A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Chartres for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a spiritual, dramatic, and historic destination. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Chartres

Chartres is a grand, spectacular, and historic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chartres: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) than Chartres, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kalampaka (Meteora) is better known for its museums, nightlife, and impressive beauty, while Chartres is more popular for its small town charm. Kalampaka (Meteora) is more touristy than Chartres and is known for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is famous for The Meteora Monasteries. Chartres is well known for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chartres

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kalampaka (Meteora) are world-renowned. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chartres

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chartres.

Kalampaka (Meteora) has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chartres

Kalampaka (Meteora) is mediocre for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Kalampaka (Meteora) This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres Better for Families?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chartres

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Kalampaka (Meteora) offers lots of family activities. There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chartres

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chartres both notable destinations for a couple.

Kalampaka (Meteora) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Chartres is a good destination 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chartres

Chartres is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chartres. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chartres

Chartres is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Chartres has some very good public transit options. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres a more walkable city?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chartres

Chartres is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Chartres Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chartres than Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Chartres.


  • How many days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 2-3 
    Chartres 1-2

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres?

The beautiful destination of Kalampaka (Meteora) offers museums and food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Chartres, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this destination makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kalampaka (Meteora), a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Chartres for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chartres, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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.

The destination of Chartres offers food and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This destination offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Chartres. This town offers something for everyone. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Chartres or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134, while the average daily cost in Chartres is €117. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chartres in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
    Chartres 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
    Chartres 118
Compare Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chartres

Looking for a hotel in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora)


Hotels in Chartres


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Chartres Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37
    Chartres 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $274
  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $43

Is it cheaper to fly into Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres?

Prices for flights to both Chartres and Kalampaka (Meteora) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39
    Chartres 39

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44
    Chartres 22

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $44
  • 3-Hour Hiking and Scramble Guided Tour of Great Saint in Meteora: $82
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $43
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $44
  • Discover Meteora's Monastic Heritage: Personalized Private Tour: $240
  • Golden Sunrise Meteora Private Photo Tour: $147
  • Half-Day Meteora Cultural Tour from Kalambaka train station: $47
  • Hiking Tour to Meteora from Kalambaka - Local Agency: $49
  • Kalambaka's Train Station: Meteora Monasteries Tour with Lunch: $52

Tours and Activities in Chartres

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Chartres.

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11
    Chartres 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76


When comparing the travel costs between Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chartres, we can see that Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) Expensive? and Is Chartres Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres?

Chartres has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Kalampaka (Meteora). When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chartres. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chartres for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a little warmer than Chartres in the summer. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Chartres fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chartres this time of the year. In Kalampaka (Meteora), it's very sunny this time of the year. Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during summer. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 330 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Chartres. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 26°C (78°F) 
    Chartres 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kalampaka (Meteora) as well as Chartres. Many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Chartres in the autumn for the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Kalampaka (Meteora) is a little warmer than Chartres. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Chartres averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 126 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets more rain in October than Chartres. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 17°C (62°F) 
    Chartres 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres in the Winter?

Both Chartres and Kalampaka (Meteora) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) in the winter for the museums 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. In January, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally a little warmer than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 6°C (42°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during winter. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Chartres. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 6°C (42°F) 
    Chartres 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chartres in the Spring?

Both Chartres and Kalampaka (Meteora) during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Chartres because of the small town charm.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a little warmer than Chartres in the spring. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Chartres fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Kalampaka (Meteora). In the spring, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 173 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in April than Chartres. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 14°C (56°F) 
    Chartres 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Chartres and Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) Chartres
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 5°C (42°F) 51 mm (2 in)


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