A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bruges vs. Chartres for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bruges or Chartres?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bruges and Chartres. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bruges

Bruges is a cultural, beautiful, and historic city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Chartres

Chartres is a spectacular, historic, and grand town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Bruges and Chartres: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Chartres?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bruges. Although Bruges and Chartres are both popular with visitors, Bruges has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bruges is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Chartres is known for its small town charm. Bruges is more touristy than Chartres and is known for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. It is also home to Bruges' Markt (The Main Square). Chartres is popular for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Bruges different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chartres and Bruges. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bruges or Chartres?

Bruges is great for its historical sights. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Bruges offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chartres. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.

Is the Food Better in Bruges or Chartres? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bruges is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bruges has a huge number of terrific restaurants. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chartres area. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is Bruges or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Bruges is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Bruges has a few options to choose from. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Bruges or Chartres Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Chartres does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Bruges can be explored in its historical center. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

Chartres does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bruges or Chartres?

Bruges is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bruges. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bruges or Chartres Better for Families?

Bruges is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Bruges offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Bruges or Chartres Better for Couples?

Bruges is great for its romantic activities. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

Bruges is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

Chartres is a good city for couples to visit. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

Is Bruges or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bruges is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

Chartres is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

Is Bruges or Chartres Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chartres is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Chartres. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

Bruges has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Is Bruges or Chartres a more walkable city?

Bruges is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Bruges is a very easy city to get around on foot. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

Chartres is a very walkable destination. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bruges Worth Visiting? and Is Chartres Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bruges or Chartres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bruges than Chartres because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bruges, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chartres.

Families should spend more time in Bruges than Chartres. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bruges, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bruges than Chartres. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bruges that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bruges than Chartres if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bruges.

One day in Bruges or Chartres?

The beautiful city of Bruges offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Chartres. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Bruges or Chartres?

Bruges is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bruges, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Chartres is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bruges or Chartres?

Bruges is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chartres. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bruges or Chartres?

Bruges is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the grand destination of Chartres. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Bruges and Chartres, we can see that Bruges is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bruges Expensive? and Is Chartres Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Chartres?

Bruges has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Chartres. When comparing the sizes of Bruges and Chartres, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Bruges or Chartres?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bruges or Chartres in the Summer?

Both Chartres and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bruges this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chartres for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bruges is generally cooler than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 17°C (63°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Chartres. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bruges. Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Chartres during summer. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bruges usually receives more rain than Chartres. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bruges or Chartres in the Autumn?

Both Chartres and Bruges during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bruges for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Chartres in the autumn for the small town atmosphere.

Bruges is around the same temperature as Chartres in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Chartres fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Chartres. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 126 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets more rain in October than Chartres. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Chartres in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Chartres. Many visitors come to Bruges in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Chartres for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Chartres can be very cold during winter. Bruges can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bruges is cooler than Chartres. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bruges in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Chartres averages at about 5°C (40°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Chartres during winter. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bruges usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chartres. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bruges or Chartres in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Chartres. Most visitors come to Bruges for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Chartres because of the small town charm.

In April, Bruges is generally cooler than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 8°C (47°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Chartres. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 173 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Chartres. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chartres and Bruges