Thinking about taking a day trip from Paris? In Episode 555: Day Trip to Chartres from Paris with Patricia Perry, Jennifer Gruenke, and Annie Sargent explore how easy and rewarding it can be to spend a day in this charming French town just an hour from the capital.

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Chartres is best known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stained glass windows and soaring architecture. But there’s much more to enjoy! Annie, Patricia, and Jennifer share their firsthand experience exploring the cathedral, wandering the old town, and enjoying a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant right across from the cathedral.

They also talk about smaller gems like the Maison Picassiette and the Centre International du Vitrail, two stops worth making if you’re interested in folk art or stained glass. The episode is full of practical tips: how to take the train from Gare Montparnasse, what to wear, and how to pace yourself if you’re planning a relaxed day trip.

If you're planning on visiting Chartres from Paris or just want ideas for easy escapes beyond the capital, this episode is packed with insight. Whether it’s your first time in France or your tenth, you’ll pick up useful ideas and inspiration.

🎧 Subscribe to Join Us in France for weekly episodes on French destinations, culture, history, and travel tips. Annie Sargent brings you local insight, personal stories, and helpful advice to make your trip to France even better.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:16] Introduction and Welcome
• [00:00:30] Today on the podcast
• [00:00:54] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:24] Magazine segment
• [00:02:46] Planning a Day Trip to Chartres
• [00:03:25] Chartres en Lumières: The Light Show Experience
• [00:04:58] And Inexpensive Self-Guided Day Trip from Paris
• [00:06:40] Malcom Miller, expert on the Chartres Windows
• [00:07:02] Exploring Chartres: Key Attractions and Tips
• [00:11:12] Picassiet
• [00:12:47]  Les Fresques de Belair
• [00:15:01] The Advantages of Taking an Audio Guide
• [00:17:28] The Chartres Cathedral: A Gothic Masterpiece
• [00:19:01] Bring Binoculars or Use Your Phone to Zoom In
• [00:21:03]  The Santa Camisa of Mary Relic at Chartres Cathedral
• [00:22:04] Chartres Cathedral Is Undergoing Renovations
• [00:24:57] The Plaza
• [00:26:07] Street Mosaics
• [00:27:24]  The Musée de Vitraux
• [00:33:00] Trains in France
• [00:36:14] Final Thoughts and Recommendations
• [00:36:39] Consider Staying Overnight in Chartres
• [00:38:13] Bonus Stop: Chateau de Madame de Maintenon
• [00:39:12] Conclusion and Future Plans
• [00:39:51] Thank You, Patrons
• [00:40:42] Review Ile de la Cite
• [00:41:24] Discount for Podcast Listeners
• [00:42:19] Paris Metro Tickets
• [00:44:36] Paris Honors Women in Science
• [00:46:45] Tips on Choosing Restaurants in France
• [00:53:50] Next Week on the Podcast
• [00:54:16] Copyright

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