A Travel Price Comparison for France Nantes vs. Chartres for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nantes or Chartres?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Nantes or Chartres, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Nantes

Nantes is a vibrant, welcoming, and friendly city. The beauty of Nantes is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Nantes travel costs.

Chartres

Chartres is a spectacular, historic, and grand town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the food and museums. See Chartres travel costs.

Nantes and Chartres: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Nantes or Chartres?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantes. Although Nantes and Chartres are both popular with visitors, Nantes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantes is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chartres is known for its small town charm. Nantes is popular for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. It is also home to The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany. Chartres is popular for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Nantes different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nantes
Chartres

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

Nantes offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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 Nantes or Chartres? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantes
Chartres

Nantes is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Nantes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Nantes
Chartres

Nantes is great for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Nantes for the nightlife scene. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Most people don't head to Chartres specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a few bars where you can grab a drink while you're in town.

Is Nantes or Chartres Better for its Old Town?

Nantes
Chartres

Nantes is a popular place for its old town. However, Chartres does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Nantes. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Chartres does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Nantes or Chartres?

Nantes
Chartres

Nantes is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Nantes is well-known for its shopping. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nantes or Chartres More Beautiful?

Nantes
Chartres

Nantes is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Chartres is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Nantes is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The beauty of the surrounding countryside merges with the historical sights of the city center. You'll find many parks and gardens as well as impressive architecture and quaint streets.

Chartres is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nantes or Chartres Better for Families?

Nantes
Chartres

Nantes is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nantes is very family-friendly. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes or Chartres Better for Couples?

Nantes
Chartres

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

Nantes is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

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 Nantes or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nantes
Chartres

Chartres is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Nantes or Chartres Better for Students?

Nantes
Chartres

Nantes is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Nantes. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Chartres is not popular with students.


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

Nantes
Chartres

Visitors will find very good public transit in both Nantes and Chartres.

The public transit in Nantes can get you to most places easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

Visitors to Chartres can move around easily with public transportation. 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.

Is Nantes or Chartres a more walkable city?

Nantes
Chartres

Nantes and Chartres are very good when it comes to walkability.

Nantes is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Nantes?

How long in Nantes or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nantes or Chartres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Nantes 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 Nantes, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chartres.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantes 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 Nantes.


  • How many days in Nantes or Chartres? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nantes 2-3 
    Chartres 1-2

One day in Nantes or Chartres?

The beautiful city of Nantes offers food and shopping. 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.

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 Nantes or Chartres?

Nantes 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nantes, 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 Nantes or Chartres?

Nantes is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food 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.

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 Nantes or Chartres?

Nantes is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food 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 city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the spectacular 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 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, and The Best River Cruises in France.


Which place is cheaper, Chartres or Nantes?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantes is €128, while the average daily cost in Chartres is €145. 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 Nantes and Chartres in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantes 60
    Chartres 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantes 120
    Chartres 118
Compare Hotels in Nantes and Chartres

Looking for a hotel in Nantes 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 Nantes


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: Nantes Hotel Prices and Chartres Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantes 36
    Chartres 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nantes

Also for Nantes, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Tesla transfer from Saint Nazaire to Nantes NTE airport: $190
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Atlantique Airport NTE to Puy du Fou Park: $172
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $155
  • Nantes to Nantes Airport (NTE) - Departure Private Transfer: $77
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes city centre to Nantes Airport: $64
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes Airport to City centre: $64
  • Private Transfer from Airports to Nantes: $54

Is it cheaper to fly into Nantes or Chartres?

Prices for flights to both Chartres and Nantes 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
    Nantes 47
    Chartres 67

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nantes

For Nantes, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nantes Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $102

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantes 13
    Chartres 22

Tours and Activities in Nantes

For Nantes, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided treetop adventure course in the heart of Nantes: $28
  • Kid-Friendly Nantes City Wonders Private Guided Tour for Families: $231
  • Nantes : Must-see Attractions Walking Tour: $41
  • Nantes : Must-see tour: $454
  • Nantes City Wonders and Highlights Private Guided Tour: $231
  • Nantes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Nantes Must-see Attractions Walking Tour With A Guide: $75
  • Nantes Private Custom Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour): $50
  • Nantes Private Guided Walking Tour: $304
  • Nantes Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $298
  • Nantes Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $7.51
  • Nantes Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $100

Tours and Activities in Chartres

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

  • Cathedral and City Guided Tour: $264
  • Private tour of Chartres town from Paris: $581

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantes 6.43
    Chartres 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Nantes

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nantes:

  • Château du Bois-Huaut: Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting Class: $34


When comparing the travel costs between Nantes and Chartres, we can see that Chartres 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 Nantes Expensive? and Is Chartres Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nantes or Chartres?

Nantes has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Chartres. When comparing the sizes of Nantes 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 Nantes 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 Nantes or Chartres in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantes and Chartres. Many visitors come to Nantes in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Chartres for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Nantes is generally around the same temperature as Chartres. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 19°C (67°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chartres this time of the year. In Nantes, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nantes usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during summer. Nantes gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nantes usually receives less rain than Chartres. Nantes gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nantes 19°C (67°F) 
    Chartres 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Nantes or Chartres in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nantes as well as Chartres. Most visitors come to Nantes for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Chartres because of the small town atmosphere.

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

In the autumn, Nantes often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Nantes gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 126 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets more rain in October than Chartres. Nantes gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nantes 13°C (56°F) 
    Chartres 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Nantes or Chartres in the Winter?

Both Chartres and Nantes are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Nantes because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Chartres this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chartres in the winter. In the winter, Nantes is a little warmer than Chartres. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nantes in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Chartres averages at about 5°C (40°F).

Nantes usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during winter. Nantes gets 72 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nantes usually receives more rain than Chartres. Nantes gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Nantes or Chartres in the Spring?

Both Chartres and Nantes during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Nantes this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chartres for the small town charm.

In April, Nantes is generally around the same temperature as Chartres. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 11°C (51°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Nantes often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Nantes gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 173 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Chartres. Nantes gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nantes 11°C (51°F) 
    Chartres 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Chartres and Nantes

Nantes Chartres
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 6°C (43°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (42°F) 51 mm (2 in)


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