Are you thinking about visiting Chartres, France? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Chartres worth visiting?
Chartres is worth visiting for one to two days so that you can explore everything that the town has to offer. Most people visit Chartres specifically to see its grand Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The cathedral was completed in 1220 and is famous for its stained glass windows. The town is an easy day trip from Paris, and you can explore the cathedral and town in a few hours.
Chartres, France
Reasons to Visit Chartres
Museums
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.
Food
There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.
Authenticity
Chartres has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Chartres worth visiting in the Summer?
The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 20°C (68°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 24°C (76°F).
The peak season for travel is summer in Chartres, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat popular with travelers, and in the high season it's busier than usual.
You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable town, especially in the nice weather. This is a great time of year to take in the local charm and browse the museums.
Summer Weather in Chartres
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 20°C (68°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) |
| August | 20°C (67°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) |
| September | 17°C (63°F) | 55 mm (2.1 in) |
Is Chartres worth visiting in the Autumn?
Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Chartres. Even though Chartres is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 13°C (56°F).
You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums and savor the small town atmosphere.
Autumn Weather in Chartres
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 13°C (56°F) | 43 mm (1.7 in) |
| November | 8°C (47°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
| December | 5°C (42°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
Is Chartres worth visiting in the Winter?
This is the low season for travel in Chartres. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.
The weather in Chartres can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 5°C (40°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks and the cuisine.
Winter Weather in Chartres
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 5°C (40°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) |
| February | 6°C (42°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
| March | 8°C (47°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
Is Chartres worth visiting in the Spring?
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 11°C (52°F).
Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Chartres, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. Even though Chartres is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.
This is a great time of year to wander through the museums and wander through the small town.
Spring Weather in Chartres
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 11°C (52°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
| May | 15°C (59°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) |
| June | 18°C (64°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
Related
What is Chartres most famous for?
Chartres is most famous for its beautiful cathedral and long running history. People visit this impressive town for its great museums and food. It is often described as historic, grand, and spectacular.
What is the most famous sight in Chartres?
The most popular sight in Chartres is The Chartres Cathedral. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Chartres on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Chartres Cathedral and other attractions here.
How touristy is Chartres? Is it a popular town to visit?
Chartres is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.38
How long should I spend in Chartres?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Chartres is one to two days. Since Chartres has activities such as museums and dining, most people visit for up to two days.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Chartres? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Chartres?.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.