France · Architecture

9-Hour Chartres Cathedral and City Tour with Maison Picassiette

9 Hours Round trip from Paris Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore Notre-Dame de Chartres, one of France's greatest Gothic masterpieces
02 Join the official visit of the 1,000-year-old crypt with guide support in English
03 Stroll through Chartres' charming old town and historic squares
04 Visit Maison Picassiette, an extraordinary mosaic house by a visionary local artist

Chartres is a lesser-known but extraordinary gem of France, home to Notre-Dame de Chartres, one of the oldest and greatest Gothic masterpieces, with stained glass considered a true medieval miracle. Travel from Paris through the peaceful French countryside to explore the cathedral, stroll through the charming old town, and enjoy time for lunch in a local restaurant. You can also join the official visit of the 1,000-year-old crypt in French, with your guide providing explanations in English. The day also includes Maison Picassiette, a unique mosaic house created by a visionary local artist.

Chartres is a lesser-known but extraordinary gem of France, home to Notre-Dame de Chartres, one of the oldest and greatest Gothic masterpieces, with stained glass considered a true medieval miracle.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Chartres, Paris

Languages English, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Scenic Drive from Paris

Relax in a comfortable private vehicle as we leave Paris and enjoy a scenic journey through the French countryside.

Day 02

Visit Notre-Dame de Chartres Cathedral

Discover an architectural gem filled with history, symbolism, and centuries of spiritual heritage.

Day 03

Lunch in a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal in a charming local restaurant featuring regional flavors.

Day 04

Walking Tour of Chartres Old Town

Stroll through picturesque streets, historic squares, and hidden corners of the old town.

Day 05

Visit the Chapel

Explore a peaceful and beautifully preserved chapel known for its unique atmosphere and artistic details.

Day 06

Drive to Maison Picassiette

A short scenic transfer to one of Chartres' most unusual artistic sites.

Day 07

Visit Maison Picassiette

Discover this extraordinary mosaic house created by a visionary local artist - a true artistic treasure.

Day 08

Drive Back to Your Hotel

Return comfortably to your Paris hotel after a rich and memorable day.

Where this trip takes you

French countryside, Notre-Dame de Chartres, Chartres Old Town, Maison Picassiette

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Paris 2 cities · 9 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a comfortable private car
English-speaking licensed guide for the entire day
Guided visit of Chartres Cathedral (including detailed explanations of the stained glass, sculpture, and Gothic architecture)
Stroll through Chartres' historic old town
Visit to Maison Picassiette
Assistance and interpretation during the official French-language tour of the 1,000-year-old crypt
All planning, reservations, and coordination for the day

What's Not Included

Lunch (your guide can recommend excellent local restaurants)
Entrance ticket for the crypt's official tour (if applicable)
Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, drinks, etc.)
Gratuities (optional)

What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes (the old town has cobblestone streets)
Weather-appropriate clothing (Chartres can be cooler and windier than Paris)
A light jacket or shawl for the cathedral and crypt (they remain cool inside)
Water bottle
Camera or smartphone for photos
Sunglasses and sunscreen (if visiting in spring or summer)
A small amount of cash or a card for lunch and souvenirs

Know before you go

Please note that Maison Picassiette is open only from Wednesday to Sunday during the winter season. If a visit is not possible on your chosen date, we will replace it with a champagne tasting experience. This option can also be added to any regular tour upon request.
For details, feel free to send me a message.
The official crypt visit is conducted in French; your guide will provide explanations in English before or after the tour.
The cathedral is an active religious site - parts of it may be closed during services.
The crypt and cathedral may have uneven floors and stairs; not all areas are accessible for travelers with reduced mobility.
Weather in Chartres can change quickly; bring layers, especially outside summer months.
Maison Picassiette is a small, unique site - photography is allowed, but flash may be restricted.
The drive between Paris and Chartres takes about 1.5 hours each way, depending on traffic.
Lunch is not included, but your guide will recommend excellent local restaurants suited to your preferences.
This is a cultural and historical tour with moderate walking - comfortable shoes are highly recommended.

Logistics