination for those who wish to immerse themselves in history and witness one of the masterpieces of medieval architecture.

There is no airport within Chartres itself, so the optimal way to arrive by air is to utilise the aviation hubs of Paris. The French capital is located less than 100 kilometres away, making it an ideal arrival point for travellers.

The main aerial gateways for a trip to this region are the international airports Charles de Gaulle and Orly. They receive scheduled flights from most countries around the world, ensuring excellent transport accessibility. Upon arrival, tourists can easily continue their journey to Chartres by train, bus, or rented car, taking about an hour on the road.

Rail transport is one of the most convenient and fastest ways to reach Chartres. The city has a direct connection with the capital and is perfectly integrated into France's transport network, making the journey tireless and pleasant.

The most popular route runs through Paris: direct regional express trains (TER) depart regularly from Montparnasse Station. The journey takes only about an hour, and trains run with high frequency throughout the day. The train station in Chartres is located within walking distance of the historic centre, allowing tourists to head straight to the famous cathedral immediately upon arrival.

Bus services serve as an affordable alternative to rail transport, although they are slower. Trips from Paris allow you to reach the city in approximately one and a half to two hours. This option is often chosen by tourists wishing to save on tickets or simply enjoy a leisurely journey through picturesque French towns and fields.

Buses can also be convenient for those planning a complex route through the region, for example, heading from Blois. The road, spanning about 85 kilometres, usually takes an hour and a half. This is a great opportunity to see "non-tourist" France and move comfortably between historical centres if the train schedule does not suit you.

Travelling by car to Chartres from Paris is the most popular and fastest option: the distance of 90 kilometres along the A11 high-speed motorway ("L’Océane") is easily covered in just over an hour. If you are departing from the northern suburbs, it is worth allocating about an hour and a half for the journey considering traffic, and the estimated cost of a taxi from the capital region will be from 150 to 200 euros.

A scenic route from the city of Blois, spanning about 85 kilometres, will take approximately an hour and a half and will allow you to enjoy the pastoral landscapes of the Loire Valley while driving on national roads. The road network of France is distinguished by excellent quality, so a car trip will become a comfortable part of your adventure.

A trip to Chartres promises to be unforgettable, as this city combines medieval charm with modern comfort. To ensure your journey goes as smoothly as possible, we have prepared several useful recommendations that will help you feel confident and avoid common mistakes.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is moderate, typical for central France. In summer, light clothing is sufficient, but evenings can be fresh, so bring a jumper. In winter and autumn, a waterproof jacket and umbrella are mandatory. The main advice is to choose comfortable shoes with flat soles, as the historic centre is paved with ancient cobblestones, and inclines can be steep.
2. Transport: The historic centre of the city is compact, and it is best explored on foot. The main attractions are within walking distance of each other. If you need to reach outlying districts, use the local Filibus bus network, which operates efficiently and on schedule.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere: in restaurants, museums, and souvenir shops. However, it is recommended to always carry a small amount of cash (small denomination notes and coins) for purchases in small bakeries or at street markets.
4. Health and Safety: Chartres is a calm and safe city, but standard precautions are advisable. Pharmacies are easily recognised by the sign with a flashing green cross. Tap water here is of high quality and suitable for drinking. In emergencies, call the single European number 112.
5. Communication: The main language is French. In tourist offices, hotels, and large restaurants, staff often speak English, but in small shops, communicating might be more difficult. Using polite words in French ("Bonjour", "Merci") works wonders and always brings a smile to the locals.
6. Local Etiquette: When entering any shop or cafe, it is customary to greet the staff. In restaurants, do not sit at a free table yourself—wait to be seated by a waiter. Service charges are officially included in the bill, but leaving a small amount of change (rounding up the sum or 1–2 euros) is considered a sign of good manners.
7. What to Avoid: Do not plan active shopping during lunch time (usually from 12:00 to 14:00) and on Sundays—many shops and institutions will be closed. Also, avoid noisy behaviour and revealing clothing when visiting the cathedral, as it is an active place of worship.
8. Bonus Tip: If your trip falls between April and January, be sure to stay in the city until nightfall. The famous light show Chartres en Lumières illuminates the main architectural monuments with unique projections, and this spectacle is completely free.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on the beauty of the architecture and the cosy atmosphere of the city. Enjoy every minute of your stay in this amazing corner of Europe!