The old town is full of cute cafes and restaurants where you can visit and try the delicious pastries that France is famous for.
The city of Chartres is only an hour’s drive from Paris and has all its charm with far fewer people than in the French capital. This is reported by the Daily Express.
It even has its own Gothic cathedral, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Notre-Dame de Chartres. The towering spires and intricate stained glass windows are breathtaking, and the cathedral is the perfect place to start exploring this “Parisian deception.”
“After exploring the cathedral and its crypt, you can take a walk to the nearby Old Town. Chartres is a very walkable city, making it an ideal stopover,” the article says.
Interestingly, the old town is full of cute cafes and restaurants that you can visit and sample the delicious pastries that France is famous for. From there, you can stroll along the banks of the River Hérault and explore its many boutiques and slightly more expensive restaurants, although they are all priced more affordably than in Paris.
After a walk along the river, it is recommended to visit the Museum of Fine Arts or even the unusual Maison Picassiett, a house covered with broken glass and ceramic mosaics.
“Ideal for architecture lovers, spiritual travelers or those looking for a more measured pace, Chartres combines cultural richness with the charm of a small town,” the experts write.
It is noted that its walkability and laid-back atmosphere make it a refreshing addition to the French route, and if you’re heading to the Loire Valley or the south-west of France, it’s the perfect stopover. Just under an hour by train or car from Paris, and Chartres is truly the perfect destination – it has all the charm, none of the crowds, and half the price.
