Paris-Charles De Gaulle to Chartres: Private day trip

Enter Chartres Cathedral to witness one of the world's most complete collections of medieval stained glass windows creating an ethereal blue light throughout the interior that changes with the passing hours and seasons, creating a mystical atmosphere that has inspired pilgrims and visitors for eight centuries.

Main attractions

• Notre-Dame de Chartres (UNESCO) is regarded as the pinnacle of French Gothic architecture — construction began in 1194 after a fire
• 176 original medieval stained glass windows survive intact, including the celebrated Notre-Dame de la Belle Verrière (Blue Virgin window) from 1180
• The cathedral labyrinth — a rare surviving medieval floor maze used for contemplative pilgrimage

What to eat

• The streets around the cathedral have several good bistros; pâté de Chartres (game-filled pastry) is the local speciality