Chartres

Chartres, in the Eure-et-Loir department of the Centre-Val de Loire region, is best known for its Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. This Gothic masterpiece, largely built in the 13th century, stands out for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval stained-glass windows, including the renowned Chartres blue, as well as its sculpted portals and floor labyrinth. The lower town, crossed by the River Eure, retains a picturesque historic quarter with half-timbered houses, old bridges and wash-houses, ideal for a riverside stroll. The Saint-André district and the cobbled lanes around the cathedral are equally worth exploring on foot. Each summer, Chartres hosts illuminated night-time displays that highlight its monuments, a popular evening attraction. The town also has several museums, including the Musée des Beaux-Arts housed in the former bishop's palace. Less than an hour from Paris by train, Chartres makes for an easily accessible day trip or a longer stay, combining religious heritage, medieval architecture and the relaxed atmosphere of the surrounding Beauce countryside.