In short
- Direct trains leave Paris Gare Montparnasse daily.
- The train journey takes about 1 hour each way.
- The cathedral is a 10-minute walk from Chartres station.
In this article
Because the transport links are frequent and direct, visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site does not require an overnight stay. You can choose to take the train or drive down the A11 motorway for your visit to Chartres.
How do you take the train to Chartres?
Take a direct train from Paris Gare Montparnasse to the Chartres SNCF station.
Trains run frequently every day. The journey takes about 1 hour each way. Expect to pay approximately €15 to €20 for a one-way ticket.
How do you walk from the train station to the cathedral?
The cathedral is a short, 10-minute walk from the Chartres train station.
The route is free, straightforward, and well-marked. You can easily spot the cathedral's 105-meter and 113-meter spires from the station. Simply walk toward them to reach the entrance at 16 Cloître Notre Dame.
Can you drive from Paris to Chartres Cathedral?
Yes, driving takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
You will take the A11 motorway from Paris and exit at Chartres. Tolls and fuel costs apply. Once you arrive, you can use underground parking facilities near the cathedral, such as Parking Q-Park Chartres Cathédrale.
Why is Chartres an ideal day trip from Paris?
Chartres is close to Paris and features exceptional medieval architecture.
The quick transit time means you can spend a full day exploring. You have ample time to see the 2,600 square meters of 12th- and 13th-century stained glass. You can also spend time decoding the sculptures on the exterior portals.
What are the cathedral opening hours?
Chartres Cathedral is open to visitors every day of the year from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
This long operating window gives you flexibility for your travel times. You can arrive early to beat the crowds or stay late. Summer months offer the best daylight for viewing the stained glass windows.
How should you plan your cathedral visit upon arrival?
Start by exploring the exterior portals, then head inside for the nave and windows.
General entry to the cathedral is free. You can rent an audio guide or take an official guided tour. If you visit on a Friday between Lent and All Saints' Day, the 42-foot floor labyrinth is uncovered from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Questions travellers ask
How much does the train from Paris to Chartres cost?
A one-way train ticket from Paris Gare Montparnasse to Chartres SNCF station costs approximately €15 to €20.
How far is the walk from the Chartres train station to the cathedral?
The walk takes about 10 minutes. The path is straightforward, and you can clearly see the cathedral spires from the station.
Is there parking near Chartres Cathedral?
Yes, underground parking is available near the cathedral. You can use facilities like Parking Q-Park Chartres Cathédrale.
