VISIT
While we at AFC may be a bit biased, we can think of no better day-trip for visitors to Paris, or residents – or even better, weekend getaway – than the great cathedral town of Chartres.
While anytime is a great time to visit Chartres, whose Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Chartres was placed on the very first list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, now is always best. If you do visit the cathedral, you will have a chance to wonder at the glories of this beautiful Gothic space. At the same time you will get a glimpse into the restoration work supported by a multitude of partners, including the French government, American Friends of Chartres (AFC) and our sister organization, Chartres, sanctuaire du Monde. And the charming town of Chartres itself is well worth a visit.
Why Chartres? Whether your visit is spiritual or cultural, Chartres Cathedral leaves no-one unimpressed. Find practical information to help you prepare for your visit to this must-see monument in Chartres.
Tours in English
Take a private tour in English with our vetted tour guides. Their extensive knowledge and experience will complement our own experience of the cathedral.
The meeting point is inside the cathedral, near the gift shop entrance (to the left as you enter the main front doors)
Our Guide
Malcolm Miller
Malcolm Miller has guided at Chartres Cathedral for more than 60 years, and continues to do so for private tours. He has also lectured widely in the United States, Canada, UK, and Australia, has authored several books on Chartres Cathedral, made TV documentaries, and has been awarded two of France’s highest honors: Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Mérite and Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.
Private tour by request only.
ContactOur Guide
Anne Marie Woods
Anne Marie Woods has been collaborating with Malcolm Miller as his successor for public daily tours since May 2016, and has been an approved cathedral guide since 2012. Private tours are possible year around upon request. She also offers tours in French.
ContactOur Guide
Victoria Gonichon
Since 2013, Victoria Gonichon has been a certified guide at Chartres Cathedral, where she specializes in medieval iconography and the symbolic language of the Middle Ages.
Her ability to translate complex historical and theological concepts into clear, engaging narratives is especially appreciated by mixed groups (different ages and cultural backgrounds). She also loves sharing her passion with researchers, culturally curious travelers and pilgrims.
She offers tours in English, French, and Russian.
Cathedral Notre-Dame of Chartres
Open: Daily – 8:30am-7:30pm
Labyrinth: Friday only 1:00-4:00pm
Entry: Free
Donate NowGETTING HERE
Chartres is a 50-minute train ride from Gare Montparnasse Station in Paris.
Trains for Chartres make the one-hour trip from the Montparnasse station in Paris several times daily.
Donate Nowrestore and preserve the cathedral of Notre-Dame de Chartres
Your contributions are tax deductible in the United States to the extent allowed by law.
